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diff --git a/8638-h/8638-h.htm b/8638-h/8638-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..64a71c3 --- /dev/null +++ b/8638-h/8638-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,16176 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Jack in the Forecastle, by John Sherburne Sleeper + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +Project Gutenberg's Jack in the Forecastle, by John Sherburne Sleeper + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Jack in the Forecastle + +Author: John Sherburne Sleeper + +Release Date: July 29, 2009 [EBook #8638] +Last Updated: February 6, 2013 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JACK IN THE FORECASTLE *** + + + + +Produced by Theresa Armao, and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + JACK IN THE FORECASTLE + </h1> + <h3> + or + </h3> + <h2> + INCIDENTS IN THE EARLY LIFE OF HAWSER MARTINGALE + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + By John Sherburne Sleeper + </h2> + <h3> + (1794-1878) + </h3> + <p> + <br /><br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2HCH0001"> Chapter I. </a> FAREWELL TO + NEW ENGLAND <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0002"> Chapter II. </a> INCIDENTS + AT SEA <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0003"> Chapter III. </a> MANNING + THE WOODEN WALLS OF OLD ENGLAND <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0004"> + Chapter IV. </a> LAND, HO! <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> + Chapter V. </a> DEMARARA <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0006"> + Chapter VI. </a> SCENES IN CHARLESTON <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0007"> Chapter VII. </a> DELIBERATE ROGUERY + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0008"> Chapter VIII. </a> THE + WINDWARD ISLANDS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0009"> Chapter IX. </a> ARRIVAL + AT SAVANNAH <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0010"> Chapter X. </a> "HOME! + SWEET HOME!" <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0011"> Chapter XI. </a> EMBARKING + FOR BRAZIL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0012"> Chapter XII. </a> MARANHAM + AND PARA <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> Chapter XIII. </a> SHIP + PACKET OF BOSTON <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0014"> Chapter XIV. </a> DISAPPOINTED + HOPES <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0015"> Chapter XV. </a> SCENES + IN A HOSPITAL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0016"> Chapter XVI. </a> UNITED + STATES CONSULS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0017"> Chapter XVII. </a> ADRIFT + IN NEW YORK <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0018"> Chapter XVIII. </a> SCHOONER + MARY OF NEWBERN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0019"> Chapter XIX. </a> A + TRIP TO BALTIMORE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0020"> Chapter XX. </a> DECLARATION + OF WAR <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> Chapter XXI. </a> ON + BOARD THE YOUNG PILOT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0022"> Chapter XXII. + </a> CAPTURED BY A PRIVATEER <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0023"> Chapter XXIII. </a> PORTO CABELLO <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> Chapter XXIV. </a> HARD TIMES IN ST. + BARTHOLOMEW <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0025"> Chapter XXV. </a> TREACHERY + AND INGRATITUDE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0026"> Chapter XXVI. </a> COASTING + AMONG THE ISLANDS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0027"> Chapter XXVII. + </a> CROSSING THE MOUNTAINS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0028"> + Chapter XXVIII. </a> SCENES IN GRENADA <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0029"> Chapter XXIX. </a> INSURRECTION IN + GRENADA <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0030"> Chapter XXX. </a> WEST + INDIA LIFE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0031"> Chapter XXXI. </a> SORROWFUL + SCENES <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0032"> Chapter XXXII. </a> NEW + ORLEANS IN 1817 <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0033"> Chapter XXXIII. </a> A + VOYAGE TO HAVRE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0034"> Chapter XXXIV. </a> THE + GENERAL ARMSTRONG <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0035"> Chapter XXXV. </a> VOYAGE + TO GOTTENBURG <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0036"> Chapter XXXVI. </a> SANITARY + LAWS—MUTINY AND MURDER <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0037"> Chapter + XXXVII. </a> RETURN OF THE WANDERER <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0038"> Chapter XXXVIII. </a> THE + SEA, AND SAILORS <br /><br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + Chapter I. FAREWELL TO NEW ENGLAND + </h2> + <p> + I was born towards the close of the last century, in a village pleasantly + situated on the banks of the Merrimack, in Massachusetts. For the + satisfaction of the curious, and the edification of the genealogist, I + will state that my ancestors came to this country from England in the + middle of the seventeenth century. Why they left their native land to seek + an asylum on this distant shore whether prompted by a spirit of adventure, + or with a view to avoid persecution for religion's sake is now unknown. + Even if they "left their country for their country's good," they were + undoubtedly as respectable, honest, and noble, as the major part of those + needy ruffians who accompanied William the Conqueror from Normandy in his + successful attempt to seize the British crown, and whose descendants now + boast of their noble ancestry, and proudly claim a seat in the British + House of Peers. + </p> + <p> + From my earliest years I manifested a strong attachment to reading; and as + matters relating to ships and sailors captivated my boyish fancy, and + exerted a magic influence on my mind, the "Adventures of Robinson Crusoe," + "Peter Wilkins," "Philip Quarle," and vagabonds of a similar character, + were my favorite books. An indulgence in this taste, and perhaps an innate + disposition to lead a wandering, adventurous life, kindled in my bosom a + strong desire, which soon became a fixed resolution, TO GO TO SEA. Indeed, + this wish to go abroad, to encounter dangers on the mighty deep, to visit + foreign countries and climes, to face shipwrecks and disasters, became a + passion. It was my favorite theme of talk by day, and the subject of my + dreams by night. As I increased in years my longing for a sailor's life + also increased; and whenever my schoolfellows and myself were conversing + about the occupations we should select as the means of gaining a + livelihood hereafter, I invariably said, "I will be a sailor." + </p> + <p> + Had my parents lived, it is possible that this deep-seated inclination + might have been thwarted; that my destiny might have taken another shape. + But my father died while I was quite young, and my mother survived him but + a few years. She lived long enough, however, to convince me that there is + nothing more pure, disinterested, and enduring than a mother's love, and + that those who are deprived of this blessing meet at the outset of their + pilgrimage a misfortune which can never be remedied. Thus, before I had + numbered fifteen years, I found myself thrown a waif on the waters of + life, free to follow the bent of my inclination to become a sailor. + </p> + <p> + Fortune favored my wishes. Soon after the death of my parents, a relation + of my mother was fitting out a vessel in Portsmouth, N.H., for a voyage to + Demarara; and those who felt an interest in my welfare, conceiving this a + good opportunity for me to commence my salt-water career, acceded to my + wishes, and prevailed on my relative, against his inclination, to take me + with him as a cabin boy. + </p> + <p> + With emotions of delight I turned my back on the home of my childhood, and + gayly started off to seek my fortune in the world, with no other + foundation to build upon than a slender frame, an imperfect education, a + vivid imagination, ever picturing charming castles in the air, and a + goodly share of quiet energy and perseverance, modified by an excess of + diffidence, which to this day I have never been able to overcome. + </p> + <p> + I had already found in a taste for reading a valuable and never-failing + source of information and amusement. This attachment to books has attended + me through life, and been a comfort and solace in difficulties, + perplexities, and perils. My parents, also, early ingrafted on my mind + strict moral principles; taught me to distinguish between right and wrong; + to cherish a love of truth, and even a chivalric sense of honor and + honesty. To this, perhaps, more than to any other circumstance, may be + attributed whatever success and respectability has attended my career + through life. It has enabled me to resist temptations to evil with which I + was often surrounded, and to grapple with and triumph over obstacles that + might otherwise have overwhelmed me. + </p> + <p> + When I reached Portsmouth, my kinsman, Captain Tilton, gave me an + ungracious reception. He rebuked me severely for expressing a + determination to go to sea. + </p> + <p> + "Go to sea!" he exclaimed in a tone of the most sovereign contempt. + "Ridiculous! You are a noodle for thinking of such a thing. A sailor's + life is a dog's life at best! Besides, you are not fit for a sailor, + either by habits, taste, or constitution. With such a pale face, and + slight figure, and sheepish look, how can you expect to fight the battle + of life on the ocean, and endure all the crosses, the perils, and the + rough-and-tumble of a sailor's life? Hawser, you are not fit for a sailor. + You had much better go home and try something else." + </p> + <p> + Finding me unconvinced by his arguments, and unshaken in my determination, + he concluded his remarks by asking me abruptly the startling question, + "Are you ready to die?" + </p> + <p> + I replied, that I had not bestowed much thought on the subject; but + frankly admitted I was not altogether prepared for such a solemn event. + </p> + <p> + "Then, Hawser," said he with marked emphasis, "if you are not prepared to + die to die of YELLOW FEVER don't go to Demarara at this season of the + year!" And he left the room abruptly, apparently disgusted at my + obstinacy. + </p> + <p> + On the following day, Captain Tilton took me on board the brig Dolphin. I + did not mark her imperfections, which were many. She was a vessel, bound + on a voyage to a foreign port, and, therefore, I was charmed with her + appearance. In my eyes she was a model of excellence; as beautiful and + graceful as the celebrated barge in which Cleopatra descended the Cyndnus + to meet Mark Antony. + </p> + <p> + The captain led me to the mate, who was busily engaged about the decks. + "Mr. Thompson," said he, "here is a lad who wants to go to sea, and I have + foolishly engaged to take him as a cabin boy. Keep him on board the brig; + look sharp after him; don't let him have an idle moment; and, if possible, + make him useful in some way until the vessel is ready for sea." + </p> + <p> + Mr. William Thompson was a worthy man, who subsequently became a + shipmaster and merchant of great respectability in Portsmouth. He treated + me with consideration and kindness, and took pleasure in teaching me the + details of the business I was about to undertake. + </p> + <p> + During the few days in which the Dolphin lay at the wharf I gained much + nautical information. I learned the names of the different parts of a + vessel; of the different masts, and some portions of the rigging. But the + great number of ropes excited my admiration. I thought a lifetime would + hardly suffice to learn their different names and purposes. I accomplished + successfully the feat of going aloft; and one memorable day, assisted the + riggers in "bending sails," and received an ill-natured rebuke from a + crusty old tar, for my stupidity in failing to understand him when he told + me to "pass the gasket" while furling the fore-topsail. Instead of passing + the gasket around the yard, I gravely handed him a marlinspike! + </p> + <p> + In the course of my desultory reading, I had learned that vessels at sea + were liable to "spring a leak," which was one of the most dreaded perils + of navigation; and I had a vague notion that the hold of a ship was always + so arranged that a leak could be discovered and stopped. I was, therefore, + not a little puzzled when I found the hold of the Dolphin was crammed with + lumber; not a space having been left large enough to stow away the ghost + of a belaying pin. Finding the captain in a pleasant mood one day, I + ventured to ask him what would be the consequence if the brig should + spring a leak in her bottom. + </p> + <p> + "Spring a leak in her bottom!" he replied, in his gruff manner; "why, we + should go to the bottom, of course." + </p> + <p> + The brig was now ready for sea. The sailors were shipped, and I watched + them closely as they came on board, expecting to find the noble-looking, + generous spirited tars I had become so familiar with in books. It + happened, however, that three out of the five seamen who composed the crew + were "old English men-of-war's-men," and had long since lost any + refinement of character or rectitude of principle they originally + possessed. They were brought on board drunk by the landlord with whom they + boarded; for the "old tars" of those days fifty years ago had no homes; + when on shore all they cared for was a roof to shelter them, and plenty of + grog, in which they would indulge until their money was gone, when they + would go to sea and get more. + </p> + <p> + Now ensued the bustle incident to such occasions. Captain William Boyd, + who had volunteered to pilot the brig down the harbor, came on board; the + sails were hoisted; the deck was crowded with persons to take leave of + their friends, or gratify a morbid curiosity; and what with the numerous + questions asked, the running to and fro, the peremptory commands of the + mate, the unmusical singing and shouting of the crew as they executed the + various orders, together with the bawling of the handcartmen and truckmen + as they brought down the last of the trunks, chests, stores, and + provisions, my brain was in a whirl of excitement; I hardly knew whether I + stood on my head or my heels. + </p> + <p> + At last the captain came down the wharf, accompanied by Joshua Haven, one + of the owners, and some friends, who had made arrangements to proceed in + the brig so far as the mouth of the harbor. The single rope which + connected the Dolphin with the shore was cast loose; the pilot gave some + orders; that were Greek to me, in a loud and energetic tone; the men on + the wharf gave three cheers, which were heartily responded to by the + temporary passengers and crew; and with a pleasant breeze from the + westward, we sailed merrily down the river. + </p> + <p> + Some few persons lingered on the wharf, and continued for a time to wave + their handkerchiefs in token of an affectionate farewell to their friends. + I seemed to stand alone while these interesting scenes were enacted. I + took no part in the warm greetings or the tender adieus. I had bidden + farewell to my friends and relatives in another town some days before; and + no one took sufficient interest in my welfare to travel a few miles, look + after my comforts, and wish me a pleasant voyage as I left my native land. + </p> + <p> + Although from the reception I had met with I had little reason to expect + present indulgences or future favors from my kinsman who commanded the + brig, I did not regret the step I had taken. On the contrary, my bosom + bounded with joy when the last rope was severed, and the vessel on whose + decks I proudly stood was actually leaving the harbor of Portsmouth, under + full sail, bound to a foreign port. This was no longer "the baseless + fabric of a vision." The dream of my early years had come to pass; and I + looked forward with all the confidence of youth to a bold and manly + career, checkered it might be with toil and suffering, but replete with + stirring adventure, whose wild and romantic charms would be cheaply won by + wading through a sea of troubles. I now realized the feeling which has + since been so well described by the poet: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "A life on the ocean wave, + A home on the rolling deep, + Where the scattered waters rave, + And the winds their revels keep. + + "Like an eagle caged, I pine + On this dull, unchanging shore; + O, give me the flashing brine, + The spray, and the tempest's roar." +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter II. INCIDENTS AT SEA + </h2> + <p> + The Dolphin was what is termed, in nautical parlance, an "hermaphrodite + brig," of about one hundred and fifty tons burden; and had been engaged, + for some twelve or fifteen years, in the West India trade. This vessel + could not with propriety be regarded as a model of grace and beauty, but + gloried in bluff bows, a flat bottom, and a high quarter-deck; carried a + large cargo for her tonnage, and moved heavily and reluctantly through the + water. + </p> + <p> + On this particular voyage, the hold of the brig, as I have already stated, + was filled with lumber; and thirty-five thousand feet of the same article + were carried on deck, together with an indefinite quantity of staves, + shooks, hoop poles, and other articles of commerce too numerous to + mention. On this enormous deck-load were constructed, on each side, a row + of sheep-pens, sufficiently spacious to furnish with comfortable quarters + some sixty or seventy sheep; and on the pens, ranged along in beautiful + confusion, was an imposing display of hen-coops and turkey-coops, the + interstices being ingeniously filled with bundles of hay and chunks of + firewood. The quarter-deck was "lumbered up" with hogsheads of water, and + casks of oats and barley, and hen-coops without number. + </p> + <p> + With such a deck-load, not an unusually large one in those days, the + leading trucks attached to the fore-rigging were about half way between + the main deck and the foretop. It was a work of difficulty and danger to + descend from the deck-load to the forecastle; but to reach the foretop + required only a hop, skip, and a jump. The locomotive qualities of this + craft, misnamed the Dolphin, were little superior to those of a well + constructed raft; and with a fresh breeze on the quarter, in spite of the + skill of the best helmsman, her wake was as crooked as that of the + "wounded snake," referred to by the poet, which "dragged its slow length + along." + </p> + <p> + It was in the early part of July, in the year 1809, that the brig Dolphin + left Portsmouth, bound on a voyage to Dutch Guiana, which at that time, in + consequence of the malignant fevers that prevailed on the coast, was not + inaptly termed "the grave of American seamen." The crew consisted of the + captain and mate, five sailors, a green hand to act as cook, and a cabin + boy. There was also a passenger on board, a young man named Chadwick, who + had been residing in Portsmouth, and was going to Demarara, in the hope + which fortunately for him was not realized of establishing himself in a + mercantile house. + </p> + <p> + The forecastle being, for obvious reasons, untenable during the outward + passage, these ten individuals, when below deck, were stowed away in the + cabin and steerage, amid boxes, bales, chests, barrels, and water casks, + in a manner somewhat miscellaneous, and not the most commodious or + comfortable. Indeed, for several days after we left port, the usual and + almost only access to the cabin was by the skylight; and those who made + the cabin their home, were obliged to crawl on all fours over the + heterogeneous mass of materials with which it was crowded, in order to + reach their berths! + </p> + <p> + The owners of the brig must have calculated largely on favorable weather + during the passage; for had we experienced a gale on the coast, or fallen + in with the tail-end of a hurricane in the tropics, the whole deck-load + would have been swept away, and the lives of the ship's company placed in + imminent peril. The weather, however, proved remarkably mild, and the many + inconveniences to which the crew were subjected were borne with exemplary + patience, and sometimes even regarded as a capital joke. + </p> + <p> + We passed the Whale's Back at the mouth of the Piscataqua, and the Isles + of Shoals loomed up through the hazy atmosphere; and although the wind was + light, and the sea apparently smooth, the brig began to have a motion an + awkward, uneasy motion for which I could not account, and which, to my + great annoyance, continued to increase as we left the land. I staggered as + I crossed the quarter-deck, and soon after we cleared the harbor, came + near pitching overboard from the platform covering the sheep-pens. My head + was strangely confused, and a dizziness seized me, which I in vain + struggled to shake off. My spirits, so gay and buoyant as we sailed down + the harbor, sunk to zero. + </p> + <p> + At length I could not resist the conviction that I was assailed with + symptoms of seasickness, a malady which I had always held in contempt, + believing it to exist more in imagination than in fact, and which I was + determined to resist, as unsailor-like and unmanly. Other symptoms of a + less equivocal description, soon placed the character of my illness beyond + a doubt. My woe-begone looks must have betrayed my feelings, for one of + the men told me, with a quizzical leer, that old Neptune always exacted + toll in advance from a green hand for his passage over the waters. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Thompson, who seemed to pity my miserable condition, gravely assured + me that exercise was a capital thing as a preventive or cure for + seasickness, and advised me to try the pump. I followed his advice: a few + strokes brought up the bilge water, than which nothing at that time could + have been more insufferably nauseous! I left the pump in disgust, and + retiring to the after part of the quarter-deck, threw myself down on a + coil of rope, unable longer to struggle with my fate. There I remained + unnoticed and uncared for for several hours, when, the wind having + changed, the rope which formed my bed, and proved to be the "main sheet," + was wanted, and I was unceremoniously ejected from my quarters, and + roughly admonished to "go below and keep out of the way!" I crawled into + the cabin, and, stretched on some boxes, endeavored to get a little sleep; + but the conglomeration of smells of a most inodorous character, which, as + it seemed to my distempered fancy, pervaded every part of the vessel, + prevented my losing a sense of suffering in sleep. + </p> + <p> + As I lay musing on the changes which a few days had wrought in my + condition, and, borne down by the pangs of seasickness, was almost ready + to admit that there was prose as well as poetry in a sailor's life, I was + startled by a terrific noise, the announcement, I supposed, of some + appalling danger. I heard distinctly three loud knocks on the deck at the + entrance of the steerage, and then a sailor put his head down the + companion-way, and in a voice loud, cracked, and discordant, screamed in a + tone which I thought must have split his jaws asunder, "LA-AR-BO-A-RD + W-A-T-CH A-H-O-O-Y." + </p> + <p> + In spite of my sickness I started from my uncomfortable resting place, + scrambled into the steerage, and by a roll of the brig was tumbled under + the steps, and suffered additional pains and apprehensions before I + ascertained that the unearthly sounds which had so alarmed me were nothing + more than the usual mode of "calling the watch," or in other words, the + man with the unmusical voice had gently hinted to the sleepers below that + "turn-about was fair play," and they were wanted on deck. + </p> + <p> + To add to my troubles, the wind in the morning shifted to the south-east, + and thus became a head wind, and the old brig became more restless than + ever, and pitched and rolled to leeward occasionally with a lurch, + performing clumsy antics in the water which my imagination never pictured, + and which I could neither admire nor applaud. + </p> + <p> + For several days we were beating about Massachusetts Bay and St. George's + Bank, making slow progress on our voyage. During that time I was really + seasick, and took little note of passing events, being stretched on the + deck, a coil of rope, or a chest, musing on the past or indulging in + gloomy reflections in regard to the future. Seasickness never paints ideal + objects of a roseate hue. Although I was not called upon for much actual + work, I received no sympathy for my miserable condition; for seasickness, + like the toothache, is seldom fatal, notwithstanding it is as distressing + a malady as is found in the catalogue of diseases, and one for which no + preventive or cure, excepting time, has yet been discovered. Time is a + panacea for every ill; and after the lapse of ten or twelve days, as the + brig was drawing towards the latitude of Bermuda, my sickness disappeared + as suddenly as it commenced; and one pleasant morning I threw aside my + shore dress, and with it my landsman's habits and feelings. I donned my + short jacket and trousers, and felt every inch a sailor! + </p> + <p> + The Bermudas are a cluster of small islands and rocks lying in the track + of vessels bound from New England to the West Indies. The climate is mild, + and the atmosphere remarkably salubrious, while the trace of ocean in the + vicinity has long been noted for severe squalls at every season of the + year. A squall at sea no unusual occurrence is often the cause of anxiety, + being attended with danger. Sometimes the rush of wind is so violent that + nothing will resist its fury, and before the alarm is given and the canvas + reduced, the masts are blown over the side or the vessel capsized. + Therefore, on the approach of a squall, a vigilant officer will be + prepared for the worst, by shortening sail and making other arrangements + for averting the threatened danger. + </p> + <p> + I hardly knew how it happened, but one afternoon when we were a little to + the northward of Bermuda, and should have kept a lookout for squalls, we + were favored with a visit from one of a most energetic character. Its + sudden approach from under the lee was either unnoticed or unheeded until + the captain accidentally came on deck. He was instantly aware of the + perilous condition of the brig, for the "white caps" of the waves could be + distinctly seen, and even the roar of the wind could be heard as it rushed + towards us over the water. Before any orders could be executed before the + sails could be taken in, the yards braced round, or even the helm shifted, + the tempest broke over us. The rain fell in torrents, the wind blew with + tremendous violence, and a scene of indescribable confusion ensued. + </p> + <p> + The captain stood near the companion-way, much excited, giving directions + with energy and rapidity. "Hard up your helm!" said he; "Hard up! Lower + away the mainsail! Let go the peak halliards! Why DON'T you put the helm + hard up? Let go all the halliards fore and aft! Clew down the + fore-topsail! Haul in the starboard braces! There steady with the helm!" + </p> + <p> + The mate and sailors were running about the decks, looking frightened and + bewildered, eagerly casting loose some ropes, and pulling desperately upon + others; the sails were fluttering and shaking, as if anxious to quit the + spars and fly away to unknown regions; the brig felt the force of the + wind, and for a few moments was pressed over on her side until her beam + ends were in the water; and what with the shouting of the captain, the + answering shouts of the mate, the unearthly cries of the sailors, as they + strove to execute the orders so energetically given; the struggling of the + canvas, the roaring of the winds and the waves, the creaking of the + cordage, the beating of the rain against the decks, and the careening of + the vessel, it is not remarkable that I felt somewhat alarmed and excited, + as well as deeply interested in witnessing for the first time in my life A + SQUALL AT SEA. + </p> + <p> + The squall was of short duration; although the rain continued for a time, + the wind, after a few minutes, gave but little inconvenience. In the + course of an hour the murky clouds had disappeared, the sun shone out + brightly as it was sinking towards the horizon, and the brig was again + pursuing her way towards her destined port, urged slowly along by a light + but favorable breeze. + </p> + <p> + Having got my sea legs on, I could proudly strut about among the lumber + and sheep-pens without fear of rolling overboard. I found the sailors a + rough but good-natured set of fellows, with but little refinement in ideas + or language. Although they amused themselves with my awkwardness, and + annoyed me with practical jokes, they took a pride and pleasure in + inducting me into the mysteries of their craft. They taught me the + difference between a granny knot and a square knot; how to whip a rope's + end; form splices; braid sinnett; make a running bowline, and do a variety + of things peculiar to the web-footed gentry. Some of them also tried hard, + by precept and example, but in vain, to induce me to chew tobacco and + drink grog! Indeed, they regarded the ability to swallow a stiff glass of + New England rum, without making a wry face, as one of the most important + qualifications of a sailor! + </p> + <p> + The "old men-of-war's-men" had passed through strange and eventful scenes; + they were the type of a class of men which have long since passed away; + they could spin many a long and interesting yarn, to which I listened with + untiring eagerness. But no trait in their character astonished me more + than their uncontrollable passion for intoxicating drinks. As cabin boy, + it was my duty to serve out to the crew a half pint of rum a day. These + old Tritons eagerly looked forward to the hour when this interesting + ceremony came off; their eyes sparkled as they received their allotted + portion of this enemy to the human race; and they practised every art to + procure, by fair means or foul, an increased allowance. If by accident or + shrewd management one of them succeeded in obtaining half a glass more + than he was fairly entitled to, his triumph was complete. But if he + imagined he had not received the full quantity which was his due, ill + humor and sulky looks for the next twenty-four hours bore testimony to his + anger and disappointment. These men ignored the good old proverb that + "bread is the staff of life," and at any time, or at all times, would + prefer grog to bread. + </p> + <p> + In those days it was believed that ardent spirit would strengthen the + constitution, and enable a man to endure hardship and perform labor to a + greater extent that would be the case if he drank nothing stronger than + water. Rum was, therefore, included among the ship's stores as an + important means of keeping the ship's company in good humor, reviving + their spirits and energies when overcome with fatigue or exposure, and + strengthening them for a hard day's work. + </p> + <p> + Those days have passed away. It is now known that those doctrines were + false; that spiritous liquors, as a drink, never benefit mankind, but have + proved one of the greatest scourges with which the human race has been + afflicted. It is no longer believed that grog will insure the faithful + performance of a seaman's duty, and it is excluded from our ships, so far + as the forecastle is concerned; and if it were never allowed to visit the + cabin, the crews, in some cases, would lead happier lives, there would be + fewer instances of assault and battery, revolts and shipwrecks, and the + owners and underwriters would find the balance at the end of the voyage + more decidedly in their favor. + </p> + <p> + Among the customs on shipboard which attracted my particular attention, + was the manner in which the sailors partook of their meals. There was no + tedious ceremony or fastidious refinement witnessed on these occasions. At + twelve o'clock the orders were promptly given, "Call the watch! Hold the + reel! Pump ship! Get your dinners!" With never-failing alacrity the watch + was called, the log thrown, and the ship pumped. When these duties were + performed, a bustle was seen about the camboose, or large cooking stove, + in which the meals were prepared. In pleasant weather it was usual for the + sailors to take their meals on deck; but no table was arranged, no + table-cloth was spread, no knives and forks or spoons were provided, no + plates of any description were furnished, or glass tumblers or earthen + mugs. The preliminary arrangements were of the simplest description. + </p> + <p> + The signal being given, the cook hastily transferred from his boilers + whatever food he had prepared, into a wooden vessel, called a kid, + resembling in size and appearance a peck measure. The kid with its + contents was deposited on the spot selected; a bag or box, containing + ship's biscuits was then produced, dinner was ready, and all hands, + nothing loth, gathered around the kid and commenced operations. + </p> + <p> + The usual fare was salt beef and bread, varied at stated times or + according to circumstances; and this has probably for centuries been the + standing dish for the forecastle in English and American ships. On this + passage, the Sunday dinner varied from the usual routine by the addition + of fresh meat. Every Sabbath morning a sheep, the finest and fattest of + the flock, was missing from the pens. Portions of the animal, however, + would appear a few hours afterwards in the shape of a luscious sea-pie for + the sailors, and in various inviting shapes during the following week to + the inmates of the cabin. This loss of property was recorded by Mr. + Thompson in the ship's log-book, with his accustomed accuracy, and with + Spartan brevity. The language he invariably used was, "A sheep died this + day." + </p> + <p> + Among the crew of the Dolphin were two weather-beaten tars, who were as + careless of their costumes as of their characters. They recked little how + ridiculously they looked, excepting in one respect. They could each boast + of a magnificent head of hair, which they allowed to grow to a great + length on the back of the head, where it was collected and fashioned into + enormous queues, which, when permitted to hang down, reached to the small + of their backs, and gave them the appearance of Chinese mandarins, or + Turkish pachas of a single tail. These tails were their pets the only + ornaments about their persons for which they manifested any interest. This + pride in their queues was the weak point in their characters. Every Sunday + they performed on each other the operation of manipulating the pendulous + ornaments, straightening them out like magnified marlinspikes, and binding + them with ribbons or rope-yarns, tastily fastened at the extremity by a + double bow knot. + </p> + <p> + Queues, in those days, were worn on the land as well as on the sea, and + were as highly prized by the owners. On the land, they were harmless + enough, perhaps, and seldom ungratefully interfered with the comfort of + their benefactors or lured them into scrapes. On shipboard the case was + different, and they sometimes proved not only superfluous but troublesome. + </p> + <p> + On our homeward passage a case occurred which illustrated the absurdity of + wearing a queue at sea a fashion which has been obsolete for many years. A + gale of wind occurred on the coast, and the crew were ordered aloft to + reef the fore-topsail. Jim Bilton, with his queue snugly clubbed and + tucked away beneath his pea-jacket, was first on the yard, and passed the + weather ear-ring; but, unfortunately, the standing rigging had recently + been tarred, and his queue, escaping from bondage, was blown about, the + sport of the wind, and after flapping against the yard, took a "round + turn" over the lift, and stuck fast. Jim was in an awkward position. He + could not immediately disengage his queue, and he could not willingly or + conveniently leave it aloft. All hands but himself were promptly on deck, + and ready to sway up the yard. The mate shouted to him in the full + strength of his lungs to "Bear a hand and lay in off the yard," and + unjustly berated him as a "lubber," while the poor fellow was tugging + away, and working with might and main, to disengage his tail from the + lift, in which he at length succeeded, but not without the aid of his + jackknife. + </p> + <p> + I was greatly troubled during this passage by the impure character of the + water. I had been taught to place a high value on water as a beverage; but + when we had been three weeks at sea, and had entered the warm latitudes, + on knocking a bung from one of the water casks on the quarter-deck, there + issued an odor of "an ancient and fish-like" nature, which gave offence to + my olfactories. On tasting the water, I found to my disgust that it was + impregnated with a flavor of a like character, and after it was swallowed + this flavor would cling to the palate with provoking tenacity for several + minutes. The sailors smacked their lips over it once or twice, and + pronounced it "from fair to middling." When boiled, and drank under the + name of tea or coffee, it might have deserved that character; but when + taken directly from the cask, and quaffed in hot weather, as a pleasant + and refreshing beverage it was a signal failure. + </p> + <p> + To the inmates of the cabin, myself excepted, the peculiar flavor of the + water served as an excuse, if any were required, for drawing liberally on + the brandy kegs and liquor cases. A little "dash of spirit" removed the + unpleasant taste by adding another, which, to my unsophisticated palate, + was equally offensive. The water in every cask proved of a similar + character; and I could hardly imagine how use, or even necessity, could + reconcile a person to such water as that. The problem was solved, but not + entirely to my satisfaction, on my next voyage. + </p> + <p> + The duties of cabin boy were of a nature different from my occupations in + previous years. They engrossed a considerable portion of my time; and + though they were not the kind of duties I most loved to perform, I + endeavored to accommodate my feelings to my situation, comforting myself + with the belief that the voyage would not be of long duration, and that I + was now taking the first step in the rugged path which led to fame and + fortune. + </p> + <p> + I devoted the hours which I could spare from my appropriate duties to the + acquisition of a knowledge of seamanship, and developing its mysteries. I + was fond of going aloft when the vessel was rolling or pitching in a + strong breeze. I loved to mount upon the top-gallant yard, and from that + proud eminence, while rocking to and fro, look down upon the sails and + spars of the brig, take a bird's eye view of the deck, and scan the + various operations; look at the foam beneath the bows, or at the smooth, + eddying, serpentine track left far behind. I also loved to gaze from this + elevated position upon the broad ocean, bounded on every side by the clear + and distant horizon a grand and sublime sight. And then I indulged in + daydreams of the most pleasing description, and built gay and fantastic + castles in the air, which my reason told me the next moment would never be + realized. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter III. MANNING THE WOODEN WALLS OF OLD ENGLAND + </h2> + <p> + One morning, soon after daybreak, as I was lying asleep in my berth, I was + awakened by a trampling on deck and loud shouts. Aware that something + unusual had occurred, I lost no time in hastening to the scene of action. + Ere I reached the deck, I heard the word "porpoises" uttered in a loud key + by one of the sailors, which explained the cause of the excitement. + </p> + <p> + The mate, with sparkling eye and rigid features, in which determination + was strongly stamped, as if resolved "to do or die," was busily engaged in + fitting a line to the harpoon, which had been sharpened and prepared for + use some days before. I cast my eye to windward, and saw the ocean alive + with fish. Hundreds of porpoises were swimming around the brig, crossing + the bows, or following in the wake, or leaping out of water and snuffing + the air, and racing with each other as if for a wager; passing so rapidly + through the liquid element that it wearied the eye to follow them. + </p> + <p> + The mate was soon ready with the harpoon, and took his station on the + bowsprit, within six feet of the water. The line, one end of which was + fastened to the harpoon, was rove through a block attached to the + main-topmast stay; and the cook, one of the sailors, and myself firmly + grasped the rope, and stood ready, whenever the word might be given, to + bowse the unsuspecting and deluded victim out of his native element and + introduce him to the ship's company. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Thompson stood on the bowsprit, poising the death-dealing instrument, + and with a keen eye watched the gambols of the fish. He looked as + formidable and fierce as a Paladin intent on some daring and desperate + enterprise. As I eyed him with admiration and envy I wondered if the time + would ever arrive when, clad with authority, I should exercise the + privilege of wielding the harpoon and striking a porpoise! Several of + these interesting fish, not aware of the inhospitable reception awaiting + them, and seemingly prompted by curiosity, rapidly approached the brig. + "Stand by, my lads!" exclaimed the mate, his face lighted by a gleam of + anticipated triumph. One huge fellow passed directly beneath the bowsprit, + and Mr. Thompson let drive the harpoon with all the strength and energy he + possessed. We hauled upon the line with vigor alas! It required but little + exertion to haul it in; the mate had missed his mark. + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes another of these portly inhabitants of the deep came + rolling along with a rowdy, swaggering gait, close to the surface of the + water. The mate, cool and collected, took a careful aim, and again threw + the iron, which entered his victim, and then shouted with the voice of a + Stentor, "Haul in! Haul in!" And we did haul in; but the fish was strong + and muscular, and struggled hard for liberty and life. In spite of our + prompt and vigorous exertions, he was dragged under the brig's bottom; and + if he had not been struck in a workmanlike manner, the harpoon would have + drawn out, and the porpoise would have escaped, to be torn to pieces by + his unsympathizing companions. As it was, after a severe struggle on both + sides, we roused him out of the water, when the mate called for the jib + down-haul, with which he made a running bowline, which was clapped over + his tail and drawn tight; and in this inglorious manner he was hauled in + on the deck. + </p> + <p> + The porpoise is a fish five or six feet in length, weighing from one + hundred and fifty to three hundred pounds. The name is derived from the + Italian word PORCO-PERCE, or hog-fish; and indeed this animal resembles a + hog in many respects. It has a long head, terminated by a projection of + its jaws, which are well filled with sharp teeth, white as polished ivory. + The body is covered with a coat of fat, or blubber, from one to three + inches in thickness, which yields abundance of excellent oil; and the + flesh beneath is not very unlike that of a hog, but more oily, coarser, + and of a darker color. The flesh, excepting the harslet, is not much + prized, though some sailors are fond of it, and rejoice at the capture of + a porpoise, which gives them an agreeable change of diet. + </p> + <p> + A few days after this event, being to the southward of Bermuda, I climbed + to the fore-top-gallant yard, and casting my eyes around, saw on the verge + of the horizon a white speck, which made a singular appearance, + contrasting, as it did, with the dark hue of the ocean and the clear azure + of a cloudless sky, I called to a sailor who was at work in the + cross-trees, and pointed it out to him. As soon as he saw it he exclaimed, + "Sail, ho!" + </p> + <p> + The captain was on the quarter-deck, and responded to the announcement by + the inquiry of "Where away?" + </p> + <p> + "About three points on the larboard bow," was the rejoinder. + </p> + <p> + We had not spoken a vessel since we left Portsmouth. Indeed, we had seen + none, excepting a few fishing smacks on St. George's Bank. The sight of a + vessel on the broad ocean ordinarily produces considerable excitement; and + this excitement is of a pleasing character when there is no reason to + believe the stranger an enemy. It varies the incidents of a tedious + passage, and shows that you are not alone on the face of the waters; that + others are traversing the ocean and tempting its dangers, urged by a love + of adventure or thirst of gain. + </p> + <p> + The captain looked at the strange vessel through his spy-glass, and said + it was standing towards us. We approached each other rapidly, for the + stranger carried a cloud of sail, and was evidently a fast sailer. By the + peculiar color and cut of the canvas, the captain was led to believe we + were about to be overhauled by a British man-of-war. This announcement + gave me pleasure. I longed for an opportunity to behold one of that class + of vessels, of which I had heard so much. But all the crew did not + participate in my feelings. Two of the sailors, whom I had good reason to + believe were not "native Americans," although provided with American + protections, looked unusually grave when the captain expressed his + opinion, manifested no little anxiety, and muttered bitter curses against + the English men-of-war! + </p> + <p> + I then learned that the British navy "the wooden walls of Old England" + whose vaunted prowess was in every mouth, was manned almost exclusively by + men who did not voluntarily enter the service, prompted by a feeling of + patriotism, a sense of honor, or the expectation of emolument, but were + victims to the unjust and arbitrary system of impressment. + </p> + <p> + It is singular that in the early part of the present century, when + Clarkson, Wilberforce, and other philanthropists, with a zeal and + perseverance which reflects immortal honor on their names, labored + unceasingly and successfully to abolish an important branch of the African + slave trade, no voice was raised in the British parliament to abolish the + impressment of seamen a system of slavery as odious, unjust and degrading, + as was ever established by a despotic government! + </p> + <p> + At that time Great Britain was engaged in sanguinary wars, and her flag + was borne by her ships on every sea. It was difficult to man her navy, the + pay being small, and the penalties for misconduct or venial errors + terribly severe. Therefore, when on the ocean, British ships of war in + want of men were in the habit of impressing sailors from merchant vessels, + and often without regard to national character. American ships were fired + at, brought to, and strictly searched by these tyrants of the ocean; and + when foreigners were found on board, whether British, Swedes, Dutch, + Russians, Norwegians, or Spaniards, they were liable to be claimed as fit + persons to serve "His Majesty." In spite of remonstrances and menaces, + they were conveyed on board the British men-of-war, doomed to submit to + insult and injustice, and to risk their lives while fighting in quarrels + in which they felt no interest. + </p> + <p> + British seamen were seized wherever met, whether pursuing their lawful + business on the high seas, or while on shore walking quietly through the + streets of a city or town; even in the bosom of their families, or when + quietly reposing on their pillows! Press-gangs, composed of desperate men, + headed by resolute and unscrupulous officers, were constantly on the + lookout for men, and took them, sometimes after hard fighting, and dragged + them away to undergo the horrors of slavery on board a man-of-war! + </p> + <p> + It is not remarkable that a sailor in those days should have dreaded a + "man-of-war" as the most fearful of evils, and would resort to desperate + means to avoid impressment or escape from bondage. Those few fortunate + men, who, by resolution or cunning, had succeeded in escaping from their + sea-girt prisons, detailed the treatment they had received with minute and + hideous accuracy to others; and that they could not have exaggerated the + statements is proved by the risks they voluntarily encountered to gain + their freedom. The bullets of the marines on duty, the fear of the + voracious shark in waters where they abounded, the dangers of a + pestilential climate, or the certainty, if retaken, of being subjected to + a more revolting and excruciating punishment than was every devised by the + Spanish Inquisition FLOGGING THROUGH THE FLEET could not deter British + seamen from attempting to flee from their detested prison-house. + </p> + <p> + American seamen were sometimes forcibly taken from American ships, and + their protestations against the outrage, and their repeated declarations, + "I am an American citizen!" served only as amusement to the kidnappers. + Letters which they subsequently wrote to their friends, soliciting their + aid, or the intercession of the government, seldom reached their + destination. It was rarely that the poor fellows were heard of after they + were pressed on board a man-of-war. They died of disease in pestilential + climates, or fell in battle while warring in behalf of a government they + hated, and principles with which they had no sympathy. + </p> + <p> + This gross violation of the laws of nations and the principles of justice + furnished one of the strongest motives for the war which was declared in + 1812. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Nor were these insults on the part of British cruisers confined to +American merchant ships. Our government vessels were, in more than one +instance, boarded with a view to examine the crews and take the men, +if any, who happened to be born under the British flag. A successful +attempt was made in the case of the Chesapeake, which frigate, under the +command of Commodore Barron, made a feeble show of resistance, and was +fired into in a time of peace, several of her crew killed and wounded, +and compelled to strike her colors! The Chesapeake was then boarded, and +the Englishmen found on board were seized upon and transferred to the +British ship! + + An attempt of a similar kind was made some years before, but +with a different result. When the heroic Tingey commanded the Ganges, +in 1799, being off Cape Nicola Mole, he was boarded by a boat from the +English frigate Surprise, and a demand was very coolly made that all the +Englishmen on board the Ganges should be given up, as they were wanted +for the service of His Majesty, George III! +</pre> + <p> + Captain Tingey returned the following noble reply: "Give my respects to + your commander; the respects of Captain Tingey, of the American navy; and + tell him from me, that A PUBLIC SHIP CARRIES NO PROTECTION FOR HER MEN BUT + HER FLAG! I may not succeed in a contest with you, but I will die at my + quarters before a man shall be taken from my ship!" + </p> + <p> + The crew gave three cheers, hastened with alacrity to their guns, and + called for "Yankee Doodle." The captain of the Surprise, although one of + the bravest officers in the British service, on hearing the determination + of the Yankee, chose rather to continue on his cruise than do battle for + dead men. + </p> + <p> + In less than an hour after the strange sail was seen from the decks of the + Dolphin the surmises of the captain were proved to be correct. The + stranger was undoubtedly an English brig-of-war of the largest class. We + could see the port-holes, through which the cannon protruded, and + distinguish the gleam of muskets and cutlasses, and other instruments of + destruction. The sails were so large and so neatly fitted, and the hull + was so symmetrical in its model, and the brig glided along so gracefully + over the waves, that I was charmed with her appearance, and could hardly + express my satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + We continued on our course, with the American ensign flying, our captain + hoping that this emissary of John Bull, seeing the character of our + vessel, which no one could mistake, would suffer us to pass on our way + unmolested, when a volume of flame and smoke issued from the bow of the + sloop-of-war, and a messenger, in the shape of a cannon ball, came + whistling over the waves, and, after crossing our bows in a diagonal + direction, and striking the surface of the water several times, buried + itself in a huge billow at no great distance. This was language that + required no interpreter. It was a mandate that must be obeyed. The helm + was ordered "hard-a-lee," the foresail hauled up, and the topsail laid to + the mast. + </p> + <p> + The armed brig hoisted British colors, and her boat was soon alongside the + Dolphin. An officer sprang on board, followed by several sailors. With an + off-hand, swaggering air, the officer addressed Captain Tilton, demanding + where we were from, whither we were bound, and the character of our cargo. + He then expressed an intention to examine the ship's papers, and went with + the captain into the cabin for that purpose. When they returned on deck, + Captain Tilton ordered the mate to summon aft the crew. This was not a + work of difficulty, for they were standing in the waist, deeply interested + spectators of the proceedings. At least three of them were trembling with + fear, and speculating on the chances of being again impressed on board an + English man-of-war. + </p> + <p> + "Where are these men's protections?" demanded the lieutenant. + </p> + <p> + By "protection," was meant a printed certificate, under the signature and + seal of the collector of one of the revenue districts in the United + States, stating that the person, whose age, height, and complexion were + particularly described, had adduced satisfactory proof of being an + American citizen. An American seaman found without this document, whether + in a foreign port or on the high seas, was looked upon as an Englishman, + notwithstanding the most conclusive proof to the contrary, and regardless + of his rights or the engagements by which he might be bound, was dragged + on board a man-of-war as a lawful prize. + </p> + <p> + "Here are the protections," said Captain Tilton, handing the papers to the + Englishman. + </p> + <p> + The men were, one by one, examined, to see if the descriptions + corresponded with their persons. They were found to correspond exactly. + </p> + <p> + The officer was not to be easily balked of his prey. Turning suddenly to + one of them, a weather-beaten, case-hardened old tar, who wore a queue, + and whose name was borne on the shipping paper as Harry Johnson, he + sternly asked, "How long is it since you left His Majesty's service?" + </p> + <p> + The poor fellow turned pale as death. He lifted his hand to his hat, in a + most anti-republican style, and stammered out something indistinctly. + </p> + <p> + "'Tis of no use, Johnson," exclaimed the officer. "I see how it is; and we + must be better acquainted. Your protection was obtained by perjury. Get + ready to go in the boat." + </p> + <p> + In vain Captain Tilton represented that Johnson was sailing under the + American flag; that he had the usual certificate of being an American + citizen; that his vessel was already short manned, considering the + peculiar character of the cargo, and if his crew should be reduced, he + might find himself unable to manage the brig in heavy weather, which there + was reason to expect at that season in the latitude of the West Indies. + </p> + <p> + To these representations the lieutenant replied in a brief and dry manner. + He said the man was an Englishman, and was wanted. He repeated his orders + to Johnson, in a more peremptory tone, to "go in the boat." + </p> + <p> + To the threats of the captain that he would lay the matter before + Congress, and make it a national affair, the officer seemed altogether + indifferent. He merely bade his trembling victim "bear a hand," as he + wished to return to the brig without delay. + </p> + <p> + When Johnson saw there was no alternative, that his fate was fixed, he + prepared to meet it like a man. He looked at the American ensign, which + was waving over his head, and said it was a pity the American flag could + not protect those who sailed under it from insult and outrage. He shook + each of us by the hand, gave us his best wishes, and followed his baggage + into the boat, which immediately shoved off. + </p> + <p> + The officer told Captain Tilton that when the British ensign was hauled + down, he might fill away, and proceed on his voyage. In about fifteen + minutes the ensign was hauled down. Orders were given to fill away the + foretopsail. The helm was put up, and we resumed our course for Demarara. + </p> + <p> + Steering to the southward, we reached that narrow belt of the Atlantic, + called "the doldrums," which lies between the variable and the trade + winds. This tract is from two to three degrees in width, and is usually + fallen in with soon after crossing the thirtieth degree of latitude. Here + the wind is apt to be light and baffling at all seasons; and sometimes + calms prevail for several days. This tract of ocean was once known as the + "horse latitudes," because many years ago vessels from Connecticut were in + the habit of taking deck-loads of horses to the West India islands, and it + not unfrequently happened that these vessels, being for the most part dull + sailers, were so long detained in those latitudes that their hay, + provender, and water were expended, and the animals died of hunger and + thirst. + </p> + <p> + The Dolphin was a week in crossing three degrees of latitude. Indeed it + was a calm during a considerable portion of that time. This drew largely + on the patience of the captain, mate, and all hands. There are few things + so annoying to a sailor at sea as a calm. A gale of wind, even a + hurricane, with its life, its energy, its fury, though it may bring the + conviction of danger, is preferred by an old sailor to the dull, listless + monotony of a calm. + </p> + <p> + These slow movements in the "horse latitudes" were not distasteful to me. + A calm furnished abundant food for curiosity. The immense fields of + gulf-weed, with their parasitical inhabitants, that we now began to fall + in with; the stately species of nautilus, known as he Portuguese + man-of-war, floating so gracefully, with its transparent body and delicate + tints; and the varieties of fish occasionally seen, including the + flying-fish, dolphin, boneta, and shark, all furnish to an inquiring mind + subjects of deep and abiding interest. My wonder was also excited by the + singularly glassy smoothness of the surface of the water in a dead calm, + while at the same time the long, rolling waves, or "seas," kept the brig + in perpetual motion, and swept past as if despatched by some mysterious + power on a mission to the ends of the earth. + </p> + <p> + Several kinds of fish that are met with on the ocean are really palatable, + and find a hearty welcome in the cabin and the forecastle. To capture + these denizens of the deep, a line, to which is attached a large hook + baited with a small fish, or a piece of the rind of pork, shaped to + resemble a fish, is sometimes kept towing astern in pleasant weather. This + was the custom on board the Dolphin; and one afternoon, when the brig, + fanned by gentle zephyrs, hardly had "steerage way," my attention was + aroused by an exulting shout from the man at the helm, followed by a + solemn asserveration, that "a fish was hooked at last." + </p> + <p> + All was bustle and excitement. Discipline was suddenly relaxed, and the + captain, mate, and crew mounted the taffrail forthwith to satisfy their + curiosity in regard to the character of the prowling intruder, which was + distinctly seen struggling in the wake. It proved to be a shark. But the + fellow disdained to be captured by such ignoble instruments as a cod line + and a halibut hook. He remained comparatively passive for a time, and + allowed himself to be hauled, by the united efforts of the crew, some + three or four fathoms towards the brig, when, annoyed by the restraint + imposed upon him, or disliking the wild and motley appearance of the + ship's company, he took a broad sheer to starboard, the hook snapped like + a pipestem, and the hated monster swam off in another direction, wagging + his tail in the happy consciousness that he was "free, untrammelled, and + disinthralled." + </p> + <p> + "Never mind," said Mr. Thompson, making an effort to console himself for + the disappointment, "we'll have the rascal yet." + </p> + <p> + The shark manifested no disposition to leave our neighborhood, or in any + other way showed displeasure at the trick we had played him. On the + contrary, he drew nearer the vessel, and moved indolently and defiantly + about, with his dorsal fin and a portion of his tail above the water. He + was undoubtedly hungry as well as proud, and it is well known that sharks + are not particular with regard to the quality of their food. Every thing + that is edible, and much which is indigestible, is greedily seized and + devoured by these voracious fish. + </p> + <p> + We had no shark hook on board; nevertheless, the mate lost no time in + making arrangements to capture this enemy of sailors. He fastened a piece + of beef to the end of a rope and threw it overboard, letting it drag + astern. This attracted the attention of the shark, who gradually + approached the tempting morsel, regarding it with a wistful eye, but with + a lurking suspicion that all was not right. + </p> + <p> + It was now seen that the shark was not alone, but was attended by several + fish of small size, beautifully mottled, and measuring from four to eight + or ten inches in length. They swam boldly around the shark, above and + beneath him, and sometimes passed directly in front of his jaws, while the + shark manifested no desire to seize his companions and satisfy his hunger. + These were "pilot fish," and in the neighborhood of the tropics a shark is + seldom seen without one or more attendants of this description. + </p> + <p> + Two of these pilot fish swam towards the beef, examined it carefully with + their eyes, and rubbed it with their noses, and then returned to their + lord and master. It required but a slight stretch of the imagination to + suppose that these well-meaning servants made a favorable report, and + whispered in his ear that "all was right," and thus unwittingly betrayed + him to his ruin. + </p> + <p> + Be that as it will, the shark now swam boldly towards the beef, as if + eager to devour it; but Mr. Thompson hauled upon the rope until the + precious viand was almost directly beneath the taffrail. In the mean time + the mate had caused a running bowline, or noose, to be prepared from a + small but strong rope. This was lowered over the stern into the water, and + by a little dexterous management, the shark was coaxed to enter it in his + eagerness to get at the beef. The mate let fall the running part of the + bowline and hauled upon the other, and to the utter bewilderment of the + hungry monster, he found himself entrapped in the power of his mortal + enemies being firmly and ingloriously fastened by the tail. When he + discovered the inhospitable deception of which he was the victim he + appeared angry, and made furious efforts to escape; but the rope was + strong, and his struggles served only to draw the noose tighter. + </p> + <p> + The shark was hauled on board, and made a terrible flouncing on the + quarter-deck before he could be despatched. It was interesting to witness + the eagerness with which he was assailed by the sailors. This animal is + regarded as their most inveterate foe, and they seize with avidity any + chance to diminish the numbers of these monsters of the deep. It was some + time before he would succumb to the murderous attacks of his enemies. He + wreaked his vengeance on the ropes around him, and severed them with his + sharp teeth as completely and smoothly as if they had been cut with a + knife. But when his head was nearly cut off, and his skull beat in by the + cook's axe and handspikes, the shark, finding further resistance + impossible as well as useless, resigned himself to his fate. + </p> + <p> + Sharks not unfrequently follow a vessel in moderate weather for several + days, and in tropical latitudes sometimes lurk under a ship's bottom, + watching a chance to gratify their appetites. For this reason it is + dangerous for a person to bathe in the sea during a calm, as they are by + no means choice in regard to their food, but will as readily make a meal + from the leg of a sailor as from the wing of a chicken. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Thompson related a case which occurred on board a vessel belonging to + Portsmouth, the year before, and to which he was a witness. One Sunday + morning, in the warm latitudes, while the sea was calm, a young man, on + his first voyage, quietly undressed himself, and without a word to any + one, thoughtlessly mounted the cathead and plunged into the water. He swam + off some distance from the ship, and laughing and shouting, seemed greatly + to admire the refreshing exercise. The captain, on being informed of his + imprudent conduct, called to him, rebuked him severely, and ordered him to + return immediately to the ship. The young sailor turned about, wondering + what impropriety there could be in taking a pleasant bath during such + sultry weather. He swam beneath the fore-chain-wales, and took hold of a + rope to aid him in getting on board. A couple of his shipmates also seized + him by the wrists to assist him in climbing up the side. For a moment he + remained motionless, with half his body in the water, when a huge shark, + that had been lying in wait under the ship's bottom, seized him by the + leg. The unfortunate young man uttered the most piteous screams, and every + one was instinctively aware of the cause of his terrible agony. The + captain ordered the men who held the arms of the sufferer to "hold on," + and jumped in the chain-wale himself to assist them. By main strength the + poor fellow was dragged fainting on board; but his foot was torn off, + together with a portion of the integuments of the leg, and the bones were + dreadfully crushed. He lived in agony a few days, when he expired. + Incidents of this nature will satisfactorily account for the hatred which + a sailor bears towards a shark. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter IV. LAND, HO! + </h2> + <p> + On the day succeeding the capture of the shark a fine breeze sprung up. + Once more the white foam appeared beneath the bows, as the old brig + plunged, and rolled, and wriggled along on her way towards Demarara. With + a strong breeze on the quarter, it required not only labor, but skill, to + steer the interesting craft. One of the "old salts," having been rebuked + by the captain for steering wildly, declared, in a grave but respectful + tone, that he could steer as good a trick at the helm as any man who ever + handled a marlinspike; but he "verily believed the old critter knew as + much as a Christian, and was obstinately determined to turn round and take + a look at her starn!" + </p> + <p> + The regular "trade wind" now commenced, and there was a prospect, although + still a distant one, of ultimately reaching the port to which we were + bound. The trade winds blow almost constantly from one direction, and + prevail in most parts of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, between the + latitudes of twenty-eight degrees north and twenty-eight degrees south. In + northern latitudes the trade wind blows from north-east, or varies but a + few points from that direction. South of the equator it blows constantly + from the south-east; and the "south-east trade" is more steady than the + trade wind north of the line. + </p> + <p> + It often happens that vessels bound to the United States from India, after + passing the Cape of Good Hope, steer a course nearly north-west, carrying + studding-sails on both sides, uninterruptedly, through fifteen or twenty + degrees of latitude. + </p> + <p> + The cause of the trade winds is supposed to be the joint influence of the + higher temperature of the torrid zone and the rotation of the earth on its + axis. On the equator, and extending sometimes a few degrees on either + side, is a tract where light easterly winds, calms, and squalls, with + thunder, lightning, and inundating rains, prevail. + </p> + <p> + From what I have said, it will be seen that vessels bound from the + American coast to the West Indies or Guiana should steer to the eastward + in the early part of their passage, while they have the advantage of + variable winds. And this precaution is the more important, as these + vessels, being generally dull sailers and deeply laden, will fail to reach + their port if they fall to leeward, unless by returning north into the + latitude of the variable winds, and making another trial, with the benefit + of more experience. + </p> + <p> + In those days there were no chronometers in use, and but few of our West + India captains were in possession of a sextant, or indeed able to work a + lunar observation. The latitude was accurately determined every day by + measuring the altitude of the sun as it passed the meridian. To ascertain + the longitude was a more difficult matter. They were obliged to rely + mainly on their dead reckoning; that is, to make a calculation of the + course and distance run daily, from the points steered by the compass and + the rate as indicated by the log-line and half-glass. A reckoning on such + a basis, where unknown currents prevail, where a vessel is steered wildly, + or where the rate of sailing may be inaccurately recorded, is liable to + many errors; therefore it was customary with all prudent masters, in those + days, especially if they distrusted their own skill or judgment in keeping + a reckoning to KEEP WELL TO THE EASTWARD. This was a general rule, and + looked upon as the key to West India navigation. Sometimes a vessel bound + to the Windward Islands, after reaching the latitude of her destined port, + found it necessary to "run down," steering due west, a week or ten days + before making the land. + </p> + <p> + An incident occurred in those waters, a few weeks after we passed over + them, which will illustrate this mode of navigation, and the consequences + that sometimes attend it. A large brig belonging to an eastern port, and + commanded by a worthy and cautious man, was bound to St. Pierre in + Martinico. The latitude of that island was reached in due time, but the + island could not bee seen, the captain having steered well to the + eastward. The brig was put before the wind, and while daylight lasted + every stitch of canvas was spread, and every eye was strained to catch a + glimpse of the high land which was expected to loom up in the western + horizon. This proceeding continued for several days; the brig carrying a + press of sail by day, and lying to by night, until patience seemed no + longer a virtue. The worthy captain began to fear he had not steered far + enough to the eastward, but had been carried by unknown currents to + leeward of his port, and that the first land he should make might prove to + be the Musquito coast on the continent. He felt anxious, and looked in + vain for a vessel from which he could obtain a hint in regard to his true + position. Neither land nor vessel could he meet with. + </p> + <p> + At the close of the fifth day after he had commenced "running down," no + land, at sunset, was in sight from the top-gallant yard; and at eight + o'clock the brig was again hove to. The captain declared with emphasis, + that unless he should make the island of Martinico on the following day, + he would adopt some different measures. The nature of those measures, + however, he never was called upon to explain. In the morning, just as the + gray light of dawn was visible in the east, while a dark cloud seemed to + hang over the western horizon, all sail was again packed on the brig. A + fresh breeze which sprung up during the night gave the captain assurance + that his passage would soon be terminated; and terminated it was, but in a + manner he hardly anticipated, and which he certainly had not desired. The + brig had not been fifteen minutes under way when the dreadful sound of + breakers was heard a sound which strikes dismay to a sailor's heart. The + dark cloud in the west proved to be the mountains of Martinico, and the + brig was dashed upon the shore. The vessel and cargo were lost, and it was + with difficulty the crew were saved. + </p> + <p> + Captain Tilton, however, was a good navigator. He had been a European + trader, understood and practised "lunar observations," and always knew + with sufficient accuracy the position of the brig. + </p> + <p> + Few things surprised me more on my first voyage to sea than the sudden and + mysterious manner in which the coverings of the head were spirited away + from the decks of the Dolphin. Hats, caps, and even the temporary + apologies for such articles of costume, were given unwittingly and most + unwillingly to the waves. A sudden flaw of wind, the flap of a sail, an + involuntary jerk of the head, often elicited an exclamation of anger or a + torrent of invectives from some unfortunate being who had been cruelly + rendered bareheaded, attended with a burst of laughter from unsympathizing + shipmates. + </p> + <p> + The inimitable Dickens, in his best production, says, with all the + shrewdness and point of a practical philosopher, "There are very few + moments in a man's existence when he experiences so much ludicrous + distress, or meets with so little commiseration, as when he is in pursuit + of his own hat." But, unfortunately, on shipboard, if a man's hat is taken + off by the wind, he cannot chase it and recover it; nor is it swept from + his sight into the DEPTHS of the sea. On looking astern, he will see it + gracefully and sportively riding on the billows, as if unconscious of any + impropriety, reckless of the inconvenience which such desertion may cause + its rightful proprietor, and an object of wonder, it may be, to the scaly + inhabitants of old Neptune's dominions. + </p> + <p> + Before we reached Demarara every hat and cap belonging to the ship's + company, with a single exception, had been involuntarily given, as a + propitiatory offering, to the god of Ocean. This exception was a beaver + hat belonging to the captain; and this would have followed its leaders, + had it not been kept in a case hermetically sealed. After the captain's + stock of sea-going hats and caps had disappeared he wore around his head a + kerchief, twisted fancifully, like a turban. Others followed his example, + while some fashioned for themselves skullcaps of fantastic shapes from + pieces of old canvas; so that when we reached Demarara we looked more like + a ship's company of Mediterranean pirates than honest Christians. + </p> + <p> + I became accustomed to a sea life, and each succeeding day brought with it + some novelty to wonder at or admire. The sea is truly beautiful, and has + many charms, notwithstanding a fresh-water poet, affecting to be disgusted + with its monotony, has ill naturedly vented his spleen by describing the + vanities of a sea life in two short lines: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Where sometimes you ship a sea, + And sometimes see a ship." +</pre> + <p> + Yet in spite of its attractions, there are few persons, other than a young + enthusiast on his first voyage, who, after passing several weeks on the + ocean, are not ready to greet with gladness the sight of land, although it + may be a desolate shore or a barren island. Its very aspect fills the + heart with joy, and excites feelings of gratitude to Him, whose protecting + hand has led you safely through the dangers to which those who frequent + the waste of waters are exposed. + </p> + <p> + The gratification of every man on board the Dolphin may therefore be + conceived, when, after a passage of FIFTY-THREE DAYS, in a very + uncomfortable and leaky vessel, a man, sent one morning by the captain to + the fore-top-gallant yard, after taking a bird's eye view from his + elevated position, called out, in a triumphant voice, LAND, HO! + </p> + <p> + The coast of Guiana was in sight. + </p> + <p> + Guiana is an extensive tract of country, extending along the sea coast + from the Orinoco to the Amazon. When discovered in 1504, it was inhabited + by the Caribs. Settlements, however, were soon made on the shore by the + Dutch, the French, and the Portuguese; and the country was divided into + several provinces. It was called by the discoverers "the wild coast," and + is accessible only by the mouths of its rivers the shores being every + where lined with dangerous banks, or covered with impenetrable forests. + Its appearance from the sea is singularly wild and uncultivated, and it is + so low and flat that, as it is approached, the trees along the beach are + the first objects visible. The soil, however, is fertile, and adapted to + every variety of tropical production, sugar, rum, molasses, coffee, and + cacao being its staple commodities. + </p> + <p> + To the distance of thirty or forty miles from the sea coast the land + continues level, and in the rainy season some districts are covered with + water. Indeed, the whole country bordering on the coast is intersected + with swamps, marshes, rivers, artificial canals, and extensive intervals. + This renders it unhealthy; and many natives of a more genial clime have + perished in the provinces of Guiana by pestilential fevers. + </p> + <p> + These marshes and forests are nurseries of reptiles. Alligators of immense + size are found in the rivers, creeks, and pools, and serpents are met with + on the swampy banks of the river, as large as the main-topmast of a + merchant ship, and much larger! The serpents being amphibious, often take + to the water, and being driven unconsciously down the rivers by the + currents, have been fallen in with on the coast several miles from the + land. + </p> + <p> + An incident took place on this coast in 1841, on board the bark Jane, of + Boston, Captain Nickerson, which created quite a sensation on the decks of + that vessel. The bark was ready for sea, and had anchored in the afternoon + outside the bar at the mouth of the Surinam River, when the crew turned in + and the watch was set that night. The bark was a well-conditioned, orderly + vessel, harboring no strangers, interlopers, or vagrants of any + description. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, soon after daybreak, the mate put his hand into an open + locker, at a corner of the round-house, for a piece of canvas, when it + came in contact with a soft, clammy substance, which, to his consternation + and horror, began to move! He drew back, uttering an exclamation, in a + voice so loud and startling as to alarm the captain and all hands, who + hastened on deck in time to see an enormous serpent crawl sluggishly out + of the closet, and stretch himself along the deck, with as much coolness + and impudence as if he thought he really belonged to the brig, and with + the monkeys and parrots, constituted a portion of the ship's company! + </p> + <p> + Not so thought Captain Nickerson and the brave men with him. The word was + passed along "There is a snake on board, as long as the main-top bowline! + Kill him, kill him!" + </p> + <p> + The sailors seized handspikes, the cook flourished his tormentors, the + mate wielded an axe, and the captain grasped a pistol! Thus equipped and + armed, they rushed to the encounter. + </p> + <p> + The reptile found himself among foes instead of friends. Where he looked + for hospitality and kind treatment he found cruelty, oppression, and even + murder! He saw it was useless to contend against his fate when the odds + were so decidedly against him, and wisely made no resistance. He was + stabbed by the cook, cudgelled by the crew, brained by the mate, and shot + by the captain. And, adding insult to injury, he was stripped of his skin, + which was beautifully variegated and measured fourteen feet in length, and + brought to Boston, where it was examined and admired by many of the + citizens. + </p> + <p> + This snake was doubtless an aboma, a species of serpent of large size and + great beauty, which is not venomous. In attempting to cross the river, it + had probably been drifted down with the current, and carried out to sea. + It might have been swimming about in the waters for some time without + finding a resting-place, and, having fallen in with a vessel at anchor, + thought no harm would accrue to itself or others if it should silently + glide on board through the rudder-hole, and take up its residence for the + night. But Captain Nickerson entertained a different opinion. He looked + upon "his snakesnip" as an "ugly customer," and gave him a reception as + such. + </p> + <p> + In the course of the day on which land was discovered we reached the mouth + of Demarara River, and received a pilot on board, and a queer-looking + fellow, for a pilot I thought him. He was a negro, with a skin dark as + ebony, which shone with an exquisite polish. His costume was simplicity + itself consisting of an old straw hat, and a piece of coarse "osnaburg" + tied around the waist! But he was active and intelligent, notwithstanding + his costume and color, and carried the brig over the bar in safety. Soon + after twilight the Dolphin was snugly anchored in smooth water in the + river opposite the capital of the province. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, at an early hour, I went on deck, anxious to scrutinize + the surrounding objects. The river was about a mile and a half wide, the + tide flowed with great rapidity, and the waters were turbid in the + extreme. The shores were lined with trees and shrubs, presenting nothing + of an attractive character. A number of vessels, chiefly English and + American, were moored in the river, engaged in taking in or discharging + cargoes; and sundry small schooners, called "droghers," manned by blacks, + nearly naked, were sailing up or down the river, laden with produce. + </p> + <p> + The town, half concealed in the low, swampy grounds, appeared + insignificant and mean, and the wharves and landing places at the river's + side were neither picturesque nor beautiful. The architecture of the + houses, however, with porticoes, verandas, and terraces, excited my + admiration. I also saw, in the distance, palm and cocoanut trees, and + banana and plantain shrubs, with leaves six or eight feet long. These + Various objects, with the sultry stagnation of the atmosphere, and the + light and airy costume of those of the inhabitants I had seen convinced me + that I was not laboring under a dream, but was actually in a foreign port, + two thousand miles from home, and in a tropical climate. + </p> + <p> + The following day being Sunday, I accompanied Mr. Thompson on a visit to + the market, in order to obtain a supply of fresh provisions and + vegetables. I was surprised to find the public market open on the Sabbath. + The very idea of such a custom conflicted with my pre-conceived notions of + propriety and religion. But Sunday was a great holiday in Demarara indeed + the only day which the slaves on the plantations could call their own. On + Sunday they were allowed to visit each other, frolic as they pleased, + cultivate their little gardens, make their purchases at the shops which + were open on that day, and carry their produce to market. + </p> + <p> + Hence the spacious market square, in the midst of the town, was covered + with articles of traffic. The venders were chiefly negro women, who + exposed for sale immense quantities of yams, tomatoes, cassava bread, + sugar-cane, plantains, water-cresses, oranges, bananas, avocado pears, + etc., with fancy articles of almost every description. + </p> + <p> + The scene was a novel and interesting one. The market women were habited + in garments of a marvelously scanty pattern, better adapted to the sultry + character of the climate than to the notions of delicacy which prevail + among civilized people in a more northern clime. The head-dress consisted, + in almost every instance, of a calico kerchief, of gaudy colors, + fantastically wreathed around the head. They were respectful in their + deportment, exhibited their wares to the best advantage, and with cheerful + countenances and occasional jokes, accompanied with peals of merry + laughter, seemed happier than millionaires or kings! Their dialect was a + strange jumble of Dutch, English, and African. All were fond of talking, + and, like aspiring politicians in happy New England, neglected no chance + to display their extraordinary power of language. And such a jabbering, + such a confusion of tongues, as I listened to that Sunday morning in the + market-place of Demarara, overwhelmed me with wonder, and days elapsed + before I could get the buzz out of my head! + </p> + <p> + In answer to inquiries relative to the health of the place, it was + gratifying to learn that the province had not been so free from yellow + fever at that season for several years. While the Dolphin remained in port + but few fatal cases occurred in the harbor, and the origin of those could + be traced to intemperance or other imprudent conduct. There was no serious + sickness on board the brig while we remained, and only one "regular + drunken scrape." This occurred a few days after we arrived in port. Two of + the crew, on some plausible pretext, one afternoon obtained leave of Mr. + Thompson to go on shore. He cautioned them to keep sober, and be early on + board, and they solemnly promised to comply with his instructions. + </p> + <p> + But these "noble old tars" had no sooner set their feet upon the land than + they rushed to a grog shop. It is well know that grog shops are found in + abundance in all parts of the world where civilization extends its genial + influence. Temptations of the most alluring character are every where + offered to weak-minded and unprincipled men to abandon the prerogative of + reason and become brutes. In exchange for their money, these sailors + procured the means of becoming drunk! They quarreled with the shopkeeper, + insulted his customers, were severely threshed for their brutality and + insolence, and were finally picked up in the street, and brought on board + by two of the crew of an American vessel which was moored near the + Dolphin. + </p> + <p> + They looked wretchedly enough. Their clothes, which were neat and trim + when they went ashore, were mostly torn from their backs, their faces were + bruised and bloody, and their eyes surrounded by livid circles. Their + shipmates, seeing their degraded condition, assisted them on board, and + persuaded them to go into the forecastle, which was now appropriated to + the accommodation of the ship's company. But instead of retiring to their + berths, and sleeping off the effects of their liquor, these men determined + to have a ROW. + </p> + <p> + The craziest of them made his way on deck, and began to sing, and dance, + and halloo like a madman. One of his shipmates, named Wilkins, + remonstrated against such unruly conduct, and received in return a blow on + the side of the head, which sent him with great force against the gunwale. + The peacemaker, indignant at such unexpected and undeserved treatment, + returned the blow with interest. The other inebriate, hearing the + disturbance, came to the assistance of his drunken companion. A general + fight ensued; some heavy blows were interchanged, and for a few minutes + there was a scene of confusion, profanity, and hard fighting on the decks + of the Dolphin, which showed me a new, and not very attractive phase in + the sailor's character. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Thompson, armed with authority and a heaver, soon made his appearance + among them, and with the assistance of the sober ones, after a severe + struggle, succeeded in mastering and pinioning the two men, who, though in + full possession of their physical faculties, were actually crazed with + alcoholic drinks. When thus rendered harmless, their yells were terrific, + until it was found necessary for the peace of the harbor to GAG THEM; + which was done by gently placing an iron pump-bolt between the jaws of + each of the maniacs, and fastening it by a rope-yarn behind the ear. Thus, + unable to give utterance to their feelings, and exhausted by fruitless + struggles, they fell asleep. + </p> + <p> + In the morning cool reflection came. They looked as ruefully as Don + Quixote after his battle with the shepherds, and bore as many marks of the + prowess of their opponents. But, unlike "the Knight of the Rueful + Countenance," they seemed heartily ashamed of their exploits, and promised + better behavior in future. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, a few days after this affair, Jim Bilton, one of the men who + had figured so conspicuously in the row, and owed Wilkins a grudge for the + black eye he had received in the melee, challenged his shipmate to a "fair + stand-up fight!" + </p> + <p> + The challenge was accepted; but as the main deck of the brig was still + "lumbered up," and the forecastle furnished a field altogether too + confined for such recreations, it was agreed that this "stand-up fight" + should take place while each of the combatants were sitting astride a + chest! Accordingly a large chest was roused up from below, and placed + athwart-ships on the forecastle, between the bowsprit bitts and the + cathead. The parties took their seats on the ends of the chest, facing + each other, and the business was to be settled by hard knocks. + </p> + <p> + The men faced each other boldly, some weighty compliments were + interchanged, when Bilton, to avoid a favor from his antagonist which in + all probability would have finished him, slipped off the end of the chest, + to the disgust of his shipmates and his own everlasting disgrace. + </p> + <p> + One of the crew, however, who was ingenious at expedients, and determined + to see fair play, by means of a hammer and a tenpenny nail fastened both + parties firmly to the chest by the seats of their canvas trousers. There + being no longer a possibility of BACKING OUT, the battle was resumed, but + did not last long; for Bilton soon received a blow on his left temple, + which, in spite of the tenpenny nail, knocked him off the chest, and + decided the contest. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter V. DEMARARA + </h2> + <p> + A circumstance occurred not long before our arrival at Demarara, which, + being somewhat remarkable in its character, furnished a fruitful theme for + conversation and comment. This was the arrival of a vessel from Cadiz, + with only one person on board. + </p> + <p> + It seems that a Captain Shackford, of Portsmouth, N.H., was the master and + owner of a sloop of some sixty or eighty tons. He proceeded to Cadiz, and + there took in a cargo for Guiana. When on the eve of sailing, his crew, + dissatisfied with some of his proceedings, left the vessel. + </p> + <p> + Captain Shackford, a resolute but eccentric man, resolved not to be + disappointed in his calculations, or delayed in his voyage by the + desertion of his crew, and boldly put to sea on the day appointed for + sailing, trusting in his own unaided efforts and energies to manage the + vessel on a passage across the ocean of thirty-five hundred miles. He was + seventy-four days on his passage; but brought his vessel into port in + tolerable order, having experienced no difficulty on his way, and losing + only one day of his reckoning. + </p> + <p> + The arrival of a vessel in Demarara, under such singular circumstances, + caused quite a sensation among the authorities, and gave rise to + suspicions by no means favorable to the character of the captain as an + honest man, and which his long, tangled locks and hirsute countenance for + he had not combed his hair or shaved his face during the passage tended to + confirm. It was thought by some that a mutiny might have broken out among + the crew of the sloop, which resulted in scenes of violence and bloodshed, + and that this wild-looking man was the only survivor of a desperate + struggle between the officers and crew. Indeed, he looked not unlike a + mutineer and murderer. + </p> + <p> + Captain Shackford was indignant at these suspicions, and would hardly + deign to give explanations. It was fortunate for him that some vessels + belonging to Portsmouth were in the harbor, the captains of which + recognized him as an old acquaintance, and vouched for his character as an + honest, well-meaning man, although at times indulging in strange freaks, + more akin to madness than method. He was released from arrest, and + subsequently disposed of his merchandise at remunerating prices, and with + a cargo of assorted articles, and a crew, sailed for a port in the United + States. + </p> + <p> + After the cargo of the Dolphin was discharged, preparations were made for + receiving a return cargo, to consist principally of molasses. The process + of taking in and stowing a cargo of this description is a peculiar one; + and as I shall recur to this subject hereafter, I avail myself of this + opportunity to describe, briefly, the mode of operation. + </p> + <p> + The empty casks are carefully stowed in the hold, with small pieces of + board between the quarter-hoops of each cask, so that the bilge of a cask + shall touch no other substance whatever. The bungholes must also be + uppermost; thus, in the brief but expressive language of commerce, "every + cask must be bung up and bilge free." A "molasses hose" is then procured, + consisting of a half barrel with a hole in the bottom, to which is + attached a leathern hose an inch and a half in diameter, and long enough + to reach to the most distant part of the hold. A hogshead filled with + molasses is then hoisted over the hatchway, hung down, and the hose-tub is + placed directly beneath; the bung is taken out, and the molasses passes + through the hose to any cask in the hold that may be wished. When the cask + is filled the hose is shifted to another, and in this way the casks are + all filled and the cargo stowed. The process is tedious; and although a + sweet, by no means a pleasant one, to those engaged in it. + </p> + <p> + It may be imagined that the crew, after working all day among molasses in + that hot climate, should wish to bathe in the evening; and the river + alongside, although the element was neither pure nor transparent, offered, + at high or low water, a tempting opportunity. To the very natural and + proper inquiry whether the harbor of Demarara was infested with sharks a + man-eating shark not being the most desirable "companion of the bath" we + were told that a shark had never been seen in the harbor; that the river + water, being turbid and fresher than the ocean water, was offensive to + that much dreaded animal, which delights in the clear waters of the salt + sea. We were further told that up the river, in the creeks and pools which + abound in that region, alligators were met with in large numbers; some of + them of large size, and had been known to attack a man in the water; but + they never ventured down the river among the shipping. + </p> + <p> + The reports being thus favorable, the crew of the Dolphin, being good + swimmers, were indeed, whenever it was "slack water" of an evening, to + take a swim in the river; and the crews of other American vessels followed + the example. One evening, at twilight, there were swimming about and + sporting in the water, deriving the highest enjoyment from this healthy + and refreshing exercise, some fifteen or twenty American sailors. On the + following day an incident occurred, which operated as an impressive + warning against bathing in the waters of the Demarara. + </p> + <p> + On the afternoon of that day, a sailor at work on the mizzen-topsail yard + of an English ship moored within the distance of a cable's length from the + Dolphin, accidentally fell from the yard. As he fell he caught hold of the + main brace, and was suspended for a minute over the water. There was quite + a commotion on the deck of the ship, which attracted the attention of the + crews of neighboring vessels. On hearing the distressing cry of the man, + and witnessing the tumult on board the ship, the crew of the Dolphin ran + to the side of the brig and gazed with interest on the scene. + </p> + <p> + The poor fellow was unable to retain his hold of the rope until he could + receive assistance. He fell into the water alongside, but rose to the + surface almost immediately, and being, apparently, a good swimmer, struck + out vigorously towards the ship. Some of his shipmates jumped into the + boat to pick him up, as, notwithstanding his exertions, he was swept away + by the tide; but none of the lookers-on apprehended any danger. + </p> + <p> + While we were intently watching the result, the unfortunate man gave a + shrill and piercing shriek; and we then saw by the commotion in the water, + and the appearance of a large fin above the surface, that a shark had + seized the unlucky sailor, which caused him to give utterance to that + dreadful cry. He immediately sank with his prey, and the muddy state of + the water prevented the ruthless monster or his victim from being seen. + </p> + <p> + We were still gazing on the spot where this fearful tragedy was enacted, + transfixed and mute with horror, when the shark again rose to the surface, + bearing in his jaws the lifeless body of the English sailor; and for a + brief period we beheld the voracious fish devouring his human food. + </p> + <p> + The cargo of the Dolphin being completed, there ensued the usual bustle + and confusion in making preparations for sea. Owing to the lateness of the + season, Captain Tilton was unwilling to encounter the storms of the New + England coast in a vessel hardly seaworthy, and expressed an intention to + proceed to Charleston, in South Carolina. + </p> + <p> + About a week before we left Demarara a small English brig-of-war arrived + in the harbor, causing much consternation among the sailors, and not + without reason. The brig was deficient in her complement of men, and this + deficiency was supplied by impressment from crews of British vessels in + port. The commander was a young man, who in common with most of the + British naval officers of that day, had an exalted opinion of his dignity + and importance, and held the Yankees in contempt. + </p> + <p> + The pennant at the main is a distinguishing mark of a man-of-war, and it + was considered disrespectful on the part of the master of a merchant + vessel to wear a pennant in the presence of a cruiser. But on the Sunday + following the arrival of the gun brig the captain of a fine-looking + American brig, who did not entertain that respect for John Bull which the + representatives of that dignitary were disposed to exact, hoisted his + colors, as usual, on the Sabbath. He did not confine his display of + bunting to the ensign at the peak, a burgee studded with stars at the + fore, and a jack on the bowsprit, but ran up a pennant of most + preposterous length at the main, which proudly flaunted in the breeze, as + if bidding defiance to the Englishman. + </p> + <p> + The young naval commander foolishly allowed himself to be annoyed by this + proceeding on the part of the Yankee, and resolved to administer an + appropriate rebuke. He sent an officer alongside the American brig, who, + in a peremptory tone, told the mate to cause that Yankee pennant to be + hauled down immediately. + </p> + <p> + The captain, hearing of the mandate, made his appearance on deck; and on a + repetition of the order from the officer, exhibited unequivocal symptoms + of a choleric temper. After letting off a little of his exuberant wrath, + he declared with emphasis that he had a RIGHT to wear a pennant, and WOULD + wear it in spite of all the officers in the British navy. + </p> + <p> + The midshipman, finding it of no avail to continue the parley, told his + cockswain to go aloft and "dowse the pennant and leave it in the + cross-trees." This was done, regardless of the protest of the captain, and + his threats to lay the subject before the government and make it a + national matter. The boat had hardly reached the man-of-war, when the + pennant was again flying on board the American brig, and seemed to wave + more proudly than before. + </p> + <p> + The man-of-war's boat was sent back, and some sharp words were exchanged + between the British officer and the Yankee captain; but the former, + possessing superior physical force, was triumphant. The pennant was again + hauled down, but this time it was not left in the cross-trees. The + cockswain took it with him and it was carried on board the English brig, + in spite of the denunciation hurled against men-of-war's men, in which the + epithets "thieves," "robbers," and "pirates," were distinctly heard. + </p> + <p> + A few nights after the above-mentioned occurrence we received an + unexpected addition to the number of our crew. It was about an hour after + midnight, when the man who had the watch on deck was comfortably seated on + a coil of rope beneath the main deck awning, and probably dozing, while + sheltered from a heavy and protracted shower of rain. The night was dark + and gloomy; the ebb tide made a moaning, monotonous noise under the bows, + and rushed swiftly by the sides of the vessel, leaving a broad wake + astern. The sailor was roused from his comfortable position by a sound + resembling the cry of a person in distress. He started to his feet, and + stepped out from beneath the awning. He listened, and again distinctly + heard the cry, which seemed to come from the water under the bows. + Supposing it might proceed from some person who had fallen overboard and + wanted help, he went forward to the knight-heads, and called out, "Who's + there?" + </p> + <p> + A voice from below the bowsprit faintly replied, "Shipmate, for God's sake + bear a hand, and give me help. I can hold on but a few minutes longer." + </p> + <p> + He was now aware that a man, in an exhausted condition, was clinging to + the cable, and required immediate assistance. He called up his shipmates, + and with little difficulty they succeeded in hauling him safely on board. + He proved to be a fine-looking English sailor; and as soon as he recovered + strength enough to converse, explained the cause of his perilous + situation. + </p> + <p> + He belonged to the brig-of-war, which was lying at anchor about half a + mile above. He had been impressed two years before; and being treated with + cruelty and harshness, had been eagerly watching an opportunity to escape + from his inhuman bondage. At length he formed a plan with one of his + messmates, to slip overboard quietly the first dark night, and relying on + skill in swimming, attempt to reach some vessel at anchor in the harbor. + </p> + <p> + The plan was carried into effect. They succeeded in eluding the vigilance + of the sentries, dropped gently into the water, and were soon floating + astern. But their situation was one of extreme peril. The current was + stronger than they anticipated, and the darkness of the night prevented + them from distinguishing any vessel in time to get on board. As soon as + they were swept out of hearing of the man-of-war, they shouted loudly for + help; but the murmuring of the tide, the pattering of the rain, and the + howling of the wind prevented their voices from being heard, as, + notwithstanding their exertions to stem the tide, they floated rapidly + down the river towards the bar. + </p> + <p> + What risks will a man encounter to secure his liberty! It was not long + before these friends separated, never to meet again. One of them sank + beneath the waters. The other had given up all expectation of being + rescued, when he beheld an object, darker than the murky atmosphere by + which it was surrounded, rising, as it appeared to him, out of the water. + His heart beat quicker within his bosom. In a moment more he had seized + the cable of the Dolphin, and shouted for help. This man was grateful for + the succor he had received, and expressed a wish to work his passage to + the United States. To this suggestion Captain Tilton offered no objection, + and he subsequently proved to be one of the best men on board. + </p> + <p> + That very morning the black pilot made his appearance, grinning as he + thrust his dark muzzle over the gunwale. He was greeted with answering + smiles, for we were "homeward bound," and all hands cheerfully commenced + heaving up the anchor and making sail. With a favorable breeze and an ebb + tide we soon passed the bar, and entered upon the broad ocean. The fresh + trade wind was welcome after sweltering for weeks in the sultry and + unwholesome atmosphere of Demarara; and the clear and pellucid waters of + the ocean bore a cheerful aspect, contrasted with the thick and opaque + waters of the river in which we had remained several weeks at anchor. + </p> + <p> + Nothing remarkable occurred during the homeward passage, until we reached + the Gulf Stream, that extraordinary current, sixty or seventy miles in + width, and many degrees warmer than the ocean water on either side, and + which reaches from the Gulf of Florida to the Shoals of Nantucket. There + can be no doubt that this current of the Gulf Stream is owing to the trade + winds in the tropical seas, which, blowing at all times from the eastward, + drive a large body of water towards the American continent. Vessels bound + to India invariably meet with a strong westerly current within the + tropics, and particularly in the vicinity of the equator. This volume of + water is thus forced along the shores of Brazil and Guiana, until it + enters the Caribbean Sea, from which it has no outlet excepting through + the strait bounded by Cape Catouche in Yucatan, on one side, and Cape St. + Antonio, in Cuba, on the other. + </p> + <p> + Through this strait, after a strong trade wind has been blowing for a + time, the current sets into the Gulf of Mexico at the rate of two or three + knots an hour. Here the waters of the tropical seas are mingled with the + waters of the Mississippi, the Balize, the Rio Grande, the Colorado, the + Alabama, and other large streams which empty into the Gulf of Mexico; and + turning off to the eastward, this body of water is driven along between + the coasts of Cuba and Florida until it strikes the Salt Key Bank and the + Bahamas, when it receives another considerable addition from the currents, + which, from the same causes, are continually setting west through the Old + Bahama and New Providence Channels. It is then forced northward along the + coast of Florida and the Middle States. The stream becomes wider as it + extends north, diminishes its velocity, and gradually changes its + temperature, until it strikes the shoals south of Nantucket and the Bank + of St. George, when it branches off to the eastward, washes the southern + edge of the Bank of Newfoundland, and a portion of it is lost in the ocean + between the Western and Canary Islands; and another portion, sweeping to + the southward past the Cape de Verdes, is again impelled to the westward + across the Atlantic, and performs its regular round. + </p> + <p> + The current always moving in the same circuitous track, forms, according + to Mr. Maury, to whose scientific labors the commercial world is deeply + indebted, an IMMENSE WHIRLPOOL, whose circuit embraces the whole North + Atlantic Ocean. In the centre of the whirl is a quiet spot, equal in + extent of area to the whole Mississippi valley, unaffected by currents of + any kind. And here, as a matter of course, the greater part of the + gulf-weed and other floating materials, which are carried round by the + current, is eventually deposited. This is the "Sargasso Sea" of the + ancients. Columbus crossed this "weedy sea" on his quest after a western + passage to India. And the singular appearance of the ocean, thickly matted + over with gulf-weed, caused great alarm among his companions, who thought + they had reached the limits of navigation. + </p> + <p> + A current of a character similar to the Gulf Stream only not so strong is + experienced along the east coast of Africa, from Mozambique to the + Lagullas Bank, off the Cape of Good Hope. This current is undoubtedly + caused by the trade wind forcing the water towards the coast of Africa. + But in this case it is not driven into a narrow passage, like the Gulf of + Florida, which would greatly increase its velocity. The temperature of the + water in the current off the Cape of Good Hope is also several degrees + higher than the ocean waters in the neighborhood of the current. + </p> + <p> + On the afternoon on which we entered the Gulf Stream the wind hauled + suddenly to the eastward, and the heavens were obscured by clouds. The + breeze also increased, and the sea became rough, causing the brig to + assume various unseemly attitudes, and perform gymnastic exercises + wonderful to behold. As the wind increased and the sea became more + turbulent, the Dolphin tumbled about like an elephant dancing a hornpipe, + insomuch that it was difficult for a person to keep his perpendicular. + Indeed, as I was passing along from the camboose to the cabin, with a + plate of toast in one hand and a teapot in the other, the brig took a lee + lurch without giving notice of her intention, and sent me with tremendous + force across the deck, to leeward, where I brought up against the sail. + But the tea and toast were ejected from my hands into the sea, and I never + saw them more. + </p> + <p> + At twilight, Captain Tilton came on deck, and looking around the horizon, + said, addressing the mate, "Mr. Thompson, the weather looks GREASY to + windward; I fear a gale is brewing. You may find the top-gallant sail and + jib, and take a reef in the mainsail." + </p> + <p> + This work was soon accomplished. The captain's prediction was verified; + for the wind continued to increase, accompanied with fine drizzling rain, + until about nine o'clock, when orders were given to take another reef in + the mainsail, and double reef the fore-topsail. It was not long before the + wind swept across the waves with almost resistless force, when it was + found necessary to strip the brig of all canvas, excepting a storm + main-staysail and close-reefed fore-topsail; the yards were braced up, the + helm lashed a-lee, and the brig was laid to. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +The gale continued unabated all night. Our vessel rolled heavily to +leeward, and strained considerably, her bulkheads groaning and her +seams opening, making it necessary to keep one of the pumps in constant +operation. As soon as it was daylight I went on deck, anxious to witness +a spectacle I had often heard described A GALE OF WIND AT SEA and it + wonder and admiration. The wind, blowing furiously, whistled +wildly among the rigging; the waves of alarming size and threatening +appearance, came rushing in swift succession towards us, as if eager to +overwhelm our puny bark, which nevertheless floated unharmed, now riding +on the crest of a wave, and anon plunging into a deep and angry-looking +gulf, taking no water on deck, excepting from an occasional spray. +</pre> + <p> + I asked one of the sailors who had just taken a spell at the pump, if this + were not a hurricane. + </p> + <p> + "Hurricane!" said he, with a good-natured grin. "Nonsense! This is only a + stiff breeze. 'Tis as different from a hurricane as a heaver is from a + handspike. When you see a hurricane, my lad, you will know it, even if the + name is not lettered on the starn." + </p> + <p> + "Then I suppose there is no actual danger in a gale like this, although it + does not look very inviting." + </p> + <p> + "Danger! I don't know about that. In a good seaworthy vessel a man is as + SAFE in a gale of wind as if he was cooped up in a grog-selling boarding + house on shore; and a thousand times better off in other respects. But + this miserable old craft is strained in every timber, and takes in more + water through the seams in her bottom than 'the combers' toss on her + decks. If her bottom does not drop out some of these odd times, and leave + us in the lurch, we may think ourselves lucky." + </p> + <p> + After uttering these consolatory remarks, accompanied with a significant + shrug, he resumed his labors at the pump. + </p> + <p> + The wind blew with violence through the day, and the leak kept increasing. + There is probably no exercise more fatiguing than "pumping ship," as + practised with the clumsy, awkward contrivances called PUMPS, which were + generally in use among the merchant vessels of those days. It being + necessary to keep the pumps in constant operation, or in nautical + parlance, "pump or sink," the crew, although a hardy, vigorous set of men, + became exhausted and disheartened, and, to my astonishment and disgust, + instead of manifesting by their solemn looks and devout demeanor a sense + of the danger with which they were threatened, alternately pumped, + grumbled, and swore, and swore, grumbled, and pumped. + </p> + <p> + Change is incident to every thing; and even a gale of wind cannot last + forever. Before night the tempest was hushed, the waves diminished, and in + a few hours the brig was under full sail, jogging along to the westward at + the rate of six or seven knots. The next day we got soundings on the coast + of Carolina, and, with a fair wind, rapidly approached the land. + </p> + <p> + Off the mouth of the bay which forms the harbor of Charleston extends a + long line of shoals, on which the breakers are continually dashing. These + shoals are intersected by narrow channels, through which vessels of + moderate draught may pass at high water with a smooth sea. The principal + channel, or main passage, for ships over the bar is narrow, and never + attempted without a pilot. About three miles from the bar is the + lighthouse, which stands on a low, sandy shore. Indeed, the whole coast is + low and sandy, abounding in mosquitoes, sandflies, and oysters. Inside the + bar there is good anchorage, but the tide at certain periods ebbs and + flows with great velocity. + </p> + <p> + We crossed the bar, and, without anchoring, proceeded to the city. We + passed Sullivan's Island on the right a long, low, sandy island, which is + the summer residence of many of the inhabitants of Charleston. On this + island Fort Moultrie is situated, which commands the passage to the city, + about four miles distant. This fort proved an awkward obstacle to the + capture of Charleston, when that feat was rashly attempted by Sir Peter + Parker, during the revolutionary war. + </p> + <p> + On all the surrounding objects I gazed with a deep and intense interest, + which was not relaxed until the Dolphin dropped anchor off the wharves of + this celebrated city. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter VI. SCENES IN CHARLESTON + </h2> + <p> + Soon after the Dolphin arrived in Charleston the crew were discharged, + with the exception of one of the seamen and myself. We retained our + quarters in the brig. Mr. Thompson, the mate, took passage in a vessel for + Boston, and not long afterwards sailed from Portsmouth in command of a + ship. Captain Tilton took up his residence at a fashionable boarding + house, and I seldom had any communication with him. I supposed, as a + matter of course, that he would soon enter on another voyage, and I should + go with him. In the meantime, having provided me with a temporary home, he + left me to associate with whom I pleased, and struggle single-handed + against the many temptations to which a young sailor in a strange maritime + city is always exposed. + </p> + <p> + About a week after our arrival in Charleston, as I was passing through one + of the principal streets, clad in strict sailor costume, I met a + good-looking gentleman, who, to my surprise, accosted me with great + politeness, his pleasant features lighted up with a benevolent smile, and + inquired if I had not recently returned from a voyage to sea. Upon being + assured that such was the case, he remarked that he liked my appearance, + and doubted not I was a smart, capable lad, who would be a valuable + acquisition to the crew of a good ship. I was flattered and pleased with + the conduct of this genteel looking stranger, convinced that he was a + person of good judgment and nice discrimination. He further informed me, + with a patronizing air, that he was the captain of a fine fast-sailing + vessel, bound on a pleasant voyage, and should be delighted to number + among his crew some active and intelligent young men, like myself. He even + went so far as to say he was so well satisfied with my appearance, that if + I would accompany him to a counting-room on an adjoining wharf, he would + ship me without asking further questions, and advance a month's wages on + the spot. But the amount he offered as monthly wages was so much greater + than I, being but little better than a very green hand, had a right to + expect, that a person acquainted with human nature would have suspected + this pleasant-spoken gentleman to have some other reason for his conduct + than admiration of my appearance and interest in my welfare. I was eager + to place myself at once under the protection of my new friend; yet I could + not forget that I was still under the care of my kinsman, Captain Tilton, + and that it would be neither decorous nor proper to make this new + engagement without consulting him. But I did not for a moment doubt he + would give his consent to the proposed arrangement, and he rejoiced to get + me fairly off his hands. + </p> + <p> + I communicated my objections to the stranger, but assured him that I would + meet him in the afternoon at the place he designated, and in all + probability sign "the articles." He seemed, nevertheless, disappointed at + the result of the interview, and bidding me not fail to come, turned away, + and walked slowly towards the wharf. + </p> + <p> + As I left this kind-hearted stranger, brim full of newborn confidence and + hope, and exulting in the fact that I had fallen in with a man of + influence and position, who could appreciate my merit, I met a couple of + sailors of my acquaintance, who had been standing at a corner of the + street witnessing our interview, with which they seemed greatly amused. + One of the sailors, with a deficiency of respect for my would-be patron + which I could not approve, said, "Hawser, what were you talking with that + fellow about?" + </p> + <p> + I explained, with great glee and at full length, the nature of our + conversation to which they greedily listened, winking mysteriously at each + other. When I had concluded, they indulged in a hearty laugh. + </p> + <p> + It was some time before they could sufficiently restrain their merriment + to enlighten me on the cause of their mirth. I was then told, to my + mortification, that my kind friend, the GENTLEMAN on whose benevolence and + protection I had already built hopes of success in life, was neither more + nor less than the captain of an armed clipper brig, a SLAVER, anchored in + the outer roads, which had been for a fortnight ready for sea, but was + detained in consequence of the desertion of three several crews, who had + been induced by false representations to ship, and had deserted EN MASSE + as soon as they learned the true character of the vessel and the voyage. + He was now using all possible means to entrap a crew of men or boys for + this abominable traffic, and was by no means particular in his choice. + </p> + <p> + This was a severe blow to my vanity. I felt not a little indignant at + being so easily cajoled, played upon, and almost kidnapped by this + unprincipled scoundrel. It was a valuable lesson, however; for experience + is a good, although expensive teacher. + </p> + <p> + A few days passed away, when, one morning about three o'clock, as some + members of the city patrol were passing through Church Street, they + discovered a man, apparently n a dying state, lying in the street. He was + conveyed to the guard house, or patrol station, where he died in the + course of half an hour, without being able to articulate a syllable. + Several wounds in different parts of his body, made by a small penknife, + which was subsequently found, were undoubtedly the cause of his death. The + unfortunate man thus murdered was the captain of the slaver, who had + sought to entrap me by his honeyed words. A pool of blood was on the spot + on which he was first discovered, and his steps could be traced by the + blood on the pavements for several rods. The marks of blood were found + only in the middle of the street; and none of the persons residing in that + part of the city heard any disturbance, brawl, or cries for assistance in + the course of the night. + </p> + <p> + The mysterious tragedy caused a great excitement. The police were + unceasing in their efforts to discover the circumstances connected with + this assassination, but in vain. The veil which concealed it was not + lifted, and no clew was ever given by which even conjecture could develop + the mystery. + </p> + <p> + It was supposed by some that the unfortunate man fell a victim to the rage + of a jealous husband whose honor he had outraged, or of a lover whose + affections he had supplanted. Others thought the fatal injuries he + received were the result of a drunken quarrel, commenced in a gaming + house; while many believed that private revenge inflicted the stabs, + which, from their number and direction, appeared to have been given under + the influence of ungovernable fury. Some thought the wounds were inflicted + by a vigorous man, others, that a woman had imbrued her hands in his + blood. + </p> + <p> + The first, and perhaps most natural supposition, was that some negro, + knowing the character of the voyage which the murdered man had + contemplated, had taken this desperate mode of arresting his proceedings. + This theory, however, was soon generally abandoned for another. It was + suggested that one of the sailors who had shipped in the slaver and + subsequently deserted, knowing the captain was seeking them in every + direction, had met him in the street, and fearful of being arrested, or + seeking to revenge a personal wrong, had committed the terrible crime. + This hypothesis was, doubtless, as false as either of the others, and more + absurd. It was, nevertheless, adopted by the city authorities, and + promptly acted upon, with a disregard to the rights of individuals which + seems strangely at variance with republican institutions. The police force + was strengthened, and on the evening succeeding the discovery of the + murder received orders to arrest and place in confinement every individual + seen in the streets wearing the garb of a sailor. This arbitrary edict was + strictly enforced; and Jack, on leaving his home in the forecastle or a + boarding house to visit the haunts of dissipation, or perhaps to attend to + some pressing and important duty, was pounced upon by the members of the + city guard, and, much to his astonishment and anger, and maugre his + struggles, expostulations, and threats, was carried off without any + assigned reason, and securely placed under lock and key. + </p> + <p> + Some two or three hundred of these unoffending tars were caught, captured, + cribbed, and confined. No respect was paid to age, color or nation. They + were huddled together in rooms of very moderate dimensions, which + precluded, for one night at least, any idea of rest or comfort; and such a + confusion of tongues, such anathemas against the city officials, such + threats of vengeance, such rare specimens of swearing, singing, and + shouting, varied occasionally by rough greetings and jeers whenever a new + squad of blue jackets was thrust in among them, would have commanded the + admiration of the evil dwellers in Milton's Pandemonium. + </p> + <p> + This arbitrary measure failed of success. The kidnapped sailors, on the + following day, were separately examined in the presence of the mate of the + brig, but no reasons were found for detaining a single individual. + </p> + <p> + A few days after this occurrence, Captain Tilton told me he had sold the + brig Dolphin to a Captain Turner, of New York, a worthy man and his + particular friend; that Captain Turner intended proceeding immediately to + some neutral port in the West Indies. The non-intercourse act, at that + time, prohibited all trade to places belonging to either of the great + belligerent powers. He also said he had made no arrangements in regard to + himself; that he was undecided what course to pursue, and might remain on + shore for months. Anxious, however, to promote my interest by procuring me + active employment, he had stipulated with Captain Turner that I should + have "a chance" in the Dolphin, on her next voyage, before the mast. I had + not a word to say against this arrangement, but gave my cheerful consent, + especially as it was represented that Captain Turner would "treat me with + kindness, and help me along in the world." + </p> + <p> + I was thus unceremoniously dismissed by Captain Tilton from his charge. + Under the plea of promoting my interest, he had procured me a situation + before the mast in an old, leaky vessel, which he had got rid of because + she was not seaworthy, and commanded by a man of whose character he was + entirely ignorant. I expressed gratitude to my kinsman for his goodness, + notwithstanding I had secret misgivings in regard to his + disinterestedness, and signed with alacrity "the articles" with Captain + Turner. A new and interesting scene in the drama of life was about to + open, and I looked forward with impatience to the rising of the curtain. + </p> + <p> + The brig was laden with a cargo of lumber, rice, and provisions, and her + destination was Cayenne, on the coast of Guiana. In January, 1810, we left + the wharf in Charleston, and proceeded down the harbor. The wind was + light, but the tide ebbed with unusual velocity, sweeping us rapidly on + our way. We had nearly reached the bar when it suddenly became calm. The + brig lost steerage way, and the current was setting towards the shoals. + The pilot, aware of the danger, called out, "Let go the anchor!" + </p> + <p> + The order was promptly obeyed, and the small bower anchor was let go. The + tide was so strong that when a sufficient quantity of cable was run out, + the attempt to "check her," and to "bring up," resulted in capsizing the + windlass, and causing, for a few minutes, a sense of indescribable + confusion. The windlass, by its violent and spasmodic motion, knocked over + two of the sailors who foolishly endeavored to regain control of its + actions, and the cable, having commenced running out of the hawse-hold, + would not be "snubbed," but obstinately persisted in continuing its course + in spite of the desperate exertions of the captain, mate, pilot, and a + portion of the crew, who clung to it as if it was their last hope. But + their efforts were vain. Its impetuosity could not in this way be checked; + and as the end of the cable by some strange neglect, had not been clinched + around the mast, the last coil followed the example of "its illustrious + predecessors," and disappeared through the hawse-hole, after having, by an + unexpected whisk, upset the mate, and given the captain a rap across the + shins, which lamed him for a week. + </p> + <p> + The "best bower" anchor was now let go, and the end hastily secured around + the foremast, which fortunately "brought up" the brig "all standing," + within half a cable's length of the shoal. No buoy having been attached to + the small bower anchor, the anchor and cable were lost forever. + </p> + <p> + This accident, of course, prevented us from proceeding immediately to sea; + and the wind having changed, the anchor was weighed at the flood tide, and + the brig removed to a safer anchorage. Night came on, and as the brig was + riding in a roadstead, at single anchor, in a tempestuous season, it was + necessary to set an anchor watch. It fell to my lot to have the first + watch; that is, to keep a look out after the wind, weather, and condition + of the vessel, and report any occurrence of importance between the hours + of eight and ten in the evening. The crew, fatigued with the labors of the + day, took possession of their berths at an early hour, the mate and the + captain also disappeared from the deck, after having instructed me in my + duties, and cautioned me against falling asleep in my watch. + </p> + <p> + I was thus intrusted with a responsible charge, and realized the + importance of the trust. I walked fore-and-aft the deck, with a step and a + swagger that would have become a Port Admiral in the British navy. I felt + that I had gained one important step; and, bound on a pleasant voyage, + with kind and indulgent officers, had every thing pleasant to expect in + the future. As Captain Turner would undoubtedly treat me with indulgence + and overlook any shortcomings on my part, for the sake of his intimate + friend, Captain Tilton, I determined, by my attention to duty, and my + general conduct, to deserve the favors which I was sure I should receive. + </p> + <p> + Communing thus with myself, and lost in the rosy vagaries of a vivid + imagination, I unhappily for the moment forgot the objects for which I was + stationed on deck. I seated myself involuntarily on a spar, which was + lashed alongside the long boat, and in a few minutes, without any + intention or expectation of being otherwise than vigilant in the extreme, + WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE LAND OF DREAMS! + </p> + <p> + A check was suddenly put to my vagabond thoughts and flowery visions, and + I was violently dragged back to the realities of life by a strong hand, + which, seizing me roughly by the collar, jerked me to my feet! At the same + time, the voice of my kind friend and benefactor, Captain Turner, rung in + my ears like a trumpet, as he exclaimed in a paroxysm of passion, "You + little good-for-nothing rascal! This is the way you keep watch! Hey? Wake + up, you lazy ragamuffin! Rouse yourself!" And, suiting the action to the + word, he gave me two or three severe shakes. "Let me catch you sleeping in + your watch again, and I'll send you to the cross-trees for four hours on a + stretch. I knew I had got a hard bargain when your uncle shoved you upon + me, you sneaking, sanctimonious-looking imp of Satan! But mind how you + carry your helm, or you will have cause to curse the day when you shipped + on board the Dolphin!" + </p> + <p> + This was a damper, with a vengeance, to my aspirations and hopes. The + ladder on which I was about to ascend to fame and fortune was unfeelingly + knocked away, and I was laid prostrate flat on my back almost before I + began to mount! I was deceived in Captain Turner; and what was of greater + consequence to me, my self-confidence was terribly shaken I was deceived + in myself. My shipmates, nevertheless, sympathized with me in my + abasement; gave me words of encouragement; bade me be of good cheer; keep + a stiff upper lip; look out sharper for squalls in the future, and I + should yet "weather the cape." + </p> + <p> + An awkward accident happened to me the following day, which tended still + further to diminish the self-confidence I had so recently cherished. The + small boat had returned about sunset from a mission to the city, and as I + formed one of the boat's crew, the mate ordered me to drop the boat + astern, and hook on the tackles that it might be hoisted to the davits. + But the tide running furiously, the boat when under the quarter took a + sudden sheer. I lost my hold on the brig, and found myself adrift. + </p> + <p> + I shouted lustily for help, but no help could be afforded; the long-boat + being snugly stowed amidships, and the tide sweeping me towards the bar at + the rate of several knots an hour. Sculling was a manoeuvre of which I had + heard, and seen practised, but had never practised myself. I therefore + took one of the oars and made a desperate attempt to PADDLE towards the + brig. The attempt was unsuccessful; the distance between the brig and the + boat was rapidly increasing, darkness was coming on, a strong breeze was + springing up, and I was in a fair way to be drifted among the breakers, or + swept out to sea over the bar! + </p> + <p> + It happened, fortunately, for me, that a large brig was riding at anchor + within a short distance of the Dolphin. This was the very slaver whose + captain was so mysteriously assassinated. The mate of the brig was looking + around the harbor at the time; he espied my misfortune, and forthwith + despatched a boat, pulled by four men, to my assistance. They took me in + tow, and, after an hour of hard work, succeeded in towing the boat and + myself safely alongside the brig. + </p> + <p> + I was soundly rated by the mate for my carelessness in allowing the boat + to get adrift, and my shipmates were unsparing in their reproaches for my + ignorance of the important art of sculling. I was completely crest-fallen; + but during the few remaining days we remained in port I applied myself + with zeal to gain a practical knowledge of the art, and could soon propel + a boat through the water with a single oar over the stern, with as much + dexterity as the most accomplished sailor. + </p> + <p> + A new cable an anchor were brought on board, the wind became favorable, + and the rig Dolphin proceeded to sea, bound NOMINALLY for Cayenne. I + carried with me, engraven on my memory in characters which have never been + effaced, THE ART OR SCULLING A BOAT, and the admonition "NEVER FALL ASLEEP + IN YOUR WATCH!" + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter VII. DELIBERATE ROGUERY + </h2> + <p> + After we reached the blue water, and the wind began to blow and the sea to + rise, the old brig, with corresponding motion, tossed and wallowed about + as if for a wager. Although while in port her bottom had been calked and + graved, the leak, which gave so much trouble the previous voyage, had not + been stopped. In a fresh breeze and a head sea the seams would open, and a + good "spell at the pump," every twenty minutes at least, was required to + keep her free. + </p> + <p> + The captain grumbled and swore like a pirate; but this had no perceptible + effect in stopping the leak. On the contrary, the more he raved, + denouncing the brig as a humbug, and the man who sold her to him as a + knave and a swindler, the more the brig leaked. And what was remarkable, + after the first ten days, the brig leaked as much in a light breeze and a + smooth sea as in rough weather. It was necessary to keep one pump in + action the whole time. But when the men, wearied by their unremitting + exertions, talked of abandoning the vessel to her fate, and taking refuge + in the first vessel they might fall in with, the leak seemed suddenly to + diminish, until the bottom of the old craft was comparatively tight! + </p> + <p> + All this was inexplicable to me, and the mystery caused much philosophical + discussion and sage remark among the ship's company. As we were in a part + of the ocean which abounded in flying fish, it was the general opinion + that the stoppage of the leak was caused by the involuntary action of a + flying fish! The theory was, that an unfortunate fish, swimming beneath + the bottom of the vessel, in the neighborhood of the crevice through which + the water rushed, unsuspicious of danger, was suddenly "sucked in," and + plugged up the hole until it was drawn through or removed by + decomposition! + </p> + <p> + One day the cook, a negro not remarkable for quickness of apprehension or + general intelligence, received such an unmerciful beating from the captain + that he was unable to attend to his manifold duties, and a portion of them + fell to my share. Among them was the task of drawing off the regular + allowance of rum, half a pint to each man, and serving it out to the crew. + The rum was in the after part of the vessel, beneath the cabin, a place + designated as "the run." It was approached by a scuttle in the cabin + floor, and of course could not be explored by any of the crew without the + especial permission of the captain or mate. I entered the dark hole, aided + by the glimmering light of a lantern, groped my way to the barrel which + contained the liquid so highly prized by the sons of Neptune as the liquor + of life, the pure AQUA VITAE, and filled my can with the precious fluid. + </p> + <p> + When I inserted the spigot I still heard a gurgling sound, as of the rush + of water through a narrow passage. I listened, and examined further, and + became convinced I had discovered the leak. I hastily emerged from "the + run," and passed up on deck. The captain was taking a meridian observation + of the sun, when, with a radiant countenance and glistening eye, my whole + frame trembling with joy and anticipated triumph, I communicated the + important information that I had discovered the leak; it was in the run, + could be easily reached, and with a little ingenuity and labor stopped. + </p> + <p> + Instead of rewarding me for my intelligence and zeal with a smile of + approbation and a word of encouragement, the captain gave me a look which + petrified me for a time, and would have killed me on the spot if looks + could kill in those degenerate days. Seizing me roughly by the shoulder, + he addressed me in a hissing, hoarse voice, yet so low that his words, + although terribly intelligible to me, could be distinctly heard by no + other person: "Mind your own business, my lad, and let the leaks take care + of themselves! Go about your work; and if you whisper a syllable of what + you have told me to any other person, I WILL THROW YOU OVERBOARD, you + officious, intermeddling little vagabond!" And he indorsed his fearful + threat by an oath too impious to be transcribed. + </p> + <p> + This unexpected rebuke, coupled with the fact that I had seen in "the run" + the large screw auger which had been missing from the tool-chest for more + than a week, furnished a key to unlock the mysteries connected with the + leak. The captain, for some purpose which he did not choose to reveal, + with the connivance and aid of the mate, had bored holes through the + bottom of the brig, and could let in the water at his pleasure! + </p> + <p> + A few days after this interesting incident which threw a new light on the + character of the man to whose charge I had been intrusted, we reached the + latitude of Martinico. As the brig now leaked more than ever, and the men, + one and all, were worn out with continued pumping, the captain proclaimed + to the crew that in consequence of the leaky condition of the brig, he did + not consider it safe to proceed further on the voyage to Cayenne, and had + determined to make the first port. + </p> + <p> + This determination met the approbation of all hands, without a dissenting + voice. The yards were squared, the helm was put up, the course was given + "due west," and with a cracking trade wind, away we bowled off before it + for the Island of Martinico. + </p> + <p> + Captain Turner, although not remarkable for the strictness of his + principles, was a shrewd and intelligent man. On shore he had the + semblance of a gentleman. On shipboard he was a good sailor and a skilful + navigator. If to his energy, talents, and intelligence had been added a + moderate share of honesty, he would probably have been successful in his + struggle for wealth, and might have attained respectability. I have often + had occasion to note that "a rogue in grain" finds it more difficult to + achieve success in life than an honest man. Shakespeare, the great + exponent of human nature, makes the unscrupulous Cardinal Wolsey say, when + crushed by the hand of royalty, deserted by his friends, and a prey to + disgrace and ignominy, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Had I but served my God with half the zeal + I served my king, he would not in mine age + Have left me naked to mine enemies." +</pre> + <p> + On the morning after this change in our course, the high land of Martinico + was seen in the distance; and in the afternoon, before the sun had reached + the horizon, we were snugly anchored in the roadstead of St. Pierre. This + port, at the bottom of a wide bay, with good anchorage close to the beach, + is open to the sea. But being on the lee of the island, it is protected + from the trade winds, which, with rare exceptions, blow throughout the + year. From a westerly tempest there is no protection, and a hurricane + always carries destruction among the shipping. + </p> + <p> + The reason why the brig was made to spring a leak was now evident. Captain + Turner never intended to go to Cayenne, but wished to be justified in the + eye of the law in proceeding to what he considered a better market. The + non-intercourse act being in operation, American vessels were prohibited + from entering an English or a French port, EXCEPTING IN CASES OF DISTRESS. + It was therefore determined that the Dolphin should spring a leak, and + SEEM in danger of foundering, in order to furnish a pretext for entering + the harbor of St. Pierre! + </p> + <p> + Captain Turner expected to find no American vessels in port, and of course + no American produce. He calculated to realize a high price for his cargo, + and was surprised and disappointed to ascertain that other Yankees were as + shrewd and unscrupulous as himself. The anchorage was thickly sprinkled + with American vessels, and the market was overstocked with American + produce. These vessels had been driven into St. Pierre by "stress of + weather" or "dangerous leaks," and their commanders cherished as little + respect for the revenue laws, or any other mandates of the United States + government, as Captain Turner. A protest, carefully worded, and signed and + sworn to by the mate and two seamen, and a survey of the vessel made by + persons JUDICIOUSLY selected, acted as a protecting shield against any + subsequent troublesome interference on the part of the American + authorities. + </p> + <p> + The wisdom of the "Long Embargo," and the "Non-intercourse Act" is greatly + doubted by the statesmen of the present day. Besides crippling our own + resources, and paralyzing the whole commercial interest of the United + States, a craven spirit was thus manifested on the part of our rulers, + which exposed us to insults and outrages from the belligerent powers. And + if the policy of these extraordinary measures can be defended, it must be + admitted that they were the direct cause of more roguery than would + compensate for an immense amount of good. + </p> + <p> + Having arrived at Martinico in distress, we were precluded from proceeding + to any other port in search of a better market. The cargo was sold at + prices that would hardly pay the expenses of the voyage. In delivering the + lumber, however, an opportunity offered in making up in QUANTITY the + deficiency in price, of which our honest captain, following the example, I + regret to say, of many of the West India captains OF THOSE DAYS, eagerly + availed himself. + </p> + <p> + The lumber was taken to the shore on large rafts, and hauled up on the + beach by men belonging to the brig. The mark on every separate board or + plank was called out in a clear voice by the man who dragged it from the + raft to the beach, and was noted down by the mate of the brig and a clerk + of the mercantile house that purchased the lumber. Those parties were + comfortably seated beneath the shade of a tamarind tree, at some distance, + smoking cigars and pleasantly conversing. They compared notes from time to + time, and there was no difference in their accounts. Every thing on our + part was apparently conducted on the strictest principles of honesty. But + each sailor having received a hint from the mate, who had been posted by + the captain, and a promise of other indulgences, often added from fifteen + to twenty per cent, to the mark which had been actually scored by the + surveyor on every board or plank. Thus, if a board was MARKED twelve feet, + the amount given was fifteen feet; a board that measured only eighteen or + twenty feet, would be represented as twenty-five; and sometimes a large, + portly-looking board, measuring thirty or thirty-five feet, not only + received an addition of eight or ten feet, but was suddenly transformed + into a PLANK, which was counted as containing DOUBLE the measurement of a + board of the same superficial dimensions. Thus a board actually measuring + only thirty feet was passed off upon the unsophisticated clerk of the + purchaser as a piece of lumber measuring seventy feet. In this way Captain + Turner managed, in what he contended was the usual and proper manner among + the Yankees, to make a cargo of lumber "hold out!" Another attempt which + this gentleman made to realize a profit on merchandise greater than could + be obtained by a system of fair trading was not attended with so favorable + a result. + </p> + <p> + A portion of the cargo of the Dolphin consisted of barrels of salted + provisions. This part of the cargo was not enumerated among the articles + in the manifest. Captain Turner intended to dispose of it to the shipping + in the harbor, and thus avoid the payment of the regular duties. He + accordingly sold some ten or a dozen barrels of beef and pork, at a high + price, to the captain of an English ship. The transaction, by some unknown + means, was discovered by the government officials, who, in a very grave + and imposing manner, visited the brig with a formidable posse. They found + in the hold a considerable quantity of the salted provisions on which no + duty had been paid; this they conveyed on shore and confiscated to the use + of His Majesty the King of Great Britain. The brig also was seized, but + was subsequently released on payment of a heavy fine. + </p> + <p> + The merchant vessels lying in St. Pierre are generally moored head and + stern, one of the anchors being carried ashore, and embedded in the ground + on the beach. A few days after we were thus moored, a large Spanish + schooner from the Main hauled in and moored alongside, at the distance of + only a few fathoms. Besides the captain, there were several well-dressed + personages on board, who appeared to take an interest in the cargo, and + lived in the cabin. But harmony did not characterize their intercourse + with each other. At times violent altercations occurred, which, being + carried on in the Spanish language, were to us neither edifying nor + amusing. + </p> + <p> + One Sunday morning, after the Spanish schooner had been about a week in + port, and was nearly ready for sea, a fierce quarrel took place on the + quarter-deck of the vessel, which, being attended with loud language, + menacing looks, and frantic gesticulations, attracted the attention of all + who were within sight or hearing. + </p> + <p> + Two of the Spaniards, large, good-looking men, were apparently very bitter + in their denunciations of each other. They suddenly threw off their coats, + which they wrapped around the left arm, and each grasping a long Spanish + knife, the original of the murderous "bowie-knife,"—attacked each + other with a ferocity terrible to behold. Every muscle seemed trembling + and convulsed with passion, their eyes flashed with desperation, and their + muscles seemed endued with superhuman power, as they pushed upon each + other. + </p> + <p> + Many furious passes were made, and dexterously parried by the left arm, + which was used as a buckler in which to receive the thrusts. At length one + of the combatants received a wound in the chest, and his shirt bosom was + instantly stained with blood. This served only to rouse him to more + desperate exertions if possible; and, like two enraged tigers, these men + no longer thought of defending themselves, but were bent only on assailing + each other. + </p> + <p> + Such a combat could not last long. One of the Spaniards sank to the deck, + covered with wounds and exhausted with blood, while the victor, who, from + the gory condition of his linen, his pallid cheeks, and staggering steps + seemed in little better plight, was assisted into the cabin by his + companions. + </p> + <p> + Duels of a similar character, fought on the spot with knives, the left arm + protected with a garment used as a shield, were by no means unfrequent + among the Spaniards in the New World, and the barbarous custom is not yet + obsolete. + </p> + <p> + The vessel, on whose decks this horrible scene of butchery was enacted, + left the harbor on the following day, to the great gratification of her + neighbors; and a rusty, ill-looking schooner, called the John, hauled from + another part of the roadstead, and took the berth vacated by the + Spaniards. Like other American vessels that had been coquetting with the + revenue laws, neither the name of the schooner nor the place to which she + belonged was painted on her stern. A close intimacy, intended doubtless + for their mutual advantage, existed between Captain Turner and the master + of the John. The crews of the two vessels also became acquainted, and when + the day's work was ended, often assembled on board one of the vessels, and + indulged in singing, conversing, skylarking, or spinning yarns. + </p> + <p> + Swimming was an agreeable and refreshing exercise, in which we often + indulged, notwithstanding the harbor of St. Pierre was an open bay in a + tropical climate; the very place which the shark would be likely to + frequent. It was said, however, that sharks were seldom seen in the bay, + and NEVER among the shipping. This statement was regarded as a sufficient + assurance of safety; and although I retained a vivid recollection of the + dreadful tragedy I had seen enacted a few months before in Demarara, with + all the recklessness or a young sailor I hesitated not to indulge freely + in this pleasant and healthy exercise in the harbor of St. Pierre. + </p> + <p> + I was careful, however, to follow the advice of a veteran tar, to KEEP IN + MOTION WHILE IN THE WATER. The shark, unless very ferocious and hungry, + will not attack a man while he is swimming, or performing other aquatic + evolutions. At such times he will remain quiet, close at hand, eyeing his + intended victim with an eager and affectionate look; but the moment the + unsuspecting swimmer throws himself on his back, begins to tread water, or + discontinues the exercise of swimming preparatory to getting on board, + this man-eating rascal will pounce on a leg or an arm, drag his victim + beneath the surface, and accomplish the dreadful work. + </p> + <p> + After the many unfavorable specimens of "old salts" I had met with, I was + agreeably surprised to find that two of the crew of the John were educated + men. One of these was the son of a wealthy merchant of Boston, who lived + in the style of a prince at the "North End." This young sailor had been + wild and dissipated, and had lost for a time the confidence of his + relatives, and as a matter of course, WENT TO SEA. He made a good sailor; + and while I knew him in St. Pierre, and during the subsequent years of his + life, his conduct was in every way correct. His conversation was + improving, and his chest was well stored with books, which he cheerfully + loaned, and to which I was indebted for many happy hours. + </p> + <p> + The other was an Irishman by birth, prematurely aged, of diminutive + stature, and unprepossessing appearance. He had been many years at sea; + had witnessed perilous scenes; had fought for his life with the savages on + board the Atahualpa on "the north-west coast"; had served in an English + man-of-war, from which he escaped by swimming ashore, a distance of + several miles, one night while cruising off the island of Antigua. He + reached the land completely exhausted more dead than alive and was + concealed for a time among the slave habitations on one of the + plantations. + </p> + <p> + Little Jack, as he was familiarly called, was a type of the old sailor of + those days, so far as his habits and general conduct was concerned. He was + reckless, bold, dissolute, generous, never desponding, ever ready for a + drunken frolic or a fight, to do a good deed, plan a piece of mischief, or + head a revolt. He seemed to find enjoyment in every change which his + strange destiny presented. And this man, who seemed at home in a ship's + forecastle, or when mingling with the lowest dregs of society, had been + educated at Trinity College, Dublin. He was well read in the classics, and + familiar with the writings of the old British poets. He could quote + elaborate passages from the best authors, and converse fluently and + learnedly on almost any subject. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding his cultivated mind and intellectual powers, which should + have placed him in a high position in society, he appeared satisfied with + his condition, and aspired to no loftier sphere than that of a common + sailor. We often meet with anomalies in the human character, for which it + would puzzle the most learned psychologist to account. What strange and + sad event had occurred in the early part of that man's career, to change + the current of his fortune, and make him contented in a condition so + humble, and a slave to habits so degrading? His story, if faithfully told, + might furnish a record of ambitious projects and sanguine expectations, + followed by blighted hopes which palsied all succeeding exertions, and + plunged him into the depths of dissipation and vice. + </p> + <p> + Captain Turner and the worthy master of the John, the better to conceal + their iniquities from the lynx-eyed satellites of the law, agreed to make + an exchange of vessels, both having been officially condemned as + unseaworthy. For an equivalent, the schooner was to be laden with a cargo, + principally of molasses, and properly furnished with stores, provisions, + and water, for a passage to the United States by the way of St. + Bartholomew. The crews of the two vessels were then to be interchanged, + and Captain Turner his mate and crew, were to take up their quarters in + the John. + </p> + <p> + The arrangement was carried into effect; but two of the Dolphin's crew, + dissatisfied with the proceedings on board the brig, and thinking matters + would not be improved by a transfer to the schooner, and being under no + obligation to follow Captain Turner to another vessel, demanded their + discharge. In their stead he shipped a boy, about fourteen years of age, + whom he had persuaded to run away from an English merchant ship, in which + he was an apprentice, and an old Frenchman, who had served many years in + the carpenter's gang in a French man-of-war, and who understood hardly a + word of the English language. + </p> + <p> + We sailed from St. Pierre the day after we had taken possession of the + schooner, bound directly for St. Bartholomew. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter VIII. THE WINDWARD ISLANDS + </h2> + <p> + It is well known that one of the principal reasons for the declaration of + war against Great Britain in 1812, were the insults heaped on the American + flag, in every sea, by the navy of Great Britain. The British government + claimed and exercised THE RIGHT to board our ships, impress their crews + when not natives of the United States, examine their cargoes, and subject + our citizens navigating the high seas, to inconvenience, detention, and + conduct often of an annoying and insulting character. The British + government contended that the flag which waved over the decks of our ships + should be no protection to our ships or seamen. For years our merchant + vessels were compelled to submit to such degrading insults from the navy + of Great Britain. + </p> + <p> + The mode of exercising this "right of search," so far as relates to the + impressment of seamen, I have already had occasion to illustrate, and the + incident which I now relate will explain with tolerable clearness the mode + in which the British exercised this right in relation to property. + </p> + <p> + Previously to the war with Great Britain, a profitable trade was carried + on between the United States and the English West India Islands. The + exports from the islands were limited chiefly to molasses and rum; sugar + and coffee being prohibited in American bottoms. According to the British + interpretation of the "right to search," every American vessel which had + taken in a cargo in a British, or any other port, was liable to be + searched, from the truck to the keelson, by any British cruiser when met + with on the high seas. And this inquisitorial process was submitted to as + a matter of course, though not without murmurs loud and deep, from those + who were immediately exposed to the inconveniences attending this + arbitrary exercise of power. + </p> + <p> + On the afternoon succeeding the day on which the schooner John left + Martinico, as we were quietly sailing along with a light breeze, under the + lee of the mountainous Island of Gaudaloupe, we saw a large ship at anchor + on a bank about a mile from the land, with the British ensign at her peak, + and a pennant streaming from her mast-head, sufficient indications that we + had fallen in with one of John Bull's cruisers. But Captain Turner, + conscious that his schooner was an American vessel, and had been regularly + cleared at St. Pierre, with a cargo of rum and molasses, and there being + no suspicious circumstances connected with her appearance, her cargo, or + her papers, apprehended no detention or trouble from the British + man-of-war. + </p> + <p> + A boat was soon seen to put off from the frigate, and it was not long + before it was alongside the John. An officer stepped on deck, and politely + asked the privilege of examining the ship's papers. This was accorded. + After having ascertained we were from a British port, the officer coolly + remarked it would be necessary to take the schooner nearer the land and + bring her to anchor, in order to institute a thorough search into the true + character of the cargo. He added that the frigate was stationed there for + the express purpose of intercepting and overhauling such Yankee vessels as + might pass along. + </p> + <p> + A signal was made to the frigate, and two additional boats were + despatched, which took our small vessel in tow, and in less than an hour + we found ourselves at anchor, in thirty fathoms of water, within half + musket shot of an English man-of-war. The launch was soon alongside, the + hatchways were taken off, tackles were rove, and a gang of the frigate's + crew went to work breaking out the cargo and hoisting it into the launch. + After the launch and other boats were laden, they hoisted the casks on + deck, and continued the operations in no gentle manner until they reached + the ground tier. They thus examined every cask, but found nothing but + molasses and rum. + </p> + <p> + They then commenced "stowing the cargo," as they called it; and the + hogsheads of molasses were tossed into the hold, and handled as roughly as + hogsheads of tobacco. It was about sunset on the following day when the + last cask was stowed. The anchor was then weighed, the sails set, and the + lieutenant, having put into the hands of the captain a certificate from + the commander of the frigate that the schooner had been searched, for the + purpose of preventing a repetition of that agreeable ceremony, told him he + was at liberty to go where he thought proper, and politely wished him a + pleasant voyage. + </p> + <p> + Our vessel was thus detained twenty-four hours; and in consequence of this + detention, the passage to St. Bartholomew was lengthened several days, as + a calm commenced soon after we were liberated, which lasted that time. The + cargo also received injury from the rough handling of the British tars, + insomuch that before we reached St. Bartholomew, several casks had lost + nearly all their contents; and if we had been bound directly to the United + States, it is probable that a considerable portion of the cargo would have + been pumped out with the bilge water. + </p> + <p> + This is only one of a thousand cases which might be cited to show the + PRINCIPLE on which the British acted towards neutral powers on the broad + ocean, as well as in the British waters, at that time. The British + government, since the war of 1812, have attempted by negotiations to + reestablish this principle. But the attempt has been firmly and + successfully resisted; and it may be safely predicted that this "right" + will never again be claimed by Great Britain, or conceded by the United + States. + </p> + <p> + Our government, which is a government of the people, and supported mainly + by commerce, cannot be too vigilant and firm in its endeavors to protect + the persons and property of our citizens on the ocean against the + oppression or outrages of any naval power. Let us, as an honorable, + high-minded nation, cordially cooperate with any other nation in attempts + to check and destroy the traffic in slaves, so revolting in its character, + which is carried on between Africa and places on this continent. Let us be + a party to any honorable treaty having this for its object; but let us + never listen to the idea that the American flag, waving at the peak or + masthead of an American vessel, is no protection to the property on board, + or the liberties of the passengers and crew. + </p> + <p> + Captain Turner promptly availed himself of the permission so graciously + given by the commander of the British cruiser, and we proceeded on our way + to St. Bartholomew. There is probably no sailing in the world more + pleasant and interesting than among the group of beautiful islands + reaching from Trinidad to St. Bartholomew. With a smooth sea and a gentle, + refreshing trade wind, as the vessel glides past these emerald gems of the + ocean, a picturesque and ever-varying landscape is produced, as if by the + wand of some powerful enchanter. Grenada, the Grenadines, St. Vincent, St. + Lucia, Martinico, Dominica, Guadaloupe, Montserrat, Saba, St. Kitts, + Nevis, and St. Bartholomew, all seem to pass in swift succession before + the eye of the observer. + </p> + <p> + These islands are all, with the exception of St. Bartholomew, more or less + cultivated, but being mountainous and of volcanic origin, the productive + lands lie on the base of the mountains, or on the spacious intervals and + valleys near the sea shore. Studded with plantations, each of which + resembles a little village planned by some skilful landscape gardener; + with crystal streams dashing down the mountain sides; with dense forests + covering the high lands and mountain summits; with bays and indentations + along the coast, each with a thriving village at the extremity, defended + by fortifications; with ships at anchor in the roadsteads, and droghers + coasting along the shores; with an atmosphere richly laden with sweets, + and all the interesting associations connected with a tropical climate; + these islands furnish an array of attractions which are hardly surpassed + in the Western Hemisphere. The beautiful description in the song of + Mignon, in the "Wilhelm Meister" of Goethe, of a land of fruits and + flowers, will apply with singular felicity to these Windward Islands: + </p> + <p> + "Know'st thou the land where the pale citron grows, And the gold orange + through dark foliage glows? A soft wind flutters from the deep blue sky, + The myrtle blooms, and towers the laurel high. Know'st thou it well?" + </p> + <p> + I have sometimes wondered why the capitalists of New England, in search of + recreation and pleasure for themselves and families instead of crossing + the Atlantic to visit the oft-described and stale wonders of the Old + World, do not charter a yacht or a packet schooner, and with a goodly + company take a trip to the West Indies, sail around and among these + islands, visit places of interest, accept the hospitality of the planters, + which is always freely bestowed, and thus secure a fund of rational + enjoyment, gratify a laudable curiosity in relation to the manners and + habits of the people of the torrid zone, and bring away a multitude of + agreeable impressions on their minds, which will keep vivid and fresh the + remainder of their lives. + </p> + <p> + After leaving Martinico, we found, on broaching our provisions, that they + were of bad quality, of the worst possible description. The bread, + deposited in bags, was of a dark color, coarse texture, and French + manufacture. It must have been of an inferior kind when new and fresh, and + a long tarry in a tropical climate was not calculated to improve its + character. Besides being mouldy, it was dotted with insects, of an + unsightly appearance and unsavory flavor. The quality of the beef was, if + possible, worse than that of the bread, and we had no other kinds of + provisions. Before we arrived at St. Bartholomew the water began to give + signs of impurity. The casks, stowed in the half-deck, had been filled + through a molasses hose. In all likelihood, the hose had not been + cleansed, and the saccharine property of the molasses mingling with the + water in that hot climate had caused a fermentation, the effect of which + was nauseous to the taste and unpleasant to the eye. We consoled + ourselves, however, with the idea that the passage would be a short one, + only a few days, and that better provisions would be furnished when we + reached St. Bartholomew. + </p> + <p> + The Island of St. Bartholomew is a mountainous rock, three or four miles + in diameter, with here and there a few patches of verdure, but destitute + of trees or cultivated lands. The inhabitants are dependent on the + neighboring islands, and importations from distant countries, for the + means of sustaining life. Even water for drinking and culinary purposes is + brought from St. Martin, Nevis, or St. Kitts. It has a snug harbor on the + western side, easy of access, in which many vessels can lie safely moored, + excepting in a hurricane. Indeed, there is hardly a harbor in the Windward + Islands, north of Grenada, where a vessel can be secure during the + hurricane months. These tempests, when blowing from any quarter, seem to + defy all the efforts of man to withstand their violence; twist the ships + from their anchors, force them on the reefs or drive them out to sea, + sometimes without ballast or the fraction of a crew. + </p> + <p> + It may appear singular that St. Bartholomew, with no productions whatever, + and lying almost in the midst of the most fertile and productive of the + Windward Islands, should nevertheless have been a place of great trade, + and at certain times the most important depot for merchandise in those + islands. St. Bartholomew has belonged to Sweden during the whole of the + present century; and Sweden having been occasionally exempted form the + wars waged against each other by England and France, this island, of no + intrinsic value in itself, became a sort of neutral ground; a port where + all nations could meet on friendly terms; where traders belonging to + England, France, the United States, or other powers, could deposit or sell + their goods, purchase West India produce, and transact business of any + description. + </p> + <p> + At the time to which I refer, in 1810, the "Orders in Council" of England, + and the "Berlin and Milan Decrees" of Napoleon, were in force. As a + counteracting stroke of policy, the Non-intercourse Act, to which I have + already alluded, was passed by our government, and the neutral port of St. + Bartholomew suddenly became a place of immense importance. When we entered + the harbor in the John, it was with difficulty that a berth could be + found; at least two hundred and fifty vessels, a large portion of which + were Americans, were in port, discharging or taking in cargo. Captain + Turner found no trouble in selling his molasses. He dared not run the risk + of taking it to the United States, lest his roguery should be discovered + through some flaw in his papers, and his vessel and cargo seized by + revenue officers. He retained only a few casks of rum, sufficient to pay + port charges, and prepared to sail for a southern port. + </p> + <p> + Shortly before we arrived at St. Bartholomew, a ship belonging to + Connecticut, in consequence of some irregularity in her proceedings, was + seized by the authorities and taken possession of by a guard of ten or a + dozen soldiers. The ship was about ready for sea when this event took + place; and on the following day, according to a preconcerted plan between + the captain and Mr. Arnold, the supercargo, the officers and crew rose + upon the soldiers, deprived them of their arms, and forced them below. + Then they quietly slipped the cables, and let the ship drift gradually out + of the harbor, until past the shipping, when every sail was instantly + spread, as if by magic, and before the mystified garrison of the fort + could understand the curious manoeuver, realize the audacity of the + Yankees, and get ready their guns, the ship was beyond the reach of their + shot. In the offing the ship fell in with one of the large boats trading + between St. Bartholomew and St. Martin, and put the soldiers on board, who + were thus promptly returned to their barracks. + </p> + <p> + The Swedish authorities were justly indignant at such high-handed + proceedings. Arnold remained behind to transact some unfinished business, + but was arrested and thrown into prison, where he remained several weeks. + Seeing no prospect of being released, he feigned insanity, and acted the + madman to the life; insomuch that the authorities were glad to discharge + him on condition that his friends would send him from the island. + </p> + <p> + During the year 1809, a French privateer, called the Superior, a large + schooner of the "Baltimore pilot boat" model, was the terror of the + British in the Caribbean seas. The pilot boats built at Baltimore, to + cruise off the mouth of the Chesapeake, have ever been celebrated for + their sailing qualities, especially their ability to beat to windward; and + vessels of larger size than the pilot boats, reaching to the capacity of + three hundred tons, but built according to this peculiar Baltimore model, + were for many years acknowledged the swiftest class of sailing vessels in + any country at any period. At what particular time this model was + introduced, it may be difficult to ascertain; but as early as the period + to which I refer, the term "Baltimore clipper" was a familiar term. + Numbers of them were sold to individuals residing in ports belonging to + the belligerent powers, and commissioned as privateers; others were + purchased for slavers; and during the wars carried on by Spain and + Portugal with their provinces in South America, the "Baltimore clippers" + made a conspicuous figure, being fitted out as privateers and manned in + the ports of a nation which held out to them the olive branch of peace. + </p> + <p> + The privateer Superior was commanded by a brave and energetic Frenchman, + who took a singular pleasure in inflicting injuries on British commerce. + This privateer, fitted out at Port Royal in Martinico, was said to have + been the fastest vessel every known among the islands, and her commander + laughed to scorn the attempts made to capture him by the finest vessels in + the English navy. Indeed, the Superior seemed to be ubiquitous. One day + she would be seen hovering off the island of Antigua, and after pouncing + on an unfortunate English ship, would take out the valuables and specie, + if there were any on board, transfer the officers and crew to a drogher + bound into the harbor, and then scuttle the vessel. On the day following, + a ship would be seen on fire off Montserrat or St. Kitts, which would + prove to have been an English merchantman captured and destroyed by the + Superior; and perhaps, a few days afterwards, this privateer would be + pursuing a similar career on the shores of Barbadoes, far to windward, or + levying contributions from the planters on the coasts of Grenada or + Trinidad. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, the sailing qualities of this privateer were a marvel to all "old + salts"; and many an honest man who had never heard of a "Baltimore pilot + boat built" craft, was sorely puzzled to account for the success of the + Superior in avoiding the many traps that had been set by the long-headed + officers of the British ships on that station. By many it was believed + that the French captain had unlawful dealings with the enemy of mankind, + and for the pleasure of annoying the English, and the gratification of + filling his pockets with the spoils of the enemies of France, had signed + away his soul! + </p> + <p> + The company of men-of-war seemed to be no protection against capture by + this privateer. A fleet of merchantmen, convoyed by several armed ships, + would be intruded on during the night, and one or more of them captured + without alarm, and then rifled, and scuttled or burned. On one occasion, + after combined efforts had been made to capture the Superior, and it was + believed that vessel had been driven from those seas, a homeward bound + fleet of merchantmen, on the first night after leaving Antigua, was + approached by this privateer, and in the course of a couple of hours three + different ships, in different stations of the squadron, had been captured, + plundered, and fired by that indefatigable enemy of the English. + </p> + <p> + At last, one after another, every French port in the islands was taken by + the British, and there was no longer a nook belonging to France to which + this privateer could resort for protection, supplies, or repairs, It was + furthermore rumored that this vessel was not regularly commissioned; and + that, if captured by an enemy, the officers and crew to a man, and the + captain more especially, would be hanged at the yard arm, AS PIRATES, + without any very formal process of law. + </p> + <p> + The privateer was by this time well laden with spoils, having on board, in + silks, specie, gums, and bullion, property to the amount of nearly a + million of dollars. One fine morning, a British sloop-of-war, cruising + between Nevis and St. Bartholomew, was astonished at beholding the + Superior, that "rascally French Privateer," as well known in those seas as + the Flying Dutchman off the Cape of Good Hope, come down from the windward + side of St. Bartholomew under easy sail, pass round the southern point of + the island, hoist the tri-colored flag, as if by way of derision, and + boldly enter the harbor belonging to the Swedish government, and a neutral + port. + </p> + <p> + It was not many hours before the sloop-of-war, having hauled her wind, was + off the harbor, lying off and on; and the captain, in full uniform, his + mouth filled with menaces and denunciations of British vengeance, and his + cranium well crammed with quotations from Vattel, Grotius, Puffendorf, and + other venerable worthies, was on his way to the shore in a state of great + excitement. When he reached the landing, he found only the HULL of the + privateer, with the spars and rigging. The officers and crew had already + disappeared, each carrying off his portion of the spoils. The captain was + not visible; but it was said he left the island a few days afterwards for + the United States, under an assumed name, whence he subsequently proceeded + to France, with an immense amount of property, which the fortune of war + had transferred from British subjects to his pockets. The schooner was + hauled up to the head of the careenage, and on examination it appeared + that every part of the vessel had been so strained by carrying sail, and + so much damage had been done to her planks and timbers by worms, that she + was good for nothing. The spars, sails, and rigging were sold; but the + hull, which soon filled with water, remained for years, admired by every + genuine sailor as the most perfect model of a fast-sailing vessel that + could be devised by the ingenuity of man. + </p> + <p> + When the schooner John was nearly ready for sea, my uncle, Captain Tilton, + whom I had left in Charleston, arrived in port in a clipper schooner + called the Edwin. He was bound for Mobile, where he intended establishing + a mercantile house in connection with a gentleman named Waldron, a native + of Portsmouth, who had resided several years in Charleston. I had one + brief interview with him, but no opportunity offered of entering into the + details of my unenviable position on board the John. On a hint from me + that I was dissatisfied, and should not object to accompany him in the + Edwin, he gravely shook his head, and remarked that such a course would be + unusual and improper; that he was about to retire from the sea; that it + would be best for me to stick by Captain Turner, in whom I should always + find a friend, and perform the whole voyage I had undertaken. + </p> + <p> + He left the port on the following day, bound for the Gulf of Mexico, and I + never saw him again. He encountered a "norther" on the coast of Cuba, and + the Edwin struck on the Colorado Reef, and all on board perished! + </p> + <p> + It was believed that Captain Turner, as a matter of course, would procure + a sufficient quantity of good water, and some tolerable provisions for the + forecastle hands, before we proceeded on our voyage. But our worthy + captain, who was a great worshipper of the "almighty dollar," in whatever + shape it appeared, had no intentions of the kind. Water was scarce, and + cost ten dollars a cask. Beef and bread also cost money, and we left St. + Bartholomew with only the wretched apology for provisions and water which + were put on board in Martinico. + </p> + <p> + Probably no American vessel ever left a port with such miserable + provisions for a voyage. Bread, beef, and water constituted our variety. + We had no rice, beans, Indian meal, fish, or any other of the numerous + articles usually furnished by merchants for the sustenance of the sailors + who navigate their ships; and SUCH beef, bread, and water as we were + doomed to live upon for three successive weeks after we left St. + Bartholomew, was surely never prescribed by the most rigid anchorite and + exacting devotee as a punishment for the sins of a hardened transgressor. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter IX. ARRIVAL AT SAVANNAH + </h2> + <p> + Captain Turner, on being urged to provide some palatable food and drink, + declared with an oath that he did not select the provisions of fill the + water; that this was done by others who knew what they were about; that + every thing on board was good enough for us, and if we did not like it we + might starve and BE HANGED! + </p> + <p> + This was a clincher it ended the argument. There was nothing left for us + but to put the best face, even if it should be a wry face, on troubles we + could not overcome or diminish. + </p> + <p> + In a choice of food there is a wide difference in taste. One people will + regard as a luxury a viand or condiment which is repugnant to another. + Locusts have been used from time immemorial for food by different tribes + of Arabs. Snail soup was once regarded in Europe as a delicious dish. In + the West Indies and South America the guano, a species of lizard, is + devoured with gusto. Bird's nests command enormous prices as an edible in + China, where also dogs and cats are ordinary food. At Rome camels' heels + were a tidbit for an epicure. Whale's tongues ranked among the delicacies + feasted on by the Europeans in the middle centuries. The bark of the palm + tree is the abiding place of a large worm, which is sought for, roasted, + and devoured as a delicacy. In Brazil, a monkey pie is a favorite dish, + and the head of the monkey is made to protrude and show its teeth above + the crust by way of ornament. Indeed, habit, we are told, will reconcile a + person to unsavory diet. But neither habit nor necessity could reconcile + me to the food and drink which, to sustain life, I was compelled to + swallow on board the John. + </p> + <p> + The water, owing to causes to which I have already alluded, was + exceedingly offensive to the palate and the olfactories. It was also slimy + and ropy; and was drank only as a means and a wretched one of prolonging + life. For the inmates of the cabin the water was boiled or diluted with + brandy, which, in a slight degree, lessened its disgusting flavor. But + this was a luxury that was denied the seamen, who had to quaff it in all + its richness. + </p> + <p> + Our beef, in quality, was on a par with the water. It was Irish beef, so + called, wretchedly poor when packed; but having been stored in a hot + climate, probably for years, it had lost what little excellence it once + possessed, and acquired other qualities of which the packer never dreamed. + The effluvia arising from a barrel of this beef, when opened, was + intolerable. When boiled in clean salt water the strong flavor was + somewhat modified, and it was reduced by shrinkage at least one half. The + palate could not become reconciled to it; and the longer we lived upon it + the less we liked it. + </p> + <p> + But our bread! What shall I say of our bread? I have already spoken of it + as mouldy and ANIMATED. On several occasions, in the course of my + adventures, I have seen ship bread which could boast of those abominable + attributes, remnants of former voyages put on board ships by unfeeling + skinflints, to be "used up" before the new provisions were broached, but I + never met with any which possessed those attributes to the extent which + was the case on board the schooner John. Although many years have passed + since I was supported and invigorated by that "staff of life," I cannot + even now think of it without a shudder of disgust! On placing a biscuit by + my side when seated upon deck, it would actually be put in motion by some + invisible machinery, and if thrown on the hot coals in order to destroy + the living works within, and prevent the biscuit from walking off, it + would make an angry sputtering wondrous to hear! + </p> + <p> + Such was the character of our food and drink on our passage to the United + States. It initiated me, even at the beginning of my sea-going career, + into the most repulsive mysteries of a seaman's life. And whenever, in + subsequent voyages, I have been put upon poor diet, I mentally contrasted + it with the wretched fare during my second voyage to sea, smacked my lips, + and called it luxury. + </p> + <p> + Steering to the northward we passed near the Island of Sombrero, glided + from the Caribbean Sea into the Atlantic Ocean, and wended our way towards + the Carolinas. + </p> + <p> + Sombrero is an uninhabited island, a few miles only in circumference. It + offers to the dashing waves on every side a steep, craggy cliff, from + thirty to fifty feet high. Its surface is flat, and entirely destitute of + vegetation; and at a distance, a fanciful imagination can trace, in the + outline of the island, a faint resemblance to the broad Spanish hat, + called a "sombrero," from which it takes its name. + </p> + <p> + This island, as well as all the other uninhabited islands in that part of + the world, has ever been a favorite resort for birds, as gulls of several + varieties, noddies, man-of-war birds, pelicans, and others. It has + recently been ascertained that Sombrero is entitled to the proud + appellation of "a guano island," and a company has been organized, + consisting of persons belonging to New England, for the purpose of + carrying off its rich deposits, which are of a peculiarly valuable + character, being found beneath a bed of coral limestone several feet in + thickness, and must consequently possess all the advantages which + antiquity can confer. + </p> + <p> + It was on this island, many years ago, that an English brig struck in a + dark night, while "running down the trades." The officers and crew, + frightened at the dashing of the breakers and the gloomy aspect of the + rocks which frowned upon them from above, made their escape on shore in + "double quick time," some of them marvellously thinly clad, even for a + warm climate. As soon as they had safely landed on the cliffs, and + congratulated each other on their good fortune, the brig, by a heave of + the sea, became disengaged from the rocks, and floating off, drifted to + leeward, to the great mortification of the crew, and was fallen in with a + day or two afterwards, safe and sound, near Anegada Reef, and carried into + St. Thomas. The poor fellows, who manifested such alacrity in quitting "a + sinking ship," suffered greatly from hunger and exposure. They erected a + sort of flagstaff, on which they displayed a jacket as a signal of + distress, and in the course of a few days were taken off by an American + vessel bound to Santa Cruz. + </p> + <p> + The feeling which prompts a person, in the event of a sudden danger at + sea, to quit his own vessel and look abroad for safety, appears to be + instinctive. In cases of collision, portions of the crews are sometimes + suddenly exchanged; and a man will find himself, unconscious of, an + effort, on board a strange vessel, then arouse himself, as if from an + unquiet sleep, and return to his ship as rapidly as he left her. + </p> + <p> + It sometimes happens that vessels, which have run into each other in the + night time, separate under circumstances causing awkward results. The ship + Pactolus, of Boston, bound from Hamburg through the English channel, while + running one night in a thick fog near the Goodwin Sands, fell in with + several Dutch galliots, lying to, waiting for daylight, and while + attempting to steer clear of one, ran foul of another, giving the Dutchman + a terrible shaking and carrying away one of the masts. The captain, a + young man, was below, asleep in his berth, dreaming, it may be, of happy + scenes in which a young and smiling "jung frow" formed a prominent object. + He rushed from his berth, believing his last hour was come, sprang upon + deck, and seeing a ship alongside, made one leap into the chainwales of + the strange vessel, and another one over the rail to the deck. A moment + afterwards the vessels separated; the galliot was lost sight of in the + fog, and Mynheer was astonished to find himself, while clad in the airy + costume of a shirt and drawers, safely and suddenly transferred from his + comfortable little vessel to the deck of an American ship bound across the + Atlantic. + </p> + <p> + The poor fellow jabbered away, in his uncouth native language, until his + new shipmates feared his jaws would split asunder. They furnished him with + garments, entertained him hospitably, and on the following day landed him + on the pier at Dover. + </p> + <p> + We met with no extraordinary occurrences on our passage to the United + States until we reached the Gulf Stream, noted for heavy squalls, thunder + storms, and a turbulent sea, owing to the effect on the atmosphere + produced by the difference of temperatures between the water in the + current and the water on each side. + </p> + <p> + The night on which we entered the Gulf Stream, off the coast of the + Carolinas, the weather was exceedingly suspicious. Dark, double-headed + clouds hung around the horizon, and although the wind was light, a + hurricane would not have taken us by surprise at any moment; and as the + clouds rose slowly with a threatening aspect, no calculation could be made + on which side the tempest would come. The lightnings illumined the + heavens, serving to render the gloom more conspicuous, and the deep-toned + rumblings of the thunder were heard in the distance. + </p> + <p> + At eight o'clock, when the watch was called, the schooner was put under + short canvas, and due preparations were made for any change in the + weather. The starboard watch was then told to go below, but to "be ready + for a call." This watch, all told, consisted of the old French carpenter + and myself, and we gladly descended into the narrow, leaky, steaming den, + called the forecastle, reposing full confidence in the vigilance of our + shipmates in the larboard watch, and knowing that if the ship should be + dismasted, or even capsized, while we were quietly sleeping below, it + would be through no fault of ours, and we could not be held responsible. + In five minutes after the forescuttle was closed, we were snugly ensconced + in our berths, oblivious of squalls and gales, and all the disagreeable + duties of making and taking in sail on a wet and stormy night, enjoying a + comfortable nap and dreaming of happy times on shore. + </p> + <p> + We were soon aroused from our dreams, and brought back to the realities of + life, by the rough voice of my old shipmate, Eastman, yelling out in tones + which would have carried terror to the soul of an Indian warrior, "ALL + HANDS AHOY! Tumble up, lads! Bear a hand on deck!" I jumped out of my + berth, caught my jacket in one hand, and my tarpaulin in the other, and + hastened on deck, closely followed by the carpenter, and also the cook, + whose office being little better than a sinecure, he was called upon + whenever help was wanted. The wind was blowing a gale, and the rain was + falling in heavy drops, and the schooner was running off to the southward + at a tremendous rate, with the wind on the quarter. + </p> + <p> + "There is a waterspout after us," exclaimed Captain Turner, as we made our + appearance, "and we must give it the slip, or be grabbed by Davy Jones. Be + alive for once! If that fellow comes over us, he will capsize, perhaps + sink us! Stand by!" + </p> + <p> + I looked astern, and saw, about a point on the larboard quarter, a black, + misshapen body, which seemed to reach from the heavens down to the surface + of the sea. Although the night was dark as Erebus, this mass could easily + be distinguished from the thick clouds which shut out the stars, and + covered the whole surface of the sky. It moved towards us with fearful + rapidity, being much fleeter in the race than our little schooner. + </p> + <p> + The captain, who, to do him justice, was not only a good sailor, but cool + and resolute in the hour of danger, would fix his eye one moment on the + waterspout, and the next on the compass, in order to ascertain the course + which this unwelcome visitor was taking. A minute had scarcely elapsed, + during which every man breathed harder and quicker than he was wont to do, + being in a state of agonizing suspense, when Captain turner decided on his + plan of operations; and it was time, for the waterspout was but a few + hundred yards off, and came rushing towards us like a ferocious monster + intent on mischief. + </p> + <p> + "Stand by to gibe!" cried the captain. "Hard a-port your helm! Look out + for that foresheet." As the schooner fell off and again came gradually to + the wind, she shot across the hawse of the waterspout, which swept closely + along under our stern, almost spattering the water in our very faces, and + tearing and roaring like the cataract of Niagara! + </p> + <p> + We watched its progress with thrilling interest, and when it got upon our + quarter, and we were convinced it could not come on board, Captain Turner + called out in exulting tones, "We have dodged it handsomely boys, and + cheated Davy Jones of his prey this time. Hurrah!" + </p> + <p> + It is hardly necessary to say we all breathed easier as the waterspout + sailed majestically away, and in a few minutes was out of sight. This was + one of those occurrences which might well shake the nerves of the most + firm and courageous tar. Indeed, the whole scene on that memorable night + was far more akin to the sublime than the beautiful. There were the heavy + black clouds piled upon each other near the horizon, or hanging loosely + and dripping overhead, portending a fearful conflict among the elements; + there was the wind, which came in fitful gusts, whistling and singing in + mournful cadence among the blocks and rigging; there was the agitated and + furrowed face of the ocean, which had been lashed to fury by successive + storms, and lighted up in every direction by innumerable brilliant + phosphorescent particles, in which, it is well known, the waters of the + Gulf Stream abound; there were the rolling echoes of the thunder, and the + zig zag, chain lightning, which every few seconds enveloped the heavens + and the ocean in a frightful livid garment; and, as if to cap the climax, + there was the giant column, darker, much darker than the dark clouds + around us, reaching from those clouds and resting on the waters, and + threatening to sweep our whole ship's company into eternity. + </p> + <p> + On the day succeeding our adventure with the waterspout, the wind died + away, although the heavy clouds still hung about the horizon. The + schooner, lying in the trough of the sea, was fearfully uneasy; but + towards night a regular gale of wind commenced, and our vessel was hove to + under a double-reefed foresail. It was near the close of the first watch + when the fore-topsail getting loose on the lee yard arm, I went aloft to + secure it. After I had accomplished this work, I lingered a few minutes on + the yard to enjoy the beauty of the storm. The waves, urged by the fury of + the gale, were breaking around us in majestic style; the schooner was + rocking to and fro, and occasionally took a lee lurch, which made every + timber in her bottom quiver. + </p> + <p> + I had finished my survey of the wind and weather, and was about to descend + to the deck, when I carelessly cast my eyes aloft, and there beheld a + sight which struck terror to my soul. On the very summit of the + main-topmast on the truck itself, was A HUGE BALL OF FIRE! It seemed a + mass of unearthly light of livid hue, which shed a dismal radiance around. + The rain fell at the time, but quenched it not; and the heaviest gusts of + wind served neither to extinguish it, nor increase its brilliancy. It kept + its station unmoved, shining terribly through the storm, like some dread + messenger, sent by a superior power to give warning of impending disaster. + </p> + <p> + I was appalled with terror at the sight. Although by no means credulous or + superstitious, I could hardly resist the belief that this globe of fire, + which appeared thus suddenly in the midst of a furious storm, at dead of + night, and on a spot where it could not have been placed or kindled by the + hand of man, was of supernatural origin. I shuddered with fear; a strange + giddiness came over me; and I had hardly strength to cling to the shrouds + as I descended to the deck. + </p> + <p> + I pointed out the object of my terror to my watch-mate, the French + carpenter, who gazed at it earnestly, and then, turning to me, nodded his + head emphatically two or three times, like a Chinese mandarin, and + grinned. This pantomimic display was intended to convey much meaning more + than I could interpret. But it convinced me that the carpenter was + familiar with such sights, which, perhaps, were not very remarkable, after + all. + </p> + <p> + When the watch was called, I pointed out the fiery ball to Eastman, and to + Mr. Adams, the mate, and learned that the object which gave me such a + fright was not of very unfrequent occurrence during a gale of wind. It was + known among seamen by the name of CORPOSANT, or COMPLAISANT, being a + corruption of "cuerpo santo," the name it received from the Spaniards. It + is supposed to be formed of phosphorescent particles of jelly, blown from + the surface of the water during a storm, and which, clinging to the + rigging, gradually accumulate, and ascend until they reach the truck. The + mass remains there for a time, and then disappears. Sometimes it is seen + on the topsail yard or at the end of the flying jib-boom. + </p> + <p> + A few days afterwards, having crossed "the Gulf," we made the land off the + mouth of Savannah River; saw Tybee Lighthouse; took a pilot, and proceeded + up to the city. When we left St. Bartholomew, it was given out that we + were bound to Wilmington; on the passage we spoke a vessel, and Captain + Turner, on being questioned, said we were bound to Charleston. For good + and sufficient reasons, known to himself, he did not think proper to + gratify idle curiosity. + </p> + <p> + But while our shrewd captain was dexterously managing to deceive the + revenue officers, and obtain all the advantages of the fair trader, a + circumstance occurred through his own ignorance or neglect, which brought + about the very catastrophe he was taking such pains to avoid. + </p> + <p> + The cargo, as I have stated, consisted of only a few puncheons of rum. A + permit was obtained, and one morning they were landed on the wharf. At + that time there was a law of the United States which forbade the + importation of rum in casks containing less than ninety gallons. The + officer appointed to gauge the casks that were landed from the schooner + ascertained that one of them measured only seventy-eight gallons. He + proclaimed the fact, and hastened to the Custom House to notify the + collector. In the mean time, Mr. Howard, the merchant who transacted + business for Captain Turner, heard of the affair, and, accompanied by the + captain, came on board. + </p> + <p> + Instead of acknowledging an involuntary violation of law, and explaining + to the collector the cause of the error, these gentlemen very imprudently + ordered the objectionable cask to be rolled in on deck, and all hands were + set at work to transfer its contents to an empty water cask, which was of + greater capacity than ninety gallons. The trick might have succeeded had + the revenue officers allowed sufficient time. The work was commenced, and + the liquor was running out, making a gurgling noise, when down came the + collector with a numerous posse at his heels! + </p> + <p> + We were caught in the very act. A war of words ensued; but the + explanations given under the attendant circumstances were so + unsatisfactory, that the vigilant chief of the customs clapped his broad + mark on the mainmast, and seized the vessel and the unfortunate cask of + rum in the name and behalf of the United States! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter X. "HOME! SWEET HOME!" + </h2> + <p> + The afternoon of the day on which we arrived in Savannah, after the vessel + was secured to the wharf, and the decks put in proper condition, the four + half-starved individuals, composing the crew of the schooner John, gayly + stepped ashore, and proceeded in quest of some wholesome and palatable + food. Our pockets were not well lined, and we sought not for luxuries; but + we yearned for a good, full meal, which would satisfy our appetite a + blessing we had not enjoyed for several weeks. + </p> + <p> + After passing through a couple of streets, we came to a humble but + neat-looking dwelling house, with an apology for a garden in front. Tables + and seats were arranged beneath some trees; "spruce beer" was advertised + for sale, but there were indications that other kinds of refreshments + could be obtained. The place wore a comfortable aspect. We nodded + smilingly to each other, as much as to say, "This will do!" entered the + gateway, which stood invitingly open, and took seats at a table. + </p> + <p> + Eastman, who was a native of New Hampshire, had resided many years on a + farm, and knew what was good living, inquired boldly of the master of the + establishment if he could furnish each of us with a capacious bowl of + bread and milk. The man replied that he could. On inquiring the price, we + found, to our great joy, that it was within our means. He was told to + bring it along; and in a few minutes, which seemed an age, the bread and + milk were placed before us. + </p> + <p> + The milk was cool, and of good quality. The bread was in the form of + rolls, newly baked, and manufactured of the finest flour. The aspect of + these "refreshments" was of the most tempting character! To our excited + imaginations, they equalled the nectar and ambrosia which furnished the + feasts on Mount Olympus. We did not tarry long to gaze upon their + beauties, or contemplate their excellence. Each one broke a roll into his + basin of milk, seized a spoon, and without speaking a word, commenced + operations with exemplary energy, with cheeks glowing with excitement, and + eyes glistening with pleasure; while our good-natured host gazed in wonder + on our proceedings, and grinned approbation! + </p> + <p> + Our gratification was complete. We returned to the schooner in better + spirits and in better health, after having partaken of this invigorating + meal; and although I have since dined with epicures, and been regaled with + delicious food prepared in the most artistic style, I never tasted a dish + which seemed so grateful to my palate, which so completely suffused my + whole physical system with gratification bordering on ecstasy, as that + humble bowl of bread and milk in Savannah. + </p> + <p> + The schooner having been seized by the government for unlawful + transactions, the crew were compelled to wait until the trial took place + before they could receive the wages due for their services. If the vessel + should not be condemned, they were to look to Captain Turner for their + pay. But on the other hand, if the vessel should be confiscated, the + United States authorities would be obliged to pay the wages due at the + time the seizure took place. In the mean time we were furnished with + board, such as it was, and lodging in the schooner, and awaited with + impatience the result of the trial. + </p> + <p> + Captain Turner, being a shrewd business man, was not idle during this + intermission. Having reasons to believe his vessel would be condemned, he + resolved that the government authorities should obtain possession of + nothing more than the bare hull and spars. Under cover of the night he + stripped the schooner of the cables and anchors, the running rigging, the + spare spars, water casks, boats, sails, cabin furniture, blocks, + compasses, and handspikes. The government got "a hard bargain," when the + naked hull of this old worn-out craft came into their hands. + </p> + <p> + One beautiful morning while lying at the wharf in Savannah, two barges, + each having its stern-seats occupied by three well-dressed gentlemen, + looking as serious and determined as if bent on some important business, + left the landing place astern of the schooner, and proceeded rapidly down + the river. A throng of inquisitive observers, who knew the nature of their + errand, collected ere they started from the wharf, and gazed intently on + the boats until the intervening marshes concealed them from view. + </p> + <p> + These gentlemen were to act as principals, seconds, and surgeons, in a + duel for which all proper arrangements had been made. At a ball the + evening before, a dispute had arisen between two high-spirited youths, + connected with highly-respectable families, in relation to the right of + dancing with a beautiful girl, the belle of the ball-room. Irritating and + insulting language was indulged in by both parties; a challenge was given + and promptly accepted. They proceeded in the way I have related to the + South Carolina bank of the river, there to settle the controversy by + gunpowder logic, and shoot at each other until one or both parties should + be fully satisfied. + </p> + <p> + Having seen the duellists fairly embarked, I felt a deep interest in the + result, and eagerly watched for the return of the barges. In the course of + little more than an hour, one of the boats was seen ascending the river, + and rapidly approached the wharf. One of the principals, followed by his + friend, stepped ashore with a triumphant air, as if he had done a noble + deed, and walked up the wharf. But no satisfactory information could be + obtained respecting the result of the duel. + </p> + <p> + In about half a hour the other boat made its appearance. It moved slowly + along, propelled by only a couple of oars. The reason for this was soon + explained by the sight of a man, extended on the thwarts, and writhing + with pain. This proved to be one of the duellists, who was shot in the + groin at the second fire, and dangerously wounded. The boat reached the + landing place, and the surgeon and the second both went up the wharf in + search of some means of transporting the unfortunate man to his home. + Meanwhile he lay upon his rude couch exposed to the nearly vertical rays + of the sun; his only attendant a negro, who brushed away the flies which + annoyed him. His features were of a deadly pallor; he breathed with + difficulty, and appeared to suffer much from pain. + </p> + <p> + Some ten or fifteen minutes elapsed ere the friends of the wounded man + returned, bringing a litter, mattress, and bearers. He was too ill to be + conveyed through the streets in a coach. A mournful procession was formed, + and he was thus carried, in a bleeding and dying condition, to his + relatives, a mother and sisters, from whom he had parted a few hours + before, in all the strength and vigor of early manhood. + </p> + <p> + As I gazed upon this wounded man, the absurdity of the custom of duelling, + as practised among civilized nations, struck me in all its force. One + scene like this, taken in connection with the attendant circumstances, is + more convincing than volumes of logic, or a thousand homilies. For a few + hasty words, exchanged in a moment of anger, two men, instructed in the + precepts of the Christian religion, professing to be guided by true + principles of honesty and honor, who had ever borne high characters for + worth, and perhaps, IN CONSEQUENCE of the elevated position they hold + among respectable men, meet by appointment in a secluded spot, and proceed + in the most deliberate manner to take each other's lives to commit MURDER + a crime of the most fearful magnitude known among nations, and denounced + as such by the laws of man and the laws of God. + </p> + <p> + In due time the fate of the schooner John was decided. The vessel was + condemned, and the crew received notice to bring in their bills for the + amount of wages due. Captain Turner kindly offered to make out my account, + and shortly afterwards handed me my bill against the United States + government for services on board, the amount of which overwhelmed me with + astonishment. + </p> + <p> + "There is surely a mistake in this bill, sir," said I; "the amount is far + more than I am entitled to. You forget I shipped for only fifteen dollars + a month, and including my advanced month's pay, I have already received a + considerable portion of my wages." + </p> + <p> + "I forget nothing of the kind, Hawser," replied the captain, with a + benevolent smile. "You may just as well receive fifty dollars as five and + twenty. The government will be none the poorer for it." + </p> + <p> + "But, sir, will it be RIGHT for me to carry in an account so greatly + exceeding in amount what is my due?" + </p> + <p> + "My lad," replied the captain, a little embarrassed, "You must not be so + scrupulous in these trifling matters, or you will never make your way + through the world at any rate you will never do for a sailor. The rest of + the men make no objections to putting a little money in their pockets, and + why should YOU? Even Mr. Adams, the mate, will receive double the amount + of money which rightfully belongs to him!" + </p> + <p> + "But, sir," I replied, greatly shocked at this intelligence, and my + features undoubtedly expressed my abhorrence of this strange system of + ethics, "do you expect me to go before a magistrate and take a solemn oath + that the account you have jut put into my hands is a just and true one? + You surely would not ADVISE me to commit such a crime!" + </p> + <p> + The captain's face glowed like a firebrand, and his eyes sparkled with + wrath, as he loudly exclaimed, "What difference does it make to you, you + ungrateful cur, whether the account is true or false, so long as you get + your money? Bring none of your squeamish objections here. Either take the + account as I have made it out, and swear to it, without flinching, or"—and + here he swore an oath too revolting to transcribe "not a cent of money + shall you receive." + </p> + <p> + He stepped ashore, and walked with rapid strides up the wharf. I went + forward, and seating myself on the windlass, burst into tears! + </p> + <p> + It struck me as hard and unjust that I should be deprived of my + well-earned wages, unless on condition of committing an unworthy act, at + which my soul revolted. My decision, however, was taken. Although the loss + of my money would have subjected me to inconvenience perhaps distress I + resolved to submit to any ills which poverty might inflict, rather than + comply with the wishes and advice of this unprincipled man, who should + have acted towards me as a faithful monitor and guide. + </p> + <p> + I remained in this disconsolate condition for about an hour, when Captain + Turner returned on board. As he stepped leisurely over the gangway, he + greeted me with a benignant smile, and beckoned me to the quarter deck. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Hawser," said he in his blandest manner, as if he sought to atone + for his coarse language and dishonorable conduct a short time before, "so + you refuse to do as others do take a false oath? You are too sanctimonious + by half, and you will find it out some day. You are an obstinate little + fool, but may do as you like. Here is another paper; look over it, and see + if it will suit you." + </p> + <p> + I opened the paper; it was a true statement of my claim against the + government for wages. In the course of the day, the ship's company + proceeded in a body to the office of the government agent, swore to our + several accounts, and received our money. + </p> + <p> + The amount which fell to my share was not large. I purchased some clothes, + paid a few trifling debts that I had contracted while subjected to the + "law's delay," which Shakespeare, a keen observer of men and manners, + classes among the most grievous of human ills, and had a few dollars left. + </p> + <p> + After my experience of a sailor's life, after the treatment I had + received, the miserable fare on which I had barely existed during a + portion of the time, and the disgusting specimen of nautical morality I + had met with in Captain Turner, it will not be considered surprising if my + views of a sailor's life had been a little changed during my last voyage. + I entertained some doubts whether "going to sea," instead of being all + poetry and romance, was not rather a PROSY affair, after all; and I more + than once asked myself if a young man, of correct deportment and + industrious habits, who could find some good and respectable business on + shore, would not be a consummate fool to "go to sea." I deliberated + anxiously on the subject, and finally determined to return to my home in + New Hampshire, and visit my friends before I undertook another voyage. + </p> + <p> + The schooner Lydia, of Barnstable, commanded by Captain Burgess, an + honest, noble-hearted son of Cape Cod, was the only vessel in Savannah at + that time bound for Boston. I explained to him my situation, told him I + was anxious to get home, and asked as a favor that he would allow me to + work my passage to Boston. + </p> + <p> + He replied that he had a full crew for his vessel, even more hands than + could be properly accommodated below, as the cabin and steerage were both + encumbered with bales of cotton. But if I was willing to sleep on deck, + and assist in working ship and doing other duty, he would cheerfully give + me a passage. I accepted his offer on these conditions, and thanked him + into the bargain. + </p> + <p> + We left Savannah on our way to Boston. My heart beat quicker at the idea + of returning home. The wind proved light and baffling on the passage, and + as we drew towards the north, the weather was foggy with drizzling rains. + My quarters on deck, under the lee of a bale of cotton, were any thing but + comfortable. I often awoke when the watch was called, shivering with cold, + and found it difficult, without an unusual quantity of exercise, to + recover a tolerable degree of warmth. + </p> + <p> + I uttered no complaints, but bore this continual exposure, night and day, + and other inconveniences, with a philosophical spirit, conceiving them to + be a part of the compact. If the passage had only been of moderate length, + I should, in all likelihood, have reached Boston in good health; but + nineteen days had passed away when we sailed through the Vineyard Sound, + and anchored in the harbor of Hyannis, on the third of July, 1810. + </p> + <p> + Some days before we reached Hyannis, I found myself gradually losing + strength. I was visited with occasional fits of shivering, succeeded by + fever heats. But on the morning of the glorious Fourth, I felt my whole + system renovated at the idea of celebrating "Independence Day" on shore. + The captain and mate of the Lydia both belonged to Barnstable, where their + families resided. They both left the schooner for their homes as soon as + the anchor reached the bottom, boldly predicting head winds or calms for + at least thirty-six hours, at the end of which time they calculated to + rejoin the schooner. + </p> + <p> + On the morning of the fourth, the crew, to a man, followed the example of + our trustworthy officers, and determined to have a jovial time on shore. + We left the good schooner Lydia soberly riding at anchor, to take care of + herself. There were several other vessels in the harbor, all of which were + deserted in the same manner. Not a living animal was to be found in the + whole fleet. After passing weeks at sea, the temptation to tread the firm + earth, and participate in a Fourth of July frolic, was too strong to be + resisted. + </p> + <p> + Hyannis was then quite a humble village with a profusion of salt works. + Farm houses were thinly scattered around, and comfort seemed inscribed on + every dwelling. There seemed to be an abundance of people moving about on + that day; where they came from was a problem I could not solve. Every one + seemed pleased and happy, and, with commendable patriotism, resolved to + enjoy Independence Day. The young men were neatly apparelled, and bent on + having a joyous time; and the girls Cape Cod girls, ever renowned for + beauty and worth gayly decked out with smiles, and dimples, and ribbons, + ready for a Fourth of July frolic, dazzled the eyes of the beholders, and + threw a magic charm over the scene. + </p> + <p> + And a frolic they had; fiddling, dancing, fun, and patriotism was the + order of the day. In the evening, however, the entertainments were varied + by the delivery of a sermon and other religious exercises in the + school-house by a young Baptist clergyman, who subsequently became well + known for his praiseworthy and successful efforts to reduce the rates on + postage in the United States. This good man accomplished the great work of + his life and died. A simple monument is erected to his memory at Mount + Auburn, with no more than these words of inscription: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "BARNABAS BATES, + FATHER OF CHEAP POSTAGE." +</pre> + <p> + Hardly a person visits that consecrated ground who has not reaped + enjoyment from the labors of that man's life. And as the simple epitaph + meets the eye, and is read in an audible tone, the heart-felt invocation, + "Blessings on his memory!" is his oft-repeated elegy. + </p> + <p> + It was about nine o'clock in the evening when the crew returned to the + schooner. After we gained the deck I was seized with an unpleasant + sensation. A sudden chill seemed to congeal the blood in my veins; my + teeth chattered, and my frame shook with alarming violence. After the + lapse of about thirty minutes the chills gave place to an attack of fever, + which, in an hour or two, also disappeared, leaving me in a weak and + wretched condition. This proved to be a case of intermittent fever, or + FEVER AND AGUE, a distressing malady, but little known in New England in + modern times, although by no means a stranger to the early settlers. It + was fastened upon me with a rough and tenacious grasp, by the damp, foggy, + chilly atmosphere in which I had constantly lived for the last fortnight. + </p> + <p> + Next morning, in good season, the captain and mate were on board. The wind + was fair, and we got under weigh doubled Cape Cod, and arrived alongside + the T Wharf in Boston, after a tedious and uncomfortable passage of + twenty-two days from Savannah. + </p> + <p> + I left my home a healthy-looking boy, with buoyant spirits, a bright eye, + and features beaming with hope. A year had passed, and I stood on the + wharf in Boston, a slender stripling, with a pale and sallow complexion, a + frame attenuated by disease, and a spirit oppressed by disappointment. The + same day I deposited my chest in a packet bound to Portsmouth, tied up a + few trifling articles in a handkerchief, shook hands with the worthy + Captain Burgess, his mate and kind-hearted crew, and with fifteen silver + dollars in my pocket, wended my way to the stage tavern in Ann Street, and + made arrangements for a speedy journey to my home in Rockingham County, + New Hampshire. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XI. EMBARKING FOR BRAZIL. + </h2> + <p> + It seemed to be generally conceded that I had got enough of the sea; that + after the discomforts I had experienced, and the unpleasant and revolting + scenes I had witnessed, I should manifest folly in trying another voyage. + My friends took it for granted that in my eyes a ship had lost all her + attractions, and that I would henceforth eschew salt water as zealously + and devoutly as a thrice-holy monk is wont to eschew the vanities of the + world. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, for a time I reluctantly acknowledged that I had seen enough of a + sailor's life; that on trial it did not realize my expectations; that if + not a decided humbug, it was amazingly like one. With my health the + buoyancy of my spirits departed. Hope and ambition no longer urged me with + irresistible power to go forth and visit foreign lands, and traverse + unknown seas like a knight errant of old in quest of adventures. While + shivering with ague, and thinking of my wretched fare on board the + schooner John, and my uncomfortable lodgings during the passage from + Savannah, I listened, with patience at least, to the suggestions of my + friends about a change of occupation. Arrangements were accordingly made + by which I was to bid adieu to the seas forever. + </p> + <p> + It cost me something to abandon a vocation to which I had looked for years + as the stepping-stone to success in life; and as my health and spirits + returned, I began to doubt whether I was acting wisely; but having + embarked in a new pursuit, I determined to go ahead, and to this + determination I unflinchingly adhered, for at least THREE MONTHS, when I + fell in with a distant relation, Captain Nathaniel Page, of Salem, who was + about proceeding on a voyage to the Brazils. After expressing surprise at + my course in abandoning the sea, he more than hinted that if I wished a + situation before the mast with him, it was at my service. + </p> + <p> + This was applying the linstock to the priming with a vengeance. My good + resolutions vanished like a wreath of vapor before a westerly gale. Those + longings which I had endeavored to stifle, returned with more than their + original force. In fancy's eye, I saw a marlinspike where Macbeth saw the + dagger, and snuffed the fragrance of a tar-bucket in every breeze. + </p> + <p> + At the expiration of three days after my interview with Captain Page, I + took the stage coach and proceeded to Salem. The brig Clarissa was then + preparing to take in cargo for Maranham and Para, ports on the north coast + of Brazil, which had just been thrown open to American commerce. The + Clarissa was a good-looking, substantial vessel, of about two hundred tons + burden, belonging to Jere. L. Page, Abel Peirso, and others, and had + recently returned from a successful voyage to Calcutta. + </p> + <p> + The sight of the brig, and the flurry about the wharves, where several + Indiamen were discharging cargoes or making ready for sea, confirmed me in + my resolution to try the ocean once more. Indeed I began to be heartily + ashamed of having seriously entertained the idea of quietly settling down + among "the land-lubbers on shore," and felt that the sooner I retrieved my + error the better. + </p> + <p> + Filled with this idea, I sought Captain Page, and without further + consideration, and without daring to consult my friends in New Hampshire, + lest they should overwhelm me with remonstrances, I engaged to go in the + Clarissa as one of the crew before the mast. + </p> + <p> + I returned home with all speed, gathered together my few sea-going + garments and nautical instruments, again bade adieu to my relations, who + gravely shook their heads in doubt of the wisdom of my conduct, and elated + by visions of fairy castles in the distance, hastened to join the brig, + which was destined to bear Caesar and his fortunes. + </p> + <p> + This may have been the wisest step I could have taken. It is not likely I + should have been long reconciled to any other occupation than that of a + mariner. When a boy's fixed inclinations in the choice of an occupation + are thwarted, he is seldom successful in life. His genius, if he has any, + will be cramped, stunted, by an attempt to bend it in the wrong direction, + and will seldom afterwards expand. But when a person, while attending to + the duties of his profession or occupation, whether literary, scientific, + or manual, can gratify his inclinations, and thus find pleasure in his + business, he will be certain of success. + </p> + <p> + It was at the close of January, 1811, that the brig Clarissa was cast + loose from Derby's Wharf in Salem, and with a gentle south-west breeze, + sailed down the harbor, passed Baker's Island, and entered on the broad + Atlantic. Our cargo was of a miscellaneous description, consisting of + flour and salt provisions, furniture, articles of American manufacture, + and large assortment of India cottons, which were at that time in general + use throughout the habitable parts of the globe. + </p> + <p> + The Clarissa was a good vessel, and well found in almost every respect; + but like most of the vessels in those days, had wretched accommodations + for the crew. The forecastle was small, with no means of ventilation or + admission of the light of day, excepting by the fore-scuttle. In this + contracted space an equilateral triangle, with sides of some twelve or + fifteen feet, which was expected to furnish comfortable accommodations for + six individuals, including a very dark-complexioned African, who filled + the respectable and responsible office of cook were stowed six large + chests and other baggage belonging to the sailors; also two + water-hogsheads, and several coils of rigging. + </p> + <p> + The deck leaked badly, in heavy weather, around the bowsprit-bitts, + flooding the forecastle at every plunge; and when it is considered that + each inmate of the forecastle, except myself, was an inveterate chewer of + Indian weed, it may be imagined that this forecastle was about as + uncomfortable a lodging place, in sinter's cold or summer's heat, as a + civilized being could well desire. It undoubtedly possessed advantages + over the "Black Hole of Calcutta," but an Esquimaux hut, an Indian wigwam, + or a Russian cabin, was a palace in comparison. And this was a type of the + forecastles of those days. + </p> + <p> + After getting clear of the land the wind died away; and soon after came + from the eastward, and was the commencement of a snow storm which lasted + twelve hours, when it backed into the north-west, and the foresail was set + with the view of scudding before the wind. It soon blew a heavy gale; the + thermometer fell nearly to zero; ice gathered in large quantities on our + bowsprit, bows, and rigging, and the brig labored and plunged fearfully in + the irregular cross sea when urged through the water by the blustering + gale. + </p> + <p> + To save the vessel from foundering, it became necessary to lay her to + under a close-reefed main-topsail. It was about half past eleven o'clock + at night, when all hands were called for that purpose. Unfortunately my + feet were not well protected from the inclemency of the weather, and + became thoroughly wet before I had been five minutes on deck. We had + difficulty in handling the foresail, in consequence of the violence of the + wind and the benumbing effect of the weather, and remained a long time on + the yard. When I reached the deck, my stockings were frozen to my feet, + and I suffered exceedingly from the cold. + </p> + <p> + It was now my "trick at the helm,": for notwithstanding we were lying to, + it was considered necessary for some one to remain near the tiller, watch + the compass, and be in readiness for any emergency. I stamped my feet + occasionally, with a view to keep them from freezing, and thought I had + succeeded; and when at four o'clock I went below and turned into my berth, + they felt comfortable enough, and I fell into a deep sleep, from which I + was awakened by burning pains in my feet and fingers. My sufferings were + intolerable, and I cried out lustily in my agony, and was answered from + another part of the forecastle, where one of my watchmates, a youth but + little older than myself, was extended, also suffering from frozen feet + and hands. + </p> + <p> + Our united complaints, which by no means resembled a concert of sweet + sounds, aroused from his slumbers our remaining watchmate, Newhall, an + experienced tar, who cared little for weather of any description, provided + he was not stinted in his regular proportion of sleep. In a surly mood he + inquired what was the trouble. On being told, he remarked with a vein of + philosophy and a force of logic which precluded all argument, that if our + feet were frozen, crying and groaning would do US no good, while it would + annoy him and prevent his sleeping; therefore we had better "grin and bear + it" like men until eight bells, when we might stand a chance to get some + assistance. He moreover told us that he would not put up with such a + disturbance in the forecastle; it was against al rules; and if we did not + clap a stopper on our cries and groans, he would turn out and give us + something worth crying for he would pummel us both without mercy! + </p> + <p> + Thus cautioned by our compassionate shipmate, we endeavored to restrain + ourselves from giving utterance to our feelings until the expiration of + the watch. + </p> + <p> + When the watch was called our wailings were loud and clamorous. Our + sufferings awakened the sympathy of the officers; our condition was + inquired into, and assistance furnished. Both my feet were badly + frost-bitten, and inflamed and swollen. Collins, my watchmate, had not + escaped unscathed from the attack of this furious northwester, but being + provided with a pair of stout boots, his injuries were much less than + mine. In a few days he was about the deck as active as ever. + </p> + <p> + The result of my conflict with the elements on "the winter's coast" was of + a serious and painful character; and for a time there was reason to fear + that amputation of a portion of one, if not both feet might be necessary. + Captain Page treated me with kindness, and was unremitting in his surgical + attentions; and by dint of great care, a free application of emollients, + and copious quantities of "British oil," since known at different times as + "Seneca oil," or "Petroleum," a partial cure was gradually effected; but + several weeks passed away ere I was able to go aloft, and a free + circulation of the blood has never been restored. + </p> + <p> + A few days after this furious gale, we found ourselves in warm weather, + having entered the edge of the Gulf Stream. We proceeded in a south-east + direction, crossing the trade winds on our way to the equinoctial line. + Were it not for the monotony, which always fatigues, there would be few + undertakings more interesting than a sail through the latitudes of "the + trades," where we meet with a balmy atmosphere, gentle breezes, and smooth + seas. In the night the heavens are often unclouded, the constellations + seem more interesting, the stars shine with a milder radiance, and the + moon gives a purer light, than in a more northern region. Often in my + passage through the tropics, during the night-watches, seated on a spare + topmast, or the windlass, or the heel of the bowsprit, I have, for hours + at a time, indulged my taste for reading and study by the light of the + moon. + </p> + <p> + Fish of many kinds are met with in those seas; and the attempt to capture + them furnishes a pleasant excitement; and if the attempt is successful, an + agreeable variety is added to the ordinary fare on shipboard. The dolphin + is the fish most frequently seen, and is the most easily caught of these + finny visitors. He is one of the most beautiful of the inhabitants of the + deep, and presents a singularly striking and captivating appearance, as, + clad in gorgeous array, he moves gracefully through the water. He usually + swims near the surface, and when in pursuit of a flying-fish shoots along + with inconceivable velocity. + </p> + <p> + The dolphin, when properly cooked, although rather dry, is nevertheless + excellent eating; and as good fish is a welcome commodity at sea, the + capture of a dolphin is not only an exciting but an important event. When + the word is given forth that "there's a dolphin alongside," the whole + ship's company are on the alert. Business, unless of the last importance, + is suspended, and the implements required for the death or captivity of + the unsuspecting stranger are eagerly sought for. The men look resolved, + ready to render any assistance, and watch the proceedings with an eager + eye; and the wonted grin on the features of the delighted cook, in + anticipation of an opportunity to display his culinary skill, assumes a + broader character. + </p> + <p> + The captain or the mate takes his station in some convenient part of the + vessel, on the bow or on the quarter, or beneath the bowsprit on the + martingale stay. By throwing overboard a bright spoon, or a tin vessel, to + which a line is attached, and towing it on the top of the water, the + dolphin, attracted by its glittering appearance, and instigated by + curiosity, moves quickly towards the deceiving object, unconscious that + his artful enemy, man, armed with a deadly weapon, a sort of five-pronged + harpoon, called a GRANES, is standing over him, with uplifted arm, ready + to give the fatal blow. + </p> + <p> + The fish is transferred from his native element to the deck; the granes is + disengaged from the quivering muscles, and again passed to the officer, + who, it may be, soon adds another to the killed. It is sometimes the case + that half a dozen dolphin are captured in this way in a few minutes. A + hook and line over the stern, with a flying-fish for bait, will often + prove a successful means of capturing the beautiful inhabitants of the + deep. + </p> + <p> + The dolphin is a fine-looking fish. Its shape is symmetry itself, and has + furnished a valuable hint for the model of fast-sailing vessels. It is + usually from two to three feet in length, and is sometimes met with of + nearly twice that size, and weighing seventy-five or a hundred pounds. One + of the properties for which the dolphin is celebrated is that of changing + its color when dying. By many this is considered fabulous; but it is + strictly true. After the fish is captured, and while struggling in the + scuppers, the changes constantly taking place in its color are truly + remarkable. The hues which predominate are blue, green, and yellow, with + their various combinations: but when the fish is dead, the beauty of its + external appearance, caused by the brilliancy of its hues, no longer + exists. Falconer, the sailor poet, in his interesting poem of "The + Shipwreck," thus describes this singular phenomenon: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "But while his heart the fatal javelin thrills, + And flitting life escapes in sanguine rills, + What radiant changes strike the astonished sight! + What glowing hues of mingled shade and light! + Not equal beauties gild the lucid west, + With parting beams all o'er profusely drest; + Not lovelier colors paint the vernal dawn, + When orient dews impearl the enamelled lawn, + Than from his sides in bright suffusion flow, + That now with gold empyreal seem to glow; + Now in pellucid sapphires meet the view, + And emulate the soft, celestial hue; + Now beam a flaming crimson in the eye, + And now assume the purple's deeper dye." +</pre> + <p> + The second mate of the Clarissa, Mr. Fairfield, was a veteran sailor, and + a very active and industrious man. He was always busy when not asleep; + and, what was of more importance, and frequently an annoyance to the + ship's company, he dearly loved to see other people busy. He regarded + idleness as the parent of evil, and always acted on the uncharitable + principle that if steady employment is not provided for a ship's company + they will be constantly contriving mischief. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately for the crew of the Clarissa, Mr. Fairfield had great + influence with the captain, having sailed with him the previous voyage, + and proved himself a good and faithful officer. He, therefore, had no + difficulty in carrying into operation his favorite scheme of KEEPING ALL + HANDS AT WORK. A large quantity of "old junk" was put on board in Salem, + and on the passage to Brazil, after we reached the pleasant latitudes, all + hands were employed from eight o'clock in the morning until six o'clock in + the evening in knotting yarns, twisting spunyarn, weaving mats, braiding + sinnett, making reef-points and gaskets, and manufacturing small rope to + be used for "royal rigging," for among the ingenious expedients devised by + the second mate for keeping the crew employed was the absurd and + unprofitable one of changing the snug pole royal masts into "sliding + gunters," with royal yards athwart, man-of-war fashion. + </p> + <p> + Sunday on board the Clarissa was welcomed as a day of respite from hard + labor. The crew on that day had "watch and watch," which gave them an + opportunity to attend to many little duties connected with their + individual comforts, that had been neglected during the previous week. + This is exemplified in a conversation I had with Newhall, one of my + watchmates, one pleasant Sunday morning, after breakfast. + </p> + <p> + "Heigh-ho," sighed Newhall, with a sepulchral yawn; "Sunday has come at + last, and I am glad. It is called a day of rest, but is no day of rest for + me. I have a thousand things to do this forenoon; one hour has passed away + already, and I don't know which to do first." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed! What have you to do to-day more than usual," I inquired. + </p> + <p> + "Not much out of the usual way, perhaps, Hawser. But I must shave and + change my clothes. Although we can't go to meeting, it's well enough for a + fellow to look clean and decent, at least once a week. I must also wash a + couple of shirts, make a cap out of a piece of canvas trousers, stop a + leak in my pea-jacket, read a chapter in the Bible, which I promised my + grandmother in Lynnfield I would do every Sunday, and bottle off an hour's + sleep." + </p> + <p> + "Well, then," said I, "if you have so much to do, no time is to be lost. + You had better go to work at once." + </p> + <p> + "So I will," said he; "and as an hour's sleep is the most important of + all, I'll make sure of that to begin with, for fear of accidents. So, here + goes." + </p> + <p> + And into his berth he tumbled "all standing," and was neither seen nor + heard until the watch was called at twelve o'clock. + </p> + <p> + But little time was given for the performance of religious duties on the + Sabbath; indeed, in the times of which I write, such duties among sailors + were little thought of. Religious subjects were not often discussed in a + ship's forecastle, and even the distinction between various religious + sects and creeds was unheeded, perhaps unknown. And yet the germ of piety + was implanted in the sailor's heart. His religion was simple, but sincere. + Without making professions, he believed in the being of a wise and + merciful Creator; he believed in a system of future rewards and + punishments; he read his Bible, a book which was always found in a + sailor's chest, pinned his faith upon the Gospels, and treasured up the + precepts of our Saviour; he believed that though his sins were many, his + manifold temptations would also be remembered. He manifested but little + fear of death, relying firmly on the MERCY of the Almighty. + </p> + <p> + My description of the uninterrupted labors of the crew on board the + Clarissa may induce the inquiry how the ship's company could do with so + little sleep, and even if a sailor could catch a cat-nap occasionally in + his watch, what must become of the officers, who are supposed to be wide + awake and vigilant during the hours they remain on deck? + </p> + <p> + I can only say, that on board the Clarissa there was an exception to this + very excellent rule. Captain Page, like other shipmasters of the past, + perhaps also of the present day, although bearing the reputation of a good + shipmaster, seldom troubled himself about ship's duty in the night time. + He trusted to his officers, who were worthy men and experienced sailors. + Between eight and nine o'clock he turned in, and was seldom seen again + until seven bells, or half past seven o'clock in the morning. After he + left the deck, the officer of the watch, wrapped in his pea-jacket, + measured his length on the weather hencoop, and soon gave unimpeachable + evidence of enjoying a comfortable nap. The remainder of the watch, + emulating the noble example of the officer, selected the softest planks on + the deck, threw themselves, nothing loath, into a horizontal position, and + in a few minutes were transported into the land of forgetfulness. + </p> + <p> + The helmsman only, of all the ship's company, was awake, to watch the wind + and look out for squalls; and he, perhaps, was nodding at his post, while + the brig was moving through the water, her head pointing by turns in every + direction but the right one. If the wind veered or hauled, the yard + remained without any corresponding change in their position. If more sail + could be set to advantage, it was seldom done until the sun's purple rays + illumined the eastern horizon, when every man in the watch was aroused, + and a great stir was made on the deck. When the captain came up the + companion-way, every sail was properly set which would draw to advantage, + and the yards were braced according to the direction of the wind. + </p> + <p> + It was, undoubtedly, owing to this negligence on the part of the officers + during the night watches, and not to any ill qualities on the part of the + brig, that our passage to Maranham occupied over sixty days. And, + undoubtedly, to this negligence may be ascribed the extraordinary length + of passages to and from foreign ports of many good-sailing ships in these + days. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XII. MARANHAM AND PARA. + </h2> + <p> + As we drew near the equinoctial line, I occasionally heard some talk among + the officers on the subject of a visit from Old Neptune; and as there were + three of the crew who had never crossed the line, it was thought probable + that the venerable sea god would visit the brig, and shake hands with the + strangers, welcoming them to his dominions. + </p> + <p> + A few days afterwards, when the latitude was determined by a meridian + altitude of the sun, Captain Page ordered Collins to go aloft and take a + good look around the horizon, as it was not unlikely something was in + sight. Collins grinned, and went aloft. He soon hailed the deck from the + fore-topsail yard, and said he saw a boat broad off on the weather bow, + with her sails spread "wing and wing," and steering directly for the brig. + </p> + <p> + "That's Old Neptune himself!" shouted Captain Page, clapping his hands. + "He will soon be alongside. Mr. Abbot," continued he, speaking to the + chief mate, "let the men get their dinners at once. We must be prepared to + receive the old gentleman!" + </p> + <p> + After dinner, Mr. Fairfield ordered those of the crew including myself who + had never crossed the line, into the forecastle, to remove one of the + water casks. We had no sooner descended the ladder than the fore-scuttle + was closed and fastened, and we were caught like rats in a trap. + Preparations of a noisy character were now made on deck for the reception + of Old Neptune. + </p> + <p> + An hour a long and tedious one it appeared to those confined below elapsed + before the old gentleman got within hail. At length we heard a great + trampling on the forecastle, and anon a gruff voice, which seemed to come + from the end of the flying jib-boom, yelled out, "Brig, ahoy!" + </p> + <p> + "Hallo!" replied the captain. + </p> + <p> + "Have you any strangers on board?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay!" + </p> + <p> + "Heave me a rope! I'll come alongside and shave them directly!" + </p> + <p> + A cordial greeting was soon interchanged between captain Page and Old + Neptune on deck, to which we prisoners listened with much interest. The + slide of the scuttle was removed, and orders given for one of the + "strangers" to come on deck and be shaved. Anxious to develop the mystery + and be qualified to bear a part in the frolic, I pressed forward; but as + soon as my head appeared above the rim of the scuttle I was seized, + blindfolded, and led to the main deck, where I was urged, by a press of + politeness I could not withstand, to be seated on a plank. The process of + shaving commenced, which, owing to the peculiar roughness of the razor and + the repulsive qualities of the lather, was more painful and disagreeable + than pleasant, but to which I submitted without a murmur. When the + scarifying process was finished, I was told to hold up my head, raise my + voice to its highest pitch, and say, "Yarns!" I obeyed the mandate, as in + duty bound; and to give full and distinct utterance to the word, opened my + mouth as if about to swallow a whale, when some remorseless knave, amid + shouts of laughter from the surrounding group, popped into my open mouth + the huge tar brush, well charged with the unsavory ingredients for + shaving. + </p> + <p> + I now thought my trials were over. Not so. I was interrogated through a + speaking trumpet on several miscellaneous subjects; but suspecting some + trick, my answers were brief and given through closed teeth. At length, + Captain Page exclaimed, "Old Neptune, this will never do. Give him a + speaking trumpet also, and let him answer according to rule, and in + shipshape fashion, so that we can all hear and understand him." + </p> + <p> + I put the trumpet to my mouth, and to the next question attempted to reply + in stunning tones, "None of your business!" for I was getting impatient, + and felt somewhat angry. The sentence was but half uttered when a whole + bucket of salt water was hurled into the broad end of the speaking + trumpet, which conducted it into my mouth and down my throat, nearly + producing strangulation; at the same time, the seat was pulled from + beneath me, and I was plunged over head and ears in the briny element. + </p> + <p> + As soon as I recovered my breath, the bandage was removed from my eyes, + and I found myself floating in the long boat, which had been nearly filled + with water for the occasion, and surrounded by as jovial a set of fellows + as ever played off a practical joke. Old Neptune proved to be Jim + Sinclair, of Marblehead, but so disguised that his own mother could not + have known him. His ill-favored and weather-beaten visage was covered with + streaks of paint, like the face of a wild Indian on the war-path. He had a + thick beard made of oakum; and a wig of rope-yarns, the curls hanging + gracefully on his shoulders, was surmounted with a paper cap, fashioned + and painted so as to bear a greater resemblance to the papal tiara than to + the diadem of the ocean monarch. In one hand he held a huge speaking + trumpet, and in the other he brandished, instead of a trident, the ship's + granes with FIVE prongs! + </p> + <p> + The other strangers to Old Neptune were subsequently compelled to go + through the same ceremonies, in which I assisted with a hearty good will; + and those who did not patiently submit to the indignities, received the + roughest treatment. The shades of evening fell before the frolic was over, + and the wonted order and discipline restored. + </p> + <p> + It was formerly the invariable practice with all American and British + vessels to observe ceremonies, when crossing the line, of a character + similar to those I have described, varying, of course, according to the + taste of the commander of the vessel and other circumstances. In a large + ship, with a numerous crew, when it was deemed expedient to be + particularly classical, Neptune appeared in full costume, accompanied by + the fair Amphitrite, decorated with a profusion of sea-weed or gulf-weed, + shells, coral, and other emblems of salt water sovereignty, and followed + by a group of Tritons and Nereids fantastically arrayed. Sometimes, and + especially when remonstrances were made to the mandates of the sea god, + and his authority was questioned in a style bordering on rebellion, the + proceedings were of a character which bore unjustifiably severe on his + recusant subjects. Instances have been known where keel-hauling has been + resorted to as an exemplary punishment for a refractory individual. + </p> + <p> + This cruel and inhuman mode of punishment, in former ages, was not + uncommon in ships of war of all nations. It was performed by fastening a + rope around the body of an individual, beneath the armpits, as he stood on + the weather gunwale. One end of the rope was passed beneath the keel and + brought up to the deck on the opposite side, and placed in the hands of + half a dozen stout seamen. The man was then pushed overboard, and the men + stationed to leeward commenced hauling, while those to windward gently + "eased away" the other end of the rope. The victim was thus, by main + force, dragged beneath the keel, and hauled up to the deck on the other + side. The operation, when adroitly performed, occupied but a short time in + the estimation of the bystanders, although it must have seemed ages to the + poor fellow doomed to undergo the punishment. Sometimes a leg or an arm + would come in contact with the keel, and protract the operation; + therefore, a severe bruise, a broken limb, a dislocated joint, or even + death itself, was not an unfrequent attendant on this kind of punishment! + </p> + <p> + Many years ago, on board an English East Indiaman, an officer, who had + figured conspicuously in perpetrating severe jokes on those who were, for + the first time, introduced to Old Neptune, was shot through the head by an + enraged passenger, who could not, or would not appreciate the humor of the + performances! + </p> + <p> + The ceremony of "shaving when crossing the line" is not so generally + observed as formerly in our American ships; and, as it is sometimes + carried to unjustifiable lengths, and can hardly be advocated on any other + ground than ancient custom, it is in a fair way to become obsolete. + </p> + <p> + In those days there were no correct charts of the northern coast of + Brazil, and Captain Page, relying on such charts as he could obtain, was + one night in imminent danger of losing the brig, which was saved only by + the sensitiveness of the olfactory organs of the second mate! + </p> + <p> + It was about six bells in the middle watch, or three o'clock in the + morning; the heavens were clear and unclouded; the stars shone with great + brilliancy; there was a pleasant breeze from the south-east, and the ship + was gliding quietly along, with the wind abaft the beam, at the rate of + five or six knots. Suddenly Mr. Fairfield, whose nose was not remarkable + for size, but might with propriety be classed among the SNUBS, ceased to + play upon it its accustomed tune in the night watches, sprang from the + hen-coop, on which he had been reclining, and began to snuff the air in an + eager and agitated manner! He snuffed again; he stretched his head over + the weather quarter and continued to snuff! I was at the helm, and was not + a little startled at his strange and unaccountable conduct. I had almost + convinced myself that he was laboring under a sudden attack of insanity, + when, turning round, he abruptly asked me IF I COULD NOT SMELL THE LAND? + </p> + <p> + I snuffed, but could smell nothing unusual, and frankly told him so; upon + which he went forward and asked Newhall and Collins if either of them + could smell the land. Newhall said "no;" but Collins, after pointing his + nose to windward, declared he "could smell it plainly, and that the smell + resembled beefsteak and onions!" + </p> + <p> + To this, after a long snuff, the mate assented adding that beef was + abundant in Brazil, and the people were notoriously fond of garlic! + Collins afterwards acknowledged that he could smell nothing, but was bound + to have as good a nose as the second mate! + </p> + <p> + Upon the strength of this additional testimony Mr. Fairfield called the + captain, who snuffed vigorously, but without effect. He could smell + neither land, nor "beefsteak and onions." He was also incredulous in + regard to our proximity to the shore, but very properly concluded, as it + was so near daylight, to heave the brig to, with her head off shore, until + we could test the correctness of the second mate's nose! + </p> + <p> + After waiting impatiently a couple of hours we could get glimpses along + the southern horizon, and, to the surprise of Captain Page, and the + triumph of the second mate, the land was visible in the shape of a long, + low, hummocky beach, and not more than three leagues distant. When Mr. + Fairfield first scented it we were probably not more than four or five + miles from the shore, towards which we were steering on a diagonal course. + </p> + <p> + The land we fell in with was some three or four degrees to windward of + Maranham. On the following day we entered the mouth of the river, and + anchored opposite the city. + </p> + <p> + Before we had been a week in port a large English ship, bound to Maranham, + went ashore in the night on the very beach which would have wrecked the + Clarissa, had it not been for the extraordinary acuteness o Mr. + Fairfield's nose, and became a total wreck. The officers and crew remained + near the spot for several days to save what property they could, and gave + a lamentable account of their sufferings. They were sheltered from the + heat of the sun by day, and the dews and rains by night, by tents rudely + constructed from the ship's sails. But these tents could not protect the + men from the sand-flies and mosquitoes, and their annoyance from those + insects must have been intolerable. The poor fellows shed tears when they + told the tale of their trials, and pointed to the ulcers on their limbs as + evidence of the ferocity of the mosquitoes! + </p> + <p> + It appeared, also, that their provisions fell short, and they would have + suffered from hunger were it not that the coast, which was but sparsely + inhabited, abounded in wild turkeys, as they said, of which they shot + several, which furnished them with "delicious food." They must have been + excessively hungry, or blessed with powerful imaginations, for, on + cross-examination, these "wild turkeys" proved to be TURKEY BUZZARDS, or + carrion vultures, most filthy creatures, which, in many places where the + decay of animal matter is common, act faithfully the part of scavengers, + and their flesh is strongly tinctured with the quality of their food. + </p> + <p> + St. Louis de Maranham is a large and wealthy city, situated near the mouth + of the Maranham River, about two degrees and a half south of the equator. + The city is embellished with many fine buildings, among which is the + palace of the governor of the province, and many richly endowed churches + or cathedrals. These numerous churches were each furnished with bells by + the dozen, which were continually ringing, tolling, or playing tunes from + morning until night, as if vieing with each other, in a paroxysm of + desperation, which should make the most deafening clamor. I have visited + many Catholic cities, but never met with a people so extravagantly fond of + the music of bells as the inhabitants of Maranham. + </p> + <p> + This perpetual ringing and pealing of bells, of all sizes and tones, at + first astonishes and rather amuses a stranger, who regards it as a part of + the rejoicings at some great festival. But, when day after day passes, and + there is no cessation of these clanging sounds, he becomes annoyed; at + every fresh peal he cannot refrain from exclaiming "Silence that dreadful + bell!" and wishes from his heart they were all transformed to dumb bells! + Yet, after a time, when the ear becomes familiar with the sounds, he + regards the discordant music of the bells with indifference. When the + Clarissa left the port of Maranham, after having been exposed for months + to such an unceasing clang, something seemed wanting; the crew found + themselves involuntarily listening for the ringing of the bells, and weeks + elapsed before they became accustomed and reconciled to the absence of the + stunning tintinabulary clatter! + </p> + <p> + The city of Maranham was inhabited almost entirely by Portuguese, or the + descendants of Portuguese. We found no persons there of foreign + extraction, excepting a few British commission merchants. There was not a + French, a German, or an American commercial house in the place. The + Portuguese are a people by no means calculated to gain the kind + consideration and respect of foreigners. They may possess much intrinsic + worth, but it is so covered with, or concealed beneath a cloak of + arrogance and self-esteem, among the higher classes, and of ignorance, + superstition, incivility, and knavery among the lower, that it is + difficult to appreciate it. Of their courtesy to strangers, a little + incident, which occurred to Captain Page while in Maranham, will furnish + an illustration. + </p> + <p> + Passing, one day, by a large cathedral, he found many persons entering the + edifice or standing near the doorway, an indication that some holy rites + were about to be celebrated. Wishing to view the ceremony, he joined the + throng and entered the church, which was already crowded by persons of all + ranks. Pressing forward he found a vacant spot on the floor of the + cathedral, in full view of the altar. Here he took his stand, and gazed + with interest on the proceedings. + </p> + <p> + He soon perceived that he was the observed of all observers; that he was + stared at as an object of interest and no little amusement by persons in + his immediate vicinity, who, notwithstanding their saturnine temperaments, + could not suppress their smiles, and winked and nodded to each other, at + the same time pointing slyly towards him, as if there was some capital + joke on hand in which he bore a conspicuous part. His indignation may be + imagined when he discovered that he had been standing directly beneath a + huge chandelier, which was well supplied with lighted wax candles, and the + drops of melted wax were continually falling, from a considerable height, + upon his new dress coat, and the drops congealing, his coat looked as if + covered with spangles! Not one of the spectators of this scene was + courteous enough to give him a hint of his misfortune, but all seemed to + relish, with infinite gusto, the mishap of the stranger. + </p> + <p> + Captain Page found in Maranham a dull market for his East India goods. His + provisions and his flour, however, bought a good price, but the greatest + per centum of profit was made on cigars. One of the owners of the Clarissa + stepped into an auction store in State Street one day, when a lot of fifty + thousand cigars, imported in an English vessel from St. Jago de Cuba, were + put up for sale. The duty on foreign cigars, at that time, was three + dollars and a half a thousand. These cigars had been regularly entered at + the custom house, and were entitled to debenture, that is, to a return of + the duties, on sufficient proof being furnished that they had been + exported and landed in a foreign port. As there were few bidders, and the + cigars were of inferior quality, the owner of the Clarissa bought the lot + at the rate of three dollars per thousand, and put them on board the brig. + They were sold in Maranham as "Cuban cigars" for fifteen dollars a + thousand, and on the return of the brig the custom house handed over the + debenture three dollars and a half a thousand! This was what may be called + a neat speculation, certainly a SAFE one, as the return duty alone would + have covered the cost and expenses! + </p> + <p> + In the river, opposite the city, the current was rapid, especially during + the ebb tide, and sharks were numerous. We caught three or four heavy and + voracious ones with a shark-hook while lying at anchor. Only a few days + before we arrived a negro child was carried off by one of these monsters, + while bathing near the steps of the public landing-place, and devoured. + </p> + <p> + A few days before we left port I sculled ashore in the yawl, bearing a + message from the mate to the captain. It was nearly low water, the flood + tide having just commenced, and I hauled the boat on the flats, + calculating to be absent but a few minutes. Having been delayed by + business, when I approached the spot where I left the boat I found, to my + great mortification, that the boat had floated with the rise of the tide, + and was borne by a fresh breeze some twenty or thirty yards from the + shore. My chagrin may be imagined when I beheld the boat drifting merrily + up the river, at the rate of three or four knots an hour! + </p> + <p> + I stood on the shore and gazed wistfully on the departing yawl. There was + no boat in the vicinity, and only one mode of arresting the progress of + the fugitive. I almost wept through vexation. I hesitated one moment on + account of the sharks, then plunged into the river, and with rapid and + strong strokes swam towards the boat. I was soon alongside, seized the + gunwale, and, expecting every moment that a shark would seize me by the + leg, by a convulsive movement threw myself into the boat. + </p> + <p> + As I sculled back towards the place from which the boat had drifted, + Captain Page came down to the water side. He had witnessed the scene from + a balcony, and administered a severe rebuke for my foolhardiness in + swimming off into the river, particularly during the young flood, which + brought the voracious monsters in from the sea. + </p> + <p> + On our passage to Maranham, and during a portion of our stay in that port, + the utmost harmony prevailed on board. The men, although kept constantly + at work, were nevertheless satisfied with their treatment. The officers + and the crew were on pleasant terms with each other; and grumbling without + cause, which is often indulged in on shipboard, was seldom known in the + forecastle of the Clarissa. But it happened, unfortunately for our peace + and happiness, that Captain Page added two men to his crew in Maranham. + One of them was an Englishman, one of the poor fellows, who, when + shipwrecked on the coast, were nearly eaten up by the mosquitoes, and who + in turn banqueted on turkey buzzards, as the greatest of luxuries! He was + a stout, ablebodied sailor, but ignorant, obstinate, insolent, and + quarrelsome one of those men who, always dissatisfied and uncomfortable, + seem to take pains to make others unhappy also. + </p> + <p> + The other was a native of New England. He had met with various strange + adventures and been impressed on board an English man-of-war, where he had + served a couple of years, and, according to his own statement, been twice + flogged at the gangway. He was a shrewd fellow, impatient under the + restraints of discipline; always complaining of "the usage" in the + Clarissa, and being something of a sea lawyer, and liberally endowed with + the gift of speech, exercised a controlling influence over the crew, and + in conjunction with the Englishman, kept the ship's company in that + unpleasant state of tumult and rebellion, known as "hot water," until the + end of the voyage. + </p> + <p> + One or two men, of a character similar to those I have described, are to + be found in almost every vessel, and are always the cause of more or less + trouble; of discontent and insolence on the part of the crew, and of + corresponding harsh treatment on the part of the officers; and the ship + which is destined to be the home, for months, of men who, under other + circumstances, would be brave, manly, and obedient, and which SHOULD be + the abode of kindness, comfort, and harmony, becomes a Pandemonium, where + cruelty and oppression are practised a gladiatorial arena, where quarrels, + revolts, and perhaps murders, are enacted. When such men, determined + promoters of strife, are found among a ship's company, they should be got + rid of at any cost, with the earliest opportunity. + </p> + <p> + When our cargo was disposed of at Maranham we proceeded down the coast to + the city of Para, on one of the mouths of the Amazon. Here we received a + cargo of cacao for the United States. There was, at that time, a vast + quantity of wild, uncultivated forest land in the interior of the + province, which may account for the many curious specimens of wild living + animals which we met with at that place. Indeed the city seemed one vast + menagerie, well stocked with birds, beasts, and creeping things. + </p> + <p> + Of the birds, the parrot tribe held the most conspicuous place. They were + of all colors and sizes, from the large, awkward-looking mackaw, with his + hoarse, discordant note, to the little, delicate-looking paroquet, dumb as + a barnacle, and not bigger than a wren. The monkeys, of all sizes, forms, + and colors, continually chattering and grimacing, as fully represented the + four-footed animals as the parrots did the bipeds. We found there the + mongoose, but little larger than a squirrel; an animal almost as + intelligent as the monkey, but far more interesting and attractive. The + hideous-looking sloth, with his coarse hair, resembling Carolina moss, his + repulsive physiognomy, his strong, crooked claws, his long and sharp + teeth, darkly dyed with the coloring matter of the trees and shrubs which + constituted his diet, was thrust in our faces in every street; and the + variegated venomous serpent, with his prehensile fangs, and the huge boa + constrictor, writhing in captivity, were encountered as desirable articles + of merchandise at every corner. + </p> + <p> + But the MOSQUITOES at the mouth of the Amazon were perhaps the most + remarkable, as well as the most bloodthirsty animals which abounded in + that region. They were remarkable not only for size, but for voracity and + numbers. This insect is a pest in every climate. I have found them + troublesome on the bar of the Mississippi in the heat of summer; and at + the same season exceedingly annoying while navigating the Dwina on the way + to Archangel. In the low lands of Java they are seen, heard, and felt to a + degree destructive to comfort; and in certain localities in the West + Indies are the direct cause of intense nervous excitement, loud and bitter + denunciations, and fierce anathemas. But the mosquitoes that inhabit the + country bordering on the mouths of the Amazon must bear away the palm from + every other portion of the globe. + </p> + <p> + Every part of our brig was seized upon by these marauding insects; no nook + or corner was too secluded for their presence, and no covering seemed + impervious to their bills. Their numbers were at all times incredible; but + at the commencement of twilight they seemed to increase, and actually + formed clouds above the deck, or to speak more correctly, one continuous + living cloud hovered above the deck, and excluded to a certain extent the + rays of light. + </p> + <p> + There being no mosquito bars attached to the berths in the forecastle, the + foretop was the only place in which I could procure a few hours repose. + There I took up my lodgings, and my rest was seldom disturbed excepting + occasionally by the visits of a few of the most venturous and aspiring of + the mosquito tribe, or a copious shower of rain. + </p> + <p> + An incident, IT WAS SAID, occurred on board a ship in the harbor, which, + if correctly stated, furnishes a striking proof of the countless myriads + of mosquitoes which abound in Para. One of the sailors, who occupied a + portion of the foretop as a sleeping room, unfortunately rolled over the + rim of the top one night while locked in the embraces of Somnus. He fell + to the deck, where he would inevitably have broken his neck were it not + for the dense body of mosquitoes, closely packed, which hovered over the + deck, awaiting their turn for a delicious banquet. This elastic body of + living insects broke Jack's fall, and let him down gently to the deck + without doing him harm. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately it was not necessary to tarry a long time in Para. We took on + board a cargo of cacao in bulk, and sailed on our return to Salem. As we + approached the coast of the United States we experienced much cloudy + weather, and for several days no opportunity offered for observing any + unusual phenomena in the heavens. But one pleasant evening, as we were + entering the South Channel, being on soundings south-east of Nantucket, + one of the crew, who was leaning over the lee gunwale, was struck with the + strange appearance of a star, which shone with unusual brilliancy, and + left a long, broad, and crooked wake behind. + </p> + <p> + His exclamation of surprise caused every eye to be directed to the spot, + about fifty-five degrees above the eastern horizon, pointed out by our + observing shipmate and there in full view, to the admiration of some and + the terror of others, the comet of 1811 stood confessed! + </p> + <p> + The men indulged in wild speculations respecting the character of this + mysterious visitor, but all concurred in the belief that it was the + messenger of a superior power, announcing the coming of some fearful + national evil, such as a terrible earthquake, a devastating pestilence, or + a fierce and bloody war. Our country was engaged in a war with a powerful + nation within the following year; but to those who watched the signs of + the times, and remembered the capture of the Chesapeake, and were aware of + the impressment of our seamen, the confiscation of property belonging to + our citizens captured on the high seas without even a decent pretence, and + the many indignities heaped on our government and people by Great Britain, + it needed no gifted seer or celestial visitant to foretell that an + obstinate war with that haughty power was inevitable. + </p> + <p> + A few days after the discovery of the comet furnished such a liberal scope + for conjecture and comment in the forecastle and the cabin, about the + middle of October, 1811, we arrived in Salem, having been absent between + eight and nine months. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XIII. SHIP PACKET OF BOSTON + </h2> + <p> + Having been two voyages to the West Indies and one to the Brazils, I began + to regard myself as a sailor of no little experience. When rigged out in + my blue jacket and trousers, with a neatly covered straw hat, a black silk + kerchief tied jauntily around my neck, I felt confidence in my own powers + and resources, and was ready, and, as I thought, able to grapple with any + thing in the shape of good or ill fortune that might come along. I was + aware that success in life depended on my own energies, and I looked + forward to a brilliant career in the arduous calling which I had embraced. + Like Ancient Pistol, I could say, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "The world's mine oyster, + Which I with sword will open!" +</pre> + <p> + With this difference, that I proposed to substitute, for the present at + least, a marlinspike for the sword. + </p> + <p> + Captain Page invited me to remain by the Clarissa and accompany him on a + voyage to Gibraltar, but I felt desirous of trying my fortune and gain + knowledge of my calling in a good ship bound to the East Indies, or on a + fur-trading voyage to the "north-west coast" of America. + </p> + <p> + At that time the trade with the Indians for furs on the "north-west coast" + was carried on extensively from Boston. The ships took out tobacco, + molasses, blankets, hardware, and trinkets in large quantities. Proceeding + around Cape Horn, they entered the Pacific Ocean, and on reaching the + north-west coast, anchored in some of the bays and harbors north of + Columbia River. They were visited by canoes from the shore, and traffic + commenced. The natives exchanged their furs for articles useful or + ornamental. The ship went from port to port until a cargo of furs was + obtained, and then sailed for Canton, and disposed of them to the Chinese + for silks and teas. After an absence of a couple of years the ship would + return to the United States with a cargo worth a hundred thousand dollars. + Some of the most eminent merchants in Boston, in this way, laid the + foundation of their fortunes. + </p> + <p> + This trade was not carried on without risk. The north-west coast of + America at that period had not been surveyed; no good charts had been + constructed, and the shores were lined with reefs and sunken rocks, which, + added to a climate where boisterous winds prevailed, rendered the + navigation dangerous. + </p> + <p> + This traffic was attended with other perils. The Indians were bloodthirsty + and treacherous; and it required constant vigilance on the part of a + ship's company to prevent their carrying into execution some deep-laid + plan to massacre the crew and gain possession of the ship. For this reason + the trading vessels were always well armed and strongly manned. With such + means of defence, and a reasonable share of prudence on the part of the + captain, there was but little danger. But the captain and officers were + not always prudent. Deceived by the smiles and humility of the natives, + they sometimes allowed them to come on board in large numbers, when, at a + signal from their chief, they drew their arms from beneath their garments + and commenced the work of death. After they had become masters of the + ship, they would cut the cables and let her drift ashore, gaining a + valuable prize in the cargo, in the iron and copper bolts, spikes, and + nails with which the timbers and planks were fastened together, and in the + tools, furniture, clothing, and arms. A number of vessels belonging to New + England were in this way cut off by the savages on the "north-west coast," + and unsuccessful attempts were made on others. + </p> + <p> + The "ower true tales" of disasters and massacres on the "north-west coast" + seemed to invest a voyage to that quarter with a kind of magic attraction + or fascination as viewed through the medium of a youthful imagination; and + a voyage of this description would give me an opportunity to perfect + myself in much which pertained to the sailor and navigator. + </p> + <p> + After a delay of a few weeks the opportunity offered which I so eagerly + sought. The ship Packet was preparing for a voyage from Boston to the + north-west coast via Liverpool, and I succeeded in obtaining a situation + on board that ship before the mast. I hastened to Boston and took up my + temporary abode at a boarding house, kept by Mrs. Lillibridge, a widow, in + Spring Lane, on or near the spot on which the vestry of the Old South + Church now stands. I called immediately on the agents, and obtained + information in relation to the details of the voyage, and commenced making + the necessary preparations. + </p> + <p> + Several merchants were interested in this contemplated voyage, but the + business was transacted by the mercantile house of Messrs. Ropes and + Pickman, on Central Wharf. This firm had not been long engaged in + business. Indeed, both the partners were young men, but they subsequently + became well known to the community. Benjamin T. Pickman became interested + in politics, and rendered good service in the legislature. On several + occasions he received marks of the confidence of his fellow-citizens in + his ability and integrity. He was elected to the Senate, and was chosen + president of that body. He died in 1835. Mr. William Ropes, the senior + partner of the firm fifty years ago, after having pursued an honorable + mercantile career at home and abroad, occupies at this time a high + position as an enterprising and successful merchant and a public-spirited + citizen. + </p> + <p> + I laid in a good stock of clothes, such as were needed on a voyage to that + inclement part of the world, provided myself with various comforts for a + long voyage, and purchased as large an assortment of books as my limited + funds would allow, not forgetting writing materials, blank journals, and + every thing requisite for obtaining a good practical knowledge of + navigation, and of other subjects useful to a shipmaster. + </p> + <p> + The Packet was a beautiful ship, of about three hundred tons burden, + originally intended as a regular trader between Boston and Liverpool; but + in consequence of her superior qualities was purchased on the termination + of her first voyage for this expedition to the north-west coast. She was + to be commanded by Daniel C. Bacon, a young, active, and highly + intelligent shipmaster, who a few years before had sailed as a mate with + Captain William Sturgis, and had thus studied the principles of his + profession in a good school, and under a good teacher. He had made one + successful voyage to that remote quarter in command of a ship. Captain + Bacon, as is known to many of my readers, subsequently engaged in + mercantile business in Boston, and for many years, until his death, not + long since, his name was the synonyme of mercantile enterprise, honor, and + integrity. + </p> + <p> + The name of the chief mate was Stetson. He was a tall, bony, muscular man, + about forty years old. He had been bred to the sea, and had served in + every capacity. He was a thorough sailor, and strict disciplinarian; + fearless and arbitrary, he had but little sympathy with the crew; his main + object being to get the greatest quantity of work in the shortest possible + time. Stories were afloat that he was unfeeling and tyrannical; that + fighting and flogging were too frequent to be agreeable in ships where he + was vested with authority. There were even vague rumors in circulation + that he indulged occasionally in the unique and exciting amusement of + shooting at men on the yards when engaged in reefing topsails. These + rumors, however, although they invested the aspect and conduct of the mate + with a singular degree of interest, were not confirmed. For my own part, + although a little startled at the notoriety which Mr. Stetson had + achieved, I determined to execute my duties promptly and faithfully so far + as was in my power, to be respectful and obedient to my superiors and + trustworthy in every act, and let the future take care of itself. Indeed, + this is the line of conduct I have endeavored to follow in every situation + I have filled in the course of an eventful life, and I can earnestly + recommend it to my youthful readers as eminently calculated to contribute + to their present comfort and insure their permanent prosperity. + </p> + <p> + In a few days the Packet received her cargo, consisting chiefly of tobacco + and molasses. It was arranged that she should take on board, in Liverpool, + bales of blankets and coarse woollen goods, and boxes containing various + articles of hardware and trinkets, such as would be acceptable to the + savages on the coast. The ship was hauled into the stream, and being a + fine model, freshly painted, with royal yards athwart, and colors flying, + and signal guns being fired night and morning, attracted much notice and + was the admiration of sailors. I was proud of my good fortune in obtaining + a chance before the mast, in such a vessel, bound on such a voyage. + </p> + <p> + The crew was numerous for a ship of three hundred tons, consisting of + eight able seamen, exclusive of the boatswain, and four boys. Besides a + cook and steward we had a captain's clerk, an armorer, a carpenter, and a + tailor. The ship's complement, all told, consisting of twenty-two. For an + armament we carried four handsome carriage guns, besides boarding pikes, + cutlasses, and muskets in abundance. We had also many coils of rattling + stuff, small rope for making boarding nettings, and a good supply of + gunpowder was deposited in the magazine. + </p> + <p> + The sailors came on board, or were brought on board by their landlords, + after we had hauled from the wharf. Some of them were sober and well + behaved, others were stupid or crazy from intoxication. It required energy + and decision to establish order and institute strict rules of discipline + among such a miscellaneous collection of web-footed gentry. But Mr. + Stetson, assisted by Mr. Bachelder, the second mate, was equal to the + task. Indeed he was in his element while directing the labors of the men, + blackguarding this one for his stupidity, anathematizing that one for his + indolence, and shaking his fist at another, and menacing him with rough + treatment for his short answers and sulky looks. + </p> + <p> + One of the seamen who had been brought on board nearly dead drunk, showed + his figure-head above the forescuttle on the following morning. His eyes, + preternaturally brilliant, were bloodshot, his cheeks were pale and + haggard, his long black hair was matted, and he seemed a personification + of desperation and despondency. Stetson caught a glimpse of his features; + even his fossilized heart was touched with his appearance and he drove him + below. + </p> + <p> + "Down with you!" said he, shaking his brawny fist in the drunken man's + face, "don't let me see your ugly phiz again for the next twenty-four + hours. The sight of it is enough to frighten a land-lubber into hysterics, + and conjure up a hurricane in the harbor before we can let go the sheet + anchor. Down with you; vanish! Tumble into your berth! Take another long + and strong nap, and then turn out a fresh man, and show yourself a sailor; + or you'll rue the day when you first tasted salt water!" + </p> + <p> + The rueful visage disappeared, unable to withstand such a broadside, and + its owner subsequently proved to be a first-rate seaman, and was an + especial favorite with Stetson. + </p> + <p> + A circumstance occurred while the ship was in the stream, where she lay at + anchor two or three days, which will convey a correct ides of the + character of the mate. One afternoon, while all hands were busily employed + in heaving in the slack of the cable, a boat, pulled by two stout, + able-bodied men, came alongside. One of the men came on board, and + addressing the mate, said he had a letter which he wished to send to + Liverpool. The mate looked hard at the man, and replied in a gruff and + surly tone, "We can't receive any letters here. The letter bag is at Ropes + and Pickman's counting room, and you must leave your letter there if you + want it to go to Liverpool in this ship." + </p> + <p> + "Never mind," exclaimed the stranger, "I am acquainted with one of the + crew, and I will hand it to him." + </p> + <p> + Regardless of Stetson's threats of vengeance provided he gave the letter + into the hands of any one on board, the man stepped forward to the + windlass, and handed the missive to one of the sailors. + </p> + <p> + At this contempt of his authority Stetson's indignation knew no bounds. He + roared, in a voice hoarse with passion, "Lay hold of that scoundrel, Mr. + Bachelder. Seize the villain by the throat. I'll teach im better than to + cut his shines in a ship while I have charge of the deck. I'll seize him + up to the mizzen shrouds, make a spread eagle of him, give him a cool + dozen, and see how he will like that." + </p> + <p> + The stranger, witnessing the mate's excitement, and hearing his violent + language, seemed suddenly conscious that he had been guilty of a terrible + crime, for which he was liable to be punished without trial or jury. He + made a spring over the gunwale, and eluded the grasp of Mr. Bachelder, who + followed him into the main chain-wales, and grabbed one of his coat tails + just as he was slipping into his boat! + </p> + <p> + He struggled hard to get away, and his companion raised an oar and + endeavored to strike the second mate with that ponderous club. The garment + by which the stranger was detained, fortunately for him, was not made of + such firm and solid materials as the doublet of Baillie Jarvie when he + accompanied the Southrons in their invasion of the Highland fastnesses of + Rob Roy. The texture, unable to bear the heavy strain, gave way; the man + slid from the chain-wale into the boat, which was quickly shoved off, and + the two terrified landsmen pulled away from the inhospitable ship with + almost superhuman vigor, leaving the coat-tail in the hands of the second + officer, who waved it as a trophy of victory! + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Stetson was foaming at the mouth and raving like a madman. He + ordered the steward to bring up his pistols to shoot the rascals, and when + it seemed likely the offenders would escape, he called upon me, and + another boy, by name, and in language neither courteous nor refined told + us to haul the ship's yawl alongside and be lively about it. I instantly + entered the boat from the taffrail by means of the painter; and in half a + minute the boat was at the gangway, MANNED by a couple of BOYS, and + Stetson rushed down the accommodation ladder, with a stout hickory stick + in his hand, and without seating himself, seized the tiller, and with a + tremendous oath, ordered us to shove off. + </p> + <p> + Away we went in full chase after the swiftly-receding boat, my young + shipmate and myself bending our backs to the work with all the strength + and skill of which we were master, while Stetson stood erect in the stern + seats, at one time shaking his stick at the affrighted men, and hurling at + their heads volleys of curses both loud and deep, at another, urging and + encouraging us to pull harder, or cursing us in turn because we did not + gain on the chase. The fugitives were dreadfully alarmed. They pulled for + their lives; and the terror stamped on their visages would have been + ludicrous, had we not known that if we came up with the chase a contest + would take place that might be attended with serious, perhaps fatal, + results. + </p> + <p> + The shore boat had a good start, which gave it an unfair advantage, and + being propelled by two vigorous MEN, obeying an instinctive impulse to + escape from an impending danger, kept about the same distance ahead. They + steered for Long Wharf the nearest route to TERRA FIRMA passed the steps + on the north side, and pulled alongside a schooner which was lying near + the T, clambered to her decks, leaving the boat to her fate, nimbly leaped + ashore, took to their heels, and commenced a race up the wharf as if the + avenger of blood was upon their tracks! + </p> + <p> + Stetson steered the boat directly for the steps, up which he hastily + ascended, and ordered me to follow. As we rounded the corner of the + adjoining store, we beheld the fugitives leaving us at a pace which no + sailor could expect to equal. The man who had particularly excited the + wrath of the mate took the lead, and cut a conspicuous figure with his + single coat-tail sticking out behind him horizontally like the leg of a + loon! + </p> + <p> + The mate, seeing the hopelessness of further pursuit, suddenly stopped, + and contented himself with shaking his cudgel at the runaways, and + muttering between his teeth, "Run, you blackguards, run!" + </p> + <p> + And run they did, until they turned down India Street, and were lost to + sight. + </p> + <p> + In a day or two after the occurrence above described, the ship Packet + started on her voyage to Liverpool. She was a noble ship, well found and + furnished in every respect, and, setting aside the uncertain temper and + eccentricities of the chief mate, well officered and manned. + </p> + <p> + When we passed Boston light house with a fresh northerly breeze, one clear + and cold morning towards the close of November, in the year 1811, bound on + a voyage of several years' duration, I experienced no regret at leaving my + home and native land, and had no misgiving in regard to the future. My + spirits rose as the majestic dome of the State House diminished in the + distance; my heart bounded with hope as we entered the waters of + Massachusetts Bay. I felt that the path I was destined to travel, although + perhaps a rugged one, would be a straight and successful one, and if not + entirely free from thorns, would be liberally sprinkled with flowers. + </p> + <p> + It is wisely ordered by a benignant Providence that man, notwithstanding + his eager desire to know the secrets of futurity, can never penetrate + those mysteries. In some cases, could he know the changes which would take + place in his condition, the misfortunes he would experience, the miseries + he would undergo, in the lapse of only a few short years, or perhaps + months, he would shrink like a coward from the conflict, and yield himself + up to despair. + </p> + <p> + I could not long indulge in vagaries of the imagination. In a few hours + the wind hauled into the north-east, and a short head sea rendered the + ship exceedingly uneasy. While busily employed in various duties I felt an + uncomfortable sensation pervading every part of my system. My head grew + dizzy and my limbs grew weak; I found, to my utter confusion, that I WAS + SEASICK! I had hardly made the humiliating discovery, when the boatswain + hoarsely issued the unwelcome order, "Lay aloft, lads, and send down the + royal yards and masts!" + </p> + <p> + My pride would not allow me to shrink from my duty, and especially a duty + like this, which belonged to light hands. And while I heartily wished the + masts and yards, which added so much to the beauty of the ship, and of + which I was so proud in port, fifty fathoms beneath the keelson, I + hastened with my wonted alacrity aloft, and commenced the work of sending + down the main-royal yard. + </p> + <p> + Seasickness is an unwelcome malady at best. It not only deprives a person + of all buoyancy of spirit, but plunges him headlong into the gulf of + despondency. His only desire is to remain quiet; to stir neither limb nor + muscle; to lounge or lie down and muse on his unhappy destiny. If he is + urged by a sense of duty to arouse himself from this stupor, and occupy + himself with labors and cares while weighed down by the heavy load, his + condition, although it may command little sympathy from his companions, is + truly pitiable. + </p> + <p> + In my particular case, feeling compelled to mount aloft, and attain that + "bad eminence," the main-royal mast head, while the slender spar was + whipping backwards and forwards with every plunge of the ship into a heavy + head sea, and the visible effect produced by every vibration causing me to + fear an inverted position of my whole internal system, no one can imagine + the extent of my sufferings. They were of a nature that Dante would + eagerly have pounced upon to add to the horrors of his Inferno. I felt at + times willing to quit my feeble hold of a backstay or shroud, and seek + repose by diving into the briny billows beneath. If I had paused for a + moment in my work I should, undoubtedly, have failed in its + accomplishment. But Stetson's eye was upon me; his voice was heard at + times calling out "Main-royal mast head, there! Bear a hand, and send down + that mast! Why don't you bear a hand!" + </p> + <p> + To this reminder, making a desperate exertion, I promptly replied, in a + spirited tone, "Ay, ay, sir!" + </p> + <p> + Diligence was the watchword, and it acted as my preserver. + </p> + <p> + It often happens that a crew, composed wholly or in part of old sailors, + will make an experiment on the temper and character of the officers at the + commencement of the voyage. When this is the case, the first night after + leaving port will decide the question whether the officers or the men will + have command of the ship. If the officers are not firm and peremptory; if + they are deficient in nerve, and fail to rebuke, in a prompt and decided + manner, aught bordering on insolence or insubordination in the outset, + farewell to discipline, to good order and harmony, for the remainder of + the passage. + </p> + <p> + Captain Bacon was a man of slight figure, gentlemanly exterior, and + pleasant countenance. Although his appearance commanded respect, it was + not calculated to inspire awe; and few would have supposed that beneath + his quiet physiognomy and benevolent cast of features were concealed a + fund of energy and determination of character which could carry him safely + through difficulty and danger. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bachelder, the second mate, was a young man of intelligence, familiar + with his duties, and blessed with kind and generous feelings. Unlike + Stetson, he was neither a blackguard nor a bully. After some little + consultation among the old sailors who composed the starboard watch, it + was thought advisable to begin with him, and ascertain if there was any + GRIT in his composition. + </p> + <p> + It was about six bells eleven o'clock at night when the wind hauling to + the north-west, Mr. Bachelder called out, "Forward there! Lay aft and take + a pull of the weather braces." + </p> + <p> + One of the men, a smart active fellow, who went by the name of Jack + Robinson, and had been an unsuccessful candidate for the office of + boatswain, replied in a loud and distinct tone, "Ay, ay!" + </p> + <p> + This was agreed on as the test. I knew the crisis had come, and awaited + with painful anxiety the result. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bachelder rushed forward into the midst of the group near the end of + the windlass. + </p> + <p> + "Who said, 'Ay, ay'?" he inquired, in an angry tone. + </p> + <p> + "I did," replied Robinson. + </p> + <p> + "YOU did! Don't you know how to reply to an officer in a proper manner?" + </p> + <p> + "How SHOULD I reply?" said Robinson, doggedly. + </p> + <p> + "Say 'Ay, ay, SIR,' when you reply to me," cried Bachelder, in a tone of + thunder at the same time seizing him by the collar and giving him a shake + "and," continued he, "don't undertake to cut any of your shines here, my + lad! If you do, you will be glad to die the death of a miserable dog. Lay + aft, men, and round in the weather braces!" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, sir! Ay, ay, sir!" was the respectful response from every side. + </p> + <p> + The yards were trimmed to the breeze, and when the watch gathered again on + the forecastle it was unanimously voted that IT WOULD NOT DO! + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding the decided result of the experiment with the second mate, + one of the men belonging to the larboard watch, named Allen, determined to + try conclusions with the captain and chief mate, and ascertain how far + they would allow the strict rules of discipline on shipboard to be + infringed. Allen was a powerful fellow, of huge proportions, and tolerably + good features, which, however, were overshadowed by a truculent + expression. Although of a daring disposition, and unused to subordination, + having served for several years in ships engaged in the African slave + trade, the nursery of pirates and desperadoes, he showed but little wisdom + in trying the patience of Stetson. + </p> + <p> + On the second night after leaving port, the ship being under double-reefed + topsails, the watch was summoned aft to execute some duty. The captain was + on deck, and casually remarked to the mate, "It blows hard, Mr. Stetson; + we may have a regular gale before morning!" + </p> + <p> + Allen at that moment was passing along to WINDWARD of the captain and + mate. He stopped, and before Stetson could reply, said in a tone of + insolent familiarity, "Yes, it blows hard, and will blow harder yet! Well, + who cares? Let it blow and be ______!" + </p> + <p> + Captain Bacon seemed utterly astonished at the impudence of the man; but + Stetson, who was equally prompt and energetic on all occasions, and who + divined the object that Allen had in view, in lieu of a civil rejoinder + dealt him a blow on the left temple, which sent him with violence against + the bulwarks. Allen recovered himself, however, and sprang on the mate + like a tiger, clasped him in his sinewy embrace, and called upon his + watchmates for assistance. + </p> + <p> + As Stetson and Allen were both powerful men it is uncertain what would + have been the result had Stetson fought the battle single-handed. The men + looked on, waiting the result, but without daring to interfere. Not so the + captain. When he saw Allen attack the mate, he seized a belaying pin, that + was loose in the fife-rail, and watching his opportunity, gave the + refractory sailor two or three smart raps over the head and face, which + embarrassed him amazingly, caused him to release his grasp on the mate, + and felled him to the deck! + </p> + <p> + The mate then took a stout rope's end and threshed him until he roared for + mercy. The fellow was terribly punished and staggered forward, followed by + a volley of threats and anathemas. + </p> + <p> + But the matter did not end here. At twelve o'clock Allen went below, and + was loud in his complaints of the barbarous manner in which he had been + treated. He swore revenge, and said he would lay a plan to get the mate + into the forecastle, and then square all accounts. Robinson and another of + the starboard watch, having no idea that Stetson could be enticed below, + approved of the suggestion, and intimated that they would lend him a hand + if necessary. They did not KNOW Stetson! + </p> + <p> + When the watch was called at four o'clock Allen did not make his + appearance. In about half an hour the voice of Stetson was heard at the + forescuttle ordering him on deck. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, sir," said Allen, "I am coming directly." + </p> + <p> + "You had better do so," said the mate, "if you know when you are well + off." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, sir!" + </p> + <p> + Allen was sitting on a chest, dressed, but did not move. I was lying in my + berth attentive to the proceedings, as, I believe were all my watchmates. + In about a quarter of an hour Stetson took another look down the scuttle, + and bellowed out, "Allen, are you coming on deck or not?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, sir; directly!" + </p> + <p> + "If I have to go down after you, my good fellow, it will be worse for you, + that's all." + </p> + <p> + Allen remained sitting on the chest. Day began to break. Stetson was again + heard at the entrance of the forecastle. His patience, of which he had not + a large stock, was exhausted. + </p> + <p> + "Come on deck, this instant, you lazy, lounging, big-shouldered renegade! + Will you let other people do your work? Show your broken head and your + lovely battered features on deck at once in the twinkling of a handspike. + I want to see how you look after your frolic!" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, sir! I'm coming right up." + </p> + <p> + "You lie, you rascal. You don't mean to come! But I'll soon settle the + question whether you are to have your way in this ship or I am to have + mine!" + </p> + <p> + Saying this, Stetson descended the steps which led into the habitation of + the sailors. In doing this, under the peculiar circumstances, he gave a + striking proof of his fearless character. He had reason to anticipate a + desperate resistance from Allen, while some of the sailors might also be + ready to take part with their shipmate, if they saw him overmatched; and + in that dark and close apartment, where no features could be clearly + distinguished, he would be likely to receive exceedingly rough treatment. + </p> + <p> + Stetson, however, was a man who seldom calculated consequences in cases of + this kind. He may have been armed, but he made no display of other weapons + than his brawny fist. He seized Allen by the collar with a vigorous grasp. + "You scoundrel," said he, "what do you mean by this conduct? Go on deck + and attend to your duty! On deck, I say! Up with you, at once!" + </p> + <p> + Allen at first held back, hoping that some of his shipmates would come to + his aid, as they partly promised; but not a man stirred, greatly to his + disappointment and disgust. They, doubtless, felt it might be unsafe to + engage in the quarrels of others; and Allen, after receiving a few gentle + reminders from the mate in the shape of clips on the side of his head and + punches among the short ribs, preceded the mate on deck. He was conquered. + </p> + <p> + The weather was cold and cheerless; the wind was blowing heavy; the rain + was falling fast; and Allen, who had few clothes, was thinly clad; but he + was sent aloft in an exposed situation, and kept there through the greater + part of the day. His battered head, his cut face, his swollen features, + and his gory locks told the tale of his punishment. Stetson had no + magnanimity in his composition. He cherished a grudge against that man to + the end of the passage, and lost no opportunity to indulge his hatred and + vindictiveness. + </p> + <p> + "Never mind," said Allen, one day, when sent on some useless mission in + the vicinity of the knight-heads, while the ship was plunging violently, + and sending cataracts of salt water over the bowsprit at every dive; + "never mind, it will be only for a single passage." + </p> + <p> + "I know that," said Stetson, with an oath; "and I will take good care to + 'work you up' well during the passage." And he was as good as his word. + </p> + <p> + The mate of a ship, especially when the captain is inactive, is not + properly acquainted with his duties, or is disposed to let him pursue his + own course, is vested with great authority. He has it in his power to + contribute to the comfort of the men, and establish that good + understanding between the cabin and the forecastle which should ever reign + in a merchant ship. But it sometimes, unfortunately, happens that the + officers of a ship are men of amazingly little souls; deficient in + manliness of character, illiberal in their sentiments, and jealous of + their authority; and although but little deserving the respect of good + men, are rigorous in exacting it. Such men are easily offended, take + umbrage at trifles, and are unforgiving in their resentments. While they + have power to annoy or punish an individual from whom they have received + real or fancied injuries, they do not hesitate to exercise it. + </p> + <p> + Every seafaring man, of large experience, has often witnessed the + unpleasant consequences of these old grudges, of this system of punishing + a ship's company, by petty annoyances and unceasing hard work for some + trifling misconduct on the part of one or more of the crew during the + early part of the voyage. A master of a ship must be aware that the + interest of all parties will be promoted by harmony on shipboard, which + encourages the sailors to perform faithfully their manifold duties. + Therefore, a good shipmaster will not only be firm, and decided, and just, + and gentlemanly himself towards his crew, but he will promptly interfere + to prevent unjust and tyrannical conduct on the part of his officers, when + they are inexperienced or of a vindictive disposition. + </p> + <p> + When a man is insolent or insubordinate, the punishment or rebuke, if any + is intended, SHOULD BE PROMPTLY ADMINISTERED. The account against him + should not be entered on the books, but balanced on the spot. Whatever is + his due should be paid off to the last stiver, and there the matter should + end, never to be again agitated, or even referred to. This system of petty + tyranny, this "working up" of a whole ship's company, or a single + individual, in order to gratify a vindictive and unforgiving spirit, has + been the cause of a deal of trouble and unhappiness, and has furnished + materials in abundance for "men learned in the law." + </p> + <p> + Sailors are not stocks and stones. Few of them are so low and degraded as + not to be able to distinguish the right from the wrong. They are aware of + the importance of discipline, and know they must submit to its restraints, + and render prompt obedience to orders from their superiors, without + question; yet few of them are so deeply imbued with the meek spirit of + Christianity as to forego remonstrance to injustice or resistance to + tyranny. + </p> + <p> + The Packet proved to be a fast-sailing ship. The log often indicated ten, + eleven, and eleven and a half knots. We had a quick but rough passage + across the Atlantic, and frequently took on board a much larger quantity + of salt water than was agreeable to those who had berths in her bows. In + four days after leaving Boston we reached the Banks of Newfoundland; in + eighteen days, we struck soundings off Cape Clear; and in twenty-one days, + let go our anchor in the River Mersey. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XIV. DISAPPOINTED HOPES + </h2> + <p> + The day succeeding our arrival at Liverpool, having disposed of our + gunpowder, we hauled into King's Dock, and commenced preparations for + receiving the remainder of our cargo. At that period there were only four + floating docks in Liverpool. The town was not in a prosperous condition. + It had not recovered from the shock caused by the abolition of the slave + trade. That inhuman traffic had been carried on to a very great extent for + many years by Liverpool merchants, and, of course, the law prohibiting the + traffic a law wise and humane, in itself, but injurious to the interests + of individuals was resisted in Parliament by all the commercial wealth of + Liverpool and Bristol, the two principal ports in which the merchants + resided who were engaged in the slave traffic. Even in 1811, many fine + ships were lying idle in the docks, which had been built expressly for + that business; and their grated air-ports, high and solid bulwarks, + peculiar hatchways, large and unsightly poops, all gave evidence of the + expensive arrangements and great importance of the "Guineamen" of those + days. + </p> + <p> + It was expected that our cargo would be completed immediately after our + arrival at Liverpool, and the ship despatched on her way around Cape Horn; + but the tobacco which we had taken on board in Boston, being an article on + which an enormous duty was exacted, was the cause of trouble and delay. + Consultations with the authorities in London were necessary, and weeks + elapsed before Captain Bacon could get the ship out of the clutches of the + revenue department. In the mean time the crew remained by the ship, but + took their meals at a boarding house on shore, as was the custom in + Liverpool. They were all furnished with American protections; but some of + them, unwilling to rely on the protecting power of a paper document, which + in their cases told a tale of fiction, adopted various expedients to avoid + the press-gangs which occasionally thridded the streets, and even entered + dwellings when the doors were unfastened, to capture sailors and COMPEL + them to VOLUNTEER to serve their king and country. + </p> + <p> + One of these unfortunate men, after having successfully dodged the + pressgangs for a fortnight, and living meanwhile in an unenviable state of + anxiety, was pounced upon by some disguised members of a pressgang as he + left the boarding house one evening. He struggled hard to escape, but was + knocked down and dragged off to the naval rendezvous. He was examined the + next morning before the American consul, but, notwithstanding his + protection, his citizenship could not be substantiated. He was in reality + a Prussian, and of course detained as a lawful prize. The poor fellow + lamented his hard destiny with tears. He knew the degrading and unhappy + character of the slavery to which he was doomed probably for life, and + strongly implored Captain Bacon to leave no means untried to procure his + release; but the captain's efforts were in vain. + </p> + <p> + I was rejoiced when intelligence came that the trouble about the tobacco + was at an end, and the remainder of the cargo could be taken on board. On + the following forenoon the ship was hauled stern on to the quay, and the + heavy bales of goods, when brought down, were tumbled on deck by the crew + and rolled along to the main hatchway. I was employed with one of my + shipmates in this work, when some clumsy fellows who were handling another + bale behind me pitched it over in such a careless manner that it struck my + left leg, which it doubled up like a rattan. I felt that my leg was + fractured, indeed, I heard the bone snap, and threw myself on a gun + carriage, making wry faces in consequence of the pain I suffered. + </p> + <p> + "Are you MUCH hurt, Hawser?" inquired the chief mate, in a tone of irony, + and with a grim smile. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir; badly hurt. I'm afraid my leg is broken." + </p> + <p> + "Not so bad as that, I hope," exclaimed Stetson, with some display of + anxiety. "I guess you are more frightened than hurt. Let me look at your + leg." + </p> + <p> + He found my surmises were correct, and expressed more sympathy for my + misfortune than I could have expected. I was carried into the cabin, and + after a short delay conveyed in a carriage to the Infirmary or hospital. + When the carriage reached the gateway of the Infirmary, the bell was rung + by the coachman, and the porter made his appearance. He was a tall, + hard-featured, sulky-looking man, about fifty years of age, called Thomas; + and having held that office a number of years, he assumed as many airs, + and pretended to as much surgical skill, as the professors. + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter now?" inquired the porter, with a discontented growl. + </p> + <p> + "An accident," replied the coachman. "This boy has broken his leg. He is a + sailor, belonging to an American ship." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, ha! An American, is he?" added Thomas, with a diabolical sneer. "A + Yankee Doodle! Never mind; we'll take care of him." + </p> + <p> + I was lifted from the carriage and carried by the ship's armorer, very + gently, into one of the rooms, the grim-looking porter leading the way. I + was placed in an arm chair, and, as the surgeon whose duty it was to + attend to accidents on that day was not immediately forthcoming, the + porter undertook to examine the fracture. He proceeded to take off the + stocking, which fitted rather closely, and the removal of which gave me + intolerable pain. I begged him to rip off the garment with a knife, and + put an end to my torments. The armorer also remonstrated against his + unnecessary cruelty, but in vain. The only reply of the grumbling rascal + was that the stocking was too good to be destroyed, and he never knew a + Yankee who could bear pain like a man! He then began, in a cool and + business-like manner, to twist my foot about, grinding the fractured bones + together to ascertain, as he said, whether the limb was actually broken! + And I verily believe that my complaints and groans, which I did not + attempt to suppress, were sweet music in his ears. It was clear to me + that, for some reason which I could never learn, Mr. Thomas owed the whole + Yankee nation a grudge, and was ready to pay it off on an individual + whenever he could get a chance. + </p> + <p> + After he finished his examination, I looked around the room, which was not + a large one. It was number one of the "accident ward." It contained six + beds, besides a pallet in a corner for the nurse of the ward. These beds, + with two exceptions, were occupied by unfortunate beings like myself. As I + was brought in among them they gazed upon me earnestly, prompted, I verily + believe, not only by curiosity, but commiseration for my unhappy + condition. The surgeon made his appearance, and succeeded, without much + difficulty, in setting the limb, an operation which, acknowledging its + necessity, I bore with becoming fortitude. I was placed on my back in one + of the unoccupied beds, with the rather unnecessary caution to lie + perfectly still. The armorer returned to the ship, and I was left among + strangers. + </p> + <p> + I now had leisure to reflect on my situation. My hopes of visiting the + "north-west coast" were suddenly destroyed. A cripple, in a strange land, + without money or friends, a cloud seemed to rest on my prospects. During + the remainder of the day and the succeeding night I suffered much from + "the blues." My spirits were out of tune. The scanty hospital fare that + was offered me I sent away untouched, and sleep refused to bury my senses + in forgetfulness until long after the midnight hour. This, however, might + have been partly owing to the involuntary groans and murmurs of + unfortunate sufferers in my immediate vicinity. That first day and night + wore a sombre aspect, and teemed with gloomy forebodings. + </p> + <p> + In the morning I fell into a kind of doze, and dreamed that I was walking + in a beautiful meadow, which was traversed by a wide and deep ditch. + Wishing to pass to the other side I attempted to leap the ditch, but + jumped short, and buried myself in mud and mire to the waist! I awoke with + a start, which I accompanied with a cry of distress. I had moved the + broken limb, and furnished more work for the surgeon and suffering for + myself. + </p> + <p> + My gloomy reflections and disquietude of mind did not last long. In the + morning my attention was attracted by the novelties of my situation, and I + found much to excite my curiosity and interest my feelings. My "fit of the + blues" had passed off to return no more. I had some conversation with a + remarkably tall, military-looking man, who moved about awkwardly as if he + was learning to walk upon stilts, or was lame in both legs, which I + afterwards found to be the case. He appeared friendly and intelligent, and + gave me interesting information in relation to the inmates and economy of + the establishment. + </p> + <p> + I learned from him that the bed nearest mine, within a few feet on the + right hand, and the one beyond it, were occupied by two boys who were + victims of a sad misfortune. Their intense sufferings were the cause of + the moans and murmurings I had heard during the night. These boys were + apprentices to the rope-making business, and a few days before, while + spinning ropeyarns, with the loose hemp wound in folds around their + waists, the youngest, a lad about fourteen years old, unwittingly + approached an open fire, the weather being cold. A spark ignited the hemp, + and in a moment the whole was in a blaze. The other boy, obeying an + involuntary but generous impulse, rushed to the assistance of his + companion, only to share his misfortune. They were both terribly burned, + and conveyed to the hospital. + </p> + <p> + Every morning the rations for the day were served out to the patients. The + quality of the food, always excepting a dark-looking liquid of revolting + aspect, known as "beer porridge," and which I ate only through fear of + starvation was generally good, and the quantity was sufficient to keep the + patients alive, while they had no reason to apprehend ill consequences + from a surfeit. + </p> + <p> + In the course of the forenoon Captain Bacon came to see me. He expressed + regret at my misfortune, and tried to console me with the assurance that I + should be well cared for. He said the ship Packet would sail the next day, + that my chest and bedding should be sent to the house where the crew had + boarded, that HE HAD COMMENDED ME TO THE PARTICULAR CONSIDERATION OF THE + AMERICAN CONSUL, who was his consignee, an would see that I was sent back + to the United States as soon as I should be in a condition to leave the + hospital. He put a silver dollar into my hand, as he said to buy some + fruit, bade me be of good cheer, and left me to my reflections. + </p> + <p> + In the afternoon of the same day, one of my shipmates, a kind-hearted lad, + about my own age, called at the hospital to bid me farewell. He regretted + the necessity of our separation, and wept over the misfortune that had + occasioned it. From him I learned that the key of my chest having been + left in the lock when I was carried from the ship, he feared that Allen + and one or two others of the crew, who were not liberally supplied with + clothing for a long voyage, had made free with my property. He also told + me that three of the ship's company had deserted, having no confidence in + the amiable qualities of Mr. Stetson, the chief mate; but that Allen, who + had been the victim of his vindictiveness during the whole passage from + Boston, dreading the horrors of impressment more than the barbarity of the + mate, and having a good American protection, had determined to remain by + the ship! + </p> + <p> + He told me, further, he was by no means satisfied with the character of + Stetson, and feared that when again on the ocean he would prove a Tartar; + and that I had no great reasons to regret an accident which would prevent + my proceeding on the voyage. + </p> + <p> + I subsequently learned that Stetson showed his true colors after the ship + left Liverpool, and owing to his evil deportment and tyrannical conduct, + there was little peace or comfort for the crew during the three years' + voyage. + </p> + <p> + On the third day of my residence in the Infirmary, the unfortunate boy who + occupied the bed nearest mine appeared to be sinking rapidly. It was sad + to witness his sufferings. His mother, a woman in the lowest rank of life, + was with him through the day. She eagerly watched every symptom of his + illness, nursed him with care and tenderness, sought to prepare him for + the great change which was about to take place; and, a true woman and a + mother, endeavored to hide her own anguish while she ministered to the + bodily and spiritual wants of her only child, who nobly risked his life to + save that of his companion. I watched the proceedings with deep interest + through the day, and when night came I felt no inclination to sleep. The + groans of the unfortunate boy became fainter and fainter, and it was + evident he would soon be released from his sufferings by the hand of + death. + </p> + <p> + At length I became weary with watching, and about eleven o'clock fell + asleep, in spite of the dying moans of the boy and the half-stifled sobs + of his mother. I slept soundly, undisturbed by the mournful scenes which + were enacted around me. When I awoke the room was lighted only by the rays + of an expiring lamp in the chimney corner. No one was moving; not a sound + was heard except the loud breathing of the inmates, who, their wonted rest + having been interrupted by this melancholy interlude, had buried their + pains and anxieties in sleep. + </p> + <p> + I looked towards the bed where the sufferer lay whose sad fate had so + attracted my attention and elicited my sympathies a few hours before. His + mother was no longer present. His moans were no longer heard. His form + seemed extended motionless on the bed, and his head reposed as usual on + the pillow. But I was startled at perceiving him staring fixedly at me + with eyes preternaturally large, and of a cold, glassy, ghastly + appearance! I closed my own eyes and turned my head away, while a tremor + shook very nerve. Was this an illusion? Was I laboring under the effects + of a dream? Or had my imagination conjured up a spectre? + </p> + <p> + I looked again. The eyes, like two full moons, were still there, glaring + at me with that cold, fixed, maddening expression. I could no longer + control my feelings. If I had been able to use my limbs I should have fled + from the room. As that was impossible I called loudly to the nurse, and + awoke her from a sound sleep! She came muttering to my bedside, and + inquired what was the matter? + </p> + <p> + "Look at William's eyes!" said I. "Is he dead, or is he alive? What is the + meaning of those horrible-looking, unearthly eyes? Why DON'T you speak?" + </p> + <p> + "Don't be a fool," replied the nurse, sharply, "and let shadows frighten + you out of your wits." + </p> + <p> + While I remained in an agony of suspense she leisurely returned to the + fireplace, took the lamp from the hearth, raised the wick to increase the + light, and approaching the bedside, held it over the body of the occupant. + The boy was dead! Two large pieces of bright copper coin had been placed + over the eyes for the purpose of closing the lids after death, and the + faint and flickering reflection of the lamplight, aided, probably, by the + excited condition of my nervous system, had given them that wild and + ghastly appearance which had shaken my soul with terror. + </p> + <p> + For three weeks I lay in my bed, an attentive observer of the singular + scenes that occurred in my apartment. I was visited every morning by a + student in surgery, or "dresser," and twice a week by one of the regular + surgeons of the establishment while going his rounds. My general health + was good, notwithstanding a want of that exercise and fresh air to which I + had been accustomed. My appetite was remarkable; indeed, my greatest, if + not only cause of complaint, was the very STINTED QUANTITY of daily food + that was served out to each individual. No discrimination was observed; + the robust young man, with an iron constitution, was, so far as related to + food, placed on a par with the poor invalid, debilitated with protracted + suffering or dying of inappetency. + </p> + <p> + In every other situation in which I have been placed I have had abundance + of food. Sometimes the food was of a quality deplorably wretched, it is + true, but such as it was there was always enough. But in the Liverpool + Infirmary I experienced the miseries of SHORT ALLOWANCE, and had an + opportunity to witness the effect it produces in ruffling the temper and + breeding discontent. It also opened my eyes to the instinctive selfishness + of man. Those who were in sound health, with good appetites, although + apparently endued with a full share of affections and sympathies, seemed + actually to rejoice when one of their companions, through suffering and + debility, was unable to consume his allowance of bread or porridge, which + would be distributed among the more healthy inmates of the apartment. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XV. SCENES IN A HOSPITAL. + </h2> + <p> + At the expiration of three weeks the dresser informed me he was about to + case my fractured limb in splints and bandages, when I might quit my + mattress, don my garments, and hop about the room or seat myself by the + fireside. + </p> + <p> + This was good news, but my joy was somewhat dampened by the intelligence + that I could not be furnished immediately with a pair of crutches, all + belonging to the establishment being in use. I borrowed a pair + occasionally for a few minutes, from an unfortunate individual who was + domiciled in my apartment, and sometimes I shuffled about for exercise + with a stout cane in my right hand, and a house-brush, in an inverted + position under my left arm, in lieu of a crutch. + </p> + <p> + I witnessed many interesting scenes during my stay in the Infirmary, and + fell in with some singular individuals, all of which showed me phases of + human life that I had never dreamed of. The tall, military-looking man, + with whom I became acquainted soon after I entered the establishment, + proved to have been a soldier. He had served for years in a regiment of + heavy dragoons, and attained the rank of corporal. He had sabred Frenchmen + by dozens during the unsuccessful campaign in Holland under the Duke of + York. He fought his battles over again with all the ardor and energy of an + Othello, and to an audience as attentive, although, it may be, not so + high-born or beautiful. + </p> + <p> + There was also present during my stay a young native of the Emerald Isle, + who had seen service in the British navy. In an obstinate and bloody + battle between English and French squadrons off the Island of Lissa, in + the Adriatic, about nine months before, in which Sir William Hoste + achieved a splendid victory, his leg had been shattered by a splinter. + After a partial recovery he had received his discharge, and was returning + to his home in "dear Old Ireland," when a relapse took place, and he took + refuge in the hospital. He also could tell tales of wondrous interest + connected with man-of-war life. He loved to talk of his cruises in the + Mediterranean, of the whizzing of cannon balls, the mutilation of limbs, + decks slippery with gore, levanters, pressgangs, boatswains' calls, and + the cat-o'-nine tails of the boatswains' mates. + </p> + <p> + The patient, from whom I occasionally borrowed a pair of crutches, + although a pleasant companion, bore upon his person unequivocal marks of + having met with rough handling on the ocean or on the land. He was MINUS + an eye, his nose had been knocked athwart-ships to the great injury of his + beauty, and a deep scar, from a wound made with a bludgeon, adorned one of + his temples! I learned that this man, who seemed to have been the football + of fortune and had received many hard kicks, had never been in the army or + the navy, that his wounds had been received in CIVIL wars, battling with + his countrymen. I was further told by the nurse, as a secret, that + although he was so amiable among his fellow-sufferers in the hospital, + when outside the walls, if he could obtain a glass of gin or whiskey to + raise his temper and courage to the STRIKING point, he never passed a day + without fighting. He was notorious for his pugnacious propensities; had + been in the Infirmary more than once for the tokens he had received of the + prowess of his opponents. In his battles he always came off second best, + and was now in the "accident ward" in consequence of a broken leg, having + been kicked down stairs by a gang of rowdies whom he had insulted and + defied! + </p> + <p> + There were also in the Infirmary inmates of a more pacific character. + Fortunately for mankind it is not the mission of every one to fight. Among + them was a gardener, a poor, inoffensive man, advanced in years, who with + a cleaver had chopped off accidentally, he said two fingers of his right + hand. The mutilation was intentional without doubt; his object having been + to procure a claim for subsistence in the Infirmary for a time, and + afterwards a passport to the poorhouse in Chester for life. He had + experienced the ills of poverty; had outlived his wife and children; and + able to talk well and fluently, entertained us with homely but forcible + narratives illustrating life in the lowest ranks of society. When his + wounds were healed he was reluctant to quit his comfortable quarters, and + was actually driven from the establishment. + </p> + <p> + Other patients were brought in from time to time, and their wounds + dressed. Some were dismissed in a few days; others detained for months. + One intelligent young man, an English mechanic, was afflicted with a white + swelling on his knee and suffered intolerable pain. His sobs and groans + through the night, which he could not suppress, excited my sympathy, but + grated harshly on the nerves of my tall friend the corporal of dragoons, + who expostulated with him seriously on the unreasonableness of his + conduct, arguing, like the honest tar on board the brig Clarissa, that + these loud indications of suffering, while they afforded no positive + relief to the sufferer, disturbed the slumbers of those who were free from + pain or bore it with becoming fortitude. + </p> + <p> + In the evening, after we had partaken of the regular meal, those of us who + were able to move about, and to whom I have more particularly alluded, + would gather around the hearth, a coal fire burning in the grate, and pass + a couple of hours in conversation, in which agreeable occupations, having + read much and already seen something of the world, I was able to bear a + part. There are few persons who are unable to converse, and converse well + too, when their feelings are enlisted and they labor under no restraint; + and very few persons so dull and stupid as to fail to receive or impart + instruction from conversation with others. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding the rules of the infirmary to the contrary, the inmates of + "number one" were not altogether deprived of the advantages and charms of + female society. To say nothing of the old nurse, who was a host in gossip + herself, her two daughters, both young and pretty girls, were sometimes + smuggled into the Infirmary by the connivance of the grim and trustworthy + porter, and remained there days at a time, carefully hid away in the + pantry whenever "the master" or the surgeons went their regular rounds, + which was always at stated hours. When the wind raged without, and the + rain, hail, or snow sought entrance through the casement, while sitting + near a comfortable fire, listening to female prattle and gossip, + narratives of incidents of real life, discussions on disputed points in + politics, philosophy, or religion between my friend with the crutches and + the tall corporal of dragoons, who were both as fond of controversy as Mr. + Shandy himself; or drinking in with my ears the Irish tar's glowing + descriptions. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Of moving accidents by flood and field; + And of the cannibals that each other eat; + The anthropophagi, and men whose heads + Do grow beneath their shoulders!" +</pre> + <p> + I was led to confess there were worse places in the world than the + Liverpool Infirmary. + </p> + <p> + After a week's delay I came into possession of a pair of crutches, and + could move around the room at pleasure, take exercise in the hall, and + even visit an acquaintance in either of the other apartments. The garden + attached to the establishment was thrown open to the patients at stated + hours on particular days. The season was not inviting; nevertheless, one + sunny day, accompanied by my lame friend of pugnacious reputation, I + visited the garden, and rejoiced at finding myself once more in he open + air. The ramble on crutches through the lonely walks was truly refreshing. + Our spirits mounted to fever heat, and as we returned towards the building + through the neatly gravelled avenue, my companion proposed a race, to + which I assented. I have forgotten which won the race; I know we both made + capital time, and performed to our own satisfaction, but not to the + satisfaction of others. The gardener grumbled at the manner in which his + walks were perforated and disfigured by our crutches. He complained to the + authorities, and greatly to our regret a regulation was adopted by which + all persons using crutches were forbidden to enter the garden. + </p> + <p> + I remained six weeks in the Infirmary, and became accustomed to the place, + and made myself useful in various ways. I held the basin when a patient + was let blood; I took charge of the instruments and bandages when a + serious wound was closed by sutures and afterwards dressed; and was + particularly busy when a fracture was examined or a dislocation reduced. + Indeed I took a strange kind of interest in witnessing and aiding in the + various operations, and was in a fair way to become a good practical + surgeon, when I was discharged, and found myself a poor sailor, + friendless, penniless, and lame. But the surgical knowledge, inaccurate + and desultory as it was, which I acquired in the Liverpool Infirmary, and + the power to preserve coolness and presence of mind, and minister relief + in cases of wounds and dangerous diseases, when no medical adviser could + be applied to, has often since been of valuable service to myself and + others. + </p> + <p> + I took an affectionate farewell of my friends and acquaintances in the + establishment, not forgetting the nurse and her pretty daughters, and, + accompanied by the landlord of the house where the crew of the ship Packet + boarded, passed through the gateway without meeting any obstruction on the + part of the porter, who, on the contrary, grinned his approbation of my + departure. + </p> + <p> + The distance to the boarding house was about half a mile; nevertheless I + accomplished it easily on crutches without being fatigued, and + congratulated myself when I passed the threshold and arrived at what I + considered my home. But my troubles were not ended. The landlady, who was + actually "the head" of the house, did not welcome my return with the + cordiality I expected. She expressed a hope that the American consul would + lose no time in providing means for my return to the United States, and + favored me with the interesting information that while the regular charge + for board without lodging was eighteen shillings a week, the American + government allowed only twelve shillings a week for board and lodging. The + inevitable inference was, that I was an unprofitable boarder, and the + sooner they got me off their hands the better. + </p> + <p> + Another circumstance was a source of greater chagrin. When I reached the + house, one of my first inquiries was for my chest and other property which + I left in the forecastle of the ship. My chest was safely deposited with + the landlord; BUT IT WAS NEARLY EMPTY! To my dismay I found that my stock + of clothing for a two years' voyage jackets, boots, hats, blankets, and + books had vanished. A few "old duds" only were left, hardly enough for a + change of raiment. The officers had neglected to lock my chest and look + after my little property; the men were bound on a long and tempestuous + voyage, some of them scantily furnished with clothing; the ship was to + sail in a day or two after I was carried to the hospital; the temptation + was irresistible; they helped themselves freely at the expense of their + unfortunate shipmate! + </p> + <p> + The United States consul at Liverpool was a merchant, of large means and + extensive business; a man of great respectability, and it was confidently + asserted, of generous feelings. I doubted not that when my case was + represented to him he would grant me some relief, especially as Captain + Bacon had recommended me to his care. I had heard nothing from him in the + Infirmary. He was notified, officially, of my discharge; and as vessels + were every day leaving Liverpool for Boston and New York, I expected to be + immediately provided with a passage to one of those ports. But when days + passed away, and I seemed to be forgotten, I mounted my crutches one + morning and hobbled off through the crowded streets to a distant part of + the town, in quest of an interview with the consul, intending to solicit + that assistance to which every American citizen in distress was entitled. + </p> + <p> + With some difficulty, for Liverpool is not a rectangular town, I found the + counting room of the consul, into which I boldly entered, confidently + anticipating not only relief but sympathy for my misfortune. My appearance + was not prepossessing, as my garments, although of the true nautical cut, + were neither new nor genteel; and although I was in perfect health, my + complexion was sallow from long confinement. But these drawbacks on my + respectability, I thought, under the circumstances, might be excused. I + found myself in a comfortable apartment in which two or three young men + were writing at desks, one of whom, a dapper little fellow, dressed with + as much precision and neatness as if he had just escaped from a bandbox, + came towards me with a stern, forbidding look, and asked me what I wanted. + </p> + <p> + "I want to see the American consul." + </p> + <p> + "The consul is not in." + </p> + <p> + "When do you expect him?" I inquired, in a tone of disappointment. + </p> + <p> + "'Tis uncertain. He may not be here today." + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry, as I have some important business with him." + </p> + <p> + "What is your important business?" demanded the clerk, in an authoritative + manner. "Perhaps I can attend to it." + </p> + <p> + "I am the young American sailor, who met with an accident on board the + ship Packet, and was sent to the Infirmary. I have recently been + discharged, and am in want of some articles of clothing, and particularly + a pair of shoes. I also want to know if the consul has taken steps towards + procuring me a passage to Boston" + </p> + <p> + "Very IMPORTANT business, truly!" replied the Englishman, with a sneer. + "How does it happen that you are so poorly off for clothing?" + </p> + <p> + I explained the circumstances connected with the robbery of my chest by my + shipmates. + </p> + <p> + "A likely story!" he exclaimed. "As to giving you a pair of shoes, my fine + fellow, that is out of the question. When any step is taken towards + sending you to the United States, you, or the man you board with, will + hear of it." Saying this, the worthy representative of our government, + after pointing significantly to the door, turned away and resumed his + occupation at the desk. Disappointed and shocked at such a reception, I + ventured to inquire if I should be able to see the consul on the following + day. + </p> + <p> + "No," replied the clerk, abruptly, without raising his eyes from the desk; + "neither tomorrow nor the day after." + </p> + <p> + I left the counting room, hobbled down the steps, and returned to my + temporary home, feeling like "the Ancient Mariner," "a sadder and a wiser + man!" + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XVI. UNITED STATES CONSULS + </h2> + <p> + Weeks passed, and I remained in Liverpool. I had called several times at + the consulate, and each time met with the same ungracious reception. I + could never see the consul, and began to regard him as a myth. I did not + then know that every time I called he was seated at his comfortable desk + in a room elegantly furnished, which was entered from the ante-room + occupied by his clerks. Nor could I get any satisfactory information from + the well-dressed Englishman, his head clerk. I ventured to ask that + gentleman one day if Captain Bacon had not left money with Mr. Maury for + my benefit. But he seemed astonished at my audacity in imagining the + possibility of such a thing. + </p> + <p> + After the lapse of three weeks, a messenger came to my boarding house with + directions for me to appear at the consulate the next morning at nine + o'clock precisely. Full of hope, overjoyed that some change was about to + take place in my destiny, I impatiently awaited the hour in which I was to + present myself at the office of the American consul, hoping to have an + interview with that dignitary. By this time I had thrown aside my + crutches, and, although owing to the weakness of my fractured limb I + limped as ungracefully as the swarthy deity who, after being kicked out of + heaven, set up his blacksmith's shop in the Isle of Lemnos, I managed, + with the aid of a stout cane, to pass through the streets without + difficulty. + </p> + <p> + When I reached the counting room of the consul, I found the everlasting + clerk at his post, as unfeeling, as authoritative, and haughty as ever. He + addressed me at once as follows: "You will go directly to Queen's Dock; + find the ship Lady Madison of New York, and put this letter into the hands + of Captain Swain. He will give you a passage to New York, where you must + take care of yourself. The ship will sail in a day or two. Be sure to be + on board when the ship leaves the dock." + </p> + <p> + I regretted that a passage had not been provided in a vessel going + directly to Boston. Ships were leaving Liverpool every day for that place. + Nevertheless, I took the letter with a good grace, told the clerk I was + rejoiced at such good news; that I was as much pleased at the idea of + leaving Liverpool as he could possibly be at getting rid of my complaints. + But I suggested that I was not in a condition to WORK MY PASSAGE as was + proposed, at that inclement season, unless I was furnished with some + additional clothing, a pea-jacket, a blanket, and a pair of boots or + shoes; and I pointed to the shoes on my feet, which were little better + than a pair of very shabby sandals. + </p> + <p> + The little deputy listened with impatience to my suggestions. He then + wrote something on a slip of paper. "Here," said he, "is an order for a + pair of shoes; and it is all you will get! A pea-jacket is out of the + question; and as for blankets, I suppose you'll find enough on board. + Captain Swain will take care of you. Your passage will not be a long one + only thirty or forty days. I dare say you will live through it; if not, + there will be no great loss!" And conscious that he had said a good thing, + he looked at his fellow-clerks and smiled. + </p> + <p> + I felt indignant at such treatment, but wisely refrained from giving + utterance to my feelings, and proceeded directly to the Queen's Dock, + where I found Captain Swain, and handed him the letter. He read it, + crumpled it up and put it in his pocket, and then stared fixedly at me, + exclaiming, "Well, this is a pretty business! What does the consul mean by + sending such a chap as YOU home in my ship? Are there not ships enough in + port to take you home without singling out mine?" + </p> + <p> + To this question I could give no satisfactory answer, nor is it probable + he expected one. After a further ebullition of wrath he honored me with + another stare, surveyed me from head to foot, and with an air rather rude + than polite, gruffly remarked, "Well, I suppose I must take you, and make + the best of it. The ship will sail the day after tomorrow;" and he turned + away, muttering something I could not distinctly hear, but which I suspect + was not complimentary to myself or the American consul. + </p> + <p> + I returned to my boarding house, and gladdened the master and mistress + with the intelligence that the consul had at last found a ship to take me + to the united States. I packed in my chest the few articles my shipmates + had considerately left me, not forgetting the pair of shoes which the + mild-mannered and compassionate consular clerk had given me, and made my + appearance, a most unwelcome guest, on the deck of the Lady Madison, as + the ship was hauling out of dock. And thus, without articles of clothing + necessary to supply my actual wants; without bed or bedding; destitute of + "small stores," as tea, coffee, sugar, etc, which were not furnished the + sailors, they receiving a certain sum of money instead and supplying + themselves, deprived of the little comforts which even the most unthrifty + seamen will provide on a passage across the Atlantic; the victim, not of + imprudence or vice, but of misfortune; after a tedious and unnecessary + delay, I was sent, a stranger, against whom the captain and officers were + unjustly prejudiced, and, in a crippled condition, on board a ship to work + my passage to my native land! And this was done by the orders and + authority of a man who was bound by his official duties to render all + necessary and reasonable relief to Americans in distress! + </p> + <p> + Were this a solitary instance of the kind I should hardly indulge in a + passing remark. But I have reason to believe that such cases, caused by + the inhumanity or culpable neglect of American consuls in foreign ports, + are not uncommon. If such proceedings take place under the eye and + authority and apparent sanction of a man of high character and + acknowledged worth, what may we not expect from consuls of a different + character; from men who never knew a noble impulse; whose bosoms never + throbbed with one generous feeling? + </p> + <p> + Our government is not sufficiently circumspect in the appointment of + consuls. The office is an important one, and should be given to men + capable of faithfully executing the duties. It cannot be properly filled + by persons whose time is engrossed by business of their own, by political + partisans, or men who have no practical knowledge of mercantile affairs. + American consuls should also be supposed to have some sympathy with every + class of American citizens, and capable of enjoying satisfaction in + relieving the sufferings of a fellow-creature. All consular fees should be + abolished, and the consul should receive from the government a yearly + compensation, graduated on the importance of his duties. + </p> + <p> + The Lady Madison was considered a large ship, being four hundred and fifty + tons burden. She belonged to Jacob Barker, now a resident of New Orleans, + but who was at that time in the zenith of his mercantile prosperity, and + the owner of ships trading to all parts of the globe. Captain Swain was a + native and resident of Nantucket, an excellent sailor and a worthy man; + and the ship was navigated by a crew composed mostly of young and active + Americans. The Lady Madison had sailed from Cronstadt bound to New York, + but met with disasters which compelled her to put into Liverpool for + repairs. + </p> + <p> + On joining the Lady Madison I found there was a very natural but unjust + prejudice existing against me on the part of the officers, which it would + be difficult to overcome. I was thrust on board by the consul against + their wishes, and was entitled to ship room and ship's fare, which was + reluctantly granted. I must, however, admit that my appearance, with a + costume of the "Persian" cut, pale and sickly visage and a halting gait, + an air of dejection caused by misfortune and diffidence, was not + prepossessing, but verged strongly on the vagabond order. It is, + therefore, not surprising that when I stepped on deck I was looked upon as + an intruder, and instead of being greeted with smiles and words of + encouragement, of which I was greatly in need, received looks which would + have chilled an icicle, and frowns which made me feel all my + insignificance. + </p> + <p> + I should probably have found little sympathy among the sailors had I not + met among them an old acquaintance. A young man named Giddings, on hearing + my name mentioned, regarded me with a degree of interest that surprised + me. After staring at me a few minutes, he inquired if I had not once lived + in Rockingham county, New Hampshire. On my replying in the affirmative, he + introduced himself as an old schoolmate, a native of Exeter, from which, + having chosen a sailor's life, he had been absent for years. + </p> + <p> + I rejoiced at finding a friend, and soon realized the truth of the good + old proverb, "a friend in need is a friend indeed." Through his influence + and representation the crew were disposed to look upon me in a favorable + light. He gave me the privilege of using his berth and his blankets during + my watch below; he loaned me a monkey jacket in stormy weather, and shared + with me his "small stores," of which he had a good supply. More than all + this, he encouraged me to keep a stout heart and "stiff upper lip," + assuring me that all would come right in the end. Had it not been for that + kind-hearted young man, my condition on board the ship must have been + wretched. I have often witnessed the disgraceful fact, that when a man is + DOWN every one seems determined TO KEEP HIM DOWN! If a poor fellow + received a kick from fortune, every man he meets with will give him + another kick for that very reason! + </p> + <p> + Captain Swain never deigned to notice me in any way, and the chief mate + followed his example so far as was practicable. The second mate's name was + Cathcart. He was man of inferior capacity, ignorant, and coarse. As I was + looked upon as a sort of "black sheep" in the flock, and was in the second + mate's watch, that officer imagined he could, with impunity, make me a + target for his vulgar jokes, and practised on me a line of conduct which + he dared not practice on others. A day or two after we left Liverpool, he + took occasion, when several of the crew were standing by, to make my + rather quaint NAME the subject of some offensive remarks. My indignation + was roused at such ungentlemanly conduct, and I retorted with a degree of + bitterness as well as imprudence that surprised myself as well as others. + </p> + <p> + "My name?" said I; "you object to MY name! Look at home! My name is a + quiet name, a sensible name, surrounded with pleasant associations, and + easily spoken, which is more than can be said of yours. Ca-a-th-ca-r-r-t! + There is neither sense, meaning, nor beauty in that name. Why," continued + I, making strange grimaces, "one cannot speak it without twisting the + mouth into kinks and cuckold's necks without number. Ca-a-th-c-a-a-rt! I + would sooner be called Tantarabogus." + </p> + <p> + This turned the laugh against him. He made no reply, but no longer annoyed + me with his coarse jokes, and the respectable epithet of "Tantarabogus" + stuck to him until our arrival in New York. + </p> + <p> + The ship Lady Madison left Liverpool about the 17th of March, 1812. The + wind had been blowing a long time from the westward, with occasional gales + which prevented vessels from getting to sea; and we sailed in company with + a large fleet of merchant ships at the commencement of a change of wind. + We left the Mersey with a fine breeze and soon passed the headmost vessels + in the fleet. Our ship was large, a fine model, newly coppered, well + provided with sails, and having left part of her cargo in Liverpool was in + good ballast trim, and slipped through the water like a fish. + </p> + <p> + For eight days this easterly wind continued, the ship sometimes carrying + top-gallant sails and a fore-topmast studding sail, and sometimes running + directly before the wind under double-reefed topsails and foresail, + progressing at the rate of ten, eleven, and eleven and a half knots. + Chronometers were unknown in those days, and lunar observations, owing to + the cloudy weather and other causes, could not be taken during the + passage. It is, therefore, not remarkable that under the circumstances, + and with a heavy sea following the ship, the judgment of the navigators + was at fault and the ship overran her reckoning. + </p> + <p> + On the eighth day after the Lady Madison left the dock, the atmosphere + being hazy and the temperature unusually cool, I was standing on the lee + side of the forecastle when something afar off on the bow caught my eye. + It looked like a massive fortress on a mountain rock of crystal. Its + appearance, different from anything I had ever seen on the ocean, excited + my wonder. Could it be a cloud? I pointed it out to one of my watchmates, + who, being familiar with such appearances, instantly called out, "Ice, + ho!" + </p> + <p> + There was a commotion throughout the ship. "Ice!" exclaimed the captain, + rushing up the companion-way, spyglass in hand. "Ice! Where-away? 'Tis + impossible! We cannot be near the Grand Bank!" + </p> + <p> + The ice island was now clearly perceptible, looming up through the thin + fog, "a fixed fact," which could not be shaken. We were on the eastern + edge of the Bank of Newfoundland. In eight days the ship had run nearly + two thousand miles. Although this may not be considered a remarkable feat + for a modern clipper of giant proportions, it was an instance of fast + sailing and favorable breezes seldom exceeded in those days. + </p> + <p> + Had the wind continued unchanged in strength or direction after we reached + the Bank, we should have made the passage to New York in twelve days. But + its force was spent. Instead of feeling grateful and expressing + satisfaction at such a noble run, the captain, and I believe every man on + board, as is usual in such cases, grumbled intolerably when the change + took place! Head winds and calms prevailed, and ten days elapsed before we + greeted the highlands of Neversink. We passed inside of Sandy Hook on the + 4th of April 1812, having made a passage of eighteen days from Liverpool + to anchorage off the Battery! + </p> + <p> + While beating through the narrows we passed the ship Honestus, which + sailed from Liverpool about forty days before the Lady Madison left that + port, and had been battling with head winds the whole distance across the + Atlantic. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XVII. ADRIFT IN NEW YORK + </h2> + <p> + When the ship Lady Madison arrived in New York there was quite a stir + among the mercantile community. Congress was engaged in important + deliberations, and it was whispered, that in secret session, an embargo + was about to be laid on American vessels in every port in the United + States as a preparatory step to a declaration of war against Great + Britain. + </p> + <p> + The passage of an "embargo act" was generally expected; but many persons, + who had full faith in the more than Christian patience and forbearance of + our government, believed there would be no war, notwithstanding the + insults heaped upon American citizens, the piratical aggressions on our + commerce, and the contumely and contempt in which our government and our + flag, during a series of years, had been everywhere held by British + authorities, as shown in the capture of the Chesapeake, and a multitude of + kindred acts, each of which, as a knowledge of them travelled through the + land, should have produced the effect of a "fiery cross," and kindled into + a fierce and living flame every spark of patriotism existing in the bosoms + of our countrymen. + </p> + <p> + There was great commotion on the wharves. "The embargo is coming," said + one excited individual. "The act is already passed!" said another. + Merchants were busy fitting away their ships to every quarter of the + globe; the piers and wharves were lumbered with goods and produce of every + description; the work was busily carried on night and day; fabulous prices + were paid to laborers; in many cases the cargoes were thrown on board, + tumbled into the hold, or piled on the decks, and the ship was "cleared" + at the custom house, got under weigh, and anchored in the offing, where, + beyond the jurisdiction of the United states, her stores and what remained + of her cargo were SMUGGLED on board at leisure. + </p> + <p> + On reaching New York I again found myself in a strange city, without money + or friends. I went with Giddings and some of his shipmates to a sailor + boarding house in Dover Street, kept by a German named Hansen. At the + recommendation of Giddings, the landlord received me, although with + reluctance, as I had no visible means of paying for my board. Giddings and + his friends shipped the following day for another voyage in the Lady + Madison, which ship left the harbor for Liverpool on the evening previous + to the reception of the news of the passage of the "embargo act," which, + by some mysterious influence, had been strangely delayed. The Lady Madison + remained at anchor, for at least a fortnight, nine or ten miles outside of + Sandy Hook, when, having taken on board those portions of her cargo THAT + HAD BEEN FORGOTTEN, SHE PROCEEDED ON HER VOYAGE. + </p> + <p> + My condition at this time furnished a striking contrast with my condition + when I left Boston not five months before. Disappointment had laid on my + spirits a heavy hand, and there were no particularly cheering scenes in + perspective. I would gladly have returned to my home, there to have + recovered the full use of my fractured limb before I embarked on any new + enterprise. But I had no means of getting from New York to Boston, and + through a feeling of pride, far from commendable, I was unwilling to make + application to my relatives for pecuniary assistance. I did not even write + to inform them of my return to the United States. + </p> + <p> + The question now came up, "What shall I do to improve my condition and + gain a livelihood?" Lame as I was, I dared not undertake to ship in a + square-rigged vessel, or even a "topsail schooner," where it might often + be necessary to go aloft. I tried to get a berth in a coaster, or small + vessel trading to the West Indies, where gymnastic feats would not be + required. I applied to many skippers but without success. Even the proud + captain of a rusty-looking old craft, that could hardly be kept afloat in + the harbor, looked sour and sulky, and shook his head with as much + significance as Lord Burleigh himself, when I inquired if he was in want + of a hand! Either my looks were unpromising, or this class of vessels were + well supplied with men. In the mean time my board bill was running up, and + my landlord looked as grave as an oyster, and his manners were as rough as + the outside of the shell. + </p> + <p> + Passing through Maiden Lane one day, I saw a gentleman whom I had formerly + known, standing in the doorway of a bookstore. I had boarded in his family + several weeks after my recovery from fever and ague. He, as well as his + wife, at that time professed a strong interest in my prosperity. When I + left them, and entered on my voyage to South America in the Clarissa, they + bade me farewell with protestations of an affection as warm and enduring + as if I had been a near and dear relative. It is therefore not wonderful + that when I spied Mr. Robinson my heart yearned towards him. I had + encountered a friend in that overgrown city; I saw a familiar face the + first for many months. Without CALCULATING whether he could be of service + to me, or whether it was proper to appear before him in apparel more + remarkable for its antiquity and simplicity than its gentility, I obeyed + the dictates of an honest heart, rushed towards him, and grasped his hand. + Perceiving his astonishment, and that he was about to reprove my + unauthorized familiarity, I mentioned my name. + </p> + <p> + "It is no wonder you don't recollect me," said I; "I have met with the + rubbers, and must have greatly changed since you saw me last. Indeed, I am + now rather hard up. Nothing to do, and not a cent in my pocket. It + rejoices me to meet an old acquaintance." + </p> + <p> + The smile of recognition with which Robinson received the announcement of + my name, vanished like a torch quenched in the ocean when he heard of my + penniless condition. He nevertheless put a tolerably good face on the + matter, invited me into his store, said he had lived in New York about + nine months, asked me several commonplace questions, and at last, turning + away as if he had more important business to attend to, desired me to drop + in and see him occasionally. + </p> + <p> + Not dreaming that he would be otherwise than delighted to see me at his + house, I bluntly asked him where he lived. + </p> + <p> + "O," said he, in a careless manner, "I LIVE away up in the Bowery, but my + place of business is HERE; and when you have nothing better to do, give me + a call, I shall always be glad to see you!" + </p> + <p> + And my cold-hearted, calculating friend, who feared I should make an + appeal to his pockets, gave me quite a polite bow, and thus taught me a + lesson in the fashionable accomplishment of bowing a troublesome + acquaintance into the street! + </p> + <p> + A few days after this, as I was walking in Broadway, musing on my + condition, and convinced of the truth of the saying that "there is no + solitude so complete as in the midst of a great city," but firmly + believing that something would soon "turn up," I saw on the sidewalk an + elegant and costly breastpin, which must have belonged to a fashionable + lady. I gladly seized the glittering prize and bore it away, exulting in + my good fortune. Although I intended to spare no pains to find the owner, + I trusted the incident might in some way contribute to my advantage. I + showed the pin in triumph to the wife of my landlord, a shrewd woman, not + over-scrupulous, and well skilled in the art of turning little events to + her own profit, and explained the circumstances under which it came into + my possession. + </p> + <p> + "This is indeed wonderful!" she exclaimed, holding up her hands. "How + fortunate that you, of all persons, should have found this costly + ornament! It belongs to Mrs. Johnson, a dear friend of mine, who lives + just over the way! It must be it is the same. I know it. I have seen it a + thousand times. She was here not five minutes ago, lamenting the loss of + it. How overjoyed she will be when she knows it is found! I will send to + her directly, and make her happy with the news." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hansen disappeared, leaving me, I am afraid, looking rather + confounded at this singular and unexpected COINCIDENCE, and almost sorry + that the owner of the pin had been so easily discovered. In a few minutes + Mrs. Hansen returned, accompanied by "her dear friend," Mrs. Johnson, who, + after examining the pin, said it was her own. She thanked me for having + found it, was in raptures with her good fortune, declared she should never + forget she was indebted to me, then in a business-like manner placed the + rich ornament on her bosom, where it seemed as much out of place "as a + rich jewel in an Ethiop's ear," and hastily walked off with the prize + before I could recover from my astonishment! I was a stranger to the ways + of the world, and it did not occur to me, until years afterwards, that + this was an IMPROMPTU comedy, ingeniously devised and skilfully performed + by two capital actresses, for the purpose of swindling me out of the + jewel! + </p> + <p> + A day or two after the adventure of the breastpin, my landlord represented + to me, with much gravity, that I had been living with him above a + fortnight, had not paid a cent towards my board, and, so far as he could + see, there was no prospect that I ever would pay any. This state of + things, I must be sensible, could not last forever. + </p> + <p> + I told him, in reply, that I was every day becoming more able to do a + seaman's duty' that, as he well knew, I had tried to find a berth in a + coaster, but none was to be had; that I was confident I should at some + future time pay him, principal and interest, for all his expense and + trouble, and he might rely on my promise. + </p> + <p> + Hansen rejoined, with a derisive smile, that it was not his custom to give + credit, or rely upon promises; that I must find something to do, or he + should be compelled to turn me out of his house! "Did you ever do any + thing but go to sea?" he asked abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "O, yes," said I, "I was brought up on a farm, and understand all kinds of + farming work." + </p> + <p> + "If that's the case," continued he, "your business is done. There are fine + farms in Brooklyn, within sight of the ferry. All our best vegetables and + fruit are raised on those farms. It is now the spring of the year, when + farm laborers are wanted. You had better go over to Brooklyn and find work + on a farm." + </p> + <p> + "That I'll do with pleasure," said I; "but I have no money to pay my fare + over the ferry." + </p> + <p> + "Never mind, I'll lend you a couple of sixpences, and charge them in your + account. You had better go tomorrow, and take the whole day before you." + Accordingly on the following day I started for Long Island in quest of + work as a day laborer on a farm. + </p> + <p> + At that time Brooklyn was not, as now, a large, populous, and thriving + city. It was a small, sparsely-settled village; and the vast extent of + land which is now laid out in streets and squares, and covered with costly + edifices, was then improved for gardens, orchards, and farms. I landed + from the ferry boat and took my way along the public highway which led + towards the interior of the island. The rural aspect of a cultivated + country, after having my view confined for many months to salt water and + the unseemly masses of brick and mortar called cities, gladdened my heart; + and I determined, in a spirit of true philosophy, to give vain cares and + regrets to the wind, and pass one pleasant day in rambling about that + agricultural district. + </p> + <p> + My efforts to obtain employment were not attended with success. My sailor + costume, my pale features, and my constitutional diffidence, which has + always been a drag in my efforts to press forward in the world, served me + not as a letter of recommendation among the shrewd and money-making + farmers and gardeners of Long Island. Indeed, to my mortification, I found + that a blue jacket and loose trousers, when worn by a weather-beaten or + bronzed-visaged wayfarer, were looked upon as PRIMA FACIE evidence that + "he was no better than he should be." One of the farmers to whom I + applied, after questioning me about my ability to work on a farm, came to + the conclusion that he did not require any additional help; another wanted + a hand, but I was not stout enough for his purpose; a third expressed a + belief that I was an impostor, and knew nothing about farming work; and a + fourth, after cross-questioning me until I felt assured he was satisfied + with my character and capacity, graciously informed me I might stay a week + or so on trial, and if I worked well perhaps he would give me my board + through the summer! My case was a desperate one, and I might have acceded + to his proposal if he had not unguardedly added that I should have to + sleep in a cockloft in the shed! And thus I wandered about that part of + the island the whole day, and returned to my boarding house towards dark, + fatigued, hungry, and unsuccessful. I told Hansen the result of my day's + labor. He looked disappointed and angry. + </p> + <p> + "You did not try!" said he. "I don't believe you said one word for + yourself. There is one more shilling gone for nothing. But you must pretty + quick find something to do." + </p> + <p> + The next day, when I returned home after my daily jaunt around the wharves + in search of employment, Hansen met me with a smile, and introduced me to + Stephen Schmidt, a thickset Dutchman, with little gray eyes, and capacious + cheeks, of a color which proved he was a dear lover of schnapps. Schmidt + claimed to be a native of Hudson; his ancestors were Dutch, and Dutch was + the sole language of his early days. He had been several years employed in + the North River sloops, but for the last six months had been in a coaster. + Wearied of this kind of life and afraid of impressment, as his English + pronunciation was strongly tinctured with the gutturals of a genuine + Knickerbocker, and British ships-of-war swarmed along our coast, he had + made up his mind to return to his home on the banks of the Hudson, and try + his hand at cultivating cabbages and manufacturing SAUER KRAUT! A man was + wanted in his place on board the coasting vessel and Hansen had persuaded + Schmidt to use his influence with the captain to procure me the enviable + situation. + </p> + <p> + I cared not a rush what kind of vessel this coaster was, whether old or + new, bound on a cruise to New Orleans or Baffin's Bay; nor did I care + whether the captain was a gentleman or a clown; a worthy man or an + ignorant bully. I was anxious to obtain the vacant situation, and feared + that the captain, following the fashion of the Long Island farmers, would + not like the cut of my jib. I learned, however, that the schooner was a + comfortable vessel, about a hundred tons burden, called the Mary, + belonging to Newbern in North Carolina. The name of the captain was + Thompson. The schooner was taking in cargo for Newbern, and would soon be + ready for sea. Towards evening I accompanied Schmidt to the wharf where + the Mary lay, and went on board, my bosom agitated with hopes and fears. + The captain was on deck, a sturdy, rough-looking man. Schmidt went boldly + up to him. "Captain Thompson," said he, "this is the man I spoke to you + about this morning to take my place." + </p> + <p> + "This the man?" said the captain, abruptly. "Why, this is a boy! He's + lame, too, and looks sickly. He will never do for me!" + </p> + <p> + It was time for me to speak; and I made a bold effort to overcome my + diffidence. "Sir," said I, "a few months ago I had the misfortune to break + my leg in Liverpool, and was sent home by the American consul. The limb is + nearly well; but I don't feel able to ship in a square-rigged vessel. But, + sir, I am in good health; I want employment; I can do as good a day's work + as any man on board your schooner. You will find me active, industrious, + and faithful. You may rely on it, sir, you will never have cause to repent + giving me the berth." + </p> + <p> + Captain Thompson eyed me sharply a few moments without saying a word. + After he had completed the examination of my person, he mildly inquired, + "How much wages do you expect?" + </p> + <p> + "Whatever you may think I am worth, sir," said I. "I owe my landlord for + three weeks board; but he will have to trust me for a part of it until I + come back to New York. I am but poorly off for clothes, but that is of no + consequence; summer is coming." + </p> + <p> + "You seem to be in a tight place, young man," said the kind-hearted + captain. "Come on board with your rattletraps tomorrow. I'll soon find out + what you are made of." + </p> + <p> + I returned home with a light heart, and rejoiced Hansen with the + intelligence that I had become one of the crew of the Mary. I promised him + every cent of my advance wages. With this he was obliged to be content, + but declared his intention to keep my chest, my books, and other articles + of trifling value, as security for the remainder of my board. To this I + made no objection, thinking it reasonable enough. But Captain Thompson, + the next day, when I received my half month's pay in advance, and informed + him of my arrangements, called me a fool, and inveighed in bitter terms + against the whole race of sailor landlords. + </p> + <p> + I took nothing with me on board the Mary but a change of clothing and a + few articles of trifling value, packed in an old pillow case, loaned me by + my landlady, with strict injunctions to return it if I ever came back to + New York. I was overjoyed to think I had found employment, and could gain + a subsistence by my own labors. I was sure of a home for a few weeks, + until I should recover from the effects of my mishap, when I hoped to be + above the necessity of asking favors. + </p> + <p> + The mate, whose name was Pierce, received me in a surly manner. He + evidently thought Captain Thompson did a foolish act in shipping such "a + useless piece of lumber" as myself. The crew, however, gave me a hearty + reception, which placed me at my ease. I found the crew to consist of two + young men, not much older than myself, and a negro boy. The two men were + swarthy sons of North Carolina, born near Cape Hatteras; good-hearted, + ignorant, lazy, careless fellows, who liked good living and clear comfort + better than hard work. The cook was of the genuine African type; and when + not employed in serious work about the camboose, was throwing off the + exuberance of his good humor in peals of laughter. Taken together, they + were a set of jolly fellows, and I rejoiced that my lot was cast among + them. My spirits, which had been below zero for some time, in spite of my + philosophy, took a sudden rise immediately, notwithstanding the sullen + humor of the mate, who, like Cassius, had "a lean and hungry look," and + never even indulged in a smile. He manifested a singular antipathy towards + me in all his acts. + </p> + <p> + Some animals seem to have a bitter hatred against those of their own kind + which are the victims of accident or misfortune. A wolf, wounded by + hunters, is torn in pieces by the pack; and a porpoise, if struck and + mangled by a harpoon, is pursued by the whole shoal, and put to death + without mercy. We sometimes find human beings possessed of such savage + attributes. They pay court to wealth and power, but when they find a + fellow-being stricken to the earth by misfortune or sickness, imbibe a + prejudice against him, and instead of stretching forth a kind and open + hand to relieve, will be more likely to shake a clinched fist in his face. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XVIII. SCHOONER MARY OF NEWBERN + </h2> + <p> + We cast loose from the wharf the following day, about the 20th of April, + 1812, and proceeded down the harbor. But the wind coming from the + eastward, we anchored above the Narrows. I was soon convinced that Captain + Thompson was no driver. Although originally a Massachusetts man, he had + lived long enough in southern climates to acquire indolent habits. When + the wind was ahead, if on anchorage ground, he would let go an anchor, + rather than take the trouble of beating to windward for what he considered + the trifling object of saving a day or two in the passage! "Have patience + and the wind will change," was his motto. He was not the only shipmaster I + have met with who was in the habit of looking after his own comfort as + well as the interest of his employer. + </p> + <p> + The wind was favorable the next day, and we glided past Sandy Hook and + entered on the broad ocean. Away we went to the southward with the wind + abeam, blowing a strong breeze from the westward. The captain took the + helm, and all hands were employed in clearing the decks and putting things + in order; Mr. Pierce being particularly active in the work, saying but + little, and looking unusually solemn. + </p> + <p> + I was on the weather side of the main deck, securing the lashings of the + long-boat, when I heard a splash in the water to leeward; at the same + moment the cook shouted out, with all the power of his African lungs, + "Goramity! Mr. Pierce is fell overboard!" + </p> + <p> + "The mate is overboard! The mate is overboard!" was now the cry from every + mouth. + </p> + <p> + "Hard-a-lee!" screamed the skipper, and at the same instant executed the + order himself by jamming the tiller hard down to leeward. "Haul the fore + sheet to windward! Clear away the long-boat! Be handy, lads! We'll save + the poor fellow yet." + </p> + <p> + And then the captain shouted to the unfortunate man, as he was seen not + far off in the wake, "Be of good cheer! Keep your head up! No danger! + We'll soon be alongside!" + </p> + <p> + I seized the cook's axe and cut away the lashings of the boat, and in a + space of time incredibly brief, the boat was lifted from the chocks by + main strength and launched over the side. We were about to shove off to + the struggling mate, when Captain Thompson, who had not taken his eyes + from the man after he had fallen overboard, and kept making signs and + giving him words of encouragement, exclaimed, in a mournful tone, "Avast + there with the boat! 'Tis no use. He's gone he's sunk, and out of sight. + We shall never see him again! Poor fellow poor fellow! May the Lord have + mercy on him!" + </p> + <p> + It appeared that Mr. Pierce had stepped on the lee gunwale for the purpose + of grasping a rope that was loose. His left hand was on one of the main + shrouds, when a sudden lurch disengaged his grasp and precipitated him + into the water. He was not a hundred yards from the schooner when he + disappeared. Whether his body struck against the side of the vessel as he + fell and he was thus deprived of the full use of his limbs, whether he was + panic-struck at the fate which appeared to await him, or unable to swim, + we could never learn. The simple, solemn fact, however, was before us in + all its terrible significance. The man who, a few moments before, stood on + the deck of the Schooner Mary, strong, healthy, and in the meridian of + life, was no longer with us. He was removed without warning; buried in the + depths of the ocean; cut off by some mysterious agency, "And sent to his + account With all his imperfections on his head." + </p> + <p> + Soon after this sad accident, when we had taken in the long-boat, trimmed + the sails, and were pursuing our way towards Cape Hatteras, the captain, + with a solemn look, called me to the helm and went into the cabin, where + he undoubtedly found consolation in the embrace of an intimate but + treacherous friend. Indeed, on his return to the deck, a few minutes + afterwards, I had olfactory demonstration that he and the brandy bottle + had been in close communion! Captain Thompson had hardly spoken to me + since we left the wharf in New York. He had now got his "talking tacks" on + board, and was sociable enough. + </p> + <p> + "Hawser," said he, with a sigh, "this is a serious and sad thing, this + death of poor Pierce. It might be your fate or mine at any time as easily + as his. He was just from Liverpool, having been shipwrecked on the English + coast, and on his way home to Washington, expecting to see his wife and + children in a few days. Poor fellow! This will be a terrible blow to his + family and friends. His fate, so sudden, is enough to make any man who IS + a man, think seriously of his 'better end' of what may become of him + hereafter!" He clinched this remark, which he delivered with much energy, + with an oath that almost made my hair stand on end, and struck me at the + time as being singularly out of place in that connection. + </p> + <p> + With another deep-drawn sigh he dismissed the subject, and did not again + allude to it. He spoke of the "embargo act," of various ingenious modes of + evading it, and of the prospect of a war with England; and made some + assertion in relation to proceedings in Congress, which, in a respectful + manner, but to his great astonishment, I ventured to dispute on the + authority of a paragraph I had seen in a New York newspaper a few days + before. The captain, after gravely staring me in the face a moment, as + much as to say, "What do YOU know about newspapers or politics?" inquired + the name of the newspaper I was talking about. + </p> + <p> + I mentioned the name of the paper. "Well," said he, "I have that paper, + with others, in a bundle in the cabin so that matter can be soon settled." + </p> + <p> + Down he went into the cabin, leaving me not a little alarmed at his + conduct. Thinks I to myself, "Can he be offended because a vagabond like + myself has dared to differ with him on a question of fact?" + </p> + <p> + He soon appeared on deck with a large bundle of newspapers, which he put + into my hands, at the same time taking possession of the tiller. "There," + said he, "find the newspaper you were speaking of and pick out the + paragraph, IF YOU CAN." + </p> + <p> + From my earliest boyhood I had manifested a strong attachment for + newspapers. It may have been that, not finding other means to gratify my + thirst for reading, I read every newspaper that came in my way; and as I + was blessed with a good memory, I always kept tolerably well posted in + regard to the current news of the day. I opened the bundle and promptly + singled out the newspaper in question, and pointing to a paragraph with my + finger, said, "There, sir, you may see for yourself." + </p> + <p> + The captain seemed astonished. He did not take the paper from my hands. + "My eyes," said he, "are not good; they are weak, and it troubles me to + read. Let me hear YOU read it." + </p> + <p> + I read the paragraph accordingly. The captain, meanwhile, fixed his eyes, + which exhibited no signs of weakness, upon me with an earnest expression. + When I finished reading, he nodded his head and mused a few moments in + silence, then hastily surrendered the tiller, bundled up the newspapers, + and vanished down the companion-way. + </p> + <p> + "What does this bode?" thought I to myself. "The man is evidently angry. I + acted like a fool to question anything he said, however absurd." I did + Captain Thompson injustice. He was not long absent, but soon came up the + steps, bringing a sack-bottomed chair in one hand and a suspicious-looking + pamphlet in the other. He placed the chair in front of the tiller. + </p> + <p> + "Hawser," said he, "sit down in that chair, and take this pamphlet, which + is one of the most wonderful books that was ever laid before a wicked + world. The author shows by figures, facts, and calculations that the world + will be destroyed on the 12th of June. Good Lord! The time is close at + hand. I have not read the book; my eyes trouble me too much besides, I + have not had time. But I have heard much about it, and received orders, + when I left Newbern for New York to bring back a dozen copies to enlighten + the poor creatures on their fate. Sit right down, Hawser, I tell you, and + go to work. I'll steer the schooner while you read." + </p> + <p> + I obeyed orders, as was my custom; and a curious picture we must have + presented, the captain steering the schooner and listening with greedy + ears to every word which fell from my lips, as, seated directly fronting + him, my back supported by the binnacle, I read in a clear and distinct + voice, and with due emphasis, the crude absurdities of a crack-brained + religious enthusiast. + </p> + <p> + This "wonderful pamphlet" was written by a man named Cochran, a resident + of Richmond, in Virginia, who, after poring over the Book of Revelation + for years, convinced himself that he had obtained a clew to the mysteries + contained in the writings of St. John. + </p> + <p> + After satisfying himself, as he said, beyond question of the correctness + of his views, he published his pamphlet of some thirty or forty pages, + notifying the public of the terrible fact that the day of judgment was at + hand; and predicting the day, and suggesting the hour, when the world + would come to an end! He even went so far as to describe the scene of + destruction, when all the elements would be put in motion to destroy + mankind, when volcanoes would deluge the land with liquid fire, and + earthquakes shake and shatter the world to its centre! + </p> + <p> + Cochran claimed to PROVE all this by his interpretation of the Book of + Revelation; by labored calculations based upon arithmetical principles, + and algebraic formulae until then unknown, but which appeared mystical and + appalling from the fact that they were incomprehensible. The book was + written in a style well calculated to perplex, astonish, or terrify the + readers, especially those who were not well stocked with intelligence. It + is therefore not remarkable that it caused a commotion wherever it was + circulated. The judgment day was the topic of discourse and persons of + ungodly lives and conversation were led to think seriously of the error of + their ways. + </p> + <p> + I read the pamphlet through, from title page to "finis," calculations, + figures, and all; and no reader ever had a more attentive listener. + Captain Thompson took the book in his hand after I had got through, and + gazed upon it attentively. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said he, "this beats cock fighting! The man keeps a good log; + works out his case like a sailing master; and proves it by alphabetic + signs and logarithms, as clear as a problem in plain sailing. This is a + great book; a tremendous book! I wish I had two hundred copies to + distribute among the poor, ignorant heathens at Newbern and Portsmouth. + Won't it make the folks stare like bewildered porpoises! Are you tired of + reading, Hawser?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir. I will read as long as you wish." + </p> + <p> + "Well, if that's the case, I'll bring up the Bible from the cabin, and you + may wind up with one or two of the chapters in Revelation, which are + referred to in the pamphlet." + </p> + <p> + The Bible was brought up, and I read to his great gratification until + about six o'clock, when the supper hour put a stop to our literary and + biblical pursuits. But the following day, the day after, every day, I had + to read that doomsday pamphlet whenever it was my turn to take the helm, + and frequently a chapter in the Bible besides. + </p> + <p> + One morning, as we were slowly moving along with a light breeze, on + soundings between Cape Henry and Cape Hatteras, a large loggerhead turtle + was seen a short distance to windward, motionless, and apparently asleep + on the water. This caused quite a sensation; every man was on deck in a + moment. The schooner was hove to, preparations were making to launch the + boat, and the captain was loudly calling for his GIG, a species of + three-pronged harpoon for striking small fish, when one of the crew, named + Church, remonstrated against this mode of proceeding. + </p> + <p> + "Hold on, captain," said he, "or you will lose the lovely crittur. If you + go near him in a boat he will open his peepers and vanish as suddenly as + an evil spirit sprinkled with holy water But I know a trick to take him + that cannot fail. Let me have my own way, and I'll catch that lazy, + lubberly chap, and bring him alongside, man fashion, in no time!" + </p> + <p> + Church, while making this appeal, had been hastily divesting himself of + his garments, and by the time he finished his remarks, stood, EN CUERPO, + on the gunwale. + </p> + <p> + "Go ahead, my lad!" said the captain. "But if you let that turtle slip + through your fingers, don't you ever come back to the schooner." + </p> + <p> + Church grinned, let himself gently into the water, and paddled away + noiselessly and swiftly towards the unsuspicious reptile, who was lazily + snoozing in midday, without dreaming of danger. The sailor approached him + warily from behind; and when sufficiently near, grabbed the astonished + animal by the stern flippers, and exclaimed, "Hurrah, the day's our own, + boys! Captain, I've got a prize. Run up the stripes and stars. Turtle + steaks forever! Victory, hurrah!" + </p> + <p> + The turtle, although taken at disadvantage, did not at once "give up the + ship." He struggled manfully for that liberty which is the birthright of + every living creature, and made a desperate attempt to go down, knowing + intuitively that his captor would not dare follow him to the depths below. + But whenever he attempted to dive, Church threw the whole weight of his + body on the stern flippers, and thus prevented him from executing that + maneuver. After being foiled in this manner two or three times his + turtleship seemed disposed to abandon this mode of proceeding, and tried + to paddle off with his forward flippers, as if to escape from the + incumbrance. Church was now in his glory. By PULLING one hind flipper and + PUSHING the other he could guide the reptile in whatever direction he + pleased, and soon navigated him alongside the schooner, when a rope was + hospitably put around the neck of the captive, and he was hauled on board. + </p> + <p> + Passing around Cape Hatteras, between the outer shoals and the land, we + arrived at Ocracoke Inlet. The wind being ahead, we were unable to cross + the bar, but remained two or three days at anchor in its immediate + vicinity. Ocracoke Inlet is the main entrance into Pamlico Sound, a large + inlet or body of water, some eighty miles long, separated from the sea by + low sandy islands, mostly inhabited. On this Sound are situated some + thriving towns, and into it the rivers Tar and Neuse empty their waters. + The little town or village of Portsmouth is situated on an island in the + immediate vicinity of Ocracoke Inlet. The inhabitants, or those who at + that time deigned to pursue any regular occupation, were for the most part + engaged in fishing and piloting. The sand banks, shoals, and flats in that + neighborhood furnish admirable facilities for seine fisheries, and + enormous quantities of mullets were taken every year on those sandy + shores, packed in barrels, and sent to the West Indies. + </p> + <p> + There was also at that time carried on with considerable success, a + porpoise fishery, after a fashion peculiar, I believe, to that part of the + world. Porpoises often made their appearance very near the coast, in + shoals not "schools," for porpoises are uneducated some hundreds in + number. They were surrounded by boats and driven into shallow water. When + sufficiently near the land, a strong seine was cautiously drawn around + them and they were slowly but surely dragged to the beach; the blubber was + stripped from their carcasses and converted into oil. Sometimes a shark + was found in their company, who, disdaining to be so easily subdued, + performed wondrous feats of strength and ferocity, biting and maiming the + inoffensive porpoises without mercy, and in most cases rending the seine + by his enormous power, and escaping from his persecutors. + </p> + <p> + When lying at Ocracoke, waiting for a chance over "the Swash," the crew of + the Mary having little to do, were generally engaged in looking after + their physical comforts by laying in a stock of shell-fish. Oysters were + found in abundance all along shore, and of excellent quality; also the + large clam known as the QUAHAUG, which when properly cooked and divested + of its toughness is capital food; crabs, of delicate flavor and + respectable size, were taken in hand-nets in any quantity; and flounders, + mullets, and drum-fish were captured with little trouble. Ducks and teal, + and other kinds of water fowl, abounded in the creeks and coves. + </p> + <p> + The staple articles of food on board the Mary consisted of corn meal, + molasses, Carolina hams and middlings, with sweet lard and salt pork, in + unstinted quantities. As a drink, instead of Oriental tea and West India + or manufactured coffee, we were supplied with the decoction of an herb + found in the woods or swamps of the Carolinas, and generally known as + YAUPON TEA. It was at first insipid, if not unpalatable, but improved + greatly on a more intimate acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + In the Mary we were stinted in nothing that could be readily procured; and + having a cook who prided himself on his skill in manufacturing hoe-cakes, + oyster fritters, clam chowders, turtle stews and the like, I am free to + confess that so far as related to GOOD LIVING, I never passed three months + more satisfactorily than while I was on board the Mary of Newbern. I often + compared it with my wretched fare on board the Schooner John, or with my + "short commons" in the Liverpool Infirmary, and the result was decidedly + in favor of the North Carolina coaster. + </p> + <p> + The inhabitants of the district bordering on Ocracoke Inlet, as a body, + were not remarkable for industrious habits, or sober and exemplary lives. + Fishing and piloting, I have already said, constituted their chief + business. Many, being too lazy to work, indulged themselves in lounging, + drinking, betting, cock-fighting, and similar amusements. One redeeming + virtue, however, they possessed, which is not always met with among the + sedate, thrifty, and moral portion of mankind hospitality! They were + frank, open-hearted, and compassionate; professed no virtues which they + did not practise; would throw open their doors to the stranger, welcome + him to their dwellings, and freely share their last dollar with a friend. + </p> + <p> + The news reached Portsmouth by the pilot boat that Captain Thompson had + arrived from New York, and had brought the pamphlet which proclaimed the + destruction of the world. The people took a deep interest in the subject. + The men visited the schooner by scores; and as most of them were unable to + read, through the infirmities of ignorance and "weak eyes," my literary + powers were put in requisition, and again and again I was compelled to + read aloud, for their edification, the conglomeration of absurdities which + the prophet had put forth. They listened with attention; and it was + amusing to hear their strange remarks and queer logic in favor of or + against the prediction. The effect upon the minds of some of these + children of the sandy isles was undoubtedly beneficial. It led them to + think; it brought the Bible directly before them, and reminded them that + whether the pamphlet was true or false a day of judgment was at hand. + </p> + <p> + The wind having changed, we crossed "the Swash," entered the Sound, and + soon reached the mouth of the River Neuse. This is a stream of + considerable importance, being four hundred miles in length, and draining + a large tract of country. It is navigable for boats about one half that + distance. An immense quantity of produce is brought down the river from + the interior of the state and deposited at Newbern, whence it is shipped + to different parts of the world. + </p> + <p> + Newbern is situated about forty or fifty miles from Pamlico sound, on the + south-west bank of the Neuse, and at the junction of that river with the + Trent. It was, in 1812, a pleasant and flourishing town, containing about + three thousand inhabitants, who carried on a prosperous business to the + West Indies, and who employed many vessels in the coasting trade. + </p> + <p> + On reaching Newbern the crew were discharged, the voyage being terminated. + Captain Thompson told me that the schooner would be sent on another voyage + without delay, and if I was willing to remain and take charge of her at + the wharf, keep an account of the cargo as it was delivered and received + on board, I should be allowed the same wages I had been receiving, eight + or ten dollars a month. I accepted the proposition without hesitation. + Indeed, the arrangement was to the advantage of both parties; he secured + at a low rate of compensation the services of one who could perform the + duties or shipkeeper and mate combined, and I was provided with an asylum, + board, lodging, plenty of work, and pay into the bargain. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XIX. A TRIP TO BALTIMORE + </h2> + <p> + When we arrived at Newbern, the people, having heard of the dreadful + prophecies, were prepared to receive the pamphlets and devour their + contents. Cochran's name, connected with the day of judgment, was in every + mouth. Groups collected at the corners of the streets and on the wharves, + composed of persons of various characters and all complexions, and + discussed the subject of the prediction with wonderful earnestness and + intensity of feeling. Indeed, the excitement in Newbern and vicinity, + caused by this pamphlet, was hardly exceeded in sober New England in 1839 + and 1840, when the charlatan, Miller, by his ridiculous predictions, + spread a panic through the land; when many persons, discarding the modicum + of brains they were supposed to possess, abandoned their farms, neglected + their families, gave away to wiser persons the little property they owned, + and actually prepared their "ascension robes," to meet with decency and + decorum the day of doom. + </p> + <p> + On the second day after our arrival at Newbern, when I had finished my + labors for the day and was preparing for rest, Captain Thompson came + hurriedly down the wharf and sprang on board the schooner. "Hawser," said + he, as soon as he recovered breath, "you must rig yourself up a little and + go with me to Captain Merritt's." + </p> + <p> + "What is going on there, sir, that requires my presence?" + </p> + <p> + "The boarders want you to read Cochran's pamphlet, and you MUST come." + </p> + <p> + "But I have no suitable clothes to rig myself up with, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Never mind your clothes. Wash your face, comb your hair, straighten up + your collar, look in the glass, and you will do well enough. But bear a + hand. They are waiting for you now." + </p> + <p> + I arranged my toilet in accordance with the captain's suggestions. When I + gave it the finishing touch, by "looking in the glass," I was not + satisfied, believing my costume could hardly reflect honor on the company; + and my heart throbbed with emotion as I accompanied Captain Thompson to + his boarding house. We entered the dining hall, the centre of which was + occupied by a long table, around which were seated some fifteen or twenty + well-dressed individuals, chiefly masters of vessels, and very different + in their appearance and manner from the Ocracoke pilots. At the head of + the table was an empty chair, towards which I was led by my conductor, who + told me to be seated. + </p> + <p> + Naturally bashful, and conscious of my inferior position, I hardly knew + whether I was asleep or awake; but was soon restored to my senses by + Captain Thompson, who said, in an off-hand manner, "Hawser, these + gentlemen are anxious to hear you read Cochran's pamphlet, which tells + about the judgment day;" and he pushed towards me a copy of the + prediction. + </p> + <p> + I took the familiar document and commenced my labors. My voice was + tremulous at first, but I soon became accustomed to its sound, and as, by + this time, I knew the greater portion of the book by heart, I got through + the tissue of extravagance with great credit, not only to the prophet + Cochran but myself. + </p> + <p> + My auditors listened with the closest attention, hardly seeming to + breathe, and it was curious to mark the various expressions which their + tell-tale countenances exhibited as I proceeded. After I had completed my + task, the gentlemen breathed more freely, and stared at one another in + silence. One or two were inclined to treat the prediction with levity, but + their remarks were not well received. It was generally conceded that the + subject was not a proper one for a joke. I received the thanks of several + of my auditors for the acceptable manner in which I had performed my part + in the drama. A few evenings afterwards I was again called upon to lay the + contents of this everlasting pamphlet before another set of eager + listeners! And I rejoiced when, with a full cargo of naval stores and + Carolina notions, the schooner left the wharf, bound on a voyage to + Baltimore. + </p> + <p> + On reaching Ocracoke Inlet, it appeared that the impression which the + predictions of Cochran had made upon the minds of the inhabitants was not + effaced. We lay at anchor there three days waiting for a wind to cross the + bar, and every evening I was called upon to read chapters in the Bible for + the edification of the worthy Ocracoke pilots, who probably had not heard + a chapter of Scripture recited for years. The prophecy had taken a deep + hold on the minds of some; and ribald jests and disgusting oaths were + seldom heard in the neighborhood of "the Swash." + </p> + <p> + I was treated with kindness by Captain Thompson, and performed many of the + duties of mate without occupying the station or receiving the pay. On the + passage to Baltimore the captain exhibited occasional symptoms of piety, + and at one time would listen to a chapter in the Bible with commendable + gravity, and discourse seriously on serious subjects; half an hour + afterwards he would resume his profane and disorderly habits, and chase + away reflection by getting drunk! He was not at peace with himself; and he + dearly loved whiskey and peach brandy. + </p> + <p> + It was a pleasant season of the year, and the trip to Baltimore, through + the waters of the Chesapeake Bay, was an interesting one. I expected to + find in Baltimore a distant relative, who had often visited my father's + house; been for a time domiciled in his family, and had received repeated + favors. He was now in a respectable position in Baltimore, and in the + simplicity of my heart I longed to visit him, talk with him over family + matters, and listen to words of advice and encouragement from a friend and + relative. + </p> + <p> + We arrived at Baltimore on a Friday afternoon. I had spoken to Captain + Thompson about my relative and my anticipations of a cordial welcome. His + experience, however, had led him to entertain an unfavorable opinion of + mankind in general, and he expressed a doubt whether a knowledge of my + forlorn condition would not repel the advances and freeze the affectionate + welcome which under other circumstances I might have expected. I was + indignant at such an insinuation, and made known my intention to call upon + my kinsman the next day, and put his feelings to the proof. The captain + kindly aided my purpose. He received information from the wharfinger of + the place of business and position of my relative; and on the following + afternoon, after making myself look as respectable as possible, I + proceeded, with a guide furnished by the wharfinger, to the counting room + or office of my father's friend and protege in a distant part of the city. + </p> + <p> + I found him alone, writing at his desk, and recognized him immediately. + But he stared at me, and inquired my business. I mentioned my name; upon + which he seemed greatly astonished, bade me be seated, and questioned me + about myself and connections. I told him the tale of my adventures, gave + him the name of the schooner to which I belonged, the wharf at which she + was lying, and also of the wharfinger, one of his intimate acquaintances, + who had directed me to his office. + </p> + <p> + He expressed gratification that I had called upon him, said he should + always be glad to hear of my welfare, and after a pause of a few minutes, + rather gravely remarked that he would gladly render me any service in his + power; but he was at that time busy, and requested me to visit him at his + boarding house the next morning at nine o'clock, when he should have + leisure to talk with me further. I returned to the schooner well satisfied + with my reception, and recounted to Captain Thompson the particulars of + the interview. The captain shook his head, and smiled incredulously. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, being Sunday, I put myself in what I considered passable + trim, and proceeded with a light heart to the boarding house, which I + found to be a handsome edifice in a genteel part of the city. I knocked at + the door and inquired for my kinsman. The servant ushered me into a hall + and left me. He was absent some time, during which I was an object of + curiosity to several persons of both sexes who entered or left an + adjoining apartment. One very pretty young woman seemed unpleasantly + struck with my appearance, and expressed in audible tones her astonishment + at my impertinence in entering the front door. The servant at length + returned and said the gentleman I wanted was unwell, and could not be + seen. + </p> + <p> + I was thunderstruck at this announcement, and declared it must be a + mistake. I bade him return and tell the gentlemen I was the person whom he + requested to call that morning at nine o'clock on important business. Some + ten minutes elapsed; my pride took the alarm. Could he be inventing some + paltry excuse for getting rid of what he might consider my importunities? + The young woman again appeared who had before honored me with her notice, + and who I presumed was the daughter of the woman who kept the house. She + accosted me in a manner by no means flattering to my self-esteem, and told + me the gentleman whom I so absolutely persisted in seeing was quite + unwell, and unable to converse with any one that day; that I must come + tomorrow or the day following, or some other day, when he would be quite + well and at leisure! With a contemptuous toss of her pretty head, she + showed me the door, and motioned me to depart. + </p> + <p> + "Tell him," said I, "that I shall not trouble him again." She smiled, as + if my remark met her hearty approval, and closed the door with a slam! + </p> + <p> + I slowly returned, through the many magnificent thoroughfares of + Baltimore, to the schooner. The streets were thronged with people + elegantly dressed, who appeared to be rejoicing in their good fortune and + happy in their friends and families. As I pensively wandered along, + unnoticed and unknown, I felt all my loneliness, and began to think the + prosperous and happy times would never arrive that had been promised in my + dreams. The conduct of my relative disappointed me much. It shook my + confidence in mankind, and paralyzed my small stock of self-esteem a + quality essential to even ordinary success in life. + </p> + <p> + Captain Thompson, perceiving my dejected air, inquired into the + particulars of my interview. I related to him the facts, but suggested + excuses, and placed the matter in as favorable a light as the truth would + admit. The straightforward sailor, however, saw through it all. He could + not contain his indignation: after letting it explode in true sailor + fashion, he concluded with this piece of practical philosophy: "Never + mind, Hawser; 'tis the way of the world. I have always found it so. As for + gratitude, affection, disinterested kindness, and friendship, 'tis all a + humbug! RELY ON YOURSELF. Fight the battle of life alone. If you conquer, + you will find friends, kind friends, disinterested friends. Ha, ha, ha! + Cheer up, my boy." + </p> + <p> + I still clung to a hope that there was some mistake, perhaps a blunder on + the part of the servant who delivered the message, and that I should + receive a note or a visit the next day which would set the matter right. + But neither note nor visit came. In a few days the schooner Mary left + Baltimore on the return to Newbern. + </p> + <p> + On the passage, the captain was testy, petulant, and unhappy. The prophecy + of Cochran had taken a stronger hold on his mind than he was willing to + acknowledge. I was called upon to read aloud chapters in the Bible, and + especially in the Book of Revelation, Knotty passages in the pamphlet I + was also required to read from time to time. But the oftener they were + read, and the more closely they were examined, the greater was the puzzle, + the more complete the mystification. + </p> + <p> + We reached Ocracoke in the evening, and the next morning had a fair wind + over the bar and across Pamlico Sound. This was the day on which the + dreaded prediction was to be fulfilled. The sun rose in a clear, unclouded + sky on the morning of that day, and its beams flashed brilliantly and + benignly, as with a gentle breeze from the northward we entered the mouth + of the River Neuse. There could not be a lovelier day. Even Captain + Thompson felt apparently relieved of his anxiety as he looked abroad upon + the beauties of nature and beheld no indications of the day of doom. He + saw no anger in the heavens; he heard no moans from the distressed animals + instinctively snuffing the near approach of danger and death; he breathed + no stifled and sulphurous atmosphere nor witnessed any other sign of the + near approach of a terrible calamity. He even ventured to express an + opinion that "the prophecy of that old rascal Cochran would not prove true + after all." + </p> + <p> + We reached Newbern in the afternoon, and found everybody gazing at the + heavens with eager looks, in which it would be difficult to say whether + fear or curiosity predominated. Many would not venture to bed till their + hopes were made certain by the striking of the midnight hour; and then + they were so overjoyed at what appeared a new lease of life, that sleep, + that "sweet restorer," was a stranger during the night. In the morning, + however, a gloom was again cast over the spirits of some of the most + superstitious by the remark of a meddlesome old West India captain, that + undoubtedly Cochran, like the seers of olden times, made his calculations + according to the "old style" of computing time. Thus twelve additional + days were allowed to pass before they dared give a full loose to their joy + at the failure of the prediction. + </p> + <p> + After we had discharged our cargo in Newbern, I indicated to Captain + Thompson that I should like to pass a few days on shore, take respite from + labor, look around the town, and take note of the place and its + inhabitants. + </p> + <p> + He admitted the reasonableness of my proposition, but took decided + measures to prevent my being led astray by bad company. The worthy + captain, although addicted to irregular habits himself, and in his own + person and character a dangerous exemplar for a young man, watched my + proceedings with the closest scrutiny, and lost no chance to impress on my + mind correct rules of conduct. He particularly cautioned me against the + habit of drinking intoxicating liquors. "It is," said he with a sigh, "a + rock on which many a noble vessel has been wrecked." So much easier is it + to preach than to practise. + </p> + <p> + With a view to insure my moral safety, Captain Thompson insisted that + while I remained on shore I should stay at his boarding house and occupy + the same room with himself. I accordingly took up my quarters at Captain + Merritt's, where I was heartily welcomed by the landlord and his boarders. + </p> + <p> + The impression made upon my mind by the good people of Newbern was + decidedly favorable. I was advised, by several substantial citizens to + whom I was introduced, to make Newbern my home. I was assured that I + should meet with success corresponding with my merits. I regarded the + suggestion as a compliment; and having agreed to accompany Captain + Thompson on another coasting voyage to New York, I determined to take the + matter into consideration. I never returned to Newbern. But I have always + felt grateful for the kind conduct and encouraging words which I received + from the good people of that pleasant and flourishing city. Ever since + that time the name of Newbern falls gently on my ear, and conjures up a + thousand agreeable associations. + </p> + <p> + The owner of the Mary, Mr. Jarvis, was an active and enterprising man. He + did not allow his vessels to remain idle. In a few days we had another + cargo on board, and proceeded down the river on our way to New York. Being + detained as usual at the Inlet, several of the pilots and other + inhabitants of Portsmouth came on board, and the ribald jest, the oath, + and the dram cup passed freely round. Cochran's pamphlet was consigned to + oblivion. I was no longer called upon to read passages from the Holy + Scriptures. Solemn looks and serious conversation were voted a bore. They + laughed at their former fears; a reaction had taken place, and the + struggle now seemed to be who should surpass his fellows in wickedness. + </p> + <p> + So much for Cochran's famous prediction, closely resembling in character + that of Miller at a later day, and uttered with as much confidence and + believed by as many persons. Morever, it is probable that Cochran was as + sincere in his belief as Miller, perhaps more so, for the miserable man, + finding his imagination had played him a trick, and that his prediction + had not been fulfilled, overcome by mortification, and not supported by a + pure religious principle, COMMITTED SUICIDE BY CUTTING HIS THROAT. + </p> + <p> + It is hardly worth while for man to attempt to solve mysteries in order to + ascertain when the day of judgment will arrive. He should strive so to + regulate his actions, that, let it come when it will, he need not fear the + result. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XX. DECLARATION OF WAR + </h2> + <p> + On our passage to New York we met with no remarkable occurrence, and saw + not a cruiser of any nation. On reaching the city, we found that an + extraordinary excitement prevailed. War had been declared against Great + Britain; an American fleet under Commodore Rodgers had sailed the day + before on a cruise. The frigate Essex was at Brooklyn with a complete and + gallant crew, and her commander, Captain Porter, was making preparations + for an immediate departure. This brave officer made no secret of his + intention to bring the enemy to close quarters whenever a chance offered, + and proclaimed throughout the frigate that any man who repented having + shipped might receive his discharge. + </p> + <p> + One man only of the hundreds composing the crew availed himself of the + captain's proclamation, under the plausible pretext that he was an + Englishman. But it having been ascertained that so far from being a loyal + subject of the king of Great Britain, he was a native-born Yankee with a + cowardly spirit, his shipmates were so indignant that they tarred and + feathered him, carried him over to New York, placed a placard on his + breast, formed a procession, and paraded him through the streets. + </p> + <p> + There was a great bustle about the wharves in New York, although of a + different kind from that which prevailed two months previous in + consequence of the embargo. Clippers of all kinds and sizes were bought up + at enormous prices, and rapidly transformed into privateers and letters of + marque. Heavy guns, instead of bales of goods, were dragged through the + streets by dray horses, and muskets, cutlasses, and boarding pikes met the + eye at every turn. Fierce-looking men with juvenile mustachios jostled + each other in the streets, and even the dapper clerks and peaceable + artisans swore deeper oaths and assumed more swaggering airs. News of + naval battles was anxiously looked for, startling rumors of all kinds were + afloat, and every vessel which arrived was supposed to be fraught with + momentous intelligence respecting the cruisers on the coast. I noted these + proceedings, caught the spirit of enthusiasm, and sympathized in the + excitement which so universally prevailed. I told Captain Thompson I had + made up my mind to join a privateer. To this remark the worthy skipper + made no reply but by a smile, which I interpreted as an approval of my + determination. + </p> + <p> + One of my first acts, however, was to call on Hansen, the keeper of the + boarding house where I had formerly resided, and discharge my debt. I + resumed possession of my chest and books, which I regarded as my greatest + treasure. I had recovered from my lameness. I was strong and active, and + although poorly off for clothing or worldly goods, was free from debt, and + had a couple of dollars which I could call my own. My condition had + decidedly improved; the prospect ahead began to brighten, and I felt able + and anxious to perform a manly part in any noble enterprise. + </p> + <p> + I took an early opportunity to look around the wharves, and examine the + privateers that were getting ready for a cruise. Two of these vessels + particularly commanded my admiration, the Teaser and the Paul Jones. The + Teaser was a New York pilot boat of ninety tons burden, a rakish, + wicked-looking clipper enough. Her armament consisted chiefly of one long + eighteen-pounder amidships. The Paul Jones was a large schooner of two + hundred and twenty tons, heavily rigged, with immense spars, a spacious + deck, and of a genuine buccaneer model. The armament of this privateer + consisted of one long twenty-four-pounder and twelve heavy carronades. + </p> + <p> + After the deliberation I fixed upon the Paul Jones as the more desirable + vessel. The warlike preparations and rakish appearance of this schooner + looked like BUSINESS, and I had seen the insolence of John Bull so often + exhibited on the broad highway of nations, and had so often listened to + his taunts and sneers in ridicule of the prowess of the Yankees, that I + longed for an opportunity to lend a hand to give him a drubbing. I stepped + on board and inquired of an officer who seemed busy in giving directions, + if I could have a chance in the privateer. He asked me a few questions, to + which I gave satisfactory answers. He said there were many applications of + a similar character, but he thought he could insure me a situation; told + me to call next day at two o'clock, when the agent would be on board, and + the matter could be arranged. + </p> + <p> + The important part which the American privateers bore in the last war with + Great Britain is well known. They were fitted out in every port, manned by + brave and active men, and heavily armed. Managed with seaman-like + dexterity, and superior in sailing capacity to vessels belonging to any + other nation, they could not be easily captured. The injury inflicted on + the commerce of Great Britain by these privateers is incalculable. They + carried terror among our enemies in the remotest parts of the ocean, and + the desire of the British government to put an end to the war may, in + part, be attributed to the activity, courage, and enterprise of our + privateers. The principle has been adopted in all ages, that private + property, captured on the high seas, is a lawful prize to the captors; + also, that the destruction of private property belonging to an enemy is a + justifiable act. To a well-constituted mind it must appear, on + investigation, that such principles are unjust, belong to a barbarous age, + and cannot be advocated on any platform of ethics recognized among + civilized nations in modern times. + </p> + <p> + An attempt was made within a few years on the part of Great Britain, which + also met the approval of the French government, TO ABOLISH THE PRIVATEER + SYSTEM, on the ground that this mode of warfare is wrong in principle, + irregular subject to abuses, and to a certain extent irresponsible. A + proposition was made to our government to be a party to an agreement to + abolish the system forever. Under the cloak of Christian philanthropy this + was a master stroke or policy on the part of the British and French + governments. Should the privateer system be abolished and a war unhappily + take place between this country and France or Great Britain, either of + those nations, with myriads of heavily armed men-of-war, could overrun the + ocean, and every American merchantman venturing to sea would be captured + or burned; our own commerce would be annihilated, while OUR FEW NATIONAL + SHIPS, scattered over a large surface, could offer but little check to the + commercial pursuits of an enemy. + </p> + <p> + Our government met the proposition in a manly manner, and while it + declined entering into any agreement which had for its exclusive object + the abolition of the privateer system, a measure which would inure chiefly + to the advantage of Great Britain or France, it went further, and declared + itself ready to accede to any arrangement by which, during a war, private + property of every character should be exempted from capture, not only by + privateers but NATIONAL VESSELS. This noble suggestion, worthy a great + nation in an enlightened age, did not meet the views of our friends across + the water. This broad Christian principle, if carried out, would deprive + them of many advantages they might reasonably expect to derive from their + numerous ships of war. + </p> + <p> + It must be evident that in case of a war between this country and a mighty + naval power, which we trust will never occur, the many large "clipper + ships," which compose a large portion of our commercial marine, will be + provided with screw propellers, and transformed into privateers. Armed + with guns of the heaviest metal, unequalled in speed, and able to select + their distance and position, they will prove a formidable means of defence + and aggression; and will do much towards protecting our own commerce while + they will destroy that of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + With a buoyant heart I left the proud and warlike looking privateer, Paul + Jones, and proceeded to the slip where the schooner Mary lay. For this + vessel, looking so demure and Quaker-like, I very ungratefully began to + entertain feelings akin to contempt. She was now taking in cargo and was + expected to sail in a few days on her return to Newbern. When Captain + Thompson came on board, I told him I had engaged to join the privateer + Paul Jones, which vessel was about to sail on a cruise. He seemed greatly + astonished, and abruptly asked me what I meant by such conduct. I + explained my intentions more at length, and referred to the notice I had + given of my wish to join a privateer. + </p> + <p> + "I had no idea you were serious," said the captain. "I thought you + intended it as a joke. I didn't suppose you were such a confounded fool as + to think seriously of joining a privateer." + </p> + <p> + "Why, sir, what can I do better? Our merchant ships will be laid up or + captured on the high seas. Even the coasting trade will be destroyed by + British cruisers stationed along the whole extent of our coast. If I + return to Newbern, I shall probably be thrown out of employment; a + stranger in a small place, and almost as destitute as when I first shipped + on board the Mary. I have pondered on the subject, and am convinced that + my best course is to go a privateering." + </p> + <p> + "Go to Beelzebub, you mean!" exclaimed the captain, in a rage. "I have no + patience with you. You talk nonsense. The schooner will not be laid up on + her return to Newbern. And, furthermore, you have signed a contract to + perform a voyage from Newbern to New York AND BACK! And I shall hold you + to your agreement. Go a privateering! Pah!" + </p> + <p> + We had some further discussion, in the midst of which Mr. Jarvis, the + owner of the schooner, who had arrived in New York a day or two before + from North Carolina, came on board. He was a dignified-looking man, + greatly respected and esteemed in Newbern. He espoused captain Thompson's + side of the argument, assured me it was unlikely his vessels would be laid + up on account of the war, and would promise me that in any event I should + not be thrown out of employment. If his vessels remained idle at the + wharves, he would find business for me in his counting room until more + propitious times. + </p> + <p> + The united remonstrances of the captain and the owner of the Mary came + with a force I was unable to resist; with a strong effort I gulped down my + disappointment, and gave up my darling project of making a cruise in the + Paul Jones. Our fortunes in this life our destinies seem sometimes + balanced on a pivot which a breath will turn. Had I accomplished my + intention and embarked on a cruise, how different my fate, in all + likelihood, would have been! + </p> + <p> + We left New York about the 2d of July. After having reached the offing, + while pursuing our course with diligence towards Cape Hatteras, we were + overhauled by a New York pilot boat of the smallest size, apparently bound + in the same direction. This little schooner was in ballast, and skimmed + over the seas like a Mother Carey's chicken; ranged up on our weather + quarter and hailed us. It proved to be the Young Pilot, Captain Moncrieff, + bound to Savannah. The mate, whose name was Campbell, was known to Captain + Thompson. They had been boarders in the same house. After an interchange + of salutations and hearty wishes for a pleasant voyage, the little + schooner rapidly drew ahead and passed on her way. There was nothing + remarkable in this incident. I little thought at the time that this + egg-shell of a vessel was destined to exercise an important influence on + the future events of my life. + </p> + <p> + On the morning of the Fourth of July we were off the Chesapeake Bay, some + twelve or fifteen miles from Cape Henry. Captain Thompson was a sterling + patriot. He dearly loved his country, and gladly caught at every chance to + display the broad flag of the Union. Accordingly, on this memorable day + the gorgeous ensign was hoisted at the peak, the American jack waved at + the fore-topmast head, and a long pennant fell in wavy folds from the main + truck. + </p> + <p> + "If I had a big gun," exclaimed the worthy skipper, in a paroxysm of + patriotism "a thirty-two-pound carronade, I would fire a genuine + republican salute, and make such a thundering noise, not only in the air + above but in the depths below, as to wake up the lazy inhabitants of the + deep, and make them peep out of their caves to ask the cause of the + terrible rumpus over their heads." At this very moment a + suspicious-looking, double-headed cloud was slowly rising in the west, and + ere long spread over a large space in the heavens. As it rolled onward, + flashes of lightning were seen and a distant rumbling was heard a thunder + squall was at hand. The lightning became more vivid, and the thunder more + frequent and deafening. Every sail was lowered to the deck, the helm was + put hard a-port, and the gust came upon us with terrible fury. The rain + fell in torrents, the lightning kept the atmosphere in a constant state of + illumination, and the peals of thunder were truly appalling! A grander + salute, or a more brilliant and effective display of fireworks on the + Fourth of July, could hardly have been wished by the most enthusiastic + patriot. Even Captain Thompson's longings for "a thundering noise" were + more than realized. He stood firmly on the break of the quarter-deck, + surrounded by most of the crew, who seemed to gather near him for + protection, astonished and terrified at the sublimity of the scene. + </p> + <p> + I was standing on the main deck, not far from the rest of the crew at the + time, and noticed that when the storm struck the schooner, some ropes that + had not been hitched to a belaying pin were flying loose and might become + unrove. I stepped forward, and standing on tiptoe was in the act of + stretching up my right arm to grasp the end of the peak-halliards, when + there came a flash of white lightning which almost blinded every man on + deck, accompanied by a peal of thunder that seemed loud enough to shake + the world to its centre. We all believed the schooner had been struck by + lightning. This was not the case. It was, nevertheless, a narrow escape. I + received on my hand and arm an electric shock, which tingled through every + nerve and nearly felled me to the deck, and rendered my arm powerless for + an hour afterwards. + </p> + <p> + The captain now seemed really alarmed. He ordered me in a loud voice to + come aft, and told the crew to follow him into the cabin, leaving the + schooner to manage matters with the thunder storm and take care of + herself. He produced a bottle of "old Madeira" from a locker, and filled + several glasses; and while the short-lived storm raged fearfully above our + heads, he insisted on every man drinking a toast in honor of the Fourth of + July, and set the example himself by tossing off a tumbler filled to the + brim. + </p> + <p> + We rounded Cape Hatteras early one delightful morning, and with a pleasant + breeze from the northward shaped our course for Ocracoke Inlet. Several + coasters were in company, and a small schooner was seen standing towards + us from the Gulf Stream. This vessel was soon recognized as the Young + Pilot, bound to Savannah, which we had spoken off Sandy Hook. The captain + of the little schooner appeared to recognize the Mary, hoisted his colors, + and steered directly towards us. + </p> + <p> + "What can that fellow want?" muttered Captain Thompson. "He should have + been in Savannah before this? What has he been doing away there in the + Gulf Stream? There is roguery somewhere?" + </p> + <p> + The Young Pilot soon came within hail, when Captain Moncrieff requested + Captain Thompson to heave to, as he wanted to come on board. The boat was + launched from the deck of the pilot boat, and, manned by four athletic + seamen, brought Captain Moncrieff alongside in handsome style. He jumped + on deck, grasped the hand of Captain Thompson, and requested to have some + conversation with him in the cabin. They were absent communing together + for several minutes, when Captain Thompson thrust his head out of the + companion-way, and looking round, caught my eye. He beckoned me to enter + the cabin. + </p> + <p> + "What's in the wind now?" thought I to myself. "What part am I to play in + this mysterious drama? Something better than reading doomsday pamphlets, I + hope." + </p> + <p> + I went down into the cabin. "Here," said Captain Thompson to Captain + Moncrieff, pointing to me, "is the only person on board my vessel who + would think of accompanying you on your voyage. I would gladly assist you + in your unpleasant dilemma, but I cannot advise him to go with you. + Nevertheless, if he is willing I shall make no objection." + </p> + <p> + Captain Moncrieff gazed upon me with a look of deep interest. "Young man," + said he, "you are aware I sailed from New York the same day with the Mary. + My vessel was cleared at the custom house for Savannah; this was necessary + in consequence of the embargo; but I was in reality bound for LaGuayra, on + the Spanish Main, being the bearer of despatches of importance to a ship + belonging to New York. On egging off to the eastward, to cross the Gulf + Stream, my crew, convinced that Savannah was not my destined port, began + to murmur. And when I acknowledged I was bound to the Spanish Main, they, + one and all, refused to proceed further on the voyage, and insisted on my + running into some port on the coast. I have told Captain Thompson that if + I can procure ONE MAN from his schooner, I will leave these mutinous + fellows with him and proceed on my voyage. Say, then, my good fellow, that + you will go with me. I will allow you twenty dollars a month, and a + month's pay in advance more if you wish it. You shall receive good + treatment, and will always find a friend in Archibald Moncrieff." + </p> + <p> + When the captain of the pilot-boat, who seemed much excited, finished his + narrative, I quietly answered without hesitation, "I WILL GO WITH YOU." + </p> + <p> + He grasped my hand, gave it a hearty shake, and said, "I thank you. You + shall have no cause to regret your decision. Pack up your things, my lad, + and be ready to go on board when I return." + </p> + <p> + He entered his yawl, and was soon on the deck of the pilot-boat. It took + me but a few minutes to get ready for my departure. Captain Thompson said + not a word, but looked thoughtful and dejected. He appeared already to + regret having been so easily persuaded to accommodate Captain Moncrieff, + by granting me permission to embark on this uncertain expedition. + </p> + <p> + It was not long before the yawl returned from the little schooner, laden + with chests, bags, and bundles, and having on board the captain, four + seamen, and the cook. The luggage was tumbled out of the boat in short + order; my chest was deposited in the stern seats. I shook hands with my + old shipmates, took an affectionate leave of Captain Thompson, who had + always treated me with the kindness of a father, and entered the boat. + Captain Moncrieff took one oar, I took another, and in a few minutes I + stood on the deck of the Young Pilot. A tackle was hooked on to the yawl, + which was, which was hoisted in and snugly stowed on deck; the helm was + put up, the fore-sheet hauled to leeward, and, before I had time to + realize this change in my situation, I found myself in a strange vessel, + with strange companions, bound on a strange voyage to the Spanish Main. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXI. ON BOARD THE YOUNG PILOT + </h2> + <p> + After the vessels had separated and were rapidly increasing the space + between them, I looked back upon the schooner Mary and recalled the many + pleasant hours I had passed in that vessel, and asked myself if it would + not have been better to have remained on board, trusting to the friendship + of Captain Thompson and the promises of Mr. Jarvis. When I looked around, + and fully comprehended the situation in which I had so unthinkingly placed + myself, I saw little to give me consolation or encouragement. Captain + Moncrieff was not prepossessing in his person or deportment. He was a + tall, large-limbed Scotchman, about forty years of age, with light blue + eyes and coarse, bloated features. He was abrupt in his language, had an + exalted opinion of his merits and capacity, was always the hero of his own + story; and, although he subsequently proved to be a man of generous + feelings, to my unpractised optics he looked more like a bully than a + gentleman. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Campbell, the mate, was also a Scotchman; but his appearance and + character differed essentially from those of the captain. He was slightly + built, with thin, pale features. There was nothing genial in his looks; + and a certain vulpine cast of countenance, a low forehead, and a brow + deeply wrinkled but not with age conveyed the idea of a selfish, + narrow-minded individual. + </p> + <p> + With the exception of myself, there was no other person on board the + pilot-boat. On acceding to the proposition of Captain Moncrieff, it + escaped my notice that the cook was to leave the schooner with the rest of + the crew. It now flashed across my mind, communicating any thing but a + pleasurable sensation, that in addition to the ordinary duties of a + seaman, I was expected to perform the part of that sable functionary. I + therefore found myself monopolizing several responsible situations, and + held at one and the same time the office of second mate, cook, and all + hands. + </p> + <p> + In the novelty of my situation, however, I found a source of amusement; + and the very uncertainty of the expedition, the singular manner in which I + joined the pilot-boat, and the abundant cause I had for wondering "what + would turn up next," imparted to the whole enterprise an unexpected charm. + My duties, although various, were not arduous, but occupied a large + portion of my time. The mate and myself stood watch by turns through the + night, each steering the schooner his regular trick of four hours at a + time. The captain seldom came on deck during the night, but enjoyed his + rest of eight or ten hours undisturbed. + </p> + <p> + The Young Pilot steered so easily, the helmsman being snugly seated in the + cuddy, that it was next to impossible for any one to remain four hours in + that comfortable situation, in pleasant weather, with no one to converse + with or even to look at, without falling asleep. Aware of the + responsibility of my situation, and remembering the lesson I had received + when lying at anchor inside of Charleston bar, I strove hard to resist the + influence of the drowsy god, but was often compelled to nod to his + dominion; and many a sweet and stolen nap have I enjoyed when stationed at + the helm, and the vessel left entirely in my charge. Sometimes, on + arousing myself from my slumbers, I found the rebellious little vessel + running along four or five points off her course. In more than one + instance, when the orders were to keep close-hauled, the schooner + gradually fell off until she got before the wind, when the sails gibed, + all standing, making a terrible clatter, and awakening not only myself, + but the captain also, who, on coming on deck, must have divined the true + state of things; but, with a degree of consideration which I could hardly + have expected, and did not deserve, he never gave me a word of reproof. + How these matters were managed by Mr. Campbell, I could never learn. He + was one of those nervous, restless mortals who require but little sleep. + It can hardly be doubted, however, that he sometimes fell asleep in his + watch, and steered the schooner in every direction but the right one. This + wild steering during the night will sufficiently account for a long + passage, and errors in navigation. Dead reckoning is of little use when + the courses and distances are not correctly noted. In the daytime, Captain + Moncrieff would sometimes steer hours at a time, especially when I was + employed in other business or taking a nap below. + </p> + <p> + The most unpleasant duty I was expected to perform was that of cooking. I + had never been inducted into the mysteries of that art, and was disgusted + with its drudgeries. While in the Dolphin, with Captain Turner, I tried my + hand at cooking more than once, when the cook had been so badly flogged as + to be unable to perform his duties. But I gained no laurels in that + department. Indeed, dissatisfaction was expressed in the forecastle and + the cabin at the bungling and unartistic style in which I prepared the + food on those occasions. In the Young Pilot I succeeded but little better; + and the captain, who was something of an epicure in his way, whenever a + good cup of coffee was required for breakfast, or a palatable dish for + dinner, released me from my vocation for the time, and installed himself + in the camboose. And it would have been amusing to a looker-on, to see the + big, burly Scotchman steaming over the fire and smoke, rattling the pans + and kettles, and compounding various materials, while I sat quietly at the + helm, watching his operations, and thanking my stars that I had no genius + for cooking. + </p> + <p> + The greatest cause I had for disquiet on this passage was the want of + society. The captain and mate could spin their yarns and discuss subjects + of nautical philosophy; but the mate, naturally unsocial and taciturn, + seldom spoke to me, and the captain never honored me by entering into + familiar conversation, excepting when he had indulged in an extra glass, + and Mr. Campbell was not on deck. At such times, being in a garrulous + humor, he would, as a sort of "Hogson's choice," address himself to me, + and rattle off narratives of adventures of the most astounding + description. + </p> + <p> + The schooner was easily managed, being a small vessel of only thirty tons + burden. In ordinary weather, one man, without leaving his station at the + helm, could tack ship, gibe, and trim every sail. The schooner was a + good-sailing vessel in light winds; but her chief excellence consisted in + ability to beat to windward. When within four points of the wind she + progressed at the rate of six or seven knots with a moderate breeze, while + with a strong wind on the quarter eight knots was her greatest speed. An + opportunity offered of testing her sailing qualities a few days after I + had the honor to constitute her whole crew. + </p> + <p> + One morning, at daylight, as we were steering to the southward on a wind, + a sail was made on the lee bow. It proved to be a large ship with two + tiers of ports, not more than three or four miles off, steering to the + westward. As soon as we were seen, the ship hauled her wind, spread every + sail, and seemed determined to ascertain our character and business in + those seas. Captain Moncrieff, with perfect propriety, resolved, if + possible, to prevent the gratification of such impertinent curiosity. The + British cruiser sailed remarkably well; and if we had been under her lee, + our voyage would have ended before it was fairly begun. But we made short + tacks to windward, shooting into the wind's eye every time we went about, + and by three o'clock the ship was hull down to leeward, when she gave up + the chase, squared away the yards, and steered to the westward. + </p> + <p> + A few days after this incident we fell in with a large, rakish-looking + schooner on our weather bow. The schooner was heavily armed and her decks + were full of men. She crossed our hawse and kept on her course until some + distance under the lee bow, then hauled to the wind on the starboard tack, + and on reaching our wake tacked within long gunshot and stood directly + after us. She now fired a blank cartridge and hoisted the Patriot flag. + </p> + <p> + If Captain Moncrieff had kept his wits about him, and had not been afraid + of cannon balls, we might have escaped, by keeping on our course or making + short tacks to windward. This was worth the trial, as it was not unlikely + the schooner, although showing Patriot colors, was a Spanish privateer or + government cruiser; in which case, it would appear by letters and other + documents that we were bound to LaGuayra, which at that time was in + possession of the Patriot forces, and could expect little forbearance from + the Spaniards, who were waging war to the knife against the patriots. This + was forcibly represented to Captain Moncrieff by Mr. Campbell; and we + trimmed every sail carefully, and kept close to the wind, with a fair + prospect of making our escape. + </p> + <p> + The piratical-looking craft, perceiving we took no notice of her hint to + heave to, yawed off a couple of points and sent a messenger after us in + the shape of a twenty-four pound shot, which struck the water a short + distance astern, and, playfully skipping along, sank beneath the surface + near the weather quarter. Captain Moncrieff said not a word, but looked + amazingly sober. Campbell, who cared little for his life, but had great + fear of being robbed, and who regarded all privateers as neither more nor + less than thieves and pirates, coolly remarked, "O, he may fire away as + much as he likes; he cannot hit us at that distance." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know that," replied captain Moncrieff, much agitated. "I believe + he is gaining on us. The next shot may take away one of the masts." + </p> + <p> + "He is NOT gaining on us," said Campbell. "If he should hit one of the + masts we should be COMPELLED to heave to; it would no longer be a matter + of choice. But I don't believe he can do it" + </p> + <p> + At this moment the schooner yawed, and gave us another gun. The ball came + whizzing along, passed just over the mast-head, and fell in the water a + couple of lengths off on the starboard bow. + </p> + <p> + "I'll bet a beaver hat," said Campbell, "he can't do that again." + </p> + <p> + "This will never do," exclaimed the captain, greatly alarmed, and pale as + a ghost. "He will hull us next time, and send us all to 'Davy's locker.' + Haul the foresheet to windward!" + </p> + <p> + This was done; and the pilot-boat lay like a log on the water, waiting the + approach of our pursuer. + </p> + <p> + "Now," said Campbell, with a scowl of disappointment, "I will go below and + take care of 'number one.' And Hawser," continued he, "I know those chaps + better than you do. They glory in robbing a sailor's chest when there is + anything in it worth taking. I advise you to do as I mean to do clothe + yourself in two or three suits of your best garments; for I never knew + them strip the clothing from a man's back." + </p> + <p> + "I thank you for your counsel, sir," said I; "but if they overhaul MY + chest in expectation of a prize, they will be woefully disappointed." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Campbell went below a slight-built, thin-looking man, bearing a closer + resemblance to Shakespeare's portrait of Prince Hal than to that of + Falstaff. When, fifteen minutes afterwards, he appeared on deck, + staggering under the load of three pairs of trousers, an equal number of + vests, covering half a dozen shirts, with two or three silk kerchiefs + around his neck, he looked, from his chin downwards, more like the "fat + knight" than Prince Hal; and his thin face, peaked nose, and chin showing + itself above such a portly corporation and huge limbs, gave him an + unnatural appearance ludicrous in the extreme. He told me he had stowed + away the remainder of his property where it would puzzle the privateersmen + to find it, and chuckled over the ingenuity by which he expected to outwit + the rascals. + </p> + <p> + It was not long before the armed schooner ranged alongside. She was a + formidable-looking craft, with a "long Tom" and a stout armament besides. + We were hailed in broken English: "You capitan, come on board directly, + and bring your papers." + </p> + <p> + The captain remonstrated, saying we were short-manned, and unable to + launch the boat, or to man it afterwards. They did not, or would not, + understand his objections, but repeated the order in a style which + silenced further remonstrance: "Come on board, Senor Capitan, this minute, + and bring your papers, or I shall shoot directly!" + </p> + <p> + There was no alternative. After much labor and heavy lifting we launched + the boat. Captain Moncrieff put his papers in his pocket, and leaving Mr. + Campbell in charge of the schooner, followed me into the yawl. Putting his + dignity along with his papers, he took an oar, I took another, and we + pulled for the privateer, which by this time was out of hail to leeward. + We went alongside, and were roughly ordered on deck, where we found a + motley set. Some of the crew were savage, desperate-looking fellows: + </p> + <p> + "As ever scuttled ship, or cut a throat." + </p> + <p> + Others were squalid, ragged, and filthy, to a degree I had never before + witnessed. There was apparently but little discipline on board, but a + great deal of disputation and a continual jabbering. A ruffianly-looking + fellow, with a swarthy complexion and big black whiskers, who proved to be + the commander, beckoned Captain Moncrieff to the quarter-deck, where he + examined the schooner's papers and various letters, all of which proved, + beyond a doubt, that the schooner was an American vessel, bound to a + Patriot port on the Spanish Main. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately for us our captor was a Patriot privateer, and our little + vessel, under no pretext, could be regarded as a prize. If we had been + bound to a port on the Spanish Main where the inhabitants had not thrown + off their allegiance to the king or if the privateer had been a Spaniard, + the case would have been different, and the pilot-boat would have been + taken possession of and confiscated to the benefit of the captors, + probably without trial. In those days other nations, following the example + of France and England, trampled on the great principles of international + law so far as our insulted country was concerned. + </p> + <p> + As the privateersmen could not take our vessel without avowing themselves + pirates, they reluctantly limited themselves to plunder. An officer and + half a dozen men, armed with pistols and cutlasses, were despatched in our + boat to the schooner, which they thoroughly examined from stem to stern. + As we had no goods, hey removed the ballast to find valuable property or + money, which we might have concealed. They overhauled chests, trunks, and + writing-desks, looking for specie or hidden papers; helped themselves to + whatever they particularly fancied, and finally conveyed to the privateer + all the water, beef, bread, sugar, coffee, and other provisions and stores + which they could find, with the exception of a very scanty supply for our + own use! + </p> + <p> + After a detention of a couple of hours, the last boat load of provisions + was transferred to the deck of the privateer, and Captain Moncrieff and + myself were about to step into the boat on our return, when the officer + who had superintended the piratical operations suggested to the commander + of the privateer that our boat was a remarkably fine one; far better and + more serviceable than any one in their possession, and THEREFORE it would + be right and proper for us the captain and crew of the pilot-boat to + return to our own vessel in a skiff belonging to the privateer, and leave + our boat for their use. + </p> + <p> + The case was forcibly put; the logic was unanswerable, and the conclusion + inevitable. The stern-boat, a light skiff, was lowered and brought + alongside, and then it appeared why the privateersmen did not board us in + their own boat, as is usual on such occasions. They had had an engagement + the day before with a Spanish government brig; had been roughly handled, + had several men killed and wounded, and sustained damage in hull and + spars. The boats had been riddled with shot, and, not having been + subsequently repaired, were not seaworthy. + </p> + <p> + When the little skiff was brought beneath the gangway the water was + pouring through the bottom in divers places. No time was given for + deliberation. We were unceremoniously shoved into the skiff, the painter + was cast loose, and a dark, ugly-visaged scoundrel told us, in broken + English and with a diabolical grin, to "pull for our lives!" So, indeed, + we did. The pilot-boat was not far off, nevertheless we should have + swamped ere we could have reached her had not the captain, with admirable + presence of mind, ordered me to lay in my oar, and at the same time handed + me his hat, a large one and in tolerable good condition, and pointing to + the water in which our legs were immersed, bade me "bale away!" Then + placing his oar over the stern of the boat, he sculled off towards the + schooner like an excited Hercules! + </p> + <p> + In this way we managed to reach the Young Pilot, and greatly to the + amusement of the piratical patriots, scrambled on board in a most + undignified manner. In spite of our exertions the skiff was filled with + water when we trod the deck of the schooner. Mr. Campbell relieved himself + of his superfluous garments, and we went busily to work rigging purchases, + with which to hoist in the boat we had received in exchange for our own. + We then proceeded on our way. + </p> + <p> + Any person who has sailed on the Atlantic must have noticed the luminous + appearance of the water of the ocean, especially at night and in + tempestuous weather. This beautiful phenomenon is witnessed to a greater + extent in some parts of the ocean than in others, and in different + sections it presents different appearances. In one place it seems + uniformly luminous, shining feebly with a pale and sickly light; in + another it exhibits bright flashes; again, it appears composed of + brilliants of different sizes and shades, and sometimes, like a grand + exhibition of the "northern lights," all these appearances are combined. + The most phosphorescent sea seldom exhibits peculiarities by daylight. + Nevertheless, sometimes, though rarely, luminous patches and even large + tracts of water are seen in the daytime, and at a great distance from + ordinary soundings, with the color differing materially from the + well-known hue of the ocean, and seeming to indicate to the astonished + mariner the existence of banks or shoals. + </p> + <p> + A few days after we fell in with the Patriot privateer, being in about + twenty-six degrees of latitude, in the middle of a clear and beautiful + day, Mr. Campbell, who was at the helm, exclaimed, in a tone of alarm, + "There's a shoal ahead!" + </p> + <p> + On looking in that direction, a tract of water embracing several square + miles was seen, which was of a light green color inclining to yellow. Its + edges were well defined, but irregular, and presented a strong contrast + with the general appearance of the ocean. We supposed the water on that + spot must be shallow, but as there was a heavy swell and no breakers were + seen, it was manifest there was depth of water enough for our little + schooner. The deep-sea lead was got ready, and when we had reached what we + considered the centre and shoalest part of the bank, no bottom was found + with a hundred fathoms of line. The peculiarity in color was undoubtedly + owing to luminous particles floating in the water, and if we had remained + on that spot until dark we should have seen that whole tract of ocean + splendidly illuminated. + </p> + <p> + The cause of this singular phenomenon has given rise to many theories and + much discussion among naturalists. It was for a time contended that this + phosphorescence was a quality of the water itself. But later and more + accurate observers ascertained beyond a doubt, that some marine worms and + other insects were luminous. On pursuing the investigation it is + ascertained that the sea water is far less pure than has been supposed, + and is often crowded with myriads of minute luminous animals. It is now + admitted that the phosphorescence of sea water is a property not belonging + to itself, but is produced by animalcula, or microscopic creatures. They + are far more numerous in some tracts of ocean than in others, and all + possess the power of producing a light, a spark, or flash at will. There + can be no doubt that these living, transparent atoms cause the luminous + appearance of the ocean, which excites admiration, and has so often been + described in glowing language by the poet. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXII. CAPTURED BY A PRIVATEER + </h2> + <p> + Captain Moncrieff was desirous of entering the Caribbean Sea through the + Sail-rock passage, which separates the barren island of St. Thomas from + Porto Rico. But when we reached the latitude of those islands we beheld, + on our starboard bow, the mountainous country on the eastern part of + Hayti. The island of Porto Rico was soon afterwards seen on the other bow, + and directly ahead was the little island of Mona, rising abruptly from the + sea. Instead of striking the Sail-rock passage we found ourselves in the + centre of the Mona passage, a hundred and twenty miles to leeward of + Sail-rock, and twenty or thirty miles westward of the meridian of + LaGuayra. + </p> + <p> + Although Captain Moncrieff was glad of an opportunity to ascertain his + true position, he was mortified at finding himself westward of his + destined port. The Young Pilot was immediately hauled on a wind, and we + crossed the Caribbean Sea with a fine breeze, and one morning beheld the + Rocas, a cluster of barren rocks, right ahead. We passed over a bank + extending from this group of rocks, and with a fishing-line trailing + astern and a piece of the rind of pork for bait, caught a quantity of + Spanish mackerel, a fish of excellent flavor, weighing four or five pounds + each. + </p> + <p> + And I will here state, for the benefit of those navigators who have little + experience in those seas, that on the edge of soundings in all parts of + the West Indies, and particularly on the edges of the Bahamas and Salt Key + Bank, abundance of fish of excellent quality, as black perch, kingfish, + barracooter, and Spanish mackerel, may be taken by trailing during a + breeze, in any reasonable quantity. + </p> + <p> + By steering a course directly from the Rocas to LaGuayra we could have + reached that port on the following day, but Captain Moncrieff was + impressed with the idea that a strong current was setting to the westward. + Therefore, instead of proceeding directly to the Spanish Main, as he + should have done, he commenced beating to windward, and continued this + absurd process for two days, when, having made the island of Tortuga, he + satisfied himself he was far enough to windward, and that there was no + current at that time in those seas. The helm was accordingly put up, and + with a free wind we now steered to the south-west, to fall in with the + coast somewhere near Cape Codera. We made the land about fifty miles to + windward of LaGuayra, in the afternoon, about three o'clock. Captain + Moncrieff clapped his hands in ecstasy when he saw the land. "If this + breeze holds," said he, "we can run along under easy sail and be off the + harbor before daylight tomorrow morning." + </p> + <p> + His exultation was moderated by the sight of a large topsail schooner on + our starboard quarter, dead to windward, steering towards us under a heavy + press of sail, and coming up hand over hand. We hoisted our square-sail + and wet our other sails, but the schooner gained upon us rapidly. Ere the + darkness of night concealed us from her view, we became aware that the + schooner in chase was a Spanish government vessel, termed a Guarda Costa, + one of the very few armed vessels stationed on that coast to show that the + blockade of the Patriot ports on the Spanish Main was not a mere paper + blockade. + </p> + <p> + A hasty consultation between the captain and the mate was now held, to + devise means of keeping out of the clutches of the Spaniard during the + night. They both agreed in the opinion that the Guarda Costa would keep on + the course she was steering when last seen, with the expectation of soon + overhauling us. Therefore, the best mode of disappointing those + expectations would be to change our course, run directly towards the + shore, dowse every sail, and remain concealed by the darkness until + morning. + </p> + <p> + The stratagem devised by the combined wisdom of the officers was carried + into effect. We ran in under the land and hauled down every sail, thus + presenting so small a surface to the eye that it was almost impossible we + should be seen during the night. It was deemed advisable to keep a good + look-out, and Captain Moncrieff volunteered to keep the watch from eight + o'clock to eleven. Mr. Campbell was to be on deck from eleven o'clock + until three, when I was to be called to keep the look-out until daylight. + </p> + <p> + Everything passed off well during the first and second watches of the + night. At three o'clock I was roused out by the mate, and took my station + on deck. I could not divest myself of the idea that the Guarda Costa had + divined our intentions and was quietly lying to, somewhere in our + vicinity, sure of finding us snugly under her guns at the dawn of the day. + There was no moon in the heavens, nevertheless the horizon was well + defined, and a large object could be seen at the distance of a couple of + miles. I took a careful look around the horizon, waited a short time and + looked again. I suffered my eyes to dwell on that quarter, in a north-east + direction, where the schooner had been seen the evening before, and after + a while I beheld a speck darker than the surrounding atmosphere. + </p> + <p> + Might it not exist only in imagination? I turned away my eyes and took a + survey of the horizon in another direction, and again looked towards the + quarter where the dark object had appeared. It was still there. Feeling + assured I was not the victim of error, I ventured to call Captain + Moncrieff, who hastened on deck followed by the mate. I gave him my + reasons for disturbing his slumbers, and pointed to the dark speck which + had arrested my attention. They both looked in the direction I indicated, + but could see nothing. The captain swept the horizon with his spy glass, + then turning to me, said, "Hawser, you have persuaded yourself that the + Guarda Costa is still in that direction, than which nothing can be more + unlikely, and your fancy has conjured up a vision that is visible to no + one but yourself." + </p> + <p> + "It is no fancy, sir," said I, boldly. "I KNOW there is a vessel in that + direction. I can see it distinctly; and you may mark my words that the + sooner we get the schooner under sail, the greater will be the chance of + escaping capture." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Campbell, with a sneering laugh, remarked that his eyes never yet + deceived him, and that he could see as far in the dark as any one! The + captain, however, was staggered by the obstinacy with which I adhered to + my statement, and said to the mate, "It is possible that Hawser may see + something in that quarter which we cannot see, and as it is nearly + daylight it may be well to get the schooner under sail and commence + running down the coast." + </p> + <p> + We began to hoist our sails; but before the foresail was set, a flash of + light appeared in the north-east followed by the report of a gun, thus + confirming the correctness of my assertion and establishing the excellence + of my eyesight. We lost no time in getting sail on the schooner; and now + Captain Moncrieff regretted that instead of running in towards the land he + had not adopted means during the night of getting the weather-gage, when + he could have laughed at the efforts of the Guarda Costa to interrupt our + voyage. + </p> + <p> + Daylight appeared in the east, when the Spanish schooner was plainly seen; + also another vessel which had fallen into her hands whilst she was quietly + lying to, hoping to pounce upon us. As soon as objects could be distinctly + seen, the boat of the Guarda Costa was returning from a visit to the + stranger, and the Spaniard having got a glimpse of the pilot-boat, showed + a determination to become better acquainted with the object of our voyage. + The affair became exciting. We were close in with the shore, running + directly before the wind with a fresh breeze. The schooner had got in our + wake and was crowding all sail in pursuit. + </p> + <p> + It soon became manifest that we could not escape. Our pursuer was hardly a + gunshot off, and slowly but surely lessening the space between us. The + sagacious Mr. Campbell regarded our capture as inevitable, and, true to + his characteristics, repeated the stratagem which had served him so + successfully when we were molested by the Patriot privateer. He doffed his + old garments, which were not worth stealing, and clad himself from top to + toe in two or three complete suits of his best clothing. He came on deck + resembling a swathed mummy, and perspiring freely under the heavy load. + </p> + <p> + When the Guarda Costa had approached within fair gunshot, and we were + every minute expecting an iron shower, we saw at a short distance ahead on + a projecting point of land, a fort on which several guns were mounted, and + the Patriot flag was waving from a tall flagstaff. The masts of some small + vessels were also visible over the point. + </p> + <p> + "There is a snug harbor," exclaimed Captain Moncrieff, "defended by a fort + and in possession of the Patriots. We will run in under the guns of our + friends and come to anchor. Hurrah, we are all right at last!" And he cut + a pigeon-wing with a dexterity of which I had hardly believed him capable. + </p> + <p> + And now an armed felucca shot out from the harbor beyond the fort with the + Patriot flag flying at the peak. She was full of men, evidently a + privateer, and with long sweeps pulled swiftly towards us. When within + hearing, a fierce-looking fellow, with pistols in his belt and a sabre at + his side, stepped upon the gunwale and hailed us in tolerable English. + </p> + <p> + "Captain," said he, "that Spanish schooner is one great rascal. If he + should board your vessel, HE WILL CUT ALL YOUR THROATS!" + </p> + <p> + "Can I enter that harbor?" inquired Captain Moncrieff, greatly alarmed at + such a sanguinary piece of intelligence. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, certainly! There, and there only you will be safe. Follow the + felucca, and we will pilot you in." + </p> + <p> + The felucca rounded the point, closely followed by the pilot-boat. We + entered a snug little bay, well sheltered from the regular winds and + waves, and agreeably to the directions of our new and zealous friends let + go an anchor; at the same time the Guarda Costa fired a gun, hauled down + her colors, gave up the chase, and steered away to the northward. + </p> + <p> + We were boarded by the commander of the felucca and the officer who had so + kindly told us of the bloody intentions of our pursuers. They shook + Captain Moncrieff by the hand, and congratulated him on having baffled the + enemy. + </p> + <p> + "But," asked Captain Moncrieff, "will not the blood-thirsty Spaniards + return at night, send in an armed boat and cut us out from under the guns + of the fort?" + </p> + <p> + "O, no! There's no fear of that," replied the commander of the felucca, + with a savage smile which I did not half like. "Be not alarmed. WE will + take good care of you," and he clapped his hand significantly on the hilt + of his sabre! + </p> + <p> + I was an attentive observer of every event which took place, and was by no + means satisfied with the proceedings. The sudden apparition of the + felucca, the departure of the Guarda Costa without firing a shot, and the + exultation of the officers who boarded us, and which they tried in vain to + conceal, all convinced me there was some mystery which it was not in my + power to fathom. + </p> + <p> + "Where are you bound, captain?" inquired the officious commander of the + felucca. + </p> + <p> + "To LaGuayra, if it still belongs to the Patriots," replied Moncrieff. + </p> + <p> + "That is right," exclaimed the grinning corsair. "You are a good patriot, + and have letters and intelligence which will be valuable to our friends in + LaGuayra!" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly," replied Moncrieff. "I have letters in abundance, and any + thing in my power to aid in establishing the independence of the Spanish + Provinces on the Main I will do with pleasure." + </p> + <p> + The commander of the felucca expressed satisfaction at such noble + sentiments, and added, "I will, with your permission, go below and examine + your papers." + </p> + <p> + Hardly had the two captains left the deck, when the loud report of a gun + from the fort echoed across the water, and down came the Patriot flag from + the flagstaff! It was immediately replaced by the sickly emblem of Spain. + A musket was fired from the felucca, and the Spanish ensign waved also at + her peak! Moncrieff heard the firing and rushed on deck just as an + ill-looking fellow, who had for some time been busy about the signal + halliards, near the taffrail, was running up a Spanish flag, WITH THE + STARS AND STRIPES BENEATH! He saw at a glance that he was the victim of an + ingenious trick. He was terribly agitated his features, usually florid, + were as pale as death. "What is the meaning of all this?" he exclaimed, in + a husky voice. + </p> + <p> + "A BUENO prize, captain! A BUENO prize!" replied the exulting commander of + the felucca, patting him affectionately on the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + The affair required but little explanation. The fort was a Spanish fort. + The felucca was a Spanish privateer, belonging to Porto Cabello, and her + commander had adroitly managed to capture the pilot-boat just as we were + about to fall into the jaws of the Guarda Costa. The commander of the + felucca had furthermore wormed out of the unsuspecting Moncrieff all the + secrets of his mission, and paved the way for the confiscation of our + little schooner. + </p> + <p> + Moncrieff stormed and raved like a madman; but there was no remedy. The + Spaniards were too well pleased with the success of their stratagem to + notice his anger, and the captain on reflection was somewhat consoled by + the idea that if he had missed the felucca he could not have escaped the + Guarda Costa. On conversing further with his captors, he ascertained that + the ship, to reach which was the object of his mission, was now at Porto + Cabello, which place had been recently captured by the royalists after a + hard battle. He further learned that it was the intention of his captors + to proceed directly to Porto Cabello with their prize. + </p> + <p> + A prize-master and eight men, armed to the teeth, were put on board. Mr. + Campbell was ordered into the felucca without an opportunity of relieving + himself of his extra clothing. The rays of the sun in that sheltered + harbor seemed endued with a tenfold degree of calorie; and the poor + fellow, as he stepped over the side, bowed down by the weight of his + garments and sweltering with heat, was a legitimate object of pity, + although a martyr to his selfish propensities. + </p> + <p> + We left the harbor on our way to Porto Cabello; but our progress was slow, + being interrupted by calms. The prize crew of the Young Pilot were + attentive to their duties and faithful and vigilant during the night. They + were divided into two watches, and four of them, armed with pistols and + cutlasses, paced the deck at all hours. Nevertheless, on the third day + after leaving port, the felucca being out of sight in the north-east + chasing a suspicious-looking vessel, Captain Moncrieff, having raised and + fortified his courage by an extra portion of cognac, called me into the + cabin and broached the subject of retaking the schooner! + </p> + <p> + "Hawser," said he, "I cannot reconcile myself to the loss of my vessel; + the idea of being tricked out of her by a set of garlic-eating ragamuffins + puts me out of all patience. I have as good a pair of pistols as were ever + manufactured, which I concealed when the schooner was searched. With + these, and a good cutlass in my hand, I would face a dozen of these + cowardly Spaniards at any time. If you will stand by me we will drive + every mother's son of them overboard!" + </p> + <p> + I saw that Moncrieff was so drunk he could hardly stand. Indeed, it was + only at such times his courage was roused to fighting heat. I attempted to + calm his excitement by representing the slender chance of success we + should have in open combat with eight or ten men completely armed; that it + was far more likely we should be thrown overboard than the prize crew. I + also argued that even if we should be successful in the desperate contest + we should gain nothing, but on the contrary lose the opportunity of + proceeding to Porto Cabello where the ship Charity was now lying; that in + every point of view his design was objectionable, as well as + impracticable; and furthermore, the attempt would be an ungrateful return + for the civilities and indulgence we had received from the prize-master + and his associates. + </p> + <p> + My remonstrances only served to increase the fury of Moncrieff, who swore + that single-handed he would retake the schooner. With his back against the + mainmast and a good claymore in his hand, he would cut down every man one + after another! + </p> + <p> + I found he was too far gone to listen to reason; and it is possible he + might have staggered on deck, pistol in hand, and been shot down for his + pains, if the prize-master, attracted by his loud and threatening + language, had not listened to a part of the conversation; and as the + captain was on the point of sallying forth, like a doughty champion of + old, in search of hard knocks, his collar was grasped by a couple of stout + men; and he was roughly laid on his back and handcuffed in a trice. His + pistols were found and appropriated to the use of the prize-master as + spoils of the vanquished, and he would have been treated with great + harshness had I not interfered and pointed out the brandy bottle as the + guilty originator of the plot. The brandy was promptly secured, to be + punished hereafter. The captain was relieved of his manacles and shoved + into his berth, where he slept off his valorous propensities, and awoke a + few hours afterwards a different man, who could hardly be drubbed into a + plot which would endanger his own life. + </p> + <p> + In spite of calms, and light winds, and Patriot cruisers, we reached Porto + Cabello on the fifth day after leaving the little harbor where we were so + handsomely entrapped. The felucca entered the port at the same time, and + Mr. Campbell was permitted to join us once more; and he did it with an + alacrity which, I confess to my shame, furnished me with no little + amusement. The sufferings of the poor man while in the felucca can hardly + be imagined. He was exposed in that hot climate, and during the prevalence + of calms, to the fiercest rays of the sun, while loaded with clothes + enough to keep him uncomfortably warm during a polar winter. And he felt + compelled to bear his burden without murmuring or seeking to be relieved, + lest his companions should suspect his reasons for bearing his whole + wardrobe on his back, and take umbrage at such a reflection on their + honor! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXIII. PORTO CABELLO + </h2> + <p> + The ship Charity was lying in the harbor of Porto Cabello, but under + seizure of the Spanish government. Captain Moncrieff, Mr. Campbell, and + myself, with no longer a home in the pilot-boat, transferred our quarters + to the ship. The officers took up their abode in the cabin, while I was + thrown on the hospitalities of the forecastle. The prize-master of the + pilot-boat honored me with a pressing invitation to join the crew of the + felucca, assuring me there was "good picking" along the coast, and he + would put me in the way of doing well. I felt flattered by his good + opinion; but under the circumstances thought proper to decline the + invitation. + </p> + <p> + The ship Charity was a vessel of about three hundred and fifty tons + burden, moored at this time in the centre of the harbor, awaiting the + decision of the Admiralty Court. The ship was commanded by a man of very + ordinary capacity. The mate was a mere sailor, wanting in intelligence and + worth, and a fit associate for the captain. The ship and her valuable + cargo were actually n charge of the supercargo, a Mr. Parker, of New York, + who was also part owner. He resided on shore and seldom visited the ship. + It was at his instance I found an asylum in the Charity along with the + officers of the pilot-boat. + </p> + <p> + The crew of the Charity consisted of some eight or ten men, Dutchmen, + Swedes, and Italians, as brutal and ignorant a set of men as it was ever + my misfortune to fall in with. With such officers and such a crew, it may + be imagined there was little discipline on board. Liquor could be easily + obtained; and drunken rows and fighting among themselves, and occasionally + with the captain or mate, were of frequent occurrence. None of the crew + gave me a welcome when I went on board, and I saw at once there could be + no good fellowship between us. I found a space in the forecastle for my + chest, and in that warm climate it mattered little where I slept. I + performed my duties regularly with the crew, and for the first two days + led an unsocial, almost a solitary life, in the midst of a large ship's + company. Captain Moncrieff, like an honest man, paid me the month's pay to + which I was entitled, in advance. This money I kept about my person, and + carefully concealed from every one the prosperous sate of my finances. I + was thus enabled to indulge in little comforts which, to some extent, + counterbalanced the inconveniences to which I was subjected. + </p> + <p> + On the morning of the third day after I had taken up my quarters in the + ship, another person was received on board in accordance with a mandate + from the supercargo. His name was Frederick Strictland. He was an + Englishman, a veritable cockney, about nineteen or twenty years of age, a + strong-built and rather good-looking young man. His countenance, although + intelligent, was not prepossessing; there was a sort of nameless + expression about the eye which repelled confidence and invited suspicion. + But it was no time for me to entertain prejudices which might be + unfounded, or indulge in surmises unfavorable to the character of my new + shipmate. He could talk English, and talk it well. He was the victim of + misfortune, being destitute of friends and money in a strange country. + Finding ourselves accidentally thrown together in the same ship, it is not + remarkable that we became constant companions from the commencement of our + acquaintance, and intimate friends. + </p> + <p> + Strictland's story was calculated to excite compassion. His father was a + respectable trader in London, and Frederick had been a clerk in his + counting room. He frankly acknowledged he had been a little wild and + extravagant, and having expressed a desire to go abroad, his father + allowed him to proceed to Curacoa on a visit to a brother in that island. + His brother received him coldly and could not or would not find him + employment. He induced him to take passage for Porto Cabello, with + assurances that he would there find some desirable means of getting a + living. Disappointed in this, and having spent the little money given him + by his brother, and sold or pawned the greater part of his clothing, his + next project was to proceed to the United States, and he applied to Mr. + Parker for a passage in the only American vessel in port. He was told that + the ship might not leave the harbor for months, if ever. But as he was + suffering from want, he was permitted to make it his home until he could + find some other resource. I did not allow myself to doubt the truth of any + portion of Strictland's narrative. I confided to him the particulars of my + own situation. We conversed freely in regard to the future, and formed a + resolution to keep together, and embrace the first opportunity of getting + to the United States. + </p> + <p> + When I had been about a week in Porto Cabello, I was attacked by a severe + and dangerous illness. I suffered severe pains incessantly, which deprived + me of sleep. I was losing my strength daily, and at length, without any + relaxation of the symptoms, was hardly able to crawl about the ship. I + received no sympathy or medical aid from the captain or mate, and could + not even obtain a little rice or gruel, or any other food than the coarse + viands that were served out to the ship's company. + </p> + <p> + Strictland was with me whenever he could be spared from his regular + duties, and gave me encouragement and aid. But I could not conceal from + myself that my illness was becoming a serious matter. I accidentally heard + two or three of the crew conversing about my sickness one day, and, to my + great consternation, they came to the conclusion that I was rapidly + sinking, and they would soon be rid of my company. + </p> + <p> + "Yaw," muttered in thick guttural tones a thick-headed Dutchman, who had + manifested towards me particular dislike, "in one or TWO days more, at + farthest, we shall help to carry him ashore in a wooden box." And a + pleasant smile for a moment lighted up his ugly features. + </p> + <p> + "You lie, you heartless vagabond!" I exclaimed, giving a loose to my + indignation; "you won't get rid of me so easily as you think. I will live + and laugh at you yet, were it only to disappoint your expectations." + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, the opinion which my unsympathizing shipmates thus + volunteered came over me like an electric shock. It sounded in my ears + like a sentence of death. I crawled along the lower deck into the + forecastle, and from the bottom of my chest took a small looking-glass + which I had not used for weeks. I saw the reflection of my features, and + started back aghast. The transformation was appalling. The uncombed locks, + the sunken eyes, the pallid, fleshless cheeks, the sharp features, and the + anxious, agonized expression caused by continual pain, all seemed to have + been suddenly created by the spell of some malignant enchanter. I did not + venture to take a second look, and no longer wondered at the gloomy + prediction of my companions. + </p> + <p> + The next day I found myself growing worse, and the pain increasing; and, + notwithstanding my determination to recover and falsify the prediction of + my unfeeling shipmates, I should undoubtedly have followed the dark path + which thousands of my young countrymen, sick and neglected in a foreign + land, had trod before, had I not received aid from an unexpected quarter. + I was crawling along the main deck, near the gangway, when Mr. Parker, the + supercargo, came on board. As he stepped over the gunwale, my appearance, + fortunately for me, arrested his attention. He inquired my name, examined + my condition, and seemed greatly shocked at the brutal neglect I had + experienced. He told me to be of good courage; that it was not yet too + late to arrest the progress of my disease. He commenced his healing + operations by administering a copious dose of laudanum, which immediately + relieved my pain and threw me into a refreshing sleep. He furnished me + with other medicines, ordered me food suitable to my condition, and in a + few days, owing to his humanity, care, and skill, I no longer suffered + excepting from debility. + </p> + <p> + When Porto Cabello was recaptured by the Spaniards, in 1812, there was a + number of French families in the place, who, having sympathized with the + Patriots, received an intimation that their presence would be no longer + tolerated; that they must shift their quarters forthwith. They accordingly + purchased a small schooner, called "La Concha," put all their movable + property on board, procured a French captain and mate, and prepared to + embark for St. Bartholomew. When I heard of the expedition, two men were + required to complete the crew. I conferred with Strictland; we both + regarded it as an opportunity too favorable to be neglected, imagining + that if we could reach St. Bartholomew, a neutral port, there would be no + difficulty in getting a passage to the United States. We lost no time in + calling on the captain, and offered to work our passage to St. Bartholomew + an offer which was gladly accepted. + </p> + <p> + I expended a few of my Spanish dollars in providing necessaries for our + voyage, which might be of two or three weeks' duration, and when the time + appointed for the departure of the schooner arrived, we bade farewell to + the Charity, and in a few hours, while sailing close-hauled on a wind to + the northward, beheld the fortifications at the mouth of the harbor + lessening in the distance. + </p> + <p> + The entrance to the harbor of Porto Cabello was once the theatre of one of + the most gallant exploits recorded in the annals of naval warfare. A + mutiny took place on board the British frigate Hermione, in 1799, while on + the West India station, in consequence, it was said, of the harsh + treatment which the crew received. The officers were murdered and thrown + overboard. Captain Pigot, who commanded the frigate, after receiving + several wounds, retreated to his cabin, and defended himself desperately + with his dirk until he was bayoneted by the mutineers. + </p> + <p> + The frigate, thus taken possession of, was carried into Porto Cabello and + delivered up to the Spanish authorities; Spain at that time being at war + with Great Britain. The red-handed mutineers dispersed, and many of them + subsequently returned to their native country, but were from time to time + arrested, tried by court martial, and executed. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, no pains or expense were spared by the British government to bring + these mutineers to punishment. They were sought for in every part of the + world; hunted out of their hiding-places, and hanged. No false + philanthropy interfered in their behalf, and threw obstacles in the swift + and sure career of justice. Very few, if any, escaped the terrible + punishment due to their crimes MUTINY AND MURDER ON THE HIGH SEAS. The + effect of the EXAMPLE, which is the object of capital punishment was most + salutary. No mutiny has occurred in the British navy since that time. + </p> + <p> + The Hermione was regarded as a lawful prize by the Spaniards, + notwithstanding the extraordinary manner by which the ship fell into their + hands. She was refitted; a crew of four hundred men, including marines, + were put on board, and, ready for a cruise, she lay at anchor near the + entrance of the harbor and within musket shot of the principal + fortifications, which mounted two hundred cannon. + </p> + <p> + These facts became known to Captain Hamilton, who commanded the British + frigate Surprise, cruising on the coast, and that gallant officer + conceived the daring design of boarding the Hermione with a portion of his + crew, and cutting her out in spite of opposition, while she was lying + under the guns of this heavy fortification. Such an enterprise could only + have been conceived by a man of unusual intrepidity; but it was planned + with a degree of prudence and cool calculation which insured success. + </p> + <p> + After having well observed the situation of the frigate, Captain Hamilton + with one hundred men left the Surprise in boats soon after midnight on the + 25th of October, 1800. On approaching the Hermione the alarm was given by + the frigate's launch, which, armed with a twenty-four pounder, was rowing + guard around the ship. After beating off the launch, Captain Hamilton, at + the head of fifty chosen men, armed chiefly with cutlasses, boarded the + Hermione on the bows. As soon as he and his bold companions obtained + foothold, the boat's crews cut the cables and commenced towing the + Hermione into the offing. Thus, while the battle was raging on the ship's + decks, she was rapidly towed further from the batteries which had now + commenced firing, and nearer to the Surprise, which ship stood close into + the harbor. + </p> + <p> + A bloody contest for the possession of the ship took place on her decks. + The Spaniards fought bravely; but the English, forming a front across the + main deck after they got possession of the forecastle, drove them aft, + where, after a desperate struggle on the quarter-deck or poop, the Dons + were all killed or driven overboard. The fight was still continued on the + gun-deck, where a dreadful carnage took place; and it was only after an + obstinate combat of an hour and a half from the commencement of the + action, that the Spaniards called for quarter, being entirely subdued. + </p> + <p> + In this action the British had no men killed, and only fourteen wounded + among whom was Captain Hamilton, who fought boldly at the head of his men. + The Spaniards had ninety-seven men wounded, most of them severely, and one + hundred and nineteen killed! It would thus seem that while the courage of + both parties was about equal, the English had a vast superiority in + physical power. The Spaniards, unable to oppose to their fierce enemies + other than a feeble resistance, bravely SUBMITTED TO BE KILLED; and the + English sailors hacked and hewed them down until they cried for quarter. + </p> + <p> + The little La Concha, in which I was now embarked, was a dull-sailing + vessel with poor accommodations, but crowded with living beings; and when + beneath the deck, they were necessarily stowed away in the most + miscellaneous manner, resembling herrings packed in a barrel. In addition + to the officers and crew, we had about thirty passengers, men, women, and + children, exiles from the land of their adoption; driven forth by the hand + of power to seek a place of refuge in unknown countries. In this case, + there was a great loss of property as well as of comfort, and the future + must have presented to this little band of exiles an uninviting picture. + </p> + <p> + The feelings of people born in any other land than France, would have been + deeply affected by such a change; and unavailing regrets, bitter + complaints, and gloomy speculations in regard to the future, would have + cast a cloud over their spirits, and repressed aught like gayety or + cheerfulness during the passage. But our passengers were truly French; and + "VIVE LA BAGATELLE" was their motto. Although subjected to many + inconveniences during a long and tedious passage, and deprived of comforts + to which they had been accustomed, yet without resorting for consolation + to the philosophy of the schools, there was no murmuring at their unhappy + lot. They seemed not merely contented, but gay; they even made a jest of + their misfortunes, indulged in practical jokes, fun, and frolic, and + derived amusement from every occurrence which took place. + </p> + <p> + On this passage, Strictland, who entertained the prejudices of his nation + against the French, lost no opportunity to manifest his contempt of the + passengers, and commented on their proceedings in a manner ill-natured and + unjust. + </p> + <p> + He more than once exhibited a surliness and incivility in his demeanor, + which is supposed to be a prominent feature in the character of a burly + Briton; and was far from being a favorite with any of the passengers or + the captain. On more than one occasion a misunderstanding occurred between + Strictland and myself, and at one time it approached an open rupture. + </p> + <p> + We were both familiar with Smollet's "Adventures of Roderick Random," and + compared ourselves, with our rambles about the world in quest of a living, + to the hero of that celebrated work and his faithful friend Strap; with + this difference, however, that while each of us applied to himself the + part of Roderick, neither was willing to assume the humble character of + the honest but simple-minded Strap. In the course of our discussion + Strictland lost his temper, and indulged in language towards myself that I + was not disposed to pass lightly over. The next morning, the little + uninhabited island of Orchilla being in sight, the wind light and the + weather pleasant, the boat was launched, and the mate with several + passengers, urged by curiosity, embarked, and were pulled ashore by + Strictland and myself. While the other parties were rambling about, making + investigations, we, more pugnaciously inclined, retired to a short + distance from the shore, and prepared to settle all our disputes in a + "bout at fisticuffs," an ungentlemanly method of settling a controversy, + but one which may afford as much SATISFACTION to the vanquished party as a + sword-thrust through the vitals, or pistol bullet in the brain. + </p> + <p> + After exchanging a few left-handed compliments with no decided result, our + pugilistic amusement was interrupted by the unauthorized influence of two + of the passengers, who had been searching for shell-fish among the rocks. + What the result of the contest would have been I will not venture to + conjecture. I was but a tyro in the art, while Strictland prided himself + in his scientific skill, and gave an indication of the purity of his + tastes by boasting of having once acted in the honorable capacity of + bottle-holder to a disciple of the notorious Tom Crib, on a very + interesting public occasion. + </p> + <p> + After we had been about a fortnight on our passage, daily beating to + windward in the Caribbean Sea, we were fallen in with by a British + sloop-of-war. The sight of this vessel, and a knowledge of her character, + caused a sensation throughout the schooner. Doubts were very naturally + entertained in regard to the treatment the passengers would receive at the + hands of their much-dreaded enemy. They were Frenchmen, and all the + property on board was French property; and notwithstanding they sailed + under Spanish colors, it was predicted by some, who entertained + exaggerated notions of the rapacity of Englishmen and their hatred of the + French, that the flag of Spain would not serve as a protection; but that + their little property would be seized upon, and themselves detained and + confined as prisoners or war. Others, however, cherished a different + opinion, and had confidence in that magnanimity which has always been + claimed by the English as one of their national attributes. + </p> + <p> + It was an anxious moment; and a general council of war was held among the + passengers on the deck of the schooner, in which, as at a conclave of + parrots, few seemed to listen while every one was eager to speak. The + consultation, however, produced no result. Indeed, nothing could be done, + excepting to wait, and bow submissively to the decrees of the conqueror. + </p> + <p> + My friend and companion, Strictland, was really in greater jeopardy than + either of the Frenchmen. If his name and station had been discovered, he + would have found snug quarters during the term of his natural life; + nothing could have saved him from impressment. The French passengers, + aware of the fact, with the kindest feelings took active measures to + prevent such a misfortune. They changed his name, clad him in Frenchified + garments, bound a many-colored handkerchief around his head, put a + cigarette in his mouth, and cautioned him against replying in his native + tongue to questions that might be asked. Thus travestied, it was boldly + predicted that he would not be taken for an Englishman. + </p> + <p> + The sloop-of-war sent a boat alongside, commanded by a lieutenant, who + seemed surprised at the singular group by which he was surrounded on + reaching the schooner's deck. To his questions, replies were received from + a dozen different mouths. He was a pleasant, gentlemanly officer and + seemed greatly amused at his reception. At length he inquired for the + captain, and on his being pointed out, addressed his questions to him, and + repressed the officious interference of others until he received a full + explanation of the character of the vessel and the intent of the voyage. + The statements of the captain were confirmed by papers and documents, + which left no doubt of their truth. The lieutenant, after obtaining all + necessary information, returned to the ship to report the result of his + visit. He did not tarry long, and when he came back relieved the + apprehensions of the passengers by assuring them that the commander of the + sloop of war, far from seeking to injure or embarrass them, felt for their + misfortunes and would gladly render them any assistance in his power. He + then went among the passengers, conversed with them, asked each one his + name and country, and took other means to prevent deception. When he came + to Strictland, and asked his name, the reply was, "Jean Fourchette," in a + bold tone. + </p> + <p> + "Are you a Frenchman?" asked the officer. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, SIR," was Strictland's reply, in a most anti-Gallican accent. + </p> + <p> + The officer stared at him for a moment, but without asking more questions + passed on to others. + </p> + <p> + I felt somewhat apprehensive that the British ship was short-manned, and + that the officer might cast a longing look on me, and consider me worthy + of serving his "most gracious majesty"; in which case I intended to fall + back on my American protection, which I regarded as my richest treasure, + and insist upon going to an English prison rather than sling my hammock in + a man-of-war. But no questions were asked, as I was looked upon as one of + the crew, which, without counting Strictland, consisted of only three + individuals; and the idea of reducing that small number by impressment was + not entertained. + </p> + <p> + The officer, before he left the schooner, with great glee communicated to + our passengers an important piece of intelligence, which was more + gratifying to British than to French ears. A great and decisive battle had + been fought at Salamanca, in Spain, between the combined armies under + Wellington and the French army under Marmont. It resulted in the signal + defeat of the French marshal, who was severely wounded. The officer left + some English newspapers on board the schooner containing the details of + the battle. + </p> + <p> + The difficulty which had occurred between Strictland and myself, and which + at one time threatened to sever forever all friendly ties, was amicably + settled before we arrived at St. Bartholomew. Policy undoubtedly pointed + out to the Englishman the importance of continuing our friendly relations + while my money lasted; and he apologized in a handsome manner for what I + considered his rude and uncivil conduct. Again we became sworn friends and + brothers, and resolved that the same fortune, good or evil, should betide + us both. + </p> + <p> + We arrived at St. Bartholomew about the 20th of September, 1812, and + landed our passengers in good order, well-conditioned, and in tip-top + spirits, after a passage of twenty days. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXIV. HARD TIMES IN ST. BARTHOLOMEW + </h2> + <p> + We found the harbor of St. Bartholomew full of vessels belonging to almost + every nation. Among them were several American clippers taking in cargo + for the United States; also vessels under Swedish colors bound in the same + direction. From these facts we anticipated little difficulty in procuring + a passage to that country, on whose shores my friend, the young + Englishman, as well as myself, was anxious to stand. But, although there + were many vessels in port, there were also many sailors; far more than + could be provided with employment; men, who by shipwreck or capture, had + been set adrift in different parts of the Windward islands, and had + flocked to St. Bartholomew with a view to get a passage to "The land of + the free and the home of the brave." + </p> + <p> + Strictland and myself remained in the schooner La Concha a couple of days, + until the cargo was discharged, when the French captain, taking me aside, + told me he was making arrangements to proceed on a trip to Point Petre, in + Guadaloupe, and was desirous I should remain with him as one of the crew + on regular wages. But as he positively refused to receive my companion on + the same terms, or on any terms whatever, and, moreover, expressed an + opinion of his character by no means favorable, and which I believed to be + unjust, I declined his proposition as a matter of course. + </p> + <p> + It now became necessary to seek some abiding place on shore until we could + find means of getting from the island. But on inquiry I ascertained that + thee expenses of board, even of the humblest character, were so great that + our slender resources, the few dollars remained of my single month's pay, + would not warrant such an extravagant proceeding as a resort to a boarding + house. I convinced Strictland of the importance of the strictest economy + in our expenditures; succeeded in persuading a good-natured Swede, who + kept a small shop near the careenage, to allow my chest to remain with him + a few days, and we undertook to "rough it" as well as we could. + </p> + <p> + In the morning we usually took a survey of the vessels in the harbor, + hoping to find employment of some kind or a chance to leave the island. + When hungry, we bought, for a small sum, a loaf of bread and a half dozen + small fish, jacks or ballahues, already cooked, of which there was always + a bountiful supply for sale about the wharves, and then retiring to the + outskirts of the town, seated in the shade of one of the few trees in that + neighborhood, we made a hearty and delicious repast. The greatest + inconvenience to which we were subjected was a want of water. There was a + great scarcity of that "necessary of life" in the island, and a drink of + water, when asked for, was frequently refused. More than once, when hard + pressed by thirst, I entered a grog shop and paid for a glass of liquor in + order to obtain a refreshing draught of the pure element. + </p> + <p> + At night, after walking through the streets and listening to the gossip of + the sailors collected in groups in the streets, we retired to some lonely + wharf, and throwing ourselves down on a pile of SOFT pine boards, and + gathering our jackets around us, and curtained by the starry canopy of + heaven, we slept as soundly and sweetly as if reposing on the most + luxurious couch. + </p> + <p> + But even this cheap mode of lodging was attended with inconveniences. One + night a shower of rain came suddenly upon us. This was an event unfrequent + and consequently unexpected, and our garments were thoroughly soaked + before we could realize our misfortune. As this happened about three + o'clock in the morning, there was nothing left but to wait patiently + several hours, wet to the skin and shivering in the night air, until our + clothing was dried by the rays of the sun and warmth restored to our + frames. + </p> + <p> + One night an unprincipled knave undertook to rob us while we slept. + Fortunately for us he began his work with Strictland, and took possession + of the few effects which his pockets contained before my companion awoke + and gave the alarm. On hearing his cry, I started to my feet and seized + the fellow, who, being nearly naked, eluded my grasp and ran. We chased + him the length of a street, when he entered an alley and disappeared among + a row of dilapidated buildings. + </p> + <p> + After these events we considered it expedient to change our capacious + lodging house for one of more limited dimensions, where we might be + screened from a shower and concealed from the prying eyes of a robber. We + proceeded the next day in quest of such an accommodation, and after a + careful survey of various localities, our labors were crowned with + success. We found on the northern side of the harbor an old boat that had + been hauled up on the beach and turned bottom upwards. This furnished us + with a capital lodging house. We took up our quarters there every night + without asking permission of the owner, and were never disturbed in our + snug domicile after we laid ourselves down to rest. + </p> + <p> + It may be asked why I did not apply to the American consul for assistance. + The treatment which I received from the agent of our government, when in + distress, at Liverpool, created on my mind an unfavorable impression in + regard to that class of officials, and the reluctant aid and little + encouragement which those of my countrymen met with who applied for advice + and assistance to the consul at St. Bartholomew, were calculated to + prevent any application on my part. Besides, I had entwined my fortunes + with another an Englishman; and we had resolved to partake of weal or woe + together. + </p> + <p> + On more than one occasion I could have procured a passage for myself to my + native land if I had been willing to leave Strictland, My "protection," as + well as appearance, furnished indisputable evidence that I was an + American; but Strictland had no testimony of any kind to offer in favor of + his citizenship, and to every application for a passage he received a + decided shake of the head, from which there was no appeal. + </p> + <p> + About this time an excitement prevailed among the web-footed gentry in St. + Bartholomew in relation to the impressment of seamen by British + authorities. The cruisers on the West India station were deficient in men; + and all kinds of stratagems were regarded as justifiable which would be + likely to supply the deficiency. British ships and brigs of war were often + seen cruising off the harbor of St. Bartholomew, and their boats were sent + ashore for intelligence and provisions. It became known to some of the + officers that there was a large number of seamen in the town destitute of + employment, and a plot was devised to kidnap a few of them, and do them a + good turn against their will, by giving them board and lodging gratis, and + an opportunity to display their courage by fighting the enemies of Great + Britain. + </p> + <p> + A shrewd and intelligent English office, who could tell a good story and + make himself agreeable in a grog shop, disguised in the plain dress of a + common sailor, one day got admittance to a knot of these unsuspecting "old + salts," and by his liberality and good humor acquired their confidence. + Under some plausible pretext he induced a dozen or fifteen Dutchmen, + Swedes, Britons, and Yankees to accompany him to a wharf on the opposite + side of the harbor, where an alarm or cries for succor could hardly be + heard by any of the sailors on shore. Instead of the sport which was + expected, they found themselves surrounded by the boat's crew of a + man-of-war! After a brief, but unsuccessful struggle, they were all, with + the exception of two, hustled into the boat and carried off in triumph on + board an English frigate. Those two effected their escape by making good + use of their legs, and their account of this most unjustifiable but + successful case of man-stealing created a feeling of hatred against the + officers of British men-of-war, which manifested itself on several + occasions, and was near being attended with serious results. + </p> + <p> + One pleasant morning, an American clipper brig arrived at St. Bartholomew + from the United States. The event was soon known to every person in the + island, and caused quite an excitement. When a boat from the brig, with + the captain on board, reached the landing-place, a crowd was assembled to + hear the news and inquire into the results of the war. Englishmen and + Americans met upon the wharf upon the most friendly footing, and jocularly + offered bets with each other in regard to the nature of the intelligence + brought by this arrival. + </p> + <p> + The captain stepped on shore and was besieged on every side. "What is the + news, captain?" eagerly inquired half a dozen individuals in the same + breath. + </p> + <p> + "Is Canada captured by the Americans?" shouted an undoubted Jonathan, one + of those persevering, restless mortals of whom it has been said by a + Yankee girl, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "No matter where his home may be, + What flag may be unfurled; + He'll manage, by some cute device, + To whittle through the world!" +</pre> + <p> + "Has there been any naval engagement? Any American frigates taken, hey?" + inquired a genuine native of Albion, his eyes sparkling with expectation. + </p> + <p> + The captain, although thus suddenly surrounded, captured, and taken + possession of, seemed more amused than annoyed by these inquisitorial + proceedings, and, with a clear voice and a good-humored smile, replied, + while the tumult was hushed and every ear expanded to catch the + interesting intelligence, "I know of no battles that have been fought on + the land or sea; but just before I left New York, intelligence was + received that General Hull, the commander of the American forces on the + frontiers, had surrendered his whole army to the enemy at Detroit, with + all his guns, ammunition, and stores, WITHOUT FIRING A GUN!" + </p> + <p> + It is impossible to describe the scene which followed the announcement of + this unexpected intelligence, the exultation of the British, and the + mortification and wrath of the Americans. Hull was stigmatized by his + country-men as the basest of cowards. Curses, both loud and deep, were + heaped upon his hoary head. Had he been within the grasp of those who + listened to the story of his shame, a host of armed Englishmen could not + have saved him from the fury of the Yankees. + </p> + <p> + Occasionally an American privateer was seen in the offing; and the + boldness, enterprise, and success of this class of vessels in crippling + the commerce of Great Britain among the islands, created astonishment and + indignation among the loyal subjects of "his majesty." Rumors were afloat + every day sometimes false, but more frequently true of some deed of + daring, or destruction of British property, committed in that quarter by + American private-armed vessels. + </p> + <p> + One day, a small drogher arrived from the English island of Antigua, + bringing as passengers four or five seamen, the only survivors of a + terrible disaster which befell one of those privateers while cruising to + the windward of Antigua. One of the men was boatswain of the vessel. The + tale which he related was a sad one, and its correctness was confirmed by + the deep emotion which the narrator and his shipmates manifested and by + the tears they shed. + </p> + <p> + The captain of the privateer was a man of violent and ungovernable temper + and drunken habits. He had a quarrel every day with some of his officers + or some of his men; and one Sunday afternoon a wordy contest took place + between the captain and his first lieutenant, both being well primed with + alcohol. The language and conduct of the insulted officer was such as to + provoke the captain to madness. He raged and raved, and at last struck his + lieutenant, and gave peremptory orders to "put the rascal in irons." + </p> + <p> + On hearing this order given, but before it could be executed, the + lieutenant seized a loaded pistol. Instead of shooting his brutal + commander on the spot, he rushed down the steps into the after part of the + vessel, and undoubtedly discharged his weapon among the powder in the + magazine! A tremendous explosion followed, which blew the privateer to + fragments, scattering the timbers and planks, and the legs, arms, and + bodies of the crew, in every direction! The shrieks of the wounded, the + struggles of the dying, and the spectacle of horrors which those men + witnessed, made a lasting impression on their minds. + </p> + <p> + After having been on the water a few minutes, almost stunned by the + explosion, the boatswain and some of his companions succeeded in + constructing a raft from the floating planks; and after days of suffering + and exposure, without food, and almost without clothing, the survivors + were driven ashore on the island of Antigua, where they were kindly + treated, and subsequently sent to St. Bartholomew, with the expectation + that they would there find a chance to get to the United States. + </p> + <p> + Strictland and myself led the vagabond kind of life I have described for a + couple of weeks. My purse was gradually growing lighter, and it became + evident that we must soon find employment or starve. We formed various + plans for improving our condition, neither of which proved practicable + when put to the test. One of these was to proceed to Tortola, and join a + band of strolling players that were perambulating the islands, and + attracting admiration, if not money, by the excellence of their dramatic + representations. Strictland, it seemed, besides having been a hanger-on at + the "Fives Court," had served occasionally as a supernumerary at Covent + Garden Theatre. He could sing almost any one of Dibdin's songs in + imitation of Incledon, in a manner to astonish an audience; and he + flattered my vanity by assuring me that I should make a decided hit before + an intelligent audience as "Young Norval." But this project failed for + want of means to carry us to the theatre of action. + </p> + <p> + One morning, while looking about the wharves, we learned that the brig + Gustavus, a vessel under Swedish colors, supposed to belong to St. + Bartholomew, was making preparations for a voyage to the United States. We + lost no time in finding the captain of the brig, a chuckle-headed, + crafty-looking native of Sweden, who had been long a resident of the West + Indies. I represented our case in the most forcible language I could + command; and already aware that some men will be more likely to do a kind + act from motives of self-interest than the promptings of a benevolent + heart, I told him we were anxious to proceed to the United states, and if + he would promise us the privilege of working our passage, we would go on + board forthwith and assist in taking in cargo and getting the brig ready + for sea. + </p> + <p> + The captain listened to my eloquence with a good-natured smile and + accepted our offer. He promised us a passage to some port in the United + States if we would go on board the brig and work faithfully until she + sailed. We abandoned our convenient, I had almost said luxurious lodgings + beneath the boat on the beach, and, with my chest and what other baggage + we possessed, joyfully transferred our quarters to the forecastle of the + brig Gustavus. + </p> + <p> + We remained on board the brig about a fortnight, faithfully and steadily + at work, stowing cargo, repairing and setting up the rigging, and bending + sails. We congratulated ourselves, from time to time, on our good fortune + in securing such a chance, after so much disappointment and delay. + </p> + <p> + But one morning I was alarmed at finding Strictland had been suddenly + attacked with violent headache and other symptoms of fever. The mate gave + him some medicine, but he continued unwell. In the afternoon the captain + came on board, and after a conference with the mate, called me to the + quarter-deck, and told me my companion was sick; that he did not like sick + people; and the sooner I took him ashore, the better for all parties. "The + brig," he continued, "is now ready for sea. I can find plenty of my + countrymen who will go with me on the terms you offered, and of course I + shall not give either of you a passage to America. If I should be + overhauled by an English man-of-war while my crew is composed in part of + Americans and Englishmen, my vessel will be seized and condemned. + Therefore, you had better clear out at once, and take your sick friend + along with you." + </p> + <p> + I was disgusted with the cold-blooded rascality of this man, who could + thus, almost without a pretext, violate a solemn obligation when he could + no longer be benefitted by its fulfilment. + </p> + <p> + "As for taking my friend ashore in his present condition," said I, "with + no place in which to shelter him, and no means of procuring him medical + advice or support, that is out of the question. He must remain where he + now is until he recovers from his illness. But I will no longer trouble + you with MY presence on board. I will gladly quit your vessel as soon as + you pay me for the work I have done during the last fortnight." + </p> + <p> + "Work!!" said the skipper; "pay! I didn't agree to pay you for your work! + You've got your food and lodging for your work. Not one single rix dollar + will I pay you besides!" And the skipper kept his word. + </p> + <p> + After giving him, in very plain language, my opinion of his conduct, I + went into the forecastle and had some conversation with Strictland. I + found him more comfortable, and told him my determination not to sleep + another night on board the brig, but that I would visit him the next + morning. I called a boat alongside, and, swelling with indignation, went + ashore. I proceeded immediately to an American clipper brig which was + ready to sail for a port in the Chesapeake Bay. I represented to the + captain the forlorn situation of myself and companion, and urged him to + give us a passage to the United States. He listened patiently to my + representations, but replied that he had already consented to receive a + larger number of his distressed countrymen as passengers than he felt + justified in doing, and that he had neither room nor provisions for any + additional number. Seeing that I was greatly disappointed at his refusal + of my application, he finally told me he would give ME a passage to + America if I chose to go, but he would not take my companion. This was + reasonable enough; but I could not think of abandoning Strictland, + especially while he was sick and destitute, and resolved to forego this + opportunity and wait for more propitious times. I was convinced that when + I got to the bottom of Fortune's constantly revolving wheel, my + circumstances must improve by the revolution, whichever way the wheel + might turn. + </p> + <p> + Fatigued, disappointed, and indignant withal, as soon as the shades of + evening fell I proceeded leisurely around the harbor to the beach on the + opposite side of the bay, and again took possession of my comfortable + lodgings beneath the boat. For hours I lay awake, reflecting on my awkward + situation, and striving to devise some practicable means to overcome the + difficulties by which I was surrounded. + </p> + <p> + I awoke at a somewhat late hour the next morning, and heard the unwonted + sounds of the wind whistling and howling around my domicile. It was + blowing a gale, the beginning of a hurricane. I hastened with eager steps + to the other side of the harbor, where I found everything in confusion. + The quays were thronged with people, and every man seemed busy. Boats were + passing to and from the vessels, freighted with men to render assistance; + carrying off cables and anchors, and in some cases, where the cargoes had + been discharged, stone ballast, which was hastily thrown on the decks and + thence transferred to the hold, fears being entertained that as the + hurricane increased, the vessels in port might be forced from their + anchors, and wrecked on the rocks at the entrance of the haven, or driven + out into the Caribbean Sea. + </p> + <p> + The vessels were thickly moored, and cables already began to part and + anchors to drag. Sloops, schooners, brigs, and ships got foul of each + other. The "hardest fend off!" was the cry, and cracking work commenced; + and what with the howling of the hurricane gusts as they swept down the + mountain side, the angry roar of the short waves, so suddenly conjured up, + as they dashed against the bows of the different vessels, the shouting of + the seamen mooring or unmooring, the orders, intermingled with fierce + oaths and threats, of the masters and mates as they exerted all their + energies to avert impending disasters, the crashing of bulwarks, the + destruction of cutwaters and bowsprits, and the demolition of spars, a + scene of unusual character was displayed, which, to a person not a busy + actor, was brim full of interest, and not destitute of sublimity. + </p> + <p> + The mate of the Gustavus, with a number of men, was employed in carrying + off from the shore a cable and anchor, the small bower having parted at + the beginning of the gale. The mate represented the situation of the brig + as somewhat critical, and urged me to render assistance. Anxious to see + Strictland, I acceded to his request. It was not long before we were under + the bows of the brig. Men were engaged in carrying out the anchor ahead to + haul her away from a cluster of vessels which were making sad havoc with + her quarter rails, fashion pieces, and gingerbread work on the stern. + </p> + <p> + I entered the forecastle, shook hands with Strictland, whose health had + greatly improved, with prospect of a speedy recovery, and bade him be of + good cheer, that he would be well enough on the morrow. I threw on a chest + my jacket and vest, containing what little money still remained on hand, + and my "protection," and thus airily equipped, reckless of the clouds of + mist and rain which at times enveloped the whole harbor, went on deck and + turned to with a will, notwithstanding the scurvy treatment I had received + from the captain the day before. When I reached the deck, some of the men + were engaged in heaving in the new cable; others were just then called aft + by the captain to assist in bearing off a sloop on one quarter and a + schooner on the other, and in disengaging the rigging which had caught in + the spars. The sloop had the appearance of a wreck. The laniards of the + shrouds had been cut away on both sides, and the tall and tapering mast + was quivering and bending like a whipstock, from the action of the wind + and the waves. One of the cables, it was supposed, had parted; the sails, + not having been properly furled, were fluttering and struggling, not + altogether in vain, to get loose; and the deck on both sides was filled + with shingle ballast, which had been brought from the shore early that + morning, in the fear that the sloop might be driven out to sea, and had + not been thrown into the hold. + </p> + <p> + The captain, mate, and crew of the sloop, finding their vessel in such a + helpless condition, and entertaining wholesome fears for their own safety, + ABANDONED THE SLOOP TO HER FATE, and embarked, with all their baggage, in + the last boat that had brought off ballast. But with the last boat there + came from the shore a young man, who, as supercargo, had charge of the + vessel and cargo. Aware to some extent of the perilous condition of the + sloop, he had been actively engaged during the morning in efforts to + prepare his vessel to encounter the disasters incident to a hurricane. As + he stepped on the deck of the sloop, and before the ballast had all been + discharged from the boat, the officers and crew were eager for their + departure. The captain urged the supercargo to accompany him on shore, + and, when he refused, pointed out the desperate condition of the sloop, + assuring him that in a few minutes that vessel, held by a single anchor, + would break adrift and be wrecked on the rocks, when probably no + individual could be saved. + </p> + <p> + The name of the supercargo was Bohun, a native of the "Emerald Isle." He + peremptorily refused to quit the vessel, saying, as he stamped his foot on + the deck, "Here I stand, determined to sink or swim with the sloop." + </p> + <p> + "Shove off!" exclaimed the captain; "it is useless to parley with a fool!" + </p> + <p> + At this moment the crew of the Gustavus were summoned aft to disengage the + brig from the sloop, and the captain was issuing orders in his most + effective style. "Bear off! Why don't you bear off! Cut away the laniards + of those shrouds, and clear the main chainwales! Bring an axe here, and + cut away that fore-stay which is foul of the main yard!" + </p> + <p> + Calling now to Bohun, who stood in the forward part of the sloop with a + most rueful visage, the captain said, "Why don't you pay out cable, you + lubber, and drop astern, clear of the brig?" + </p> + <p> + Bohun stood near the windlass, and his appearance struck me as being + singularly interesting. He was dressed like a gentleman; wore a green + frock coat and a white fur hat; but his garments were saturated with rain + and the spray. He seemed resolute, nevertheless, and anxious to do + something, but he knew not what to do. When roughly accosted by the + captain of the brig, he replied, "If you'll send two or three men to help + me, I will soon get the sloop clear of your vessel. My men have all + deserted, and I can do nothing without assistance." + </p> + <p> + The captain of the Gustavus shook his head and his fist at the young + Irishman, and discharged a double-headed oath at him, within point-blank + shot. Nevertheless, Bohun continued, "If you will let me have one man, + only ONE man, I may be able to save the sloop." + </p> + <p> + "One man!" replied the Swedish captain, screaming with passion, "how do + you expect me to spare even one man, when my own vessel may strike adrift + at any moment? Pay out cable, and be hanged to you! Pay out cable, and + drop astern!" And he aimed another ferocious oath at the unfortunate + supercargo. + </p> + <p> + Poor Bohun was no sailor. He hardly knew the difference between the cable + and the cathead. He looked the picture of distress, almost of despair. But + I, being under no obligations to the brutal captain of the brig, was at + liberty to obey the impulse of my feelings. I stepped over the quarter + rail, grasped the topmast stay of the sloop, swung myself on the jibboom, + and in the space of a few seconds after the captain had concluded his + maledictions I was standing on the sloop's forecastle, alongside of Bohun. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXV. TREACHERY AND INGRATITUDE + </h2> + <p> + As soon as I reached the deck of the sloop, Bohun eagerly grasped me by + the hand. "My good fellow," said he, "tell me what to do, and I will go + about it at once; only tell me what to do first." + </p> + <p> + I cast my eye around, and comprehended in a moment the exact condition of + the little vessel. I felt that a great responsibility had suddenly + devolved upon me, and I determined to be equal to the task. The sloop, + pitching and rolling, and jammed between two much larger vessels, was + awkwardly situated, and riding, I supposed, at a single anchor. About half + the cable only was payed out; the remainder was coiled on the forecastle, + and the end was not secured. + </p> + <p> + "In the first place," said I, recollecting the scene near Charleston bar, + "we will clinch the end of the cable around the mast, and then we can veer + out as much as we like, without risk of its running away." + </p> + <p> + This was soon done, and by veering cable, the sloop dropped astern, until + clear of all other vessels. I then found, to my satisfaction, that neither + of the cables had parted. It subsequently appeared that the small bower + anchor had merely been dropped under foot. By giving a good scope to both + cables, the sloop was as likely to ride out the gale, so far as depended + on ground tackling, as any vessel in port. The sails, which had been + loosed by the force of the wind, were next secured. The foresail was + furled in such manner that it could be cast loose and the head of it + hoisted at a minute's notice. I greatly feared that some light vessel + might be forced from her moorings, and drift athwart our bows, and thus + bear the sloop away from her anchors. I therefore got an axe, and placed + it by the windlass, with the design of cutting both cables when such an + act might be considered necessary for our safety, hoist the head of the + foresail, and run out to sea. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time, the decks were in a deplorable condition, lumbered up + with barrels, boxes, and ballast. The supercargo commenced on one side, + and myself on the other, to throw the ballast into the hold. The + miscellaneous articles were then tumbled down in an unceremonious manner, + and the hatchways properly secured. Our attention was now turned to the + mast, which had no support on either side, and was in an awkward and + uneasy position. Bohun looked at it as it swayed from starboard to port + and from port to starboard, and then looked inquiringly at me. + </p> + <p> + "We can co it!" said I, without hesitation. "Have you any spare rigging on + board?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, plenty! Down in the forward part of the sloop." + </p> + <p> + I went below, and found a coil of rope which I believed would answer my + purpose. I brought it on deck, and began to reeve laniards for the + shrouds. I then procured a handspike and heaver, and went to work setting + up the rigging by a "Spanish windlass." I had only once seen an operation + of this kind performed; but having closely watched the process, I knew I + could perform it successfully. In this matter Bohun rendered me valuable + aid. We worked diligently, for we felt that every minute was of + importance; and it was not long before the shrouds on both sides were set + up, and the mast rendered safe. By the time this work was accomplished and + the vessel put in good condition, the forenoon had nearly expired; but the + hurricane continued. Several vessels had already been driven from their + anchors, and blown broadside on, through the whole length of the harbor, + and dashed to pieces against the rocks. + </p> + <p> + Through the mist and rain I kept a good lookout ahead, lest some of those + unfortunate craft should come down upon our little sloop. And at one time, + in the middle of the afternoon, I thought the crisis had come, and we + should be obliged to go to sea. A large schooner which had been lying + snugly at anchor at the extremity of the harbor for months, with no person + on board, parted her cable, and was driven by the wind among the vessels + already tossing about in that fearful gale, rubbing against one, crushing + in the bulwarks of another, and carrying alarm and terror throughout her + whole route. This hulk had passed through the great body of the shipping + without causing much serious or irremediable damage, and now, broadside to + the gale, was rapidly wafted towards the sloop. My heart beat violently, + as, axe in hand, I watched her approach. + </p> + <p> + I raised the axe above my head to give the fatal blow, when I perceived + the stern of the schooner swinging round. I dropped the axe, and called + upon Bohun to lend me a hand to bear off. The schooner came down almost + with the force of an avalanche, cleared the bowsprit, as I anticipated, + but struck our larboard bow, swung alongside, caught by our chain-wale for + a moment, was freed by a violent gust of wind, dropped astern, and was + soon pounding upon the ledges. + </p> + <p> + Bohun, who had never before been an actor in such scenes, was completely + exhausted with excitement and fatigue. He loaned me a pea-jacket, for, + after my severe labors, and ablutions in fresh and salt water, I was + shivering with cold; and requesting me to keep a good lookout, went below + long before the gale abated, and buried his inquietudes in sleep. + </p> + <p> + The tempest began to diminish in violence soon after the shades of evening + fell; but I continued on my watch until nearly midnight, when no longer + doubting that the fierce hurricane had exhausted its wrath, I also left + the deck, turned into one of the cabin berths, and slept soundly until the + sun was above the horizon. + </p> + <p> + When Bohun came on deck he assured me he felt under great obligations for + the assistance I had rendered in saving the sloop from destruction, and + would cheerfully make me any compensation in his power. He requested as an + additional favor that I would remain by the sloop, as there was valuable + property on board, until he could make some necessary arrangements. I gave + him my promise. He then called a boat alongside, and proceeded on shore. + </p> + <p> + I was anxious to visit the Gustavus to inquire about Strictland's health, + and consult with him in relation to future proceedings. But there was no + boat at this time attached to the sloop; the small boat broke away at the + commencement of the gale, and was never afterwards seen; and the long-boat + was taken possession of by the dastardly creoles who composed the officers + and crew. I knew, however, that Strictland was well provided for, and + being determined to visit him at the earliest opportunity, gave myself no + further anxiety, but patiently awaited the return of the supercargo. I + waited in vain; he did not arrive that day, but about eight o'clock in the + evening a boat came off bringing a new captain, mate, and a couple of men. + My short-lived reign was at an end! I had tasted the sweets of despotic + authority for two delicious days. I was now deposed, and about to be + resolved into my original elements. + </p> + <p> + It was too late to visit Strictland that night; but the next morning after + breakfast, I obtained permission from the new captain to use the boat for + a short time, and with a light and joyous heart for I was proud of my + successful exertions during the gale sculled away for the Gustavus. I + stepped gayly on board, and encountered the mate as I passed over the + gangway. He greeted me kindly, but expressed surprise at my appearance. + </p> + <p> + "How is Strictland?" I exclaimed. "Has he entirely recovered?" + </p> + <p> + "Strictland!" replied the mate. "Have you not seen him? Don't you KNOW + where he is?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not," said I, somewhat alarmed at his manner, "if he is not on + board the brig!" + </p> + <p> + "He left the brig this morning," said the mate, "and is now on board that + vessel in the offing," pointing to a rakish clipper brig under American + colors that was outside the harbor, and seemed to be flying away under a + cloud of canvas. "He has taken his chest and everything belonging to you + both," continued the mate, seeing my astonishment. "I thought you were + with him, and that the whole thing was arranged by mutual agreement." + </p> + <p> + I was thunderstruck at this intelligence; but after a moment's reflection, + I refused to believe it. "It must be a mistake," said I; "Strictland would + not go off to America, and leave me here without means or employment. He + cannot be so ungrateful." + </p> + <p> + The mate looked as if he thought such a thing were possible. + </p> + <p> + "And if he HAS availed himself of a chance to go to the United States, he + has undoubtedly left the chest, which is mine, and other property + belonging to me where I can easily find it." + </p> + <p> + "I hope you MAY find it," said the mate dryly, "but I don't believe you + will." + </p> + <p> + I went forward and conversed with the men who had taken Strictland on + board the brig, and from them learned the particulars of the transaction. + It appeared that Strictland, who had quite recovered his health, on coming + on deck that memorable morning, perceived the clipper brig, which two days + before I had visited without a successful result, making preparations for + immediate departure. He borrowed the boat, and accompanied by one of the + crew of the Gustavus, went on board the American brig, where he + represented himself to the captain as an American, in great distress, and + anxious to get home. He exhibited a "protection," mine undoubtedly, as + evidence of his assertions. The tale of his misfortunes, told in eloquent + language, albeit it must have smacked strongly of cockney peculiarities, + melted the heart of the worthy and unsuspecting sailor, who told him to + bring his things on board at once, and he would give him a passage to the + United States. + </p> + <p> + Strictland returned to the Gustavus, gathered together not only everything + which belonged to him, but every article of my property besides, not even + excepting the garments I had thrown off on the morning of the hurricane. + He took with him the money belonging to me which was still unexpended, and + also what I regarded as far more valuable than the rest of my property my + American protection. He told the crew this was done in pursuance of an + arrangement made with me the day previous to the hurricane. He reached the + brig with his "plunder" just as the anchor was hauled to the cathead, and + the brig was hanging by a single line attached to a neighboring vessel + until the topsails were sheeted home. My chest was transferred to the deck + of the clipper, and five minutes afterwards the brig was leaving the + harbor under full sail, bound home. + </p> + <p> + It was some time before I could realize the extent of my misfortune, and + persuade myself of the melancholy fact that I was a stranger in a foreign + port, without friends, while every item of my goods and chattels consisted + of an old pair of patched canvas trousers, a checked shirt, and a + dilapidated straw hat; I had not even a pair of shoes, a kerchief, a + jack-knife, or the value of a stiver in cash. + </p> + <p> + I stood a moment gazing earnestly at the brig as she was rapidly sinking + beneath the horizon. I was more disappointed and shocked at the + ingratitude of Strictland than grieved at the loss of my goods and + chattels. And when I saw that I had been deceived, cajoled, and swindled + by an unprincipled adventurer, so far from rejoicing at such an + opportunity to "come out strong," as Mark Tapley would have done under + similar circumstances, I could hardly control my indignation. But + conscious that my wrongs could neither be remedied nor avenged, I + repressed my feelings, and amid the well-meaning condolence of my friends + in the Gustavus, entered my boat and returned to the sloop. + </p> + <p> + I was rejoiced to find Bohun on board. He seized my hand and greeted me + with much kindness. His countenance, open, frank, and honest, emboldened + me to explain to him my situation. When I had concluded my narrative of + facts, "Now," said I, "if you consider yourself indebted to me, and are + willing to do me a favor, all I ask is, that you will give me a situation + on board this sloop as one of the sailors, until I can find an opportunity + to do something better. I shall expect the same rate of wages as others, + of course and have also to request that you will advance me a few dollars, + with which I can supply myself with some necessary articles of clothing." + </p> + <p> + Bohun graciously acceded to my wishes, and told me I might henceforth + consider myself one of the crew of the sloop. I then ascertained what had + hitherto escaped my knowledge, that the sloop was called the "Lapwing" of + St. Bartholomew; but really belonged to Mr. Thomas, an opulent merchant + residing in St. George, Grenada, and was about to proceed to that port + with a cargo of flour and other articles of American produce. Bohun was a + clerk with Mr. Thomas; and he assured me that on his representations of my + conduct to his employer, and the unfortunate consequences of it to myself, + that gentleman would undoubtedly show his appreciation of my services in a + manner highly proper and acceptable. + </p> + <p> + This consideration, however, had no weight with me. All I asked for was + employment. I wanted to be placed in a situation where by my labors I + could earn my living. This I then regarded as independence; and I have + never since seen cause to change that opinion. + </p> + <p> + As the Lapwing belonged nominally and officially to a Swedish port, it was + necessary she should have Swedish officers and in part a Swedish crew. The + captain was a tall, stiff-looking man, whose name was Lordick. He was a + native of the little island of Saba; and two of the crew belonged to the + same place. The mate was a native of St. Bartholomew. All belonging to the + sloop were creoles, and assumed to be subjects of the king of Sweden, + excepting Bohun and myself; and I had been so much exposed to the sun in + that hot climate, that I looked as much like a creole as any person on + board. + </p> + <p> + The island of Saba is in sight of St. Bartholomew a level, precipitous + rock, nine miles in circumference, highest in the enter, appearing like a + mound rising out of the sea, and covered with no great depth of soil. Saba + was first settled by a colony of Dutch from St. Eustatia towards the close + of the seventeenth century. It is a place of no trade, having no harbor, + and is but little known. It is accessible only on the south side, where + there is a narrow, intricate, and artificial path leading from the + landing-place to the summit. Frequent rains give growth to fruit and + vegetables of large size and superior flavor, which are conveyed to the + neighboring islands in open boats and sold. It contained in the early part + of the present century about fifty families of whites, and probably double + that number of slaves. The chief employment of the inhabitants consisted + in cultivating the soil, and raising, besides vegetables and fruit, + cotton, which the women spun and manufactured into stockings, of a very + delicate fabric, that readily commanded a high price in the neighboring + islands. The people, living in a village on the top of a rock between the + sky and the sea, enjoy the benefits of both elements without dreading + their storms. Indeed, Saba is one of those quiet secluded nooks, which are + sometimes unexpectedly discovered in different parts of the world, where + the people, generation after generation, live in a sort of primitive + simplicity, and pride themselves upon their peculiarities and seclusion + from mankind. The traveller in quest of novelties would do well to visit + Saba. + </p> + <p> + In a few days after I became one of the crew of the Lapwing, that vessel + was ready for sea. Captain Lordick manifested toward me a friendly + feeling; he sympathized with me in my misfortunes; made me a present of + some articles, which, although of trifling intrinsic value, were highly + useful; and inveighed in severe terms against the villainy of Strictland. + </p> + <p> + The day before we left port, Captain Lordick called me into the cabin. + "Hawser," said he, "you are an American, but you have no evidence of that + fact. The trading vessels among the islands are often boarded by English + men-of-war, with a view to get men to supply a deficiency in their crews. + If an Englishman is found, he is sure to be impressed. As you have no + "protection," and the burden of proof lies with you, you will be regarded + as an Englishman, a proper person to serve the king of Great Britain. Even + if you state the truth, and claim to be an American, there will be no + means of escape from this terrible species of servitude. I have a plan to + propose, which may save you from the clutches of John Bull. The natives of + St. Bartholomew, and also of Saba, which is a dependency on Holland, are + exempted from impressment, provided they can exhibit proofs of their + citizenship. Therefore every sailor belonging to those islands is provided + with a document, called a 'burgher's brief,' which, like an American + protection, gives a minute description of the person of the bearer, and is + signed and sealed by the official authorities. Now, Hawser," continued the + generous creole, "I had a younger brother who died of yellow fever in St. + Kitts some six months ago. He was about your age, and resembled you in + appearance. His 'burgher's brief,' as a citizen of St. Bartholomew, is now + in my possession. Therefore you shall no longer be a citizen of the United + States, but a native of Saba. I assure you there are very good people in + Saba; and your name is no longer Hawser Martingale, but John Lordick; + remember this; I shall so enter your name in the ship's papers. + </p> + <p> + The captain's reasons for a change in my identity were powerful. Besides, + a "purser's name" was a common thing among sailors. And although I felt + unwilling to forego my claim to American citizenship, even for a brief + period, I convinced myself that no evil to anyone, but much good to + myself, would be likely to result from such a course. Expediency is a + powerful casuist; the captain's kindness also touched my heart, and + conquering an instinctive repugnance to sacrifice the truth under any + circumstances, I rashly told him that in accordance with his suggestion, I + would adopt the name of his brother for a short time, and endeavor not to + disgrace it. + </p> + <p> + "I have no fear that you will," said he. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXVI. COASTING AMONG THE ISLANDS + </h2> + <p> + We left St. Bartholomew in the Lapwing and proceeded on our way towards + Grenada. I was treated with kindness by every person in the sloop, and + found my situation far more agreeable than when loafing and vagabondizing + about the wharves. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bohun was a light-hearted young man, intelligent, high-spirited, and + impulsive. He conversed with me about the events of the war, and + speculated freely in relation to the future. He spoke of the defeat of + General Hull as an event which might have been expected. When I expressed + an opinion that our national vessels would be more successful on the sea, + he appeared amused, laboring under the error which was universal among the + British at that time, that an American frigate of the first class could + hardly be considered a match for an English sloop-of-war. + </p> + <p> + I spoke of the action between the President and the Little Belt, where one + broadside, fired through mistake by the American frigate, transformed the + proud and defiant sloop-of-war into a sinking wreck. But my argumentative + fact was met by a reference to the unfortunate affair between the Leopard + and the Chesapeake. I urged that the Chesapeake, although rated and + officered and manned as a frigate, was merely an armed STORE-SHIP carrying + out supplies in a time of peace to our ships in the Mediterranean. But + Bohun, like every other Briton I have met with, would not admit the + efficiency of the excuse. I next recurred to the Tripolitan war, and + alluded to the many deeds of daring performed by my gallant countrymen. + But Bohun contended that their feats of valor in a war against barbarians + could not be regarded as a test of their ability to battle on equal terms + against the most accomplished seamen in the world. Bohun said that the + Shannon and the Guerriere, two of the finest frigates in the English navy, + had recently been fitted out and ordered to cruise on the American coast, + with the expectation that a single-handed contest between one of these + vessels and an American frigate of the first class would humble the pride + of the Yankees, and decide the question of superiority. I could only reply + that I hoped the meeting would soon take place, and when it did, he would + be as much astonished as I should be gratified at the result. + </p> + <p> + The next morning after the above conversation, we were passing along the + westerly side of the island of Dominica, and Mr. Bohun expressed a wish to + touch at Rosseau, the principal port in the island, in order to obtain + some desirable information. When off the mouth of the harbor, orders were + given for the sloop to lie off and on, while the supercargo was conveyed + on shore in the yawl, pulled by one of my Saba countrymen and myself. On + reaching a landing place, Bohun directed us to remain by the boat until he + should return, which would be in the course of half an hour, and tripped + gayly up the wharf. + </p> + <p> + The town of Rosseau is pleasantly situated in a valley near the seashore. + The harbor is little better than an open roadstead, and is defended by + strong fortifications overhanging the city. The town has been three times + destroyed; once by an inundation from the mountains after heavy rains + which swept away many of the dwellings and caused the death of numerous + inhabitants. Some ten or twenty years afterwards, when the town had been + rebuilt, a destructive fire raged through the place, laid it in ashes, and + destroyed an immense deal of property. A third time it was destroyed ay a + furious hurricane, when nearly all the houses were demolished or unroofed, + and hundreds of the inhabitants were killed or seriously wounded. Having + thus been at different times a victim to the rage of three of the + elements, air, fire, and water, many were led to believe that the final + destruction of the place would be caused by an earthquake. + </p> + <p> + It was about two o'clock in the afternoon when Bohun came down to the + boat, having been absent between three and four hours. His countenance was + lighted up with a smile of gayety, and his eyes sparkled as if he had + joyful news to communicate. + </p> + <p> + "Well, John," he shouted as he came within hail, "there has been an + arrival from Halifax, and a piece of important intelligence has been + received." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed, sir," said I, with a faltering voice, as from his cheerful + bearing I anticipated unfavorable tidings; "what is the character of the + news?" + </p> + <p> + "A desperate battle has been fought between the British frigate Guerriere, + and the American frigate Constitution. What do you think of that?" added + he, with a light laugh. + </p> + <p> + "Which gained the victory, sir?" said I, almost afraid to make the + inquiry. + </p> + <p> + "One of the frigates," said he, without replying to my question, "was + thoroughly whipped in short order and in handsome style, dismasted and + sunk, with one half of her crew killed and wounded, while the injury the + other received was hardly worth mentioning. Which do YOU think gained the + day?" + </p> + <p> + "The American frigate, of course," said I. "You are right, John," + exclaimed Bohun with a laugh. "THE CONSTITUTION HAS SUNK THE GUERRIERE. + Brother Jonathan is looking up. He is a worthy descendant of John Bull. I + find you understand the character of your sailors better than I do." + </p> + <p> + After having imparted this interesting piece of intelligence, and telling + my shipmate and myself to remain by the boat until he should return, which + would be in a few minutes, he again walked nimbly up the street, and was + soon lost to sight. + </p> + <p> + As in duty bound we remained at the wharf in expectation of the return of + Bohun, but hour after hour passed and he did not return. He was "enjoying + life" among some boon companions, and over a decanter of good wine, as he + afterwards acknowledged, lost for a time all recollection of the existence + not only of the boat, but also of the sloop. + </p> + <p> + When the company broke up about nine o'clock in the evening, he came + staggering down the wharf, rolled himself into the stern seats of the + boat, and ordered us to shove off and pull towards the sloop. We + represented to him that the night was dark and cloudy, and it would be + next to an impossibility to find the sloop in the broad bay at that hour; + that the attempt would be attended with risk, and consequently it would be + wiser to wait until morning before we left the quay. + </p> + <p> + Our remonstrances were of no avail. He insisted on going off immediately. + Nothing, he said, would induce him to wait until morning; he knew exactly + where to find the sloop, and could steer the boat directly alongside. + </p> + <p> + It was useless to argue with him, and we dared not disobey his orders. The + motto of Jack, like the submissive response of a Mussulman to an Eastern + caliph, is "To hear is to obey." We left the wharf and pulled briskly out + of the harbor. But no sloop was to be seen. We stopped for a moment to + reconnoitre, but Bohun told us to keep pulling; it was all right; we were + going directly towards her. In a few minutes he dropped the tiller and + sank down in the bottom of the boat, where he lay coiled up like a + hedgehog, oblivious to all that was passing around him. + </p> + <p> + By this time we were broad off in the bay; the lights in the town + glimmered in the distance, the stars shone occasionally through the broken + clouds, the wind was light, and the sea comparatively smooth. On + consultation with my shipmate, we came to the conclusion it was hardly + worth while to pull the boat about in different directions on a bootless + quest after the sloop. We also rejected the idea of returning to the town. + We laid in our oars, composed ourselves as comfortably as we could beneath + the thwarts, and with clear consciences resigned ourselves to sleep. + </p> + <p> + We must have slept for hours when we were awakened by an unpleasant and + alarming noise. It was some minutes before we could recollect ourselves + and ascertain the cause of the hubbub. It proved to be the roaring of the + wind, the pattering of the rain, and the angry dash of the waves. While we + slept a severe squall had been gradually concocted among the mountains, + and now burst upon us in all its fury. How long the wind had been blowing + we did not know; but we did know we were some miles out to sea in a + cockle-shell of a boat, and rapidly drifting farther from the land. No + lights could be seen in any quarter; but all around was dark and drear. We + supposed that as a matter of course the wind blew from the land, and + therefore got out our oars and pulled dead to windward, thus preventing + further drift, and lessening our danger by laying the boat head to the + sea, which was now rapidly rising. + </p> + <p> + The squall continued for an hour after we were conscious of its existence; + we were thoroughly drenched, but exercise kept us warm; while Bohun still + maintained his snug position beneath the stern seats in a happy state of + unconsciousness of the jarring of the elements and the peril to which he + was exposed. The first streaks of dawn were hailed with delight, and at + broad daylight we beheld the sloop, which had been driven to leeward + during the night; and although eight or ten miles from the land, she was + not more than a couple of miles to windward of the boat, and beating up + towards the harbor. We awakened Bohun, whose garments were saturated by + the shower, and who seemed greatly amused with our account of the night's + adventure. The wind was fortunately light, and by dint of hard rowing, we + soon got near enough to the Lapwing to make signals, and were recognized. + The sloop then bore away and ran down, and we were truly rejoiced, + fatigued, wet, hungry as we were, to stand again upon the deck. + </p> + <p> + Proceeding along to leeward of Martinico and St. Lucia, we came to St. + Vincent, an island about twenty miles in length from north to south, which + was chiefly remarkable at that time as being the only abiding place of the + once numerous and warlike tribe of the Caribs, who inhabited the Windward + Islands when the American continent was discovered, and were doomed, like + all other tribes of their race, to wilt and die beneath the sun of + civilization. + </p> + <p> + The Caribs, although described by historians as fierce and unpitying + cannibals of the lowest grade of human organization, undoubtedly possessed + moral and intellectual faculties by no means inferior to the great body of + American Indians; but, like the tribe of savages which inhabited the + island of Hispaniola, and other tribes on the continent, they observed the + custom of flattening their heads, which gave to their features an + unnatural and sinister expression, by no means calculated to gain the good + will and confidence of strangers. The head was squeezed, soon after birth, + between two boards, applied before and behind, which made the front and + back part of the head resemble two sides of a square. This custom is still + retained among the Caribs of St. Vincent. + </p> + <p> + The flattening of the head among the natives of Hispaniola was performed + in a different manner, and produced a different effect. The forehead only + was depressed, almost annihilating the facial angle, and swelling the back + part of the head out of all proportion. The early Spanish settlers + complained of this savage custom, as subjecting them to much + inconvenience. In the course of their HUMANE experiments, they ascertained + that, owing to the thickening of the back part of the cranium caused by + this process, the broadsword of the strongest cavalier could not cleave + the skull at a single blow, but would often snap off in the middle without + serious damage to the owner of the cranium! + </p> + <p> + When I passed along the shores of the island of St. Vincent, in 1810, I + was particularly struck with the wild and uncultivated appearance of the + northern section, a huge mountain, or combination of mountains, rudely + precipitous, covered with luxuriant vegetation even to the summit, but + containing deep chasms or gorges, down which sparkling streams were + rushing, forming numerous waterfalls, and all constituting a wild, + picturesque, and attractive landscape. + </p> + <p> + When I passed St. Vincent in the Lapwing, in October, 1812, a mighty + change had taken place. Every trace of vegetation had vanished from this + part of the island; not a tree or a shrub remained. The rivers were dried + up, and even the deep and dark chasms and gorges no longer existed. + Cinders and ashes covered the mountain sides, and beds of lava were + pouring down from the summit, and hissing as they entered the ocean. On + the 30th of April, about one month after the terrible earthquake by which + the city of Caraccas, three hundred and sixty miles distant, was + destroyed, and twelve thousand of the inhabitants buried in the ruins, an + eruption took place from an old crater on the summit of this mountain in + St. Vincent, at which for more than a century had shown no symptom of + life. The eruption was sudden and over whelming. Stones and ashes were + scattered over the island; vessels more than a hundred miles to the + eastward had their decks covered with cinders, and the crews were + terrified at the noises which attended this fierce ebullition of the + warring elements beneath the earth's surface. At St. Bartholomew, distant + from St. Vincent about three hundred miles, the explosions were distinctly + heard, and through the whole night were so continuous and loud as to + resemble a heavy cannonading from hostile fleets. Indeed, it was believed + for several days that a desperate action between English and French + squadrons had been fought within the distance of a few miles. By this + eruption the vegetation on the north part of the island, comprising one + third of the whole territory, was destroyed, and the soil rendered + sterile, being covered to a great depth with cinders and ashes. All the + lands in the immediate vicinity were also rendered unfit for cultivation. + What is remarkable, but few lives were lost. The unfortunate Caribs, + however, who comprised about one hundred families, dwelt in this ungenial + and unproductive district, and were driven from their homes to find + elsewhere and nearer to the habitations of the whites, some desolate spot, + shunned by all others, where they could again set up their household gods. + </p> + <p> + Proceeding past St. Vincent we came to the Grenadines, a cluster of small + islands and rocks lying between St. Vincent and Grenada; two of which + only, Bequia and Curriacou, are of any importance. These two islands are + fertile, and produce a considerable quantity of cotton. Others, although + small, are cultivated; and the isle of Rhoude, which lies within a few + miles of Grenada, is in itself a large cotton plantation. One of these + islets, or, more properly speaking, isolated rocks, lying not far from the + shores of Grenada, and at a distance from the cluster is remarkable as + having been the scene of an event which tradition seems to have carefully, + if not faithfully, recorded. In the obstinate wars between France and + Holland, in the middle of the eighteenth century, a Dutch frigate, + commanded by a burly and brave officer, a genuine fire-eater, especially + when he had his "schnapps" on board, was cruising under the lee of + Grenada, and fell in with a large ship, to which the frigate gave chase. + The ship answered no signals, but hoisted a white flag and fired a gun to + windward, and was thus recognized as a French frigate or heavy + sloop-of-war. + </p> + <p> + Night was coming on, and the chase, with a pleasant breeze, stood on a + wind to the northward and eastward. The valiant "mynheer," whose courage, + by means of schnapps, had been screwed up to the sticking point, made all + sail after the enemy, and caused a double portion of the stimulating + article to be served out to his crew. Under this invigorating influence he + made a speech, in which he promised a rich reward to all who would + manfully assist in giving the enemy a double dose of "donner and blitzen." + He further promised that, to give his crew a good chance to distinguish + themselves, he would lay the ship alongside the enemy, and fight the + battle yard-arm and yard-arm. The gallant crew gave three hearty cheers, + and swore to do their duty as became the countrymen of Van Tromp. + </p> + <p> + Darkness soon came on. The night was cloudy, and the wind was moderate. + The chase was lost sight of, though it was believed the Dutchman was + losing with the enemy hand over hand. The decks were cleared for action, + the deck lanterns lighted, the guns double-shotted, and men with eyes of + preternatural brilliancy stationed on the lookout. + </p> + <p> + Hours passed in anxious expectation, and another allowance of schnapps was + served out to keep up the spirits of the crew; when, to the great + gratification of every man on board, a lookout on the end of the flying + jib-boom shouted, "Sail, ho!" The chase was soon distinctly visible, + looming up, not like a speck, but like a LARGE BLACK SPOT on the dark + horizon. A bloody battle was now certain to take place, and mynheer, + combining discretion with valor, took in his light sails, and got his ship + into a condition to be easily handled.. + </p> + <p> + The Frenchman was apparently lying to, waiting for his antagonist to come + up. He did not have long to wait. The Dutch frigate luffed up on his + weather quarter, ranged alongside within musket shot, and poured in a + tremendous broadside, then shooting ahead, peppered the astonished enemy + in a truly scientific manner. The frigate then wore short round athwart + the Frenchman's bows, sweeping his decks with another terrible broadside. + The Dutchman kept up the combat with a degree of courage, energy, and + spirit that was a marvel to behold; sometimes lying athwart the enemy's + wake and raking the decks with terrible effect; sometimes crossing the + bows and sending the devastating iron shower the whole length from stem to + stern; and sometimes lying bravely alongside, as if courting, as well as + giving, hard knocks; and displaying, under these critical circumstances, + specimens of seamanship and maneuvering which would have commanded the + admiration of the great DeRuyter himself. + </p> + <p> + But a combat fought with such desperation could not last forever. One of + the frigate's guns, being overcharged, burst, killing several men and + wounding others; and just as the first signs of daybreak were seen in the + east, the Dutchman hauled off to repair damages and count his losses. The + enemy apparently had not lost a spar, notwithstanding the terrible + hammering he had received, but continued doggedly lying to, preserving, to + the great indignation of his opponent, a most defiant attitude. + </p> + <p> + When daylight shone on the scene of battle, and the doughty Dutchman, + having repaired damages, was ready to renew the combat, it suddenly became + manifest to every man on board the frigate who had the proper use of his + eyes, that the French ship-of-war which had so nobly sustained a + tremendous cannonading through the night, was neither more nor less than A + HUGE ROCK, which, with its head high above the surface, like the Sail-rock + near the island of St. Thomas, marvellously resembled a ship under sail. + The captain of the frigate rubbed his eyes on beholding the unexpected + vision, as much astonished as the chivalrous Don Quixote, who, after an + unsuccessful contest with a squad of giants, found his enemies transformed + into windmills. This rock was afterwards known as rock Donner or + Donnerock, and will stand forever an imperishable monument commemorative + of "Dutch courage." + </p> + <p> + The principal town in Grenada is St. George, which is situated on a bay on + the south-west side of the island, and is defended by heavy + fortifications. On arriving at the mouth of the harbor in the Lapwing, we + fell in with a large brig-of-war, called the Ringdove, and was boarded + before we came to anchor in the bay. When the boat from the brig was + approaching, it was strange to see the trepidation which seized every one + of our crew. Although all, with the exception of myself, were in + possession of genuine legal documents that should have served as + impregnable barriers against impressment, yet they had witnessed so many + facts showing the utter disregard of human or divine laws on the part of + the commanders of British ships-of-war when in want of men, that they + awaited the result of the visit with fear and trembling. + </p> + <p> + A lieutenant came on board and conversed pleasantly with the captain and + supercargo. The men were mustered and called aft to the quarter-deck, and + carefully scrutinized by the boarding officer. Our protections were + examined, but being printed or inscribed in the Swedish language, were not + read. Every thing appeared according to rule. The lieutenant looked hard + at me as John Lordick, and asked some questions of the captain, to which + the captain replied, "He is my brother," which seemed to settle the + matter. The boat returned on board the Ringdove, and I, as well as the + others, rejoiced in having eluded impressment in a man-of-war. + </p> + <p> + The sloop was brought to anchor, and the cook and myself were ordered into + the boat for the purpose of setting the captain and supercargo on shore. + We pulled around the principal fort, which is situated on a point of land, + and entered a beautiful land-locked harbor, or careenage, where a number + of vessels were lying at the wharves. The captain and supercargo landed on + one of these wharves, and the captain directed the cook to accompany him + to the market square for the purpose of procuring fresh provisions; I was + ordered to remain by the boat. + </p> + <p> + When the captain was gone, and I was left standing alone, my thoughts + again recurred to the subject of impressment, which had so completely + engrossed the minds of the crew that morning; and I thought to myself, + "Suppose some crafty, determined, unscrupulous officer of the Ringdove, or + some other British vessel, should be at this very time on shore, lounging + about the wharves, disguised as an inoffensive citizen, but watching an + opportunity to pounce upon a poor unfortunate fellow, like myself, and + bear him off in triumph, to become a victim of the cat-o'-nine-tails at + the gangway, or food for gunpowder." While I was shuddering at the idea of + such a climax to my adventures, I saw a man coming towards me, whose + countenance and demeanor aroused all my suspicions. He was a thick-set, + swarthy individual, with enormous black whiskers and sparkling black eyes. + He was dressed like a gentleman, but I thought his garments hung loosely + about him; indeed, his whole appearance, in my eyes, was that of the + leader of a press-gang or the captain of a band of pirates. He eyed me + closely as he advanced towards me with what I conceived to be a regular + man-of-war swagger. Being driven to bay, I stood my ground firmly, and + confronted him. + </p> + <p> + "Do you belong to the sloop which is anchored in the bay, my lad?" + inquired he, with a mild voice and pleasant smile, affected, of course, to + conceal his real intentions. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," was my rather curt reply. + </p> + <p> + "What is the name of the sloop?" + </p> + <p> + "Lapwing." + </p> + <p> + "Where does the Lapwing belong?" + </p> + <p> + "To St. Bartholomew." + </p> + <p> + "Where are you from last?" + </p> + <p> + "St. Bartholomew." + </p> + <p> + "Hum! What is the name of your captain?" + </p> + <p> + "James Lordick." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, James Lordick?" exclaimed he, with vivacity. "Indeed" Then addressing + me abruptly, he inquired, "Where do YOU belong?" + </p> + <p> + "Now for it," thought I to myself; "the time has come when I must plunge + headforemost into the sea of falsehood; so here goes." And I answered + boldly, "To Saba." + </p> + <p> + "To Saba? Do you, indeed?" And he gazed at me with his piercing eyes, as + if he could read my very soul. "To Saba. You belong to Saba? What is your + name?" + </p> + <p> + "John Lordick." + </p> + <p> + "Is it possible!" exclaimed my black-whiskered friend. "Are you REALLY + John Lordick, the brother of James? Good Lord! Who would have thought it!" + </p> + <p> + Thus strongly appealed to, I felt unable to reply except by an affirmative + nod. + </p> + <p> + "So you are John Lordick? I heard you were dead. How the world is given to + lying! I should never have known you. You have changed amazingly since I + left Saba six years ago, John." + </p> + <p> + As this remark did not necessarily require any reply, I made none. I now + began to suspect that I was mistaken in the estimate of the character of + my interrogator that he was neither the captain of a band of pirates nor + the leader of a press-gang; and it being my first essay at carrying out a + system of falsehood, I was terribly frightened at the dilemma in which I + was involved. I lost my presence of mind, and instead of frankly avowing + the truth, as policy, as well as principle, would have dictated, I came to + the conclusion to stick by my story, and carry out the deception to the + end of the chapter. But my mortification, my confusion, my chagrin, at + being subjected to this unforeseen cross-examination, can hardly be + conceived. I envied the condition of the wretch standing by the gallows + with a noose around his neck. After a brief pause, my tormentor continued + "Do you recollect me?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said I, promptly; and glad of a chance to speak a little truth, I + added, "To the best of my knowledge, I never saw you before in my life." + </p> + <p> + "Ha! Ha! Ha!" My friend seemed greatly amused. "Can it be that I have + changed so much within a few short years? You knew me well enough once, + John, when I lived opposite your father's house. I am Lewis Brown." And in + a friendly, but somewhat patronizing manner, he held out his hand. + </p> + <p> + "Indeed," said I, grasping his proffered hand, "Lewis Brown! I never + should have recognized you." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Brown, "six years WILL make a change in one's appearance. I + should never have recognized you as John Lordick. How is your sister, + Bertha, and all the rest of the folks?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, quite well." + </p> + <p> + "Whom did your sister marry?" + </p> + <p> + "She is not married yet," said I. + </p> + <p> + "Not married yet! Why, she must be at least twenty years old. When I left + home, she was a beautiful girl even then a belle. Not married, and in + Saba! But she will be, soon, I suppose." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps," said I. + </p> + <p> + "Ah! Ah! She is engaged, I see. Who is the happy man?" + </p> + <p> + "Indeed, I don't know," I exclaimed, wishing the inquisitive fellow at the + bottom of the Red Sea, with a twenty-four pound shot fastened to his feet. + </p> + <p> + "What has become of your cousin, Mark Haraden? Is he as lively and + good-humored as ever?" + </p> + <p> + This Lewis Brown, delighted at having met with an old acquaintance, seemed + bent on getting all the information and gossip about his old cronies, that + chance had thrown in his way. Fearing I might perpetrate some palpable + absurdity in my fabulous statements, as in the case of my "sister Bertha," + I resolved to kill off all his friends and relations in detail, without + ceremony or remorse. And therefore I replied to the question about Mark + Haraden by saying, + </p> + <p> + "O! Mark was capsized by a squall while going in a boat from St. Martin to + St. Bartholomew with a load of sugar, and all hands were lost." + </p> + <p> + "Poor fellow! Poor fellow! I am sorry to hear this; but life's uncertain. + Where is Nicholas Ven Vert now?" + </p> + <p> + "Nicholas Van Vert? He happened to be at St. Kitts last year when the + yellow fever broke out there, and was attacked with it the day after he + reached home, and lived only three days." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed! Indeed! Well, we should all be prepared for whatever may happen! + How is old Captain Wagner as hale and hearty as ever?" + </p> + <p> + "The old man slipped and fell over a precipice on the north side of the + island a few weeks ago, and broke his neck." + </p> + <p> + "Good Lord! What a terrible mortality among my best friends in Saba! I am + almost afraid to inquire after my old flame, Julia Hoffner. What has + become of her?" + </p> + <p> + While I was considering in what way I should dispose of the fair and + interesting Julia, a grinning darkey, who had approached the wharf in + great haste, shouted, "Captain Brown, massa mate wants you on board, right + off, directly" + </p> + <p> + I felt grateful to the dark-complexioned youth for the seasonable + interruption, and secretly resolved that if it should ever be in my power + to do him a good turn, I would do it. Unfortunately for him, I never saw + him more. + </p> + <p> + Captain Brown seemed annoyed at the summons, and turning to me, said, "I + suppose I must go, John, but I'll be back in a minute. It's a real treat + to talk to a Saba man. But you have told me some sad news don't go away." + And the inquisitive gentleman walked off, looking as sad and forlorn as if + he had really "lost all his friends," and leaving me half dead with terror + lest my falsehoods should be detected, and perspiring with remorse at + having made such a rectangular deviation from the strict line of truth. + </p> + <p> + I breathed more freely. I had obtained a respite from my sufferings. I + cast a searching look up the street, to see if the captain or the cook was + coming, and on finding no signs of aid from that quarter, I fairly turned + my back upon the boat, and ran off to some distance, where, concealed + behind an old building, I could, by peering round a corner, note every + transaction which took place on the wharf. + </p> + <p> + A few minutes only elapsed when the inquisitive Captain Lewis Brown + returned with hurried steps to the spot where our conference was held. He + seemed disappointed, and, I thought, somewhat hurt at not finding his old + acquaintance, John Lordick. He looked around inquiringly in every + direction, but apparently convinced that I had absconded, again walked + away, but this time slowly, as if pondering on the startling information I + had given him. Soon afterwards the cook came down loaded with fresh + provisions. He brought orders from the captain to go on board immediately, + and return for him at twelve o'clock. + </p> + <p> + At the hour appointed, the boat, with myself pulling the bow oar, + approached the wharf, where, to my confusion, I found Captain Lordick in + close conversation with my big-whiskered friend, Lewis Brown. That + gentleman gave me an angry look, but said not a word. It was clear that + Captain Lordick had betrayed the secret of my citizenship, and had given + him information in regard to his old friends and gossips, which differed + materially from my extemporaneous effusions; so that so far from being + rejoiced, as a reasonable man would have been, at finding his friends + alive and well, he seemed greatly provoked, and eyed me with the ferocity + of a cannibal on learning that they had not shuffled off this mortal coil + in the manner I had so feelingly described. + </p> + <p> + This gentleman proved to be the captain of a three-masted schooner, which + traded between Cumana and the Islands, bringing over cargoes of mules. He + had resided in Saba in early life and bore the reputation of a worthy and + respectable man. I saw him several times after our memorable interview; + but he always regarded me with a grim look, as if he owed me a heavy + grudge, and would rejoice in an opportunity to pay it off. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXVII. CROSSING THE MOUNTAINS + </h2> + <p> + In the afternoon the sloop was hauled into the inner harbor, and on the + following day we commenced discharging cargo. I took an early opportunity + to hold some conversation with Captain Lordick on the subject of my change + of name. The Lesson I had received in my agonizing interview with Captain + Brown made a deep impression on my mind, and doubtless had an effect in + shaping my character in future life. + </p> + <p> + I expressed my gratitude to Captain Lordick for the interest he took in my + welfare, but frankly told him I could no longer sail under false colors; + that falsehood, in any shape, was alien to my character; that I was + determined to fall back on the name to which I was rightfully entitled, a + very good and quiet name in itself, and acknowledge myself in all times + and places a native citizen of the United States. If I should be involved + in trouble by this straightforward and honest mode of proceeding, + impressed on board a man-of-war, or detained as a prisoner, in my + tribulations I should be able to bear a bold front and enjoy the glorious + consciousness of telling the truth and being no imposter. + </p> + <p> + The captain stared. Although a worthy and upright man, he could hardly + appreciate the line of conduct I had determined to adopt. He urged that if + I remained in those seas, and avowed myself an American without evidence + of the fact, I should beyond all doubt be impressed, and under such + circumstances I should not only be justified by the strictest code of + morality in eluding the grasp of the kidnappers by changing my name, but + be a great fool for rejecting such a simple and harmless means of safety. + Nevertheless, I remained firm in my determination. + </p> + <p> + In a few days the cargo was discharged, and I learned that the sloop was + about to proceed on a trip to Barbadoes, and that Mr. Thomas, the owner, + intended to go in the sloop as a passenger and take charge of the + business. I had seen Mr. Thomas, who was a fine-looking, portly gentleman, + when he visited the sloop; but he had never spoken to me, and I had no + longer any communication with Mr. Bohun. Not a syllable had been lisped in + relation to further compensation for my services in St. Bartholomew, + which, I supposed, had been undervalued or forgotten, as a matter of + course. But in this supposition I was unjust; for, on the day on which it + was expected the Lapwing would sail, Bohun came on board, and, referring + to my conduct during the hurricane, said he felt uneasy in regard to my + situation in the sloop, especially as the Lapwing was bound to a port + which was much frequented by English men-of-war. He suggested that some + business on shore would be preferable to a voyage to the Island of + Barbadoes. + </p> + <p> + I heartily assented to this view of the subject, but added, that having + neither money, clothing, nor friends, I felt rejoiced at procuring + employment of any kind; but if I could obtain the means of living in the + island until I could meet a favorable opportunity to return to my native + country, this would be altogether more desirable than to be compelled to + serve on board a man-of-war. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Bohun, "I will represent your case to Mr. Thomas, and perhaps + he will be able to make some satisfactory arrangement." + </p> + <p> + In two hours afterwards the Lapwing was ready for sea, being confined to + the wharf by a single fast, when Mr. Thomas came on board accompanied by + Bohun. Mr. Thomas, with a dignified and patronizing air, said, "Young man, + Mr. Bohun has just informed me that you rendered valuable aid in saving my + vessel from shipwreck in St. Bartholomew. It is a service that I cannot + forget; and I shall be happy to bestow upon you a suitable recompense. In + the mean time you had better go ashore. Mr. Bohun will take care of you, + provide for your wants, and endeavor to procure you a proper situation." + </p> + <p> + I accordingly went below, gathered together all my worldly effects, which + were confined within a very small pocket handkerchief, took an + affectionate farewell of my worthy friend and QUONDAM brother, Captain + Lordick, and my Saba countrymen, and, lightly clad and barefooted, + cheerfully stepped on shore, somewhat amused at the sudden change in my + destiny, and wondering what new figure would be presented by the next + shake of fortune's kaleidoscope. + </p> + <p> + Bohun said that the first step should be to find a cheap and comfortable + boarding house, where I could remain for a few days; that a widow woman + kept a house of that description, he believed, not far from the wharves. + He pointed out the place, and suggested that I should call upon her + immediately, make use of his name, and ascertain her price for board, and + afterwards proceed to the counting room of Mr. Thomas, in a different part + of the town, where we would confer together further. + </p> + <p> + The boarding house to which Bohun directed my attention was an + ordinary-looking abode; but I cared little for its character, provided the + price would suit. It was kept by a round-faced, jolly-looking, middle-aged + woman, whose complexion bore unmistakable evidence of her African + extraction. I told my errand. She threw a suspicious glance upon my person + and on the diminutive bundle I held in my hand, and the result was + unfavorable. + </p> + <p> + Putting her arms akimbo, and assuming a stately manner, which appeared to + be far from natural, she told me she had no spare room for boarders her + house was already full. + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said I, "I must then apply elsewhere. Mr. Bohun said he + thought you would accommodate me, and he would be responsible for the + pay." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Bohun! O, that's another thing. I can always find room for a friend + of Mr Bohun;" and the whole broad expanse of her face was brightened by a + smile. + </p> + <p> + On inquiry I found that the price for board was two dollars and a half a + day! I was startled at this announcement. The amount struck me as + exorbitant when compared with the accommodations. I had a secret misgiving + that the good woman had not scrupled in this case to add at least a + hundred and fifty per centum to her customary charges. I told her I would + consult Mr. Bohun, and be guided by his advice. + </p> + <p> + I lost no time in proceeding to Mr. Thomas's counting room. I communicated + to Bohun the result of my inquiries, expressing an opinion that the price + for board was exorbitantly high. To my astonishment he seemed well + satisfied, pronouncing it reasonable enough. Being unaccustomed to the + usages of the place, I supposed it must be all right, and made no further + objections. + </p> + <p> + Bohun took me to a clothing shop, and rigged me out from head to foot in a + suit of decent garments a luxury to which I had for some time been a + stranger. He also bought me an extra supply of clothing, and a variety of + other articles which he assured me I should need. + </p> + <p> + I was amazed at his liberality; but knowing Mr. Thomas was a rich man, I + presumed that Bohun, by ministering to my wants in a manner not altogether + offensive to my pride, was seeking to cancel obligations on the part of + his employer, and perhaps at the same time was obeying the dictates of a + benevolent heart, by rendering important assistance to a stranger in + adversity. + </p> + <p> + Week after week passed away. I saw Bohun from time to time, but he could + not procure me a desirable situation. In the mean time the expenses for my + board seemed to me a serious matter. My pride took the alarm, and I could + not rest easy under the idea that I was all the while living like a price + at the expense of Mr. Thomas. When I mentioned this to Bohun, he told me + to keep quiet and give myself no anxiety; that my expenses, which I + regarded as so heavy, were in reality trifling, and Mr. Thomas would never + miss the amount. + </p> + <p> + A few days after this conversation, Bohun called at my lodgings, and + seemed quite excited. "Hawser," said he, "I have pleasant news to + communicate. I have been so fortunate as to secure you an excellent + situation on a plantation in the north part of the island. Mr. Church, the + attorney for the Pearl estates, was in town yesterday, and on my + recommendation has consented to take you to fill a vacancy, in preference + to several young men who are applicants for the place." + </p> + <p> + "I should much prefer a situation as clerk on a wharf or in a counting + room," said I. + </p> + <p> + "O," replied Bohun, "this chance with Mr. Church is far better than a + simple clerkship with a trader; the duties are not so arduous, and it will + give you a better opportunity to rise in the world; besides, Mr. Church is + an excellent man, a whole-souled Irishman, who has been in the army, and + has great influence in the island. He will send a mule and a guide over + the mountains tomorrow; so you must prepare for the journey on the + following day." + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said I, hardly knowing whether to be pleased or dissatisfied + with this arrangement, which I decided, however, to accept, with a mental + determination, if I found my situation objectionable, to abandon it at + once, and if I could do no better, try my fortunes again on the ocean. In + the mean time, I should see a new and perhaps interesting phase in life. + </p> + <p> + "The Upper Pearl estate, where you will reside," continued Bohun, "is one + of the healthiest estates on the island. On some of the sugar plantations, + 'fever and ague' prevails at certain seasons of the year, but is unknown + on the Pearl estates. Your situation will be a pleasant one in every + respect." + </p> + <p> + I shuddered at the idea of fever and ague, with the name of which disease + the most pleasant associations were not connected, and congratulated + myself on the fact that the Pearl estates were exempted from this and + almost every other evil in the shape of sickness. The next day I completed + my preparations for a journey across the mountains to the opposite side of + the island. Agreeably to a suggestion from Bohun, I procured from my + accommodating landlady her bill for my board and lodging; to this she + added another item for washing, swelling the amount to the very + respectable sum of sixty-six dollars. + </p> + <p> + I handed the bill to Bohun with an innocent and confiding look. He cast + his eye over it, and started back aghast. "What is all this?" said he. + "What does it mean? Why, the woman is crazy." + </p> + <p> + "It is right, sir," I replied. "Twenty-five days at two dollars and a half + a day come to sixty-two dollars and a half; and the washing, at one dollar + a week, she says she cannot do it for less, makes a sum total of sixty-six + dollars. It is the amount agreed on, although you recollect I expressed an + opinion more than once that the price for board was extravagantly high." + </p> + <p> + "Two dollars and a half a DAY!" shouted he. "Why, I understood the price + to be two dollars and a half a WEEK, and supposed that half a doubloon + would pay the whole debt." + </p> + <p> + He seemed quite indignant at "the imposition," and indulged in severe + remarks on the character of the woman with whom I boarded. He threatened + to give her a regular reprimanding, and swore he would cut down her bill + to less than one third of the amount. + </p> + <p> + On the following morning, at about seven o'clock, I again went to the + counting room, and found opposite the entrance a mule already bridled and + saddled, with a negro guide to show me the way, over the mountains by the + Grand Etang route, to the Upper Pearl estate. I took leave of Bohun, who + wrung my hand affectionately at parting, and taking the direction + indicated by my guide, entered on my journey. + </p> + <p> + The road was rough and muddy, for there had been heavy rains, the mule was + lazy, and I was unaccustomed to this kind of travelling; besides, I found + much on the route to excite my attention; much which was novel and highly + interesting. My progress was consequently slow. The road passed among the + sugar plantations, which were confined to the comparatively low lands near + the sea shore; then ascending towards the mountains, winded through coffee + and cacao estates, the successful cultivation of which articles of + commerce requires a cooler and moister region than the sugar-cane. + </p> + <p> + During this journey, I often stopped my mule on the summit of a commanding + height, and gazed admiringly around on the beautiful and extensive + prospect. The well-cultivated plantations, each appearing like a village + in itself, scattered among the many hills and valleys and intervals even + to the very sea coast; the sea beyond, which at that distance seemed as + smooth and polished as a mirror, encasing the island in a frame of silver; + the luxuriant tropical foliage, whose beauty I had often heard described; + the cocoanut, orange, tamarind, and guava trees, loaded with fruit, with + plantains, bananas, pineapples, aloes and cactuses on every side, all + filled my heart with wonder and delight. + </p> + <p> + Taking the road leading over the mountains, which is impassable for + carriages, I passed through vast tracks of forest, where the lofty trees + were covered with stout vines reaching to the tree tops, rendering it + difficult for man to penetrate those sylvan recesses. Near the highest + part of this mountain road, at a height of several thousand feet above the + sea, is situated a romantic lake, called by the French the Grand Etang, or + Great Lake, which fills the crater of an extinct volcano. Near this spot, + where the atmosphere is always cool and humid, we were suddenly enveloped + in a cloud, and soon experienced the peltings of a tropical shower. I + received conclusive evidence that my garments were not water-proof before + we could find shelter in a negro hut by the wayside. + </p> + <p> + After passing the Grand Etang, we began to descend the mountains on our + way towards the north side of the island. The sun again shone brightly, + and again a beautiful and expanded prospect met my view. To the eastward + was the little town of Greenville, situated at the head of a beautiful + bay, in which several ships and quite a number of small vessels were + riding at anchor. Far to the north was seen the high and rugged island of + St. Vincent, rising like a blue and jagged cloud out of the sea; and + between that island and the shores of Grenada, a birdseye view could be + obtained of the little islands and rocks, some cultivated and some barren, + known as the Grenadines. Among the plantations which appeared afar off, + nearest the sea coast, my guide pointed out the Pearl estates, which, he + said, with a degree of pride that caused me some astonishment, produced + more sugar than any two estates in that part of the island. + </p> + <p> + In the course of the route, I asked a thousand questions of my guide, who + was an intelligent slave belonging to the Upper Pearl estate, and seemed + delighted with an opportunity to display his knowledge. He gave me much + information, which I subsequently found to be correct, in relation to the + mode of managing estates in the West Indies, and conducting the economy of + those establishments, each of which, although of course subjected to the + general laws of the colony, was in those days a community of itself, under + the government of an absolute despotism, the best government in the world + provided "the head man" possesses the attributes of goodness, wisdom, and + firmness, and is exempt from the imperfections which seem inseparably + attached to human nature. But when a despot can boast of none of those + attributes, woe to the people who are obliged to submit to his oppressions + and obey his behests! + </p> + <p> + The island of Grenada, as is indeed the case with most of the Windward + Islands, is well watered by rivers running from the mountains. Some of the + streams are of considerable size, and are never dry in seasons of the + greatest drought. The water, conducted by canals from these rivers, + constituted the chief motive power for the machinery on the sugar estates, + although in a few cases windmills were used for that purpose. The estates + comprised each an area of some two to five hundred acres, a considerable + portion of which was planted with the cane. The remainder was improved as + sites for the various buildings, gardens for the slaves, fields of corn + and "guinea grass," and other purposes. The "sugar works" were placed as + near the centre of the estate as convenience would admit. The manager's + house, which was a large, inconvenient, one-story building, with numerous + out-houses, was generally situated on an elevated spot of land in the + vicinity. Another house of smaller size was occupied by the overseers. + </p> + <p> + At no great distance from the "sugar works," and sometimes in close + proximity, was a collection of huts, thirty or forty in number, cheaply + constructed, with thatched roofs, and huddled together without any regard + to order, or even convenience. These were known as "negro houses," the + dwellings of the slaves, where, when their daily tasks were ended, they + could rest from their labors, and enjoy, without restraint, the few + comforts which shed a gleam of sunshine over their condition. + </p> + <p> + In their houses and families, the slaves made their own regulations. Their + enjoyments consisted chiefly in social gatherings and gossip. The women + derived gratification from showy dresses and decorations, and sometimes + displayed their barbarian tendencies by indulging a love for scandal and + mischief-making. They seemed constitutionally gay and cheerful, as was + seen by their merry jokes and songs; and a loud, ringing, contagious, + African laugh, in the jocund chorus of which many joined, was elicited on + very slight provocation. + </p> + <p> + In their habitations the slaves were greatly influenced, and sometimes + controlled, by one or more intelligent individuals, who held superior + positions, as is often the case in other communities. The most important + person among them was the "head field-driver," who held that position on + account of his superior intelligence and fidelity. The "head boiler" was + also a man of consequence among them, also the head carpenter, cooper, and + mule-driver. These and others filled situations of responsibility, which + required more than ordinary capacity. Of these trusts they were proud. + </p> + <p> + The manager or overseer on a plantation seldom interfered in the domestic + arrangements of the slaves. Their religious and moral instruction was + neglected. The marriage tie was not regarded as an indissoluble knot, but + as a slender thread, to be broken by either party at will. It is therefore + not remarkable that the habits and conduct of these children of bondage + were not of the most exemplary character. Each family, who wished it, had + a small lot of ground set apart as a garden in some district bordering + upon the mountains, where those who were frugal and industrious cultivated + yams, cassava, plantains, and other varieties of vegetables or fruit, + which were sold to managers of estates, or carried to the nearest town on + a Sunday and sold in the market place. In this way some of the most + thrifty could supply all reasonable wants, and even indulge in luxuries, + which made them the envy of their neighbors; for even in the lowly negro + houses of those plantations, as in every other assemblage of human beings, + without regard to CASTE or color, were exhibited all the passions, + virtues, and weaknesses incident to human nature. + </p> + <p> + Sunday in the island was generally regarded as a holiday. The slaves on + the plantations on that day passed hours in cultivating their gardens, as + well as in disposing of their produce and attending to their other + concerns. The planters visited each other on the Sabbath, gave dinner + parties, made excursions to the neighboring towns to supply their wants at + the stores, attended militia musters and shooting matches, indulged in + games of quoits and other sports. But religious services and religious + instruction were almost entirely unknown. Young men often came to the + island who were educated in the strictest Presbyterian faith; lineal + descendants of the old Scottish Covenanters; they were scandalized at the + little attention given to religious duties and the habitual and open + violation of the Sabbath. A few months, however, of familiarity with the + customs of the island produced a striking change in their ideas and acts; + and their consciences, which were troublesome at first, were soon in a + state of quiescence. + </p> + <p> + A small amount of salted provisions, ling, stock fish, or salt fish was + served out every week to the slaves on the plantations as a relish for + their vegetables; and a limited, indeed scanty, supply of coarse clothing + was annually distributed among them. For other articles of food and + clothing, the slaves were compelled to rely on their own industry and + management, excepting in "crop time," when the sugar works were in + operation, and every person was allowed an unlimited amount of sirup, + which is highly nutritious and wholesome. + </p> + <p> + On every plantation might be found some wretched-looking, thriftless, or + lazy negroes, of the vagabond order. These miserable beings formed the + lowest caste, and were despised and often persecuted by those of their + fellow-slaves who were orderly and industrious, and cherished habits of + self-respect. These were the "pariahs" of the plantation, constituting a + class of runaways, who, to avoid work or punishment, or the gibes and + jeers of their more RESPECTABLE companions, took refuge in the mountains, + and in some of the islands became formidable by their numbers and + ferocity. In Dominico, at one period, these run-away negroes, MAROONS, as + they were called, amounted to more than a thousand. They were organized + and armed, and subsisted by committing depredations and levying + contributions on the plantations. They were subdued only after a desperate + and protracted struggle. + </p> + <p> + The owners of plantations in the English West India Islands, as I have + already intimated, usually resided at "home," in "Merry England," or the + "Land of cakes;" and if they realized a handsome yearly profit from their + estates, seldom interested themselves in the condition or welfare of the + slaves. Their agents in the islands were called ATTORNEYS, and were vested + with almost unlimited power in the management of the property. The trust + was an important one, and the labors of an attorney were well compensated, + which made the situation desirable. It was sometimes the case that a + person who bore a high character for shrewdness and efficiency acted as + attorney for several estates. This gave him great power and influence, + moral and political, in the island. + </p> + <p> + The ATTORNEY, holding a grade higher than that of MANAGER, kept a separate + establishment, and lived in a loftier style. He often resided in a + pleasant and healthy location, some miles, perhaps, distant from the + estate whose interest he was appointed to look after, and revelled in + tropical luxury and aristocratic grandeur. The details of operations on + the plantations were left to the manager, who was appointed by the + attorney; and this situation being one of great importance, the manager + being intrusted with the management of the slaves and the cultivation of + the estate, required an incumbent of superior administrative abilities and + large experience. + </p> + <p> + The manager had generally two assistants to aid him in his arduous task, + and direct the operations on the plantation. During half the year, while + the canes were planted and growing, these assistants superintended the + agricultural labors and attended to various other matters, and in "crop + time," in addition to their usual duties, one had charge of the distillery + and the other looked after the manufacture of sugar. + </p> + <p> + These assistants were called BOOKKEEPERS or OVERSEERS. They were + principally young men, of good characters, steady habits, and well + educated, who had left their homes in Scotland to seek their fortunes in + the West Indies. Those who were not swept off by malignant diseases + incident to tropical climates, and who continued correct in their conduct + which was not always the case after a few years would be promoted to the + situation of manager; and perhaps in time, if they evinced sufficient + capacity, would reach the highest object of their ambition and become an + attorney. It will be recollected that the poet Burns passed a whole day in + taking leave of his "Highland Mary," when he had made his arrangements for + going to the West Indies and obtaining a situation as overseer on a sugar + plantation. Very few cases ever came to my knowledge where a creole, a + white person born and "brought up" in the West Indies, was engaged on an + estate in any capacity. The creoles were reputed lazy, loose in their + morals, ignorant and unfaithful agents. They were seldom employed, unless + on a plantation which was notoriously unhealthy; where no man, unless he + was born in the torrid zone, could expect to resist successfully the + poisonous effects of the miasma. + </p> + <p> + From what I have said it will be inferred that the manager of a plantation + possessed great power, and that the treatment of the slaves was regulated + in a great measure by the promptings of his head and heart. A manager with + a clear understanding, equable temper, and elevated principles, could + reconcile his duty to the proprietor with justice and even kindness + towards the slaves. So far from treating them with cruelty or even + severity, he allowed them every reasonable indulgence, and while he + exacted the full quota of labor, looked after their condition, and made + them as comfortable and contented as can be expected in a state of + bondage. Such managers were seen in Grenada, and where they ruled, the + estates were prosperous, and the slaves cheerful and happy. + </p> + <p> + Some managers, however, were of a different character, and, instigated by + whim, liquor, an evil temper, hatred to the African race, or a desire to + get an impossible amount of work, acted the part of tyrants and + oppressors, and made the slaves feel that they were trodden beneath the + foot of a master. + </p> + <p> + But policy, a regard for the interest of the owner of the estate, + generally prevented the infliction of ill treatment and privations which + bore severely on the slaves; and public opinion, as well as the laws of + the colony, restrained the manager from the commission of extraordinary + acts of cruelty. In the British island of Tortola, only a few years before + my sojourn in Grenada, the manager of a plantation was arrested for + causing the death of a slave by inhuman punishment. He was tried, + convicted of murder, and hanged. The penalty exacted met the sanction of + public opinion. A full report of the trial was published in a pamphlet + form and circulated among the islands, and was doubtless the means of + preventing similar acts of monstrous cruelty. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXVIII. SCENES IN GRENADA + </h2> + <p> + Owing to the many delays on my route across the mountains, it was twilight + when I reached an ordinary looking house, situated on an elevated piece of + land surrounded on every side by fields of sugar cane. The lands in the + vicinity appeared low, and there were indications of swamps at no great + distance. About a mile off, in a northerly direction, was the broad ocean. + A mule, saddled and bridled, stood at the door. My guide told me, with an + air of triumph, that this was the Upper Pearl estate. + </p> + <p> + As I alighted from my mule, a tall man, with a sad countenance, thin and + pallid cheeks, and a tottering frame, came out of the house leaning upon + the arm of another person. This sickly-looking gentleman, who proved to be + the manager, welcomed me to the plantation, and expressed satisfaction at + my arrival. He was on the point of leaving the estate for a few days, he + said, on a visit to a friend near the mountains. In the mean time Mr. + Murray, the gentleman by whom he was supported, was to look after the + plantation and attend to my comforts. This spectral-looking object then, + with difficulty, mounted his mule, and accompanied by an able-bodied negro + on foot, slowly rode away from the estate. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Murray received me with cordiality, and tendered me the hospitalities + of the mansion. He was a man of pleasing address and more than ordinary + intelligence. I afterwards learned that he was the secretary of Mr. + Church, the attorney for the Pearl estates. After some little + conversation, he abruptly asked me what quarter of the world I came from. + </p> + <p> + "I am an American," was my not very definite reply. + </p> + <p> + "O," he remarked, with a significant wink, which was evidently intended as + a good-natured hint, "you are from Canada, or Nova Scotia, I suppose." + </p> + <p> + "No, sir," said I, emphatically, determined that my position should be + distinctly understood, "I was born in the town of Tyngsboro, in the state + of Massachusetts, and am a citizen of the United States." + </p> + <p> + Having a vague suspicion that the Pearl estate was not the paradise + described by Bohun, I inquired why the manager had left the estate so + abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "Because he is attacked with fever, and would not live forty-eight hours + if he remained here." + </p> + <p> + I was shocked at this announcement, and pursued my inquiries. "Is fever a + common occurrence on this plantation, or is this sickness of the manager + an extraordinary case?" + </p> + <p> + "Common enough, in all conscience," replied Murray, with a laugh. "Mr. Orr + is the second manager who has been driven off by sickness within the last + six months. Two overseers have died within a year, one after the other, + and until Mr. Church met with YOU, no one could be found to take the + place, which has been vacant several weeks." + </p> + <p> + This was interesting intelligence, but I continued my inquiries. "If the + estate is so unhealthy as you represent, why are YOU willing to remain + here?" + </p> + <p> + "O, my stay here will be only a few days, or weeks, at most. Besides, I am + well seasoned, having resided ten years in the island; and I make it a + rule to keep my system well fortified against fever by the liberal use of + generous liquors; and if you hope to LIVE here, you will do well to follow + my example." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Bohun told me that the upper Pearl estate was one of the healthiest + on the island. How could he have been so grossly deceived?" + </p> + <p> + "Deceived? Not he; all humbug." + </p> + <p> + "But he surely does not know the estate is so unhealthy?" + </p> + <p> + "Not know it? Bohun not know it? Certainly he does. Every body knows it. + Every estate has its reputation, and the reputation of the Pearl estates, + both of them, is NOTORIOUSLY BAD. No man, unless his courage or his + fortune is desperate, will take a situation on either of these + plantations." + </p> + <p> + I was astonished, dumbfounded at this intelligence, which effectually + silenced further inquiries. After a short pause, Murray proceeded: "The + fact is, Mr. Church told me all about the matter yesterday afternoon. + Bohun found it difficult to procure you such a situation as you wanted, + and was anxious to get you off his hands. Meeting Mr. Church in town, he + asked him to take you. Mr. Church objected, telling him it would be a pity + to place you on the Pearl plantation, where you might drop off in less + than six weeks. But Bohun urged the matter; requested it as a personal + favor; and they being countrymen, you know and so and so you see your + business was done, and here you are." + </p> + <p> + I undoubtedly looked grave at the interesting information thus frankly + given; and Murray, remarking it, continued, in a consolatory tone: "Never + mind, my good fellow; keep up your spirits. I thought it best to tell you + the worst at once, and let you know what you have to expect. You will have + to go through a regular seasoning; and if you can stand that on the Pearl + estate, you may take your degree of M.D. as Doctor of Malaria, and bid + defiance to yellow fever forever after!" + </p> + <p> + I was not ambitious of such a distinction, and would gladly have declined + it, were it possible; but, on calmly surveying my position, there appeared + no alternative. Relying on the correctness of Bohun's suggestions and the + disinterestedness of his counsels, I had taken a step which could not, for + a time at least, be retraced. I therefore determined to go forward and + make the best of it; look on the bright side of my situation, if it had + any bright side, faithfully perform the duties of my office, and trust to + my constitution and regular habits, in spite of the counsels of Murray, + for the rest. + </p> + <p> + I felt hurt at the conduct of Bohun, which from Murray's version was not + such as I was prepared to expect, notwithstanding my experience in the + dark side of human nature. I still hoped that Murray's statements might be + exaggerated, and that Bohun was actuated in his conduct towards me by + feelings of grateful kindness. + </p> + <p> + On the following day Mr. Church visited the estate. He was a middle-aged + man, had held a captain's commission in one of those British West India + regiments which, after having been reduced to mere skeletons by battles + with the French and yellow fever, were unjustly and inhumanly disbanded, + at a long distance from "home," leaving the brave men, who were thus + rewarded for their services, to return to their native country as they + could, or struggle for a precarious existence in a tropical climate. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Church chose to remain in the island and engage in the planting + business. Possessing energy of character and rectitude of principle, and + having influential connections, he became in a few years the attorney for + the Pearl estates, married the daughter of a Scotch planter, and resided + very pleasantly and happily at a beautiful seat called Bel-Air, situated a + few miles from the Upper Pearl. He entered into conversation with me, + instructed me in my duties, regretted the absence of the manager, which + might unpleasantly affect my comforts, and gave me some precautionary + hints in relation to my health. I felt somewhat reassured by my + conversation with that gentleman, and erroneously believing it would be in + my power to leave the island if I should think proper, at no distant + period, indulged in no unavailing regrets, but philosophically resolved to + make myself as comfortable as circumstances would allow. + </p> + <p> + The treatment I met with among the planters, during my whole residence in + the island, was that of unvarying kindness; many of them were well + educated and cultivated a literary taste; had well-furnished libraries, + which were not kept for show; and the history and writings of Ramsay, + Ferguson, Burns, Beattie, Robertson, Blair, and other distinguished + Scottish authors, were as familiar with some of the planters in Grenada + "as household words." The early novels of the "Wizard of the North" were + then exciting much interest, which was shared by the inhabitants of the + English West India Islands. + </p> + <p> + The mildness of the climate seemed to have a tendency to melt away that + frigidity which is a characteristic of people of the north, and the + residents of the island were as frank, free, and hospitable as if they had + never been out of the tropics. I soon formed many pleasant acquaintances + and acquired many friends. And this, with the aid of books in abundance, + enabled me to pass my leisure hours agreeably. Notwithstanding the heat of + the climate, and the prevalence of the erroneous idea that violent + physical exercise in the tropics is injurious to the health of strangers, + I indulged often in recreations of a kind which excited the surprise and + called forth the remonstrances of my friends. + </p> + <p> + From my earliest recollection, I was a devoted disciple of good old Izaak + Walton, and the rivers on the north side of the island, rushing down from + the mountains, with deep pools, and rocky channels, and whirling eddies, + being well stocked with finny inhabitants, furnished me with fine + opportunities to indulge in the exciting sport of angling. My efforts were + chiefly confined to the capture of the "mullet," a fish resembling the + brook trout in New England in size and habits, although not in appearance. + It is taken with the artificial fly or live grasshopper for bait; and to + capture it, as much skill, perseverance, and athletic motion is required + as to capture trout in the mountain gorges of New Hampshire. + </p> + <p> + I also occasionally indulged my taste for rambling in the mountains. In + these excursions, which, although exceedingly interesting, were solitary, + for I never could persuade anyone to accompany me, I always took a gun, + making the ostensible object of my rambles the shooting of RAMEES birds of + the pigeon species, of beautiful plumage, nearly as large as a barnyard + fowl, and of delicate flavor. These birds inhabited the deepest recesses + of the woods, and, although seldom molested, were exceedingly shy. + </p> + <p> + Few animals are found in the forests and mountains of Grenada. The agouti, + the armadillo, and the opossum, are sometimes, though rarely, seen. The + only quadruped I ever met with in my rambles was an opossum, which I shot + as it was climbing a tree. Of reptiles there are none in the mountains. + There are several kinds of snakes in the island, some of which have never + been described by naturalists. The species which is most common is a black + snake (constrictor) of large size, being frequently eight or ten feet in + length, and three or four inches in diameter. These snakes are treated not + only with forbearance but kindness by the planters, and in return render + important service on the sugar plantations, being most persevering and + successful RAT CATCHERS; rats are abundant, and exceedingly destructive to + the sugar cane, on which they subsist during a considerable portion of the + year. None of the serpents in Grenada are poisonous, but in some of the + islands, particularly St. Lucia, there exists a snake which resembles the + rattlesnake in the ferocity of its attacks and the deadly venom of its + bite. Having no rattles, no warning of danger is given to the unwary + traveller until the snake darts from its ambush and inflicts a fatal + wound; hence the name given to this dangerous reptile is the LANCE DE FER. + </p> + <p> + In penetrating those mountain gorges, and climbing those mountain ridges, + steep and thickly covered with forest trees and vines of many kinds, and + of luxuriant growth, I sometimes passed hours without meeting any sign of + life, except the flitting and hum of the humming-bird, and the loud and + musical coo of the ramee. That mountain wilderness seemed the chosen home + of the humming-bird. I there met with many varieties, some of which were + exceedingly beautiful. My appearance in those forests caused them much + surprise, and to gratify their curiosity they sometimes flew towards me, + and hovered within a few feet of my face, as if eager to examine my + appearance and learn what object led me to intrude on their mountain + haunts. + </p> + <p> + There were, however, other and less interesting inhabitants in that + region, as I one day discovered to my great consternation. I was passing + up the bed of a small stream, where the water, by attrition during many + ages, had worn a chasm or "flume" through the solid basaltic rock, the + walls of which rose at least a hundred feet nearly perpendicularly, when I + found an obstacle to my further progress in the shape of some large rocks, + which had fallen from above and blocked the passage. I was unable to scale + the CHEVAUX-DE-FRISE; but the whole body of water poured through an + aperture three or four feet above the bed of the stream; and although it + looked dark and dreary within, instead of retracing my steps to find + another route through the woods to the spot I wished to reach, I + determined to force my way into the gloomy cavern, with the expectation of + being able to emerge on the opposite side. + </p> + <p> + I listened for a moment at the mouth of the aperture, but heard only the + murmuring of the stream as it swept along through the uneven channel. I + then thrust in my head, when I heard a rushing noise as of the flapping of + a thousand wings, and the next moment I was sprawling on my back in the + water, having been summarily capsized, partly by force and partly by an + involuntary start of terror! + </p> + <p> + I raised my head and beheld a legion of BATS, some of them of uncommon + size, issuing in a stream from the mouth of the cave. These animals in the + tropics are numerous, and seclude themselves from the light of day in + caverns or other dark and lonely recesses, where they attach themselves to + the roof, and clinging to each other are suspended in large pyramidal + clusters or festoons. When disturbed, they take wing, and hastily quit + their abodes. By unthinkingly intruding on their territories, which had + probably never before been invaded, great alarm was excited among the + inmates; a terrible confusion ensued, and the general rush to the aperture + caused my unceremonious overthrow. + </p> + <p> + In one of my mountain excursions, I lost my way while enveloped in a dense + mist, and, after descending a steep ridge, came upon a platform or terrace + of several acres' extent, which at first view seemed to have been formed + by artificial means on the mountain side. This plain was level, and + thickly covered with coarse grass, which, finding a genial soil and + region, grew to a height of five or six feet. Near the centre of the + prairie stood the only tree which flourished on this fertile spot. It was + a silk cotton tree. I made my way through the grass with difficulty to the + tree, which by measurement I found to be twenty-five feet in circumference + larger than any other tree I ever saw in the island. Immense branches shot + out horizontally about twenty feet from the ground, extending to a + distance in every direction from the trunk sixty or eighty feet. Indeed, + the gigantic size of the tree, its rich and luxuriant foliage, and its + noble and majestic appearance, were in perfect keeping with the place. I + tarried some time beneath its branches, and gazed with interest on the + picturesque scene, regretting that I had no companion to share my + admiration, and thinking that as doubtless no human being, unless some + wild Carib in days of yore, had ever previously visited that singular + spot, so it was likely centuries would pass away before any other + individual would chance to behold and admire that beautiful terrace on the + mountain side. I then plunged among the trees and vines growing upon the + steep declivity on the further side, and, after a precipitous retreat of + two or three hundred feet, heard the murmuring of a stream below, by + following which I at length reached a cultivated district. + </p> + <p> + The clouds on those mountain tops often collect with extraordinary + quickness, and, while the sun is shining brightly on the cultivated lands, + pour down the rain in deluging showers, which, rushing in cataracts + through the gorges, swell the rivers unexpectedly, sometimes causing fatal + disasters by sweeping away horsemen or teams when fording the streams. The + rise of a river from this cause is sometimes alarmingly sudden; the water + comes down in solid phalanx, six or eight feet in perpendicular height, + and extends from bank to bank; and with irresistible force sweeps down + rocks and trees, shaking the earth on the banks, and making a loud and + rumbling noise like distant thunder. + </p> + <p> + The vicinity of Grenada to the continent causes this island, as well as + Tobago and Trinidad, to be exempt from the hurricanes which have proved a + terrible scourge in several of the Windward Islands, and from time to time + have been terribly destructive to life and property. In Barbadoes, on the + 10th of October, 1780, nearly all the plantations were ruined by a + hurricane of inconceivable fury, and between four and five thousand + persons lost their lives. Grenada has only once been visited by a + hurricane since its first settlement by a French colony from Martinico, in + 1650. But this hurricane was the means of removing a far greater evil, the + circumstances attending which were of an extraordinary nature, and which I + shall relate as I learned them from the lips of many who were witnesses of + their occurrence. + </p> + <p> + It was about the commencement of the present century that this island + suffered much from a visitation, which threatened to bring famine and + desolation, and destroy, not only the present, but the future hopes of the + planter. There suddenly appeared, simultaneously in different parts of the + island, a great number of BLACK ANTS, of large size, being fully an inch + in length, and of a kind until then unknown in Grenada. They probably + belonged to the species known as "the large black ant of Africa," + remarkable for its boldness and voracity. Although the inhabitants of that + fruitful island were wont to treat strangers with hospitality, they were + inclined to depart from their usual habit so far as related to these new + and strange visitants, who seemed inclined to be more troublesome than was + consistent with the welfare of the old residents. + </p> + <p> + In the course of a couple of years the number of these invaders increased + to an incredible amount; they attacked the fruit on the trees and the + vegetables in the gardens; and the fields of sugar cane, once so green and + flourishing, soon looked as if a fire from heaven, the scourge of an + offended deity, had passed over them. Not only the fields, but the trees, + the roads, and the dwelling houses, were covered with these ants; and when + all sustenance was destroyed in one quarter, they took up their line of + march in immense armies and proceeded elsewhere in search of food. In + these migratory excursions, if they came to a brook or small river, their + progress was not stayed. Those in front were impelled into the stream by + the pressure from behind; and, although myriads were swept away and + drowned in the rushing waters, many were borne to the other side and + continued their journey. In some cases, where the current was not strong, + a sort of living bridge was formed, over which immense numbers of these + pestiferous insects passed in safety and dry shod. Nothing seemed to check + their progress or reduce their numbers. + </p> + <p> + The inhabitants, both white and black, as may be conceived, were in great + consternation, and were about to make preparations to move to some more + favored soil, when a furious hurricane was experienced. The destruction of + property was great; dwelling houses and sugar works were destroyed, and + lives were lost. The inhabitants who survived the tempest were in despair, + believing their calamities would never cease. But they soon found, to + their great joy, that this hurricane was a blessing, rather than a curse. + THE BLACK ANTS WERE EXTERMINATED, and none have since been seen in the + island. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXIX. INSURRECTION IN GRENADA + </h2> + <p> + I have already stated that the French established their first settlement + in the island of Grenada in 1650. They found the island inhabited by the + Carib Indians, who, regarding the white men as beings superior in goodness + as well as intellect, gave them a cordial welcome, and treated them with + kindness and hospitality. The French, well pleased with their reception, + gave the cacique a few hatchets, knives, and beads, and a barrel of + brandy, and very coolly took possession of the island they had thus + purchased. Their conduct in this respect reminds one of the language of + the ill-treated Caliban to the proud Prospero: + </p> + <p> + "This island's mine, Which thou tak'st from me. When thou camest first, + Thou strok'dst and made much of me; wouldst give me Water with berries + in't; and teach me how To name the bigger light, and how the less, That + burn by day and night; and then I loved thee, And showed thee all the + qualities of the isle The fresh springs, brine pits, barren place and + fertile; Cursed be I that did so." + </p> + <p> + The remonstrances of the Caribs against the wrongs they were doomed to + suffer were as little heeded by the colonists as the complaints of Caliban + by Prospero. The French were resolute, powerful, and rapacious, and + treated the red men with inhumanity. The Indians, unable to contend with + their oppressors by open force, fled to their mountain fastnesses, and + commenced an obstinate predatory warfare upon the whites, murdering + without discrimination all whom they found defenceless. This led to a + bloody and protracted struggle for the mastery; and a reenforcement of + troops having been sent from France to aid the infant colony, it was + decided, after mature deliberation, that the most expeditious and + effectual mode of ending the war, and establishing peace on a permanent + basis, was TO EXTERMINATE THE CARIBS. + </p> + <p> + These original "lords of the soil" were accordingly driven from their + fastnesses, hunted by parties of soldiers, shot down like wild beasts + wherever found, until their number was reduced from thousands to about one + hundred. Bing cut off from the mountains by a military force, this remnant + of a powerful band fled to a promontory on the north part of the island + which overlooked the ocean, and, hard pressed by their civilized foes, + more than half their number leaped over the rocky precipice into the sea + which dashed against its base. The others were massacred. + </p> + <p> + This promontory has ever since been known as "Morne des Sauteurs," or the + "Hill of the Leapers." I have stood upon the extreme point of this + promontory, where I could look down some eighty or a hundred feet into the + raging abyss beneath, and listened to the mournful tradition as detailed + by one of the oldest inhabitants of the island. This is only ONE of the + vast catalogue of cruelties and wrongs that have been inflicted on the + Indians by the whites in constant succession, from the first settlement of + the New World to the present time. + </p> + <p> + The French, who were long in possession of the island of Grenada, + established on the plantations French customs, the French language, and + the Roman Catholic religion. When the island fell into the hands of the + English, although no organized plan was adopted to interfere with the + customs of the slaves, or change their language, the English failed in + acquiring the attachment of the negroes, who lamented the absence of their + French masters, and sighed for their return. + </p> + <p> + Early in the year 1795, during the French revolution, a plan was conceived + by some white men and five mulattoes, in Guadaloupe, who were aware of the + existence of this discontented feeling, to create an insurrection among + the slaves in Grenada, and take possession of the island. Emissaries were + sent among the plantations, who conferred with the principal negroes, and + secretly made arrangements for the work they contemplated. In the month of + August, two or three sloops, each containing thirty or forty men, with a + supply of arms and ammunition, arrived in the harbor of La Baye, on the + eastern side of the island. The expedition was commanded by an active and + intelligent mulatto named Fedon, and landed in the night, captured the + small fort which overlooked the harbor, took possession of the town, + murdered a number of the white inhabitants, and plundered the houses and + stores. Runners were employed to convey the news to the different + plantations, and the insurrection of the slaves was complete. + </p> + <p> + Some of the white men of the plantations received secret intelligence of + the rising among the blacks, and lost no time in fleeing to a place of + safety; others remained unconscious of the approach of danger, and were + murdered. Deeds of cruelty were perpetrated on this occasion by the + negroes, a relation of which would chill the stoutest heart. + </p> + <p> + It unfortunately happened that when this insurrection broke out, the + acting governor with several members of the council, and some merchants + and planters of great respectability, were on a visit to the eastern part + of the island. As soon as they heard of the attack on La Baye, and the + progress of the insurrection, they left the quarters where they had been + hospitably entertained, and, accompanied by their host and some other + gentlemen, proceeded to the sea shore, and embarked in a sloop, with the + intention of proceeding to St. George, which was the seat of government, + and was strongly fortified and garrisoned. + </p> + <p> + As the sloop was passing the little village of Guayave, some negroes + appeared on the shore, bearing a flag of truce, and indicated by + expressive gestures a wish to hold a conference with the governor. This + functionary, not aware of the dreadful atrocities that had been committed, + and hoping that some means might be agreed upon to heal the disturbances, + imprudently ordered the vessel to be anchored in the roadstead, and + himself and a number of the most influential of his friends went ashore in + a boat, and were landed on the beach. A party of armed blacks, who until + that moment had been concealed, immediately surrounded them, pinioned + them, and marched them away. The boat was seized by the negroes, and a + party pushed off for the purpose of boarding the sloop, and securing the + remainder of the white men; but they, having witnessed the capture of the + governor and his companions, suspected the object of this maneuver, cut + the cable, and with a fine breeze, distanced the boat which had started in + pursuit, and proceeded to St. George with the mournful news. + </p> + <p> + The rebel chief, Fedon, collected around him, as it were by a single tap + of the drum, an army of some thousands of blacks, and distributed among + them a considerable number of fire-arms. Others were armed with weapons + hastily prepared; and the great body of the insurgents, being desperate + men, stimulated by the hope of freedom and the desire of vengeance, with + leaders of ability and some military skill, the insurrection assumed a + formidable appearance. + </p> + <p> + Fedon took possession of Mount Quaqua, a high, steep, and somewhat bald + mountain in the interior, and there encamped with his army. The base of + the mountain was cultivated, and furnished excellent pasturage for the + many cattle which were driven thither from the various plantations to + furnish subsistence for his army. This place he fortified, determined to + make it his stronghold in case of adversity; and he went vigorously to + work in organizing and disciplining his army with a view to make an attack + on St. George before the government could receive reenforcements, and thus + get possession of the whole island. + </p> + <p> + The governor and his friends, and other prisoners, principally planters, + having been strictly confined for several days, and treated with many + indignities, were conveyed under a guard to the camp of the rebel + chieftain. Fedon caused them to be brought before him, and after exulting + over their capture, and heaping upon them insults and abuse, ORDERED THEM + TO BE SHOT. This sentence was executed on the following day. Only one of + the number escaped to tall the sad tale. This was Mr. Bruce, a merchant + residing at St. George, who had acted as attorney for the Pearl + plantations. When led out with others to be executed, a negro whispered in + his ear, "Massa, my capen tells me, shoot you! But I no shoot you! Only + make b'live. You stand up straight when I fire, you fall to ground, and + scream, and twist, all same as if you be dead!" + </p> + <p> + The deception was successful. The negro, whose name was Quamina, and + belonged to the Lower Pearl estate, was stationed opposite to Bruce. The + word was given. Bruce fell with the rest, and imitated to admiration the + agonies of a dying man; and Quamina, at the risk of his life, succeeded in + saving that of the white man. That night, he contrived to get him outside + the lines, conducted him on the road leading to St. George, and left him. + Mr. Bruce, after much fatigue and several hair-breadth escapes, reached + the town, being the only one among the prisoners carried to the camp who + escaped from the clutches of the monster. + </p> + <p> + I may as well state here, that after the insurrection was quelled, Mr. + Bruce manifested towards his preserver a grateful spirit. He wished to + give him his freedom, but Quamina, who was a negro of consequence on the + estate, refused to accept it. Quamina was elevated to the situation of + head-boiler; and Mr. Bruce every year made him a visit, gave him a sum of + money, clothing, and valuable presents for himself and wife. + </p> + <p> + The military forces in the island were not more than were needed to occupy + the forts and defences of St. George, where the white population had fled, + with the little property they could take with them on the breaking out of + the rebellion. Parties of insurgents, commanded by chiefs appointed by + Fedon, who exercised absolute power, had the range of the rest of the + island. The rebels made a desperate attempt to capture St. George, but + were repulsed with great loss. + </p> + <p> + Affairs remained in this condition for nearly a year, before any efficient + measures were adopted by the British authorities to regain possession. At + length General Abercrombie, with a large military power, landed, and, + joined by the regular forces in St. George, and some companies of militia, + succeeded in driving the insurgents from the sea coast to the mountains. + He then invested Mount Quaqua, cut off all supplies from the army of + Fedon, and compelled him to fight, surrender, or starve. The insurgent + chief, with some of the leaders of the insurrection, and a portion of the + rebels, attempted to cut their way through the English army, and some of + them succeeded, among whom was Fedon. He proceeded to the sea coast, + embarked in an open boat with a few companions, and was probably drowned, + as he was never heard of afterwards. + </p> + <p> + The plantation negroes, generally, returned to the estates to which they + had been attached, and, with a few exceptions, were forgiven, and work on + the plantations was resumed. A number of the colored persons, slaves and + freemen, who were chieftains under Fedon, or had signalized themselves by + extraordinary acts of cruelty, were arrested and hanged. + </p> + <p> + One of the most efficient officers among the rebels was named Jack Shadow. + He was a free mulatto, a shrewd, intelligent creole, and previous to the + insurrection, had resided in the town of Guayave, and exercised the trade + of carpenter. With the assistance of his wife, a mulatto, he also + cultivated a garden, and contrived to gain a comfortable living. When the + insurrection, instigated by the French revolutionists, broke out in the + eastern part of the island, Jack hastened to join the insurgents, and was + cordially received by Fedon, who intrusted him with an important mission, + which he executed with such adroitness as to gain the confidence of the + chief, who appointed him to a high command in the army. Jack was one of + Fedon's most efficient officers, and signalized himself by his bitter + hatred to the whites, and the zeal with which he abetted his chief in the + horrid scenes of cruelty that were enacted. + </p> + <p> + When the insurrection was quelled, Jack Shadow, although wounded, made his + escape, with some others of the most obnoxious rebels, to the woods and + mountains in the interior of the island. They endeavored to conceal + themselves from the pursuit of the whites, but in the course of one or two + years were all, with the exception of Jack, ferreted out and shot when + apprehended, or taken to jail, tried, and hanged. + </p> + <p> + Jack, however, remained in the mountains. A large reward was offered for + him, dead or alive; and parties of armed men often scoured the woods, + hoping to find his lair and shoot or capture the rebel chief. But though + it was known he was hid in a certain part of the island, he eluded all + endeavors to arrest him for ten or twelve years, and might perhaps have + died of old age, had he not been betrayed by his wife. + </p> + <p> + It was subsequently ascertained that Jack had erected a hut by the side of + a ledge of rocks, which was almost inaccessible to a stranger; and this + hut, being surrounded with bushes and undergrowth, and covered with vines, + could not be recognized as a habitation by any one unacquainted with the + fact. His wife, Marie, remained in her humble cottage in Guayave, and, it + appeared still cherished affection for her husband. He was visited in the + wilderness by Marie at certain times, and supplied with necessaries and + whatever she thought might conduce to his comfort in that wretched abode. + At his urgent request, she also furnished him, occasionally, with a JUG OF + RUM, with which to cheer his spirits and solace his solitude. He gradually + acquired an insatiable fondness for spirituous drinks, and insisted on + being supplied, even to the exclusion of articles vastly more suitable to + his condition. + </p> + <p> + The consequence of the indulgence of this habit was soon exhibited. He + became gloomy, sullen, and ferocious. He no longer treated his wife, to + whom he was so much indebted, and the only being with whom he associated, + with his wonted kindness and affection, but, when maddened with liquor, + often abused her. Marie bore this for a long time with patience. She still + sought his hiding-place at times, and bore him the poisonous beverage, + probably unconscious that she was thus indirectly the cause of the changed + conduct in her husband. He continued his ill treatment, especially when + under the influence of liquor, and after a time the affection of Marie for + her husband was extinguished. She began to regard him as the fierce outlaw + and murderer, who cherished no gentle affections, but took pleasure in + abusing the woman who held his life in her hands, and had labored hard and + risked much to screen him from capture and cheer him in his concealment. + Her visits became more seldom, and the ill temper of her husband + increased. + </p> + <p> + One night, Marie pursued her devious way to the mountains to furnish Jack + with the accustomed supplies. He snatched form her hand the liquor, and + took a deep draught. The poison did its work. He became excited, and + quarreled with his wife; and, roused to fury by her reproaches, struck her + with his hand, seized her by the shoulder and thrust her from the hut, + tumbling her over the ledge. Marie rose, groaning with pain, being + severely bruised. The cup of her indignation, which had long been full, + was now overflowing. She slowly returned to her home in Guayave, brooding + over schemes of revenge, and formed the determination to betray her + husband into the hands of justice. She called upon Dr. Duncan, a rich + planter and a magistrate, and offered to guide him to the spot where Jack + Shadow, the daring rebel, was concealed. + </p> + <p> + Within a couple of hours after the magistrate received the welcome + information, he was on his way to the mountains, accompanied by Marie and + a guard of soldiers. They entered the thicket on the side of the mountain, + where Jack Shadow had taken up his abode. They came to a precipitous ledge + of rocks. "Move gently, now," said Marie, in a low voice; "we are close + upon his hut." + </p> + <p> + The soldiers could see nothing resembling a hut. With their muskets + loaded, and bayonets fixed, they with difficulty made their way through + steep, rugged, and crooked passes, and, after a toilsome march, stood by + the side of Jack's habitation. + </p> + <p> + The sergeant was now quietly arranging his men in such a manner as to + insure the captivity or death of the outlaw, when one of the soldiers + stumbled, and his musket struck the ground with a ringing noise. Jack, who + had just awakened from his drunken nap, heard the ominous sound. He had no + weapons, but relied on the security of his retreat and his activity and + strength. He cautiously opened the door, in front of which stood a soldier + with his musket pointed towards him. The sergeant cried, "Surrender, or + you are a dead man!" + </p> + <p> + Jack made one last desperate struggle for life. He sprang down the ledge, + turned aside with one hand the bayonet which was thrust at his bosom, and + felled the soldier with the other; but ere he could clear the guard, his + shoulder was transfixed by another bayonet, which disabled him, and in a + few minutes he was stretched at the feet of the soldiers, a wounded, + pinioned captive. Before the sun had set that afternoon he was securely + lodged in the prison at Guayave, heavily ironed, and the prison was + guarded by a detachment of soldiers. + </p> + <p> + The trial of Jack Shadow soon came on before a bench of magistrates. His + identity was proved; also the conspicuous part he had taken in the + insurrection, and the bloody acts which he had committed. The outlaw was + condemned to death. His deportment was sullen and dogged to the last. He + refused to see his wife, who, when too late, regretted the steps which, + prompted by anger and a short-lived desire for revenge, she had taken for + his arrest. He was hanged on a gallows, about a quarter of a mile outside + the village of Guayave. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXX. WEST INDIA LIFE + </h2> + <p> + I remained on the Upper Pearl estate, and found much to interest an + inquiring mind. Murray, although there were some good points about him, + was not considered trustworthy. In his cups he was quarrelsome and as + choleric as a Welshman; and a fondness for liquor was his besetting sin. + He was an excellent accountant and an efficient clerk, but could hardly be + relied on when a clear head and cool judgment were required. + </p> + <p> + A short time before I became acquainted with Murray, he had quarreled at a + dinner party with a Mr. Reed, the manager of a coffee plantation. The lie + was exchanged, a blow was struck; a challenge was given and accepted on + the spot. The next morning the parties met, with their seconds, firmly + bent upon shooting each other. There was no flinching on the part of the + principals; no desire evinced to give or receive an apology. The seconds, + however, were made of milder stuff; and neither of them being Irishmen, + thought they would be justified in rendering the duel a bloodless one, and + transforming a grave matter into a harmless joke. They accordingly loaded + the pistols with powder only, keeping the bullets in their pockets; + probably taking the hint from the well-blazoned proceedings in the duel + fought at Chalk farm, a few years before, between Jeffries and Moore, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "When Little's leadless pistol met the eye, + While Bow Street myrmidons stood laughing by." +</pre> + <p> + The word was given, and both parties fired. No harm was done; but + apologies were out of the question, and "another shot" was loudly and + peremptorily called for, and the distance, eight paces was shortened to + six. The farce was again repeated, when Murray, wondering at the bloodless + result, espied a smile on the features of his second, which did not seem + in keeping with the gravity of the occasion. His suspicions were aroused; + and the seconds, on being charged with duplicity, acknowledged the fact, + adding that it would be worse than folly to shoot each other, and + suggesting that they should shake hands, take a good breakfast together, + and, in a Christian spirit, banish all enmity from their hearts. + </p> + <p> + This advice, so wise in itself, was not taken in good part by either of + the principals. They were indignant at having been imposed upon, and made + a laughing-stock to the community. Murray could not control his temper, + but threw his pistol at the head of his second, cutting him badly in the + face, and knocking him over; he chased the second of his antagonist off + the field, and then offered his hand to the man whom he had twice + attempted to shoot, which in a kind spirit was heartily grasped; and the + two principals in the duel, who, five minutes before, eagerly thirsted for + each other's blood, rode off together sworn friends and brothers, and were + afterwards as great cronies as the Irish Bard and the Scotch reviewer. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Orr, the manager of the Upper Pearl, who left the estate, bowed down + by disease, on the evening of my arrival, had a narrow escape from death. + When he recovered, after a severe illness of several weeks, he refused to + resume his situation, declaring he had got enough of the Pearls to last + him his lifetime. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Church rode over from his residence every morning, and gave + instructions, which I carried out to the best of my ability. The + reputation of the Pearl estates for fevers was such, it was difficult to + find a respectable person who would take the station of manager, or, if he + accepted the situation, relying on the strength of his constitution, he + was not wont to occupy it long. One of that description was engaged after + Orr's resignation was received, but he was driven off in a few weeks by an + attack of fever and ague, which nearly shook him to atoms. Another, of + more doubtful character, was subsequently engaged, but he was found by the + attorney tipsy before eleven o'clock in the forenoon. Had it been in the + afternoon, it might have been excused; but to get drunk in the morning was + an unpardonable offence. In vain he pleaded that he had taken only a few + drops to neutralize the effects of the malaria; he was discharged. + </p> + <p> + After a few months' residence on this plantation, breathing by night and + by day the foul and noxious miasma from the swamps, and just as I began to + flatter myself that my constitution would weather the storm, I experienced + an attack of headache, chills, and fever. By dint of resolution and nerve, + which will accomplish much, I succeeded in throwing it off, being + determined not to succumb through imagination or fear. A few days + afterwards the attack was renewed with greater violence, and I was + compelled to admit its reality, and acknowledge the supremacy of remittent + fever. Mr. Church manifested much interest in my behalf. He caused a + skillful physician to attend me, and promptly provided me with every thing + the occasion required, excepting a salubrious atmosphere; and on being + told that this was indispensable to my recovery, he generously caused me + to be transported on a litter to "Bel-Air," the beautiful and healthy + villa in which he resided. Here I was provided with a comfortable + apartment, and received the kindest attention from Mrs. Church. After a + severe struggle the fever left me in a weak and emaciated condition, and + weeks elapsed before I was permitted to resume my duties of the estate. + </p> + <p> + My wardrobe, although it had been replenished by Bohun, in a style which I + thought unnecessarily liberal was still far from approaching what, by + persons of simple tastes, would be called genteel. As I was now liable to + be thrown into the company of the WELL-DRESSED visitors to Bel-Air, it was + thought by Mr. Church perhaps at the suggestion of his wife that some + improvement in my external appearance might be desirable. Accordingly, one + day, on returning from a journey to St. George, he brought me, greatly to + my astonishment, a dress coat, of bottle-green hue, much too large, which + he had purchased ready-made; a pair of stockinet pantaloons, too tight for + even my slim shanks, and a flashy-looking vest, which, for aught I know, + may have been made of the stuff called "thunder and lightning;" so that, + when rigged out in my genteel habiliments, I must have looked not unlike + Moses, in the "Vicar of Wakefield," going to the fair, but far more + ridiculous! + </p> + <p> + I cared less about the effect I might produce in my unaccustomed finery + than the expense of such luxuries, which I knew I could not afford, and + which would inevitably subject me to much inconvenience. My salary, I + found on inquiry, was a nominal one, barely sufficient to furnish me with + ordinary comforts. I had already incurred a serious debt in the purchase + of a saddle and bridle and other articles which I could not dispense with; + and although I fully believed Mr. Thomas would never call upon me to + refund his disbursements on my account in St. George, I knew human nature + too well to suppose that Mr. Church would not deduct from my salary the + price of those genteel articles of dress, which were of no more use to me + than a marlinspike to a dandy. Indeed, had I indulged in such unreasonable + hopes, I should have been undeceived when a bill for sundries from a + trader came to hand, of an amount far exceeding my expectations, with a + polite request that I would transmit the money at the earliest + convenience! + </p> + <p> + There was no help; I had put my hand to the plough, and must go forward. I + thus found myself enchained to the island for at least twelve months. + Indeed, a longer period than that must elapse before I could expect, by + the closest economy, to pay off the debts I had incurred. I now, too late, + regretted that I had listened to the representations of Bohun, and allowed + him to manifest his GRATITUDE for my services, the consequences of which + served to embarrass me, and place me in a position which I did not covet; + for which I was not calculated by habit or inclination, but from which I + could see no means of escaping. + </p> + <p> + I returned to the Pearl estate and resumed my avocations. Months passed + away; and although an occasional chill, followed by fever, reminded me + that I was continually breathing an unhealthy atmosphere, I felt a + sanguine hope that I should not again be affected by diseases incident to + the climate, and that I had already qualified myself for the honorary + degree which was referred to by my friend Murray. My hopes were + fallacious. I was again attacked by a remittent fever of an obstinate + character. I was again conveyed to Bel-Air. The doctor was again summoned, + and he had a difficult task in restoring me to health. But he protested + against my return to the Pearl estate, declaring that another attack would + place me beyond the reach of medical assistance. + </p> + <p> + It chanced that Mr. Coxall, a rich merchant of St. George, who had a + lumber yard and depot of stores in Greenville, was in want of a clerk to + look after his affairs in that place, and in consequence of Mr. Church's + recommendation he gave me the situation. My duties were pleasant; and I + often visited the plantations in the neighborhood, where I acquired a + number of friends. My emoluments, however, were inconsiderable; I was in + debt, and the amount of my pecuniary obligations was not lessened by the + repeated visits of a popular physician during my sickness. + </p> + <p> + During this time I had not heard a word from Mr. Thomas, or Bohun, his + clerk. I supposed they had forgotten me; but I did those gentlemen + injustice. I had hardly been a year in the island when I received a letter + from Mr. Thomas, enclosing a bill in the handwriting of Bohun, of every + article with which I had been furnished in St. George, not omitting my + board at two dollars and a half a day, which Bohun so roundly swore should + be reduced at least two thirds. The sum total of the bill amounted to more + than one hundred dollars, an enormous sum in my then straitened + circumstances; and the letter contained an intimation that, having been a + year in the island, and in regular employment, it was expected that I was + able and willing to settle the accompanying bill! + </p> + <p> + Although I entertained faint hopes of being able at some future day to + reimburse Mr. Thomas for his expenses on my account, I never expected that + he would make out this bill, including even the most trifling item, or + hold me responsible for the unpardonable blunder of Bohun in relation to + my board, and subject me to the mortification of a dun. It appeared, + however, that he considered all obligations, on his part, discharged, when + an unenviable situation was procured for me on a plantation, where the + chances were nine out of ten that I should find my grave within three + months! I made a brief reply to this letter, in which I expressed my + feelings without reserve; assured him he need not trouble himself further + about his money; that if I lived he should receive the full amount, + principal and interest, as soon as I could earn it. + </p> + <p> + This unexpected demand on my resources troubled me greatly. It had the + effect to postpone, almost indefinitely, the time when I should leave + Grenada, and return to the occupation I preferred, that of a mariner. I + could not quit the island honorably or openly without paying my debts; and + I could not for a moment entertain the idea of sneaking out of it in a + clandestine manner. I was the only citizen of the United States in the + island, and I persuaded myself that the honor and reputation of my country + were identified, to a certain extent, with my conduct while exercising a + humble employment in that secluded portion of the globe. It would be well + if others, exercising duties of a more important nature, would recollect + this fact; and when their consciences or sense of propriety are not + sufficient to restrain them from unworthy acts, let them summon patriotism + to their aid, and remember that the disgrace is not confined to + themselves, but is shared by the land which gave them birth. By acting on + this principle, our country would be more honored abroad than it now is. + </p> + <p> + After I left the Pearl estate I enjoyed excellent health, with the + exception of an occasional attack of intermittent fever, a malady which, + although distressing and debilitating, is seldom regarded as alarming. + Those only, who were liberally dosed some forty years ago with the powder + of Peruvian bark, the sovereign remedy for fever and ague, can duly + estimate the value of the services rendered to suffering humanity by the + discovery of a mode of administering it in a concentrated form, that of + QUININE. + </p> + <p> + Although some estates were regarded as healthy while others were + notoriously the reverse, on no part of the island could persons be secure + from those fatal diseases, most dreaded in a tropical climate, such as + dysentery, and malignant or yellow fever. It was really startling to + notice the sudden deaths which sometimes took place even among those who + considered themselves acclimated, and were habitually in the enjoyment of + excellent health. This may have been in part, owing to the irregular mode + of living in a climate where the humanizing influence of female society + was but little known. Dinner parties among the planters were frequent, + where the most tempting liquors were produced, and excesses on such + occasions, when fun and frolic were rife, were considered not only + excusable but laudable. + </p> + <p> + I had been two years in the island, when I received an official + notification that I was appointed one of the constables or civil officers + of the district in which I resided, and was expected to qualify myself + forthwith to perform my duties. Being well known as a citizen of the + United States, I was greatly surprised at this event; and believing that I + could not legally discharge the duties of any office of trust, honor, or + emolument, however humble, under the British government, I hastened off at + once to Mr. Lumsden, an old, and highly respectable planter, who resided + on his own estate, and had acted as a magistrate for many years. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Lumsden," said I, exhibiting the document, "I have been appointed a + constable for this district." + </p> + <p> + "Well, what of that? The appointment is a good one. I recommended you + myself." + </p> + <p> + "I am obliged to you for your good opinion," said I, "but you know very + well that I am a citizen of the united States; have never taken the oath + of allegiance to the British government, and never intend to; consequently + I am not eligible." + </p> + <p> + "Pooh, pooh! Nonsense! That makes not a farthing's difference. You will do + well enough." + </p> + <p> + "And more than that," I continued, "I am only nineteen years of age; that + alone is sufficient to incapacitate me." + </p> + <p> + "Young man," said the magistrate, with all the solemnity and wisdom of a + Dogberry, "whether you are a Yankee or a Calmuck, whether your are sixty + years old or sixteen, it matters not. You have been appointed a constable + for this district, AND A CONSTABLE YOU SHALL BE. So no more frivolous + excuses. If you do not prepare yourself to act in that capacity when + called upon I will cause you to be reported and fined." + </p> + <p> + There was no more to be said; the argument relating to the fine was + unanswerable; and I caused myself to be qualified forthwith. The duties + were not arduous. The only official duty required of me, during my term of + office, was to summon a coroner's jury, on one occasion, to sit on the + body of a runaway slave, who was stabbed by a watchman while committing + depredations on some "negro gardens" in the night time. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Coxall finally gave up his establishment in Greenville, and I was + obliged to look elsewhere for employment. A newspaper was published at St. + George, owned and edited by an Englishman, who had been a non-commissioned + officer in the regiment which was disbanded in the island a few years + before. I had then, even at that early age, some indefinite hankering + after newspaper life, and having picked up a crude mass of knowledge, + incongruous and undigested, perhaps, from the many books I had devoured, I + flattered myself that I could render good service as assistant editor of + the St. George Chronicle. I accordingly offered my services to the + proprietor, but found him less liberal in his opinions than the worthy + sons of Scotia with whom I had been intimately associating. His prejudices + against the Yankees were unconquerable. He did not even reply to my + letter, but stated to a friend of mine that he must be very hard pushed + before he would take a YANKEE into his office to assist in printing and + editing an English newspaper. + </p> + <p> + I again turned my attention to the planting business. A vacancy having + occurred on the Hermitage estate, owing to the sudden death, by yellow + fever, of a very promising young man from Aberdeen, who had been in the + island only a few months, I succeeded, through the kind exertions of Mr. + Church, in obtaining the situation. + </p> + <p> + The Hermitage was one of the finest plantations in Grenada. It was + pleasantly situated on elevated ground, a few miles from the sea shore, + and was the residence of Mr. Houston, a gentleman of great respectability, + who was attorney for the estate, and also for the plantation adjoining, + called Belmont. Some years previously the Hermitage had been the residence + of the owner of these estates, an Englishman named Bailey. He had spared + no expense in stocking the grounds with fruits of various kinds, had + planted bread-fruit and bread-nut trees, which, besides proving + ornamental, furnished nutritive food for the slaves. Mr. Houston found, + however, that the fruit orchards required more labor and care to keep them + in good condition than could be profitably spared from other duties; and + the beautiful and umbrageous bread-fruit and bread-nut trees shaded some + portions of the fertile land capable of producing good sugar cane. The axe + was, therefore, freely used, and, one after another, nearly all the trees + which produced this excellent fruit were cut down. Other fruit trees, as + the orange, the guava, pomegranate, avocado pear, golden apple, water + lemon, soursop, etc. grow spontaneously on almost every plantation, and + furnish an abundance and a variety of refreshing, nutritious food, at + different seasons. Plantains, peas, cassava, kalliloo, yams, and several + other kinds of esculent vegetables, some of which bear a close resemblance + to the potato in every thing excepting the form, are raised in abundance + with very little labor. The calabash tree is also found growing wild on + every estate. It resembles an apple tree of moderate dimensions, and bears + calabashes of every size, from those which contain several gallons to + those which hold only half a pint. These calabashes are of great value on + a plantation, being used as vessels for all purposes and occasions except + for cooking. + </p> + <p> + It is hardly necessary to say that my debt to Mr. Thomas was liquidated as + soon as I could obtain the means, even by anticipating my salary; and I + eagerly looked forward to the time when, by exercising the strictest + economy, I should be able to quit a place where, notwithstanding many + things which were unpleasant, I had found valuable friends and enjoyed + many comforts, and had been treated by all with whom I came in contact + with confidence and kindness. During my stay, my feelings were never hurt + by ungenerous allusions to my native country. Whatever unpleasant + associations were produced, from time to time, among the planters by the + passing events of the war, they were restrained by a feeling of delicacy, + which I could duly appreciate, from indulging in offensive remarks in my + hearing. On one occasion their forbearance, politeness, and respect for + myself were put to a severe test. + </p> + <p> + The war between Great Britain and the United states deprived the + inhabitants of the British West India colonies of many comforts and + luxuries which they enjoyed when free intercourse was maintained between + the United States and the different ports in the English islands. During + the war, all the stores and provisions, lumber, and other important + materials required on the plantations, were conveyed thither from ports in + Great Britain in ships sailing under convoy of men-of-war. The arrival of + these ships, which took place at certain seasons, when the produce was + ready for shipping, was anxiously expected, as they were freighted not + only with useful articles for the estates, but also contained generous + lots of hams, porter, cheese, wines, and other delicacies and condiments, + ordered by the planters themselves for their especial benefit and + enjoyment. It was a day of jubilee and rejoicing when a ship known to be + freighted with these "good things" and "creature comforts" arrived safely + in port. + </p> + <p> + At the proper season, in 1814, the good ship Corunna, of Bristol, was + expected at Greenville. This ship was an old trader, and the captain had + been intrusted with many commissions, which, as he was an honest and + faithful man, it was not doubted he would execute satisfactorily. Most of + the planters in that part of the island were looking out anxiously every + day for the arrival of the Corunna. Their private stores had been long + exhausted, and they longed to have them replenished. The ship was an + unreasonable time on her passage. + </p> + <p> + It was Sunday afternoon. I was dining with Mr. Stevenson, the manager of + the Tivoli estate, in company with several planters. The house was + situated on an elevated spot, and commanded a fine view of the sea, + extending nearly from the Grenadines to LaBaye, the port of Greenville. It + was distant from the sea shore not more than a couple of miles. Suddenly, + on looking out of the front windows of the dining hall, a large ship was + seen under full sail, coming with a fair wind from the direction of the + Grenadines and steering towards LaBaye. + </p> + <p> + "That is the Corunna," shouted one of the gentlemen present. "Hurrah!" + </p> + <p> + "Not the Corunna," remarked Mr. Stevenson. "The Corunna is not so good + looking and is of a different model. The West India fleet, however, must + have arrived at Barbadoes, and the Corunna will soon be along." + </p> + <p> + At that moment another ship appeared, carrying a cloud of canvas, coming + round the point. This vessel was not the Corunna, and kept close in with + the land, running also for LaBaye. A shade of disappointment rested on the + features of some of the planters; but all continued to gaze eagerly in the + direction of the sea, hoping that the long expected ship, bearing, not the + Golden Fleece from Colchis, but treasures from England, of far greater + value in the estimation of their owners, would next make her appearance. + Their expectations were realized. Another ship came into view, with every + sail set which would draw; royals, skysails, and studding sails, from the + truck to the deck, and the British ensign was waving at her peak. + </p> + <p> + "There comes the Corunna, at last!" exclaimed Mr. Stevenson. + </p> + <p> + "The Corunna! The Corunna!" was the responsive cry. + </p> + <p> + "I declare," said Mr. McInnis, the manager of the Carriere estate, "I feel + greatly relieved. I began to think the ship had been picked up by some + Yankee privateer, and my Stilton cheese and 'brown stout' gone in another + direction." + </p> + <p> + "I was suspicious, myself, that some accident of that kind had happened," + replied Mr. Stevenson; "but she is safe enough now, and will be at anchor + in an hour or so. Therefore, let us fill our glasses, and drink the health + of her successful commander." + </p> + <p> + The glasses were filled; but before their contents were quaffed, the + company were startled by the loud report of a cannon, which came booming + across the land. At this moment another vessel, which had fired the gun, + was seen coming round the point, following closely in the wake of the + Corunna. + </p> + <p> + This vessel was of a model widely different from those which first came + along. She was a long, low, black hermaphrodite brig, with tall, raking + masts, and a row of ports, evidently intended for use rather than + ornament. Every plank in her hull, every rope at her mast-head, and every + cloth of her canvas looked as if they meant MISCHIEF. Her national flag, + which bore the stars and stripes, was not necessary to proclaim the + presence of one of the much dreaded American privateers. The company + looked as if the angel of destruction was hovering over the island. + </p> + <p> + "A privateer! An American privateer!" exclaimed Stevenson. "The Corunna is + nabbed after all." + </p> + <p> + "Not so!" said Mr. McCrimmon of Belmont. "Not so! The Corunna will show + fight. Her captain is a brave man, and will not strike his flag without + good reason. Look there, he fires a broadside! Huzza!" + </p> + <p> + The Corunna now changed her course, keeping away before the wind, and + running directly for the land. She discharged three or four guns from her + starboard ports, which were replied to by the "long Tom" of the privateer. + The captain of the ship, apparently, considered it useless to fight, and + made an attempt to run the ship ashore; but his object being perceived by + the Yankee, he also kept off, and sailing much faster than the Englishman, + placed his brig between the ship and the beach, hammering away in the mean + time with his "long Tom." The Corunna fired no shot in return, and in a + few minutes hauled down her flag in token of surrender. + </p> + <p> + It subsequently appeared that the three ships had left England and came to + Barbadoes with the large outward bound West India fleet; but being well + armed, and stoutly manned, had concluded not to wait for convoy to + Grenada, and the risk being small, agreed to keep together, stand by each + other, and combine their forces if menaced by an enemy. They passed the + Grenadines, came in sight of their port, and were exulting in having + accomplished the passage in safety, when the Yankee privateer brig + Chasseur, of Baltimore, Captain Boyle, shot out from behind the promontory + of Sauteurs and gave chase. A harbor was in sight ahead and the enemy + astern. It is perhaps not remarkable that under these circumstances + discretion outweighed valor; that the two headmost vessels FORGOT THE + AGREEMENT, and, adopting the memorable order which was acted on by the + "Grand Army" after the burning of Moscow, "SAUVE QUI PEUT," ensconced + themselves, as quickly as possible, in the snug harbor of Greenville. The + captain of the Corunna was a brave man, as had been truly said. He was + anxious to fight, but his men, after one ineffective broadside, left the + guns. He then attempted to run his ship ashore, but was foiled by the + superior sailing of the enemy. The Corunna had a miscellaneous cargo of + considerable value, and a successful attempt was made to carry her into an + American port. She reached Wilmington in safety, and the North Carolina + cotton planters doubtless ate and drank with a keen relish the good things + which were intended for the sugar planters of Grenada. + </p> + <p> + It may be easily imagined, that the news of a treaty of peace having been + signed at Ghent, was received with great and sincere delight by the + inhabitants of the English islands. Far from their native homes, and in a + great measure free from political excitement, they manifested no great + interest in the results of the war, indulging only a vague desire and + expectation that British arms would prevail. The war had caused them great + inconvenience, and deprived them of many comforts; and it was difficult to + say whether my friends or myself derived the most gratification from the + fact that peace was established between the two countries. + </p> + <p> + Time passed on. I had nearly cleared myself from debt, and had even fixed + the period when I should be able to leave Grenada and engage in other + pursuits. My friends combated the resolution I had taken, assuring me of + success, even to the extent of my wishes, if I would remain on the island. + Indeed, I was more than half promised the management of a plantation near + Guayave, called Grosse Point, by Mr. McQueen, the Receiver General. + Fearing I might be tempted to remain, by offers which I should be unable + to withstand, I was anxious to hasten the period of my departure. + </p> + <p> + About this time a bill, providing for a registry of the slaves in every + British colony, was passed by the Parliament of Great Britain, with a view + to put a more effectual barrier to the African slave trade. This bill was + not understood by the blacks. They were aware that some law intended for + their benefit, perhaps favoring their emancipation, had been enacted, and + not experiencing any advantageous results, after waiting patiently some + weeks they began to consult together, to murmur, and exhibit signs of + discontent, which caused great alarm. On several estates the field + laborers in a body, including the head drivers and other magnates, left + their homes and went to St. George. They demanded to be put in possession + of those indulgences and rights to which they supposed they were entitled + by the law which had just been passed. + </p> + <p> + The planters, recollecting the bloody scenes that had been enacted, years + before, at the beginning of the insurrection headed by Fedon, were greatly + alarmed. Military organizations were formed in different districts, and a + regular night patrol, and a well-devised system of espionage, were kept up + for several weeks. The governor of Grenada and the Grenadines, at this + period, was Major General Riall, who had distinguished himself while + commanding the British army on the Canada frontiers, and was wounded and + taken prisoner at the battle of Niagara. Acting with judgment, firmness, + and discretion, he succeeded in pacifying those bodies of slaves who + sought him, and explained the true character of the act. They slowly + returned to the plantations and resumed their labors; but were evidently + dissatisfied, and more than half convinced that even the governor was + deceiving them. + </p> + <p> + To add to the excitement, a rumor was spread abroad, and obtained belief, + that a number of aliens had arrived in the island, with the intention of + stirring up another insurrection; and a sort of panic prevailed among the + whites. The governor issued a proclamation, declaring that every free + person who was not a native citizen of Great Britain, or who had not taken + the oath of allegiance, must appear forthwith before the executive + authorities of St. George, and report himself and state his object in + being on the island. + </p> + <p> + I felt myself included in the list of aliens, and in spite of the + remonstrances of friends, who insisted that the proclamation did not apply + to me, I determined to comply with its directions, and go immediately to + St. George. Accompanied by a gentleman who was connected with the + government, and to whom I had a letter of introduction, I called upon his + excellency. The governor was a thick-set, ruddy-faced man, with a + decidedly military air, of simple habits and courteous manners. He + received me with great politeness. On being informed that I was an + American, he waived all desire for an explanation in regard to the cause + of my residence in the island; and further remarked, that should it at any + time be in his power to render me service, it would give him pleasure to + do it. + </p> + <p> + When peace was established between the two countries it was expected the + ports in the English islands would be thrown open for trade, as before the + war. In this expectation the planters were disappointed. In order to + protect the trade in the British American provinces, the importation of + produce in American bottoms was prohibited. Consequently there was no + direct communication between English ports in the West Indies and ports in + the United States. Our vessels landed and sold their cargoes in St. + Thomas, St. Bartholomew, or some other free port, where they were shipped + in English bottoms, and thence conveyed to the English islands. + </p> + <p> + There being no opportunity to go directly to the United States from + Grenada, I sought the means of proceeding to some other port, where I + should be likely to fall in with an American vessel. I called on Mr. + Budge, a merchant of St. George, with whom I had some acquaintance, to + make inquiries. He informed me he was on the point of chartering a small + vessel in which to proceed to St. Pierre in Martinico, should sail in the + course of a few weeks, and would cheerfully give me a passage to that + port. + </p> + <p> + I returned to the interior of the island in fine spirits, and commenced + making the necessary arrangements for my departure. In due time, having + received information from Mr. Budge that his sloop would sail on a certain + day, I took leave of my numerous friends, bade farewell to the + plantations; to the lonely glens and deep gorges in the mountains, which + for me, had many charms, and took the "Grand Etang" route for the capital. + I could not bid adieu to my kind Scotch friends without emotion. Several + of them expressed an intention to visit the United States before the lapse + of many years, perhaps to settle there for life, and promised to look me + up. But I have never seen them since. With the sight of a Scotchman, + however, is associated many pleasing recollections; and a Scotch accent + has ever sounded grateful in my ear since I left the shores of Grenada. + </p> + <p> + During my residence in Grenada my duties were neither arduous nor + difficult. Had I complied with the advice of friends and remained, I might + have succeeded as a planter, and led for a number of years a lazy, + monotonous, vegetative kind of life. Nevertheless, my stay was not + unproductive of advantages. I found much to interest and occupy an + inquiring mind; and my situation gave me an opportunity to gratify a + thirst for information, to gain an intimate knowledge of tropical life, + usages, and productions which has often since proved of signal service. I + was brought into communication with people of different nations, different + characters, and different modes of thinking; of different politics, + philosophy, and religion; all of which has a tendency to eradicate or + weaken early prejudices, liberalize opinions, and inculcate charitable + views of human nature. While such a relation with people of other + countries can never diminish the feeling of patriotism in a well-balanced + mind, it will lead a persons to discover, acknowledge, and respect, in + other communities and other nations, much that is good and worthy of + commendation. + </p> + <p> + After paying my debts and supplying a few pressing wants I found remaining + in my pocket fifty Spanish dollars. I had emerged from a state of poverty + and dependence. I was rich, having the means, without much doubt, of + procuring a passage from Martinico to some port in the United States. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXXI. SORROWFUL SCENES + </h2> + <p> + It was about the middle of September in the year 1816 that I embarked with + Mr. Budge in a little sloop bound to St. Lucia and Martinico, after having + resided in Grenada nearly four years. We had a few other passengers, one + of whom was a French gentleman named Chambord, who had fought a duel with + an Englishman in St. Lucia a few months before. This duel grew out of a + fierce dispute in relation to the battle of Waterloo, and the comparative + merit, in a military point of view, of Napoleon and Wellington. The + Frenchman, being an adroit swordsman, got the best of the argument by + running his antagonist through the body, and leaving him senseless, and + apparently lifeless, on the field. He made his escape to Grenada. Having + learned that the champion of Wellington was in a fair way to recover from + his wound, he was now on his return to his home. + </p> + <p> + We tarried but a short time at St. Lucia, merely lying off and on at the + mouth of the port of Castries, or Carenage, which is one of the most + beautiful and safe harbors in that part of the world; the entrance being + so narrow that two ships cannot pass through it abreast; but inside, the + extent of the harbor and depth of water are sufficient to furnish good + anchorage and shelter from hurricanes for a large fleet of ships of the + largest class. + </p> + <p> + On arriving at St. Pierre I found a fearful hurricane had raged in that + quarter only a week or ten days before. The wind, blowing from the + eastward directly into the open roadstead with irresistible fury, had + driven every vessel in port ashore on the beach. The ship Cato, of + Portsmouth, New Hampshire, having all her cargo discharged, and presenting + a large surface of hull to the wind and the waves, was found, after the + tempest had subsided, high and dry in one of the streets, in a condition + which precluded the possibility of getting her into the water, and was + broken up. Others were launched on "ways" constructed for the purpose; + while some sustained but little injury, and were easily got afloat. One + English brig, built of the red cedar of Bermuda, a material greatly in + favor at that time on account of its remarkable resistance to DECAY, was + crushed like an egg-shell the moment it struck the shore, and the + fragments were strown along the beach. + </p> + <p> + At the time I arrived at St. Pierre the yellow fever was prevailing to an + alarming extent among the inhabitants. The same epidemic prevailed in + Point Petre, Guadaloupe, and the numerous immigrants from France, in some + cases whole families, who sought those shores with the hope of improving + their condition, were cut off by this terrible disease soon after their + arrival. Some cases of yellow fever appeared among the shipping in St. + Pierre, and nearly every one proved fatal, showing the malignant type of + the disease. Great alarm was manifested lest the epidemic should spread + among the vessels, and sweep off whole crews, and I subsequently learned + that these apprehensions were realized. + </p> + <p> + I engaged lodgings on shore, and was there an eye witness to the ravages + of this plague of the West Indies. Young and healthy men, full of hope and + gayety, with rich prospects in the future, were visited by this grim + messenger soon after they set their feet on those shores; and few, very + few, recovered. Death was doing a mighty business at Martinico at that + time; and during my brief stay I listened to many a thrilling tale of + hopes blighted, ties of affection sundered, and sorrows awakened by the + remorseless action of the "King of Terrors." The strong man was cut down + while boasting of his strength; and youth, beauty, or worth furnished no + protection from the attack of this West India pestilence. + </p> + <p> + After my long residence in Grenada I had no fear of yellow fever in + Martinico; and in several cases at my boarding house I was able to render + valuable assistance. I was now anxious to get temporary employment of some + kind, or procure a passage to the United States. I was every day getting + nearer the bottom of my purse; and I trembled at the idea of finding + myself penniless in the town of St. Pierre. I could hardly hope to meet + with the sympathy and kindness from the Frenchmen of Martinico that I + found in Grenada among the natives of Scotland. + </p> + <p> + Owing to the shipwrecks, caused by the hurricane, there was no want of + seamen; and I could not even get an opportunity to work my passage to an + American port before the mast. I had been so long in the West Indies that + I had lost the distinguishing marks of a Yankee. And my broad accent, my + swarthy complexion, my unseamanlike costume, adapted to the climate, all + seemed to contradict my statement that I was an American sailor. + </p> + <p> + At Martinico I fell in with an Englishman, Captain William Parker, who had + resided in the islands for many years, and was thoroughly acquainted with + the trade in that part of the globe. He was then making preparations to + engage in a sort of wholesale smuggling business, and had obtained + possession, by hook or by crook, of two registers of American vessels. One + was a BONA FIDE register of a privateer which had been captured during the + war, and the other a forgery neatly executed by an artist in Martinico, + having the signatures and seals duly arranged and perfected, but leaving + blank the description of the vessel. + </p> + <p> + With these registers, valuable documents, in his estimation, having cost + him no trifling sum, it was his wish to proceed to New York, and with the + aid of some unscrupulous capitalist, purchase an English schooner, + answering nearly to the description in the register of the privateer; or, + failing in that, procure an English vessel of any kind suitable, and fill + up the blanks with a description of the same in the other American + register. Then with two captains, one English and one American, each + acting as mate alternately, and with a crew who could be confided in, HE + PROPOSED TO CARRY ON A DIRECT TRADE WITH THE ENGLISH ISLANDS, securing all + the advantages, in the way of port charges and duties, of an American + vessel in an American port and an English vessel in an English port! A few + voyages successfully performed on this plan, he plausibly urged, would be + productive of immense profit to all concerned. + </p> + <p> + Parker was desirous that I would embark with him in this enterprise, and + act as the nominal American commander. But I had an instinctive repugnance + to proceedings of such an underhand, unlawful character. This of itself + would have been enough to lead me to reject his proposition; and + furthermore I had no confidence in the man, or his ability to carry his + project into operation. I thanked Parker for his friendly offer, and the + COMPLIMENT it conveyed, but declined to enter into any engagement of the + kind. Whether he succeeded in carrying his project into effect I never + learned; but the same plan was successfully put into execution by an + enterprising rogue about the same time, who undertook to run a vessel + between Baltimore and Barbadoes, carrying out flour and bringing back + coffee and sugar. He performed two trips successfully, but on the third + got into trouble. One of the crew, who had been unadvisedly punished for + insubordination, gave information to the authorities in Barbadoes, which + put a period, for a time at least, to his enterprising pursuits. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +A few days before I landed in St. Pierre, the brig Betsey, Captain +Blackler, arrived in the harbor from Marseilles. A large portion of her +cargo was discharged, and Captain Blackler concluded to send the brig +with the remaining portion, consisting of wine im casks, to New Orleans, +while he remained behind to transact important business for the owner +of the brig, William Gray, of Salem. Accordingly the mate, Mr. Adams, an +intelligent and highly deserving young man, belonging to Marblehead, +was placed in charge, and the mate of the unfortunate ship Cato, which +forsook her proper element to explore the streets of St. Pierre, and +could not get back, was engaged as mate of the Betsey. + + I applied to Captain Blackler for a passage to New Orleans. The +brig was fully manned, with six stout, able-bodied seamen before +the mast, and cook, mate, and captain, nine in all. Captain Blackler +demanded forty dollars for a passage in the cabin; by no means an +exorbitant charge. Nevertheless this was a poser, as after paying for +my board, I had only twenty dollars remaining. This matter, however, was +satisfactorily settled by a COMPROMISE, a happy way of getting rid of a +difficulty. I proposed to advance twenty dollars before quitting +Martinico, and give an obligation for twenty more when the brig should +arrive at New Orleans; and he agreed to the proposition. But HOW I +should raise twenty dollars on reaching New Orleans, was a question I +could not answer, and did not like to consider. I strove hard to +convince myself I should never be called upon for payment, or if called +upon, that fortune would favor me by furnishing, in some way, the means. +</pre> + <p> + Captain Blackler was a gentleman much respected and esteemed. He was a + good specimen of an American shipmaster. When we got under way he came on + board, apparently in good health and spirits, to bid us farewell. I shook + hands with him as he stepped over the side. He gave some final + instructions to Mr. Adams, who had assumed the command of the Betsey. They + mutually wished each other continued health and prosperity, expressed a + hope to meet before long in Marblehead, and parted NEVER TO MEET AGAIN! + Before another week had passed they were both summoned before their God. + It was afterwards ascertained that Captain Blackler was attacked by yellow + fever a few days after the brig left Martinico, and was quickly added to + the numerous band of victims to that disease. + </p> + <p> + The brig Betsey was about two hundred and twenty tons burden; a clump, + dull-sailing craft, of rather venerable appearance, with no pretensions to + youth or beauty, having braved the dangers of the seas for thirty years; + nevertheless she was now apparently as sound, safe, and tight as any + vessel that crossed the ocean. Captain Adams was a worthy man, of an + amiable character, who had been educated to his business; and the mate, + Mr. Ricker, had been commander of a ship, and was strongly recommended as + an able and faithful officer. The crew were Americans, resolute-looking, + powerful fellows, in robust health. There had been no sickness on board + during the voyage; and all of them, including the captain and mate, were + rejoiced to leave the island of Martinico. As the mountains faded in the + distance they fancied they had left the yellow fever far behind, and + congratulated each other on their good fortune. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +Our route, as will be seen by examining a chart or a map, was a +remarkably interesting one. It extended through the Caribbean Sea, where +the trade winds blow unceasingly from the eastward, in a direction south +of some of the most beautiful and picturesque islands in the world, as +Porto Rico, St. Domingo, and Cuba, and ranged along in sight of Jamaica +and the Caymans, then rounded Cape Antonio, once the notorious haunt +of pirates, and entered the Gulf of Mexico. Leaving the harbor of St. +Pierre under such auspices, I anticipated a delightful trip and being a +passenger, with no duties to perform, and no responsibility resting on +my shoulders, I was prepared to enjoy the POETRY of a seafaring life. + + The night following our departure there was a gentle breeze from +the eastward, the sea was smooth, and everything in the atmosphere, +on the ocean, or in the vessel gave promise of a pleasant passage. I +remained on deck that night until twelve o'clock, in conversation with +Captain Adams. He seemed in a particularly pleasant and communicative +mood; spoke of his past life, which had been but little clouded with +misfortune, and indulged in the most cheerful anticipations with regard +to the future. +</pre> + <p> + The next day I learned that one of the seamen, named James Smith, + belonging to Wiscasset, in Maine, was unable, from illness, to do his + duty. I found that Smith was not a favorite with the crew, being a lazy + fellow, who would act the part of an "old soldier" when an opportunity + offered. As he did not seem very sick, and some thought he was feigning + illness to avoid work, no alarm was excited in consequence. + </p> + <p> + There was a man on board the Betsey whose name was Gaskell; a tall, + stalwart fellow, belonging to Greenbush, New York. He showed in his words + and actions that he was unprincipled, a thorough reprobate, whose soul had + been case-hardened in crime. This man ridiculed the illness of Smith; + tried to rouse him from his berth in the half-deck; declared that he was + "shamming Abraham," and threatened him with a rope's end unless he gave + over skulking. Gaskell spoke of the mortality among the Frenchmen in + Martinico, and this furnished him with an inexhaustible source of + amusement. Indeed, human suffering, lingering death by shipwreck or + disease, always moved him to mirth and laughter. And yet he was not + deficient in intellect and education; but had used them for evil purposes. + He was coarse, sensual, intemperate, and terribly profane. He boldly + avowed a disbelief in a God, and sneered at the idea of punishment for + crime in the future. He loved to talk of the yellow fever; he set that + fearful disease at defiance, and said he never enjoyed himself so + gloriously as he had done the year previously at Savannah, when the yellow + fever was sweeping off the crews of the shipping in that port by hundreds, + and he found employment as a carpenter, and cleared ten dollars a day by + making coffins for the "Yankee" sailors. I felt from the outset that this + Gaskell was a bad man, and a further knowledge of him confirmed my + impression and increased my disgust. + </p> + <p> + In the course of the day I visited the half-deck, at the request of + Captain Adams, to examine the condition of Smith. I found him in a + feverish state, languid, his spirits much depressed, and with a slight + headache. At the time I had no suspicion that he was visited with yellow + fever, the disease appeared in so mild a form. Some medicine was given + him, and it was expected that in a day or so he would recover his health. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, being the third day after leaving Martinico, I was + awakened soon after daybreak by a succession of groans which came from the + captain's stateroom. I entered the room, and was greatly alarmed at + finding Captain Adams laboring under a severe attack of illness. He was + seized with pains in the head and back, accompanied with scorching fever. + His pulsations were strong, quick, and irregular. He said he must have + caught a violent cold the night before, by remaining on deck without his + coat or hat. I did not contradict him; but I had seen persons in a similar + condition, and I knew he was suffering from yellow fever in its most + alarming form. + </p> + <p> + All the medical skill I possessed was put in requisition; but the captain + grew worse, and before night he was aware of the true character of the + disease, and seemed to feel there was no chance for his recovery. I strove + to minister consolation and inspire him with hope, but in vain. He + acknowledged that life had charms of the most attractive description; + fortune had favored him beyond his expectations; he had relations and + friends whom he dearly loved; and there was one bright being in his native + town to whom he had plighted his vows of affection, and to whom he hoped + to have been united for life if Providence had willed his return. But he + was resigned to the will of the Almighty. He did not even murmur at the + fate which he knew awaited him. He prayed to his God to pardon the sins he + had committed, and looked forward with hope to a glorious immortality. + </p> + <p> + The breeze had been light and the sea remarkably smooth since we left St. + Pierre; and the brig, steering to the north-west, had made slow progress. + On the morning after the captain was taken sick we expected to be in sight + of Porto Rico; and Captain Adams asked Mr. Ricker, the mate, if any land + was in sight. The mate thoughtlessly replied, "'The Dead Man's Chest' can + just be seen off deck." This was the English name of a small island, or + cluster of rocks, some five or six miles south of Porto Rico, resembling + in appearance a coffin, and called, in Spanish, "Moxa del Muerta." + </p> + <p> + Captain Adams remarked, in a soliloquizing strain, "The Dead Man's Chest? + Already in sight? Well, it will soon be wanted; I am ready." + </p> + <p> + The sufferings of this excellent man were intense. The pains in his head + and back kept increasing; yet his mind was tranquil, and he retained + command of his mental faculties until the last moment of his life. During + his illness he expressed kindness for others, and made suggestions to the + mate about sailing the brig and carrying on the work. As he grew weaker, + he gave explicit directions to Mr. Ricker in regard to the duties which + would devolve upon him at his death, and intrusted me with a solemn + message to his dearest friends, which I afterwards faithfully delivered. + </p> + <p> + On the third day after the fever commenced the BLACK VOMIT set in. This is + generally regarded as a fatal symptom, being almost always the precursor + of death. But the fortitude of the captain never for a moment forsook him. + He was sustained in that dread hour by a guiltless conscience and a + steadfast, deep-rooted, religious principle. + </p> + <p> + A few hours after this alarming prognostic made its appearance, he died, + while I was bathing his forehead; and a prayer hung upon his lips, even as + the spirit left the earthly tabernacle. He died as became a Christian; and + his features in death were tranquil as those of a sleeping infant. + </p> + <p> + His body was soon afterwards brought on deck, where the whole ship's + company were assembled. The funeral rites were simple, but solemn and + impressive; and far away from the friends of his youth, with no + heart-stricken relatives to gather around the coffin, and form a mournful + procession to the grave, and hallow the burial spot with the tears of + affection, the mortal remains of our worthy commander were launched into + the deep. They were committed, not to the silent tomb, but to that vast + burial place, that "God's Acre" of almost illimitable extent, where deep + caves, and recesses invisible to mortal eye, have served for ages as the + last resting place of myriads of human beings, cut off untimely, without + warning note of preparation, from the hopes and disappointments, the joys + and sorrows, of this world; where, without headstone or monument, + inscription or epitaph, to mark the place, with only the rushing winds to + mourn their departure, and the murmuring waves to chant their requiem, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "After life's fitful fever, they sleep well." +</pre> + <p> + It is remarkable that in no part of the world, in any age, has the sea + been selected as a burial place for the dead. Indeed, the idea of being + drowned at sea, or dying on shipboard to be intombed in the fathomless + ocean, is so abhorrent to many individuals that it is with fear and + trembling they trust themselves on the water. It was a belief of the + ancients, that to insure happiness hereafter, the dead body of a human + being must be covered with earth; otherwise the departed spirit would + never enter the Elysian Fields, but wander restless on the nether banks of + Styx, in full view of delights and joys which it could never expect to + realize. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ricker, the mate, now took command of the brig. This man possessed a + warm and affectionate heart, and was deeply moved by the death of the + captain. He wept aloud when the interment took place, and sought to + alleviate his grief by copious draughts of spirituous liquors. He wept and + drank himself to sleep while reclining on a hen-coop. In a few hours he + awoke, and wept again; then told the cook to bring the brandy bottle, + which soon acted as an opiate, and banished his sorrows. He pursued this + course, crying and drinking for more than a week; and during the greater + part of this time, while I was witnessing scenes of sadness and death + enough to chill the stoutest heart, he incapacitated himself, by + intoxication, from performing his duties as commander of the ill-fated + vessel. + </p> + <p> + Smith was still lingering under the attack of a disease which we now knew + to be yellow fever. He was gradually growing worse. Others of the crew + were also visited by this dreadful pestilence, and the deck of the brig + resembled one of the fever wards of a hospital. The groans of the poor + fellows were enough, one would think, to create sympathy in the coldest + bosom. But they had no effect upon Gaskell, excepting to excite derision; + and when he spoke to his sick or dying shipmates with a ribald jest on his + lips, and a scornful grin on his features, I longed to fell him to the + deck. I rebuked him for his want of feeling, and suggested that, proud as + he was of his strength and immunity from sickness, he might, + notwithstanding, become an object of sympathy to his shipmates, and need + their assistance. The answer I received was a boisterous laugh, as if the + idea was too absurd to be entertained. + </p> + <p> + Many years have passed since these events occurred, but even now I cannot + recur to them without a feeling of sadness. And no one, not familiar with + such scenes, can form an idea of the distress which a mortal sickness + produces on board a ship at sea. The captain had died, and the mate, who + should have taken his place, was constantly in a state of beastly + intoxication. Three of the crew were struggling with yellow fever, and, to + add to our troubles, Gaskell made his way into the hold, and broached a + cask of wine; and those who were not sick followed the example of the + mate, and got drunk, and drowned in vociferous shouts and songs the groans + of their suffering shipmates. Under these circumstances, I had no + alternative but to take on myself the responsibility of navigating and + sailing the vessel. And while proceeding along the fruitful shores of St. + Domingo, and the picturesque coast of Jamaica, I passed whole nights on + deck, engaged in tending the sick, trimming the sails, and steering the + brig. It was truly fortunate that the wind continued light and the weather + pleasant. + </p> + <p> + Smith, who was the first man taken sick, did not recover. His illness + gradually increased; for several days his mind wandered, but he was not + troublesome, and died on the tenth day after we left St. Pierre. On the + day of the captain's death, a young man, belonging to Connecticut, was + seized with a fever, and died five days afterwards in a state of delirium. + His case required constant care and attention, as he made more than one + attempt to throw himself overboard, in order, as he believed, to embrace + his parents and friends in his own native village. Two others were taken + alarmingly ill, but after suffering severely for several days gradually + recovered. The cook, a stout black fellow, inured to warm climates, + rendered me great assistance in taking care of the sick. But on the + morning on which we beheld the mountains of Jamaica he also was visited by + yellow fever. The symptoms were alarming, and there seemed no prospect of + his recovery; but on the third day of his sickness, AND AFTER THE BLACK + VOMIT HAD COMMENCED, and while I sat watching by his berth, expecting that + in a few minutes he would breathe his last, he seemed to revive, and I put + some rice-water to his lips. He swallowed a small quantity; the terrible + forerunner of a speedy dissolution disappeared, and from that moment his + strength gradually increased, the fever left him, and before we reached + New Orleans he had recovered. + </p> + <p> + While the cook was still dangerously ill, one morning early, as we were + slowly sailing along towards the Grand Cayman, Gaskell came crawling up + the steps leading to the half-deck, and tottered along towards me. I was + appalled at the change which a single night had made in his appearance. + The defiant, rollicking ruffian no longer stood before me; the sneer was + no longer on his countenance, his eyes no longer sparkled with mischief, + and his language was not interlarded with disgusting profanity. His eyes + were glassy, his cheeks ghastly pale, and a cold sweat, produced by FEAR, + stood on his forehead. The workings of suffering and terror were imprinted + on his features, and he looked as if twenty years had been added to his + life in one short night. + </p> + <p> + And he had cause for alarm; the yellow fever had fastened upon him with a + vice-like grasp, and he felt it in his inmost soul. The man was a coward, + after all. He thought himself secure from the scourge, and put on a mask + of defiance. He now knew that he had deceived himself, and all his daring + vanished. HE WAS AFRAID OF DEATH; AND THE DREADFUL CONVICTION WAS FORCED + UPON HIM THAT HIS DYING HOUR WAS AT HAND. + </p> + <p> + In tremulous accents, Gaskell described the symptoms of the disease. The + shooting pains in his head, neck, and shoulders were insufferable, and he + entreated me to do something, any thing, to relieve the pain, and restore + him to health. He urged me to bleed him, which I undertook, and opened a + vein in each arm, but the blood would not flow; the vital current seemed + to be congealed by fear. He then begged me to bathe his back with camphor + and opodeldoc, and although I knew the operation would produce no effect, + I consented to his wishes, and for more than an hour rubbed his back as he + desired, and bathed his head with vinegar and lime juice. + </p> + <p> + But the disease could not be removed. It seized upon his vitals, and he + rapidly grew worse. His pains were great, but his mental agonies were + greater. For worlds I would not suffer what that man suffered while + rushing into the fearful embraces of death. His mind was clear and + unclouded, while madness would have been mercy. His life had been loose + and depraved. He had been guilty of many crimes, and in the day of death + the stings of conscience pierced him to the soul. His evil deeds came back + to him in that hour; they were stamped on his heart as with a red-hot + iron. I tried to console him, but in vain. He would not listen when I + spoke of death, and fiercely motioned me away when I attempted to read + aloud a chapter from the Bible. He said but little; but what he did say + were words of bitterness and despair. He declared, with an awful oath, + that he would not die, and struggled fiercely for life to the last. I + never shall forget the wild and ghastly countenance and distorted features + of that dying man, who, only a few days before, while in the full flush of + health, declared, with a diabolical grin, that he feared neither God nor + man. + </p> + <p> + The fever had now run its race, but our ship's company was greatly reduced + in number and in strength. The captain and three of the seamen had been + committed to the waves, and others had not fully recovered from the + effects of the fever. Mr. Ricker was the only person on board, with the + exception of myself, who had entirely escaped. Whether drunkenness acted, + in his case, as a preventive, I will not undertake to say; neither will I + advise any one to try the hazardous experiment. + </p> + <p> + We were now in sight of the Isle of Pines, fourteen days having elapsed + since we sailed from Martinico, when I observed indications of one of + those severe gales not unusual in the Gulf of Mexico and vicinity, and + known at "northers." Light-handed as we were, and without an efficient + head, I was aware that our situation was a critical one. I then felt + justified in doing what I should have done sooner; I threw overboard every + drop of spirit I could find, and then applied myself to rouse Mr. 'Ricker + from his drunken inactivity; I explained to him my apprehensions of a gale + of wind, and the necessity for making preparation for the coming tempest. + This brought him to his senses; and after grumbling somewhat at the loss + of his liquor, and taking a deep draught of water, he entered with energy + on the sphere of his duties. + </p> + <p> + Ricker was a man of large stature and great physical strength. He was also + a thorough seaman, and, when not stupefied with liquor, was an active, + energetic man. By his powerful aid, and under his direction, the brig was + soon put in a condition to withstand the heavy gale from the north, which + soon came upon us, and completely ventilated the steerage and cabin, which + had so long been the depository of a pestilential atmosphere. The + "norther" lasted two days, the greater part of which time we were lying + to, under a close-reefed main-topsail; and when the gale abated, we found + ourselves further north than at its commencement, and not far from Cape + St. Antonio, the western extremity of Cuba, a fact which illustrates in a + striking manner, the force of the current which at certain times sets + north, like a sluice-way, between Cuba and Yucatan, into the Gulf of + Mexico, and is the origin of the Gulf Stream. + </p> + <p> + We entered the Gulf of Mexico, and with a fair breeze sailed for "the + Balize." In a few days we struck soundings near the mouth of the + Mississippi, and soon fell in with the turbid waters that are swept far + out to sea by the strength of the current of that mighty river. We steered + for a lighthouse, constructed of granite, on the eastern extremity of a + point, and which, resting on a quagmire, was hardly completed before it + assumed an attitude resembling the leaning tower of Pisa, and in six + months afterwards it took a horizontal position. It is hardly necessary to + say it was never lighted. We took a pilot and entered the river by the + Balize or "South-east Pass," which was the deepest channel at that time, + and navigable only for vessels drawing not more than fifteen feet of + water, and, by dint of hard labor, steam towboats being then unknown, + worked our way to the city of New Orleans. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXXII. NEW ORLEANS IN 1817 + </h2> + <p> + I have already stated that the owner of the Brig Betsey was Mr. Gray, of + Salem, a merchant of great enterprise, probity, and wealth. He soon + afterwards removed to Boston, and was known throughout this country and + the maritime cities of Europe by the name of "Billy Gray." His agent in + New Orleans was Nathaniel Ware. Mr. Ricker explained to him the mournful + events which had taken place on the passage from the West Indies, and Mr. + Ware exhibited deep sympathy while listening to the tale of suffering. + Ricker, prompted by a feeling of gratitude which showed the goodness of + his heart, gave me full credit for the services I had rendered during the + passage; explained the nature of my connection with the brig, and placed + in the hands of Mr. Ware the written obligation I had given Captain + Blackler, and which was found among the papers of Captain Adams. This + document, which had caused me much anxiety, Mr. Ware returned, along with + the twenty dollars I had previously paid towards my passage. He also + thanked me for the assistance I had rendered Mr. Ricker, and added + something more substantial, in the shape of twenty-five dollars, "as a + trifling compensation," he said, "for my services," although, for obvious + reasons, he was not aware of their full extent. He suggested that, if I + designed to follow the sea, I could remain in the brig on pay, and that + the command of the vessel would be given to Mr. Ricker. He further said he + would represent my conduct in a favorable light to Mr. Gray, which he did, + and years afterwards it was remembered to my advantage. Mr. Ricker himself + urged me to remain, and occupy the situation of mate. It was in vain I + assured him that my practical knowledge of seamanship was limited, and + what little I once knew I had forgotten during my residence in the West + Indies. He said he knew me better than I knew myself; he would excuse all + imperfections, as he had seamanship enough for both, and to spare. I was + not convinced; I had also some misgivings in regard to the weakness which + he had exhibited, amid danger and death, on the passage through the + Caribbean Sea; and I feared he had contracted a habit which would render + any man unfit for a situation involving great responsibilities, not only + in relation to property but also of life. Nevertheless, I gladly embraced + the opportunity to remain on board for a time. The brig would probably be + several weeks in port, and my future course could be guided by + circumstances. + </p> + <p> + The moral condition of New Orleans at this period the year 1816-1817 was + deplorable. For vice and immorality, it doubtless bore away the palm from + every city in Christendom or heathen lands. Gaming houses, and vile, + disgusting receptacles of vice and infamy, were thickly scattered over + every part of the city. Midnight brawls and robberies were frequent; and + hard-fought fisticuff encounters, sometimes between two individuals, and + sometimes between two squads of half a dozen on-a-side, were taking place + on the levee, or in its neighborhood, almost every hour in the day. + </p> + <p> + The population of the city was of the most heterogeneous character. + Frenchman and Spaniards, of all complexions, native-born citizens, formed + the basis. To them were added a thin sprinkling of Yankees, mostly + enterprising business men; and an influx of refugees, adventurers, + smugglers, pirates, gamblers, and desperate scoundrels from all parts of + the world. The large number of ships waiting for freight, and constantly + arriving, furnished a formidable body of sailors, many of them old + men-of-war's men, who, keeping themselves well primed with whiskey, were + always ready for a set-to, a riot, or a row. And if we add to these the + boatmen of the Mississippi, not only those who came down the river in + flatboats, but that numerous class, now extinct, of hardy, powerful, + reckless, quarrelsome fellows who managed the KEELBOATS, the only craft + that could stem the current of the Mississippi before the introduction of + steamboat navigation, it will be easily imagined that vice struggled hard + to exercise full and uncontrolled dominion over the capital of Louisiana. + </p> + <p> + Ineffectual efforts were made to repress tumult and establish order. The + police regulations were in a wretched condition. The police officers were + more inclined to look after the blacks than the whites; and the calaboose + was filled every night with unfortunate darkies, who in a humble way were + imitating the vices of the more enlightened CASTE. When symptoms of a + serious riot appeared, the military were called out. On more than one + occasion, the sailors on one side to the number of two or three hundred, + and the Kentucky and Tennessee boatmen of equal or superior numbers on the + other, were drawn up in battle array, and commenced a desperate contest + with hard knuckles, bludgeons, and missiles of every description, + revolvers and bowie-knives had not at that time been introduced into such + MELEES, when the military made their appearance, and the belligerents were + dispersed. + </p> + <p> + Fighting on the levee became an established custom, and was sometimes + resorted to as an exciting pastime. If a couple of "old salts" quarrelled + under the stimulus of a glass of grog, instead of bandying words, and + pouring into each other a broadside of vulgar epithets, they quietly + adjourned to the levee and took it out in hard knocks, and after having + fought with desperation, and pummelled each other out of all resemblance + to human beings, they would go on board their ship and cheerfully attend + to their duties. + </p> + <p> + One day I watched with no little interest a pitched battle between a + wooden-legged sailor and a French stevedore. The sailor, although he was + wanting in one of his limbs, was said to be a valuable seaman one who + would never shrink from work of any kind. He would go aloft in a gale or + in a calm, and lend a hand at reefing or furling as promptly as any man in + the ship. His wooden leg was so constructed, with iron machinery, at the + extremity, that he could stand on a ratline or a hawse without difficulty. + The stevedore, who was a powerful fellow, expected to make short work of + the cripple, taking it for granted that Jack could not stand firm on his + pins; and indeed, almost at the beginning of the combat, the man with the + timber toe was capsized. His opponent, flushed with success, and + disregarding the rules of honorable warfare, determined to give Jack a + drubbing while he lay sprawling on his back. But as he approached him with + mischievous intent, his fist clinched and his eyes flashing fire and fury, + Jack watched his opportunity, and gave him two or three kicks with his + iron-shod wooden leg in swift succession. They were so strongly and + judiciously planted that the astonished Frenchman was compelled to measure + HIS length on the ground, from which, to is great pain and mortification, + he was unable to rise, and wooden-leg hobbled off with the palm of + victory. + </p> + <p> + The most savage and revolting contest which I witnessed was a "rough and + tumble" fight between two Mississippi boatmen. One was a young man, of + slight frame, and rather prepossessing appearance; the other was a burly, + broad-shouldered ruffian from Tennessee. The quarrel originated in a + gaming house, over a pack of cards, and the parties adjourned to the + street to settle the matter in regular style. But few words were + interchanged. They grasped each other firmly by the waist, and after a + severe struggle for the mastery, both fell heavily to the earth, when the + real battle commenced. In a close, but not loving embrace, they rolled + over and over again. No blows were given; they seemed to be clutching at + each other's faces, but their motions were so quick, violent, and + spasmodic that I could not see how their hands were occupied. The struggle + was soon over; the Kentuckian released himself from the relaxed grasp of + his prostrate antagonist, and sprang to his feet. He looked around on the + spectators with a smile of triumph, then entered the miniature + Pandemonium, apparently without having received injury. His vanquished + opponent was assisted to his feet. He was groaning, quivering in every + limb, and manifesting symptoms of insufferable agony. I pressed forward, + eager to ascertain what injury he had received in this strangely conducted + combat, when, to my great horror, I saw the blood streaming from his + cheeks, and shuddered as I witnessed other and unmistakable proofs of a + successful attempt at gouging. + </p> + <p> + Nor were these pugnacious propensities, which seemed epidemical, confined + to the lowest classes in society. They were manifested by those who moved + in a higher sphere, and who, looking with contempt on vulgar fisticuffs + and gouging, settled their difficulties satisfactorily according to the + established rules of the DUELLO with sword, pistol, or rifle. Hostile + meetings on the levee, below the city, where the population was sparse, + and no impertinent interruptions could be apprehended, were frequent. + Indeed, the intelligence, some pleasant morning, that a duel had just been + fought, and one of the parties lamed in the sword arm, or scientifically + run through the body with a small sword, or bored through the cranium with + a pistol-bullet, excited little attention or remark, excepting among the + friends and relatives of the parties. + </p> + <p> + One duel, however, was fought while I was in New Orleans, which, being + attended with some unusual circumstances, caused considerable talk. The + principals were a French gentleman and a lieutenant in the navy of the + United States. A dispute occurred in a billiard room; the Frenchman used + some insolent and irritating language, and, instead of being soundly + drubbed on the spot, was challenged by the naval officer. The challenged + party selected the small sword as the medium of satisfaction, a weapon in + the use of which he was well skilled. The American officer was + remonstrated with by his friends on the folly of fighting a Frenchman, a + noted duellist, with his favorite weapon, the small sword; it was rushing + on certain death. But the challenge had been given, accepted, and the + weapons agreed on; there could be no change in the arrangement; and, + indeed, the Yankee, who was a fine, determined-looking young fellow, + showed no disposition to "back out." + </p> + <p> + "I may fall in battle," said he, "by the sword or shot of a brave + Englishman, but never by a thrust from a spit in the hands of a + spindle-shanked Frenchman! Dismiss all fears on my account; I will give + this 'PARLEZ-VOUS FRANCAIS' a lesson in fighting he little dreams of." + </p> + <p> + They met on the duelling ground at the appointed hour. There were more + spectators present than usual on such occasions. The Frenchman affected to + treat the matter with indifference, and made some frivolous remarks which + excited the laughter of his countrymen. Indeed, the chances seemed to be a + hundred to one against the lieutenant, who could handle with terrible + effect a cutlass or a boarding-pike, but was almost a stranger to a + weapon, to excel in the use of which, a man must be as loose in the joints + as a posture maker, and as light in the heels as a dancing master. And yet + there was something in the cool, resolute, business-like bearing of the + Yankee which inspired his friends with some confidence in his success; and + they watched the proceedings under an intense degree of excitement. + </p> + <p> + The parties took their places, assumed the proper attitudes, and crossed + swords. The Frenchman grinned with anticipated triumph. It was clear that, + confident in his skill, and richly endowed with feline propensities, he + intended to amuse himself and the bystanders for a few minutes, by playing + with his intended victim. His antagonist, however, stood firm, until the + Frenchman, with a nimble caper, changed his ground, when the officer + bounded forward, got within the guard of his opponent, and with a thrust, + the force of which nothing could withstand, sent his sword, apparently, + through the body of the Frenchman to the hilt! + </p> + <p> + The poor fellow was hurled to the ground by the violence of the shock, and + supposed to be mortally wounded. That he was not KILLED outright was + certain, for, owing to surprise and grief at this unlooked-for result, the + fear of death, or extreme physical pain, he discharged a volley of screams + that could be heard a mile off, writhed and twisted his body into all + sorts of shapes, and manufactured, gratuitously, a continuous and + ever-changing series of grimaces, for which the younger Grimaldi would + have pawned his cap and bawble. + </p> + <p> + The wails and contortions of the wounded man were such, that it was some + time before his friends and a surgeon who was present could examine his + condition, which appeared deplorable enough. Indeed, an examination seemed + hardly necessary, unless for the purpose of gratifying curiosity, as the + wretched man, amid his groans and screams, kept repeating, with much + emphasis and pathos, the terrible words, "JE SUIS ASSASSINE! JE SUIS + ASSASSINE!" (I am killed! I am killed!) But as his voice grew stronger, + instead of weaker, at every repetition of the phrase, doubts were + entertained of his veracity; and a surgical inspection showed beyond + cavil, that he was laboring under a hallucination, and asseverating with + needless energy what was not strictly true. + </p> + <p> + That he was not killed on the spot, however, impaled on a rapier as an + unscrupulous entomologist would impale a beetle, could hardly be regarded + as the fault of his opponent. The thrust was directed to the place where + the centre of the body of the Frenchman should have been, BUT IT WAS NOT + THERE. The sword passed only through the muscles of the abdomen, from the + right side to the left, perforating his body, it is true, and grazing, but + not injuring, the larger intestines. The wound in itself was not a + dangerous one, although the disturbance among the bundle of integuments + threw the discomfited duellist into almost mortal agony, and led him to + believe he was a dead man, while experiencing in his own person a liberal + share of the pain he was so ready to inflict on others. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXXIII. A VOYAGE TO HAVRE + </h2> + <p> + The Betsey remained some weeks at the levee at New Orleans before Mr. Ware + could fix upon a voyage. In the mean time Ricker remained on board as + master of the brig; and for several days after our arrival in port his + habits were correct and his conduct without reproach. Gradually, however, + he strayed from the paths of sobriety. He was of a social turn; frank, + honest cheerful, and liberal-minded. He possessed other valuable traits of + character; was a good sailor and a skilful navigator, but he could not + resist the fascinations of the intoxicating cup. + </p> + <p> + Intemperance disqualifies a man from employments where the exercise of + cool judgment, and clear, undisturbed reasoning faculties are required; + and no person addicted to habits of intemperance should be intrusted with + the command of a ship, where property to a large amount and lives of + incalculable value, are, as it were, given into his hands. If records of + disasters could be faithfully (here the page is torn and cannot be read) + and unfolded, we should have an appalling list of easy (torn page) + quarrels, mutinies, and shipwrecks which have (torn page) caused by + intemperance on the part of the (torn page.) + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ware, the commercial agent of Mr. Gray (torn page) the brig had seen + Ricker more than once intoxicated which roused his suspicions that all was + not (torn page) unlucky afternoon he found him in a helpless condition, + which convinced him that Mr. Ricker, notwithstanding his excellent + qualities, was not a (torn page) could be safely given the control of + (torn page) the high seas. + </p> + <p> + Ricker was mortified at losing, through (torn page) the command of the + brig. He (torn page) however, of harsh or unjust treatment on the part of + Mr. Ware; and consented to remain as mate, promising to refrain entirely + from the use of spirituous liquors. The command was given to an officer in + the United States navy, Lieutenant Rapp; and in this way I was ousted from + the berth which Ricker was so desirous I should fill. There was no longer + a home for me in the cabin of the Betsey, and I shipped as an ordinary + seaman on board the brig Casket, of New York, Captain Mott, bound on a + voyage to Havre. + </p> + <p> + The Casket was a large and handsome brig, and besides the captain, mate, + boatswain, and cook, carried six hands before the mast. The chief mate was + a hard-looking customer, somewhat advanced in years, rough in his manners, + and profane and coarse in his language. But the captain was a fine-looking + man, about thirty years old, rather dignified and reserved. His appearance + spoke volumes in his favor, and the crew who joined the ship in New + Orleans rejoiced in this opportunity of shipping in a fine vessel, with a + whole-souled captain, and bound on a European voyage! + </p> + <p> + Before we reached the Gulf of Mexico, however, the (torn page) sang a + different tune. They found the mate more (torn page) unreasonable, and + every way disagreeable, if (torn page) than he looked; and the captain + evidently re— (torn page) sailor as a piece of machinery to be wound + up (torn page) for the performance of certain duties, but (torn page) + human attributes. Whether a heart beat (torn page) bosom, and his head was + furnished with (torn page) Mott knew not, neither did he care. The (torn + page) of any one of the crew were never (torn page) If a man was sick and + incapacitated (torn page) was told, with an oath, to "bear a hand (torn + page) not be skulking in the forecastle;" and (torn page) his duties, he + was regaled with stern (torn page) language, and sent upon missions at + times, and under circumstances, which showed that Captain Mott thought a + few sailors, more or less, in the world, were of no manner of consequence. + </p> + <p> + In former days every Yankee shipmaster was not a live, wide-awake, + pushing, driving, web-footed Jehu, who disregarded fogs, was reckless of + collisions with ships, fishing vessels, or icebergs, and cared little + whether he strained the ship and damaged cargo, provided he made a short + passage, as is the case in this enlightened age when "Young America" is in + the ascendant. An "old fogy" was occasionally met with, who, being well + paid for his services by the month, prided himself more upon the STRENGTH + of his ship's sailing than her rapidity. This appears from the following + scene which once took place on board a Boston ship: + </p> + <p> + Captain Jarvis was lying in his berth, dreaming of a long passage and + plenty of money at the end of it, when he was awakened by the unwonted + noise of water under the counter, giving rise to the suspicion that the + officer of the watch was carrying more sail than was expedient. He jumped + out of his berth, rushed up the steps, popped his head out of the + companion-way, and sharply exclaimed, + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Popkins, heave the log." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Popkins: Ay ay, sir! + </p> + <p> + Captain Jarvis: How fast does the old ship go, Mr. Popkins? + </p> + <p> + Mr. Popkins: Nine knots, sir! + </p> + <p> + Captain Jarvis: Nine knots! Julius Caesar! I am astonished. Take in some + of that canvas immediately, Mr. Popkins. I can't afford to sail so fast as + nine knots. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Popkins: Ay, ay, sir. + </p> + <p> + The studding sails were hauled in, and the main royal and fore and mizzen + top-gallant sails furled. + </p> + <p> + Captain Jarvis: How fast does she go now, Mr. Popkins? + </p> + <p> + Mr. Popkins (after heaving the log.) Seven knots and a half, sir! + </p> + <p> + Captain Jarvis: Too fast, sir much too fast! Take in more sail. Why, Mr. + Popkins, we shall be at the end of our voyage before we know it, at this + rate. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Popkins, with the men of the larboard watch, went to work, and in a + few minutes the ship was running along quietly under her three topsails, + jib, and spanker. + </p> + <p> + Captain Jarvis: Throw the log, Mr. Popkins. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Popkins: She is now going six knots, sir. + </p> + <p> + Captain Jarvis: Six knots! Very well very well indeed, Mr. Popkins. Always + bear in mind that we are not paid by "the run," or the voyage; and six + knots is very fair sailing between man and man. It is better to sail + strong than to sail fast. Don't let me catch you running off at the rate + of nine knots again. Stick to six and you will do, otherwise there will be + no wages coming to us when we get home. Do you hear, Mr. Popkins? + </p> + <p> + Mr. Popkins, gruffly, (he had a sprinkling of Young America in his + composition.) Ay, ay, sir! + </p> + <p> + Although Captain Mott was sometimes deficient in judgment, and on more + than one occasion narrowly escaped losing overboard some of the crew, or + wrecking the brig, he was, nevertheless, an excellent seaman, managed his + vessel with skill, and navigated her with unusual correctness. Not being + paid by the month but by primage on the freight, he was a veritable + "driver," and lost no opportunity to urge his vessel ahead, even at the + risk of starting a butt, springing a spar, or losing a man. Being always + willing to work, on hand in any emergency, and never shrinking from + danger, I was often a sufferer from his go-ahead instincts, as well as + from his arbitrary mandates and unfeeling disposition. And were it not + that there is, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "A sweet little cherub which sits up aloft, + And looks out for the life of poor Jack," +</pre> + <p> + I should have become food for fishes long before we reached the longitude + of the Western Islands. + </p> + <p> + One afternoon, before we left the Gulf Stream, a thunder squall arose from + the south-east. It came towards us rapidly, as if borne on the wings of + the Genius of Storms. Its whole aspect was "wicked" in the extreme, and + every man on board knew that prudence required sail to be taken in and + preparations made for the reception of the tornado. The captain was on + deck, but the boatswain unfortunately remarked, "That squall looks like an + ugly customer, sir, and it will soon be necessary to shorten sail." + </p> + <p> + This remark, made in the most respectful manner, roused the captain's ire. + He chose to consider it an unauthorized and impertinent interference on + the part of the petty officer; the squall, as well as the boatswain, was + denounced in language not often heard in a drawing room, and both were + consigned to a hotter place than the craters of Mauna Loa. + </p> + <p> + The clouds spread over the zenith, the thunder rattled as if it would rend + the welkin, the wind began to blow in short-lived puffs, as if making + preparations for a regular "blowout;" the men were stationed at the + halliards, fore and aft, waiting with intense anxiety the result, and the + captain was pacing the quarter-deck, looking as savage as a hungry + bull-dog, and determined to show that he was not to be frightened by + squibs, but would carry sail in spite of the squall. + </p> + <p> + At that time we were under courses, topsails, top-gallant-sails, and a + main-royal; our fore-royal mast was snugly stowed alongside the long-boat + on deck, where, at that tempestuous season, the main one should also have + been. The order at length was given, "Clew up the main-royal! Let a hand + go aloft and furl it." + </p> + <p> + The sail was clewed up, and in a few seconds I was clinging to the sliding + gunter royal mast, and gathering in the canvas, while the captain was + denouncing me for a lubber, for not accomplishing impossibilities. The + lightning was flashing around ne, and the peals of thunder were deafening; + the rain was beginning to fall, and the wind to blow with alarming + violence, before I could spill the sail and pass the gaskets. Suddenly I + heard a tumultuous noise as of the roar of angry breakers. I cast my eye + to windward, and beheld the whole surface of the sea covered with a sheet + of snow-white foam. At the same moment I heard the voice of the captain, + who was now really alarmed, in a tone which could be heard above the roar + of the hurricane, shouting, with frantic energy, "Hard up your helm! Hard + up, I say. Let go all the halliards, fore and aft! Haul up the mainsail! + Lower away that try-sail! Clew down the top-gallant sails! Why don't you + put the helm hard up?" + </p> + <p> + I was sensible of the danger of my situation, standing on "the hounds" of + the top-gallant mast, and almost within reach of the truck, while the + brig, with all sail set, was exposed to the fury of this terrible thunder + gust. Obeying an irresistible impulse to take care of "number one," I slid + down the topmast cross-trees, caught hold of the weather top-gallant + backstay, and came on deck much faster than I went aloft! My feet had + hardly touched the deck when a gust struck the brig with a fury which I + have seldom seen surpassed. It rushed upon us like an avalanche on a + hamlet in an Alpine valley. Halliards, sheets, and tacks were let go, but + the yards were still braced up, and the sails could not be clewed down. + Before the vessel could get before the wind her lee side was buried in the + water. The conviction seized every mind that a capsize was inevitable, and + there was a general rush towards the weather gunwale, and a desperate + clutching at the shrouds. At this critical moment the main-topmast snapped + off like a pipe stem, just above the cap, and carried with it the + fore-top-gallant mast. The brig righted, fell off before the wind, scudded + like a duck, dragging the broken spars, and her sails torn to ribbons; and + a cold shudder crept over me when I thought of the appalling danger from + which by sliding down the backstay, I had so narrowly escaped. + </p> + <p> + When we struck soundings off the English Channel, the word was given to + the boatswain to bend the cables and get the anchors over the bows. The + wind was blowing hard from the northward, with violent squalls and a short + head sea, and Captain Mott showed no disposition to reduce the canvas in + order to lighten our labors, but carried sail and drove the vessel as if + he was running from a pirate. The brig frequently plunged her knight-heads + under water, deluging every man on the forecastle with sheets of salt + water. In the mean time the captain, and also the mate, dry-shod on the + quarter-deck, grinned, and winked at each other, at witnessing our + involuntary ablutions, with the mercury at the freezing point, while + subjected to this severe course of hydropathic treatment, and doing work + which, under ordinary circumstances, could have been accomplished in a few + hours. + </p> + <p> + Reefing a topsail in a gale is an evolution simple in itself; and when the + sail is placed by the skill of the officer of the deck in a proper + condition, the work aloft can be accomplished in five minutes, even by a + bungling crew. But Captain Mott seemed to take pleasure in placing + obstacles in the way of the ready performance of any important duty, and + held the crew accountable for any extraordinary delay. Thus in reefing + topsails, the men were sometimes half an hour on the yard, endeavoring in + vain to do a work which his own obstinacy or ignorance rendered + impracticable, and he, all the while, cursing and swearing at the crew for + their inefficiency, in a style which would have done credit to the leader + of a press-gang. + </p> + <p> + The men, generally, were good seamen, and able and willing to do their + work, and with proper treatment would have proved first rate sailors; but + it is an old and true saying that bad officers make a bad crew. When a + man's best efforts are rewarded with abuse, it is unreasonable to expect + that he will perform his various duties with alacrity and cheerfulness. It + was customary, at that period, for rum to be served out to the crew, and + the minimum allowance, in nearly all American vessels, was a glass of rum + at dinner, with an extra glass during exposure to inclement weather, or + when engaged in unusually fatiguing labors. This extra glass was generally + served out by the steward at the companion-way, and the men were summoned + to partake of this indulgence by a call to "splice the main brace." + </p> + <p> + Captain Mott, however, refused to furnish the crew of the Casket with the + usual daily allowance of grog. This refusal, there was reason to believe, + was caused, not by a commendable wish to promote temperance, and break up + habits of intoxication, but from a desire to gratify a surly and unamiable + disposition, and deprive the men of an enjoyment which they highly prized. + With such a captain and mate, and regulations of the most arbitrary and + stringent character, it may be imagined that the grumbling at hard + treatment, and the muttered curses against the inmates of the cabin, were + neither few, nor far between. + </p> + <p> + But the captain, while he refused the DAILY allowance of grog, did not + deem it advisable to withhold the usual allowance on Saturday night, when + every true sailor loved to meet his shipmates around a flowing bowl, and + pass a happy hour in lively conversation, singing sea songs, spinning + yarns, and drinking with heartfelt emotion the toast of all others the + dearest and best "Sweethearts and Wives." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Of all the nights that grace the week, + There's none can equal this; + It binds the mind in friendship's bonds; + It heightens social bliss. + For though far distant from the land, + At home our thoughts shall be, + Whilst, shipmates, joining heart and hand + Hail Saturday Night at Sea." +</pre> + <p> + No one can imagine the tender, thrilling, and holy associations which + cluster round those words, "Sweethearts and Wives," unless he has been + long separated from those he loves, a wanderer on a distant sea. That + Saturday night toast came home to the bosom of every man who carried a + heart beneath a blue jacket. The gallantry of the sailor has often been + spoken of. His devotion to woman is proverbial. With few opportunities to + mingle in female society, he can, nevertheless, truly estimate its value, + and appreciate its advantages. Indeed, I have known old sailors, whose + rough and wrinkled visages, blunt and repulsive manners, coarse and + unrefined language, were enough to banish gentle Cupid to an iceberg, + exhibit the kindest and tenderest feelings when speaking of WOMAN, whom in + the abstract they regarded as a being not merely to be protected, + cherished, and loved, but also to be adored. + </p> + <p> + I shall never forget the well-deserved rebuke I once received from a + sturdy old tar for an ill-timed comment on a woman's personal appearance. + It was in St. Salvador. The captain of a Portuguese ship was going on + shore accompanied by his wife. The boat crossed the bows of the ship I was + in; the feminine garments attracted the attention of all hands, who + suspended their work and gazed upon the charming object as if they beheld + something more than mortal. As the boat passed onward, and we resumed + labors which the glimpse of a petticoat had interrupted, with a want of + gallantry which I trust is foreign to my character, for which I cannot + even now account, and of which I was afterwards heartily ashamed, I + casually remarked, "Well, there's nothing wonderful about her, after all; + she's HOMELY enough, in all conscience!" + </p> + <p> + "Hawser," said my old shipmate, in a solemn and impressive manner, + gracefully waving the marlinspike which he held in his hand, "THERE IS NO + SUCH THING IN NATER AS A HOMELY WOMAN!" + </p> + <p> + "Saturday Night" in olden times was not only devoted to reminiscences of + home and affectionate associations, but was also the time selected for + indulgence in the songs of the forecastle. After the usual toast, + "Sweethearts and Wives," had been drunk with enthusiasm, some one of the + crew was called on for a song, and the call was responded to without + affected reluctance; and the beams, carlines, and bulkheads of the old + forecastle rang again with stirring songs or ballads poured forth from + manly and musical throats, in praise of beauty, descriptive of life at + sea, recording deeds of heroism, or inculcating lessons of patriotism. + </p> + <p> + To these songs of the forecastle, sung on the land as well as on the + ocean, in beauty's bower as well as in the sailor's sanctuary or the + stifled cabin, in days when accompaniments to vocal music were not + considered necessary, when the full melodious sound of the human voice, + THE NOBLEST MUSIC IN THE WORLD, was not strangled, drowned, or travestied + by the noise of the everlasting piano, played with artistic skill to these + spirit-stirring songs of the forecastle was commerce indebted for many of + the finest and best sailors ever sprinkled with salt water. + </p> + <p> + The well known songs of "the Bay of Biscay," "Black Eyed Susan," and + "Cease, Rude Boreas," once listened to with emotion and delight at the + cottage fireside, or the fashionable drawing room, and the many songs long + since forgotten of a similar character, written by salt water poets, and + sung by mariners at home and abroad, have transformed enthusiastic and + adventurous landsmen into sailors by scores, as by the touch of an + enchanter's wand. Dibdin did more to man the "wooden walls of old England" + with brave and effective men than all the press-gangs that ever infested + the banks of the Thames. + </p> + <p> + There was one man on board the Casket who, more than all others, aided to + keep the crew cheerful and happy. He was the life and soul of the + forecastle. Not all the oppressive and unfeeling acts of the captain, and + rough and unjust treatment from the mate, which would naturally excite + indignation and a discontented spirit, such as sometimes will lead to + insubordination on the part of the crew, followed by the free use of + handspikes, rope's ends, and manacles, on the part of the officers, could + repress the spirits of Jonas Silvernail, spoil his jokes, or lessen the + volume of his hearty and sonorous laugh. Jonas was a native of Hudson, in + New York; a young, active, intelligent sailor, who, always good-humored, + was never more happy than when singing a sea song, spinning a merry yarn, + or playing off a practical joke. Jonas was one of those jovial mortals who + seemed determined to make sure of present enjoyment, and let the future + take care of itself; to bask in the sunshine of life, while others + despondingly wilt in the shade. + </p> + <p> + Good humor is contagious; and it was owing to the cheerful, contented + spirit, infused among the crew of the Casket by Silvernail's example, that + they forbore from insolent remonstrances, and wisely resolved to bear the + ills they had, rather, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Than fly to others which they knew not of." +</pre> + <p> + Such a man in the forecastle of a ship and in my seafaring days such men + were not rare is a treasure. He lightens the labors of a crew, adds to the + harmony and happiness of all on board, shortens a passage, and, as a + natural consequence, promotes the interests of the owner. + </p> + <p> + On one occasion, however, Silvernail's fondness for fun threatened to + disturb the harmony which was wont to reign in the forecastle. Among the + crew was a big, clumsy Dutchman, through whose thick cranium no joke could + penetrate, and whose feet were of proportions as huge as his head, each + resembling, in size and shape, a Brazilian catamaran. The men conversing + one day of the dangers of the seas, and the best means of preserving life + in cases of shipwreck, or when accidentally falling overboard, Hans, who + cherished a strong attachment to his own dear person, expressed a regret + that he had no cork jacket, by whose aid he could float above the waves. + </p> + <p> + "Be under no concern on that account," remarked Jonas. "If you were in the + water, a cork jacket would be of no more use to you than a pair of curling + tongs to Cuffy, the black cook. But don't try to swim. TREAD WATER lustily + with those mud scows (pointing to his feet) and you will never go to the + bottom." + </p> + <p> + "You just let my foot alone," said Hans, his face glowing with + indignation. "You are always poking fun at my foot, and I don't half like + it. My foot is one very good foot, (holding it up, and swaying it + backwards and forwards;) just fit to kick an impudent vagabone with and + teach him better manners." + </p> + <p> + "That may be true," said Silvernail, with a provoking grin; "but if you + should chance to miss the vagabone, as you call him, YOUR FOOT WOULD FLY + OFF!" + </p> + <p> + This, and the loud laugh from his shipmates, with which it was attended, + was more than even the phlegmatic Dutchman could bear. He made a furious + pass at Jonas with his much-abused foot, which, if it had taken effect, + would have demolished the joker in a twinkling. But Jonas stepped aside, + caught the ponderous foot in his hand, and the next moment Hans was + sprawling on his back. He arose, breathing guttural but incomprehensible + denunciations against his tormentor, who escaped from his clutches by + nimbly running up the ratlines to the foretop, where he could safely + indulge his merriment over the wrath of the Dutchman. + </p> + <p> + I was often amused at the ingenious manner in which Jonas managed to get + over a difficulty. One day when, with the wind abaft the beam, blowing a + strong breeze, we were carrying a main-topmast studding sail, the + boatswain very properly undertook to get up a preventer-brace on the + weather main yard-arm. A rope was procured, which had already been + considerably worn, and the boatswain expressed some apprehension that it + was hardly strong enough for the service required. "O," said Jonas in an + off-hand, decided manner, "it will hold on until it breaks; and if it was + ever so strong it could do no more." + </p> + <p> + The boatswain appeared favorably struck with the unanswerable logic + embraced in the remark, and made no further objection to the rope. + </p> + <p> + On this voyage I had one source of pleasure, of an elevated character, + which was denied to the rest of my shipmates. This was my attachment to + books. Before I left New Orleans, I purchased a variety of second-hand + volumes; a miscellaneous collection, which enabled me to pass many + pleasant hours on our passage to Havre, and at the same time lay in a + stock of information which might prove of great value at a future day. + </p> + <p> + In books I found biographies of good men, whose example fortified my mind + against the temptations to vice and immorality, which beset the sailor on + every side. They furnished me with an interesting occupation in an idle + hour, acted as a solace for disappointment, and a faithful friend and + consoler in anxiety and trouble; inspired me with a feeling of emulation, + and bade me look forward with hope. Many is the hour when, after a hard + day's work, or an exciting scene of peril or suffering, by the dim light + of a tallow candle, or a lamp manufactured by my own hands, while others + were lamenting their hard fate, or pouring out their indignation in + unavailing grumblings, I have, while poring over a book, lost all sense of + unhappiness, and been transported far away to other and happier scenes; + sometimes exploring with Barrow the inhospitable wastes of Africa; + accompanying Christian on his journey to the Celestial City; sympathizing + with the good Vicar of Wakefield in his domestic misfortunes; sharing the + disquietudes of Rasselas in the "Happy Valley;" tracing, with almost + breathless interest, the career of some ancient hero whom Plutarch has + immortalized, or lingering over the thrilling adventures and perils of + "Sindbad the Sailor." + </p> + <p> + A sailor before the mast, as well as the inmates of the cabin, has many + hours on every voyage, which may be and should be, devoted to reading and + study. When a resident of the forecastle, I have by my example, and by + urgent appeals to the pride, the ambition, and good sense of my shipmates, + induced them to cultivate a taste for reading, and awakened in their minds + a thirst for information. Some of these men, by dint of hard study, and a + determination, even at a late day, to shake off all profligate habits, and + be something more than a common sailor, qualified themselves for a + different station, and eventually became respectable shipmasters and + merchants. + </p> + <p> + We lost one of our crew overboard, on this passage, in a manner somewhat + singular. He was an Italian, called Antonio, and remarkable for a love of + cleanliness a priceless virtue, when not carried to excess. He was + continually washing his face and hands, as if to get rid of impurities + communicated by the atmosphere. One Sunday afternoon, with a strong breeze + on the quarter, the brig was reeling it off at the rate of eight or nine + knots, and a rough and turbulent sea was helping her along. + Notwithstanding the wind was three or four points abaft the beam, Captain + Mott insisted on carrying main-topmast and middle staysails, and + occasionally when the vessel was a little off of her course, the + main-topmast staysail sheet, which was fastened to a cleat in the main + deck, would give a "slat," with great violence. Antonio had just left the + helm, and, according to his usual custom, proceeded to draw a bucket of + water from alongside, in which to immerse his face and hands. But while he + was stooping, in the very act of performing his ablutions, the brig, + through the inattention of the helmsman, was run off her course nearly + before the wind, the staysails were becalmed and the main-topmast staysail + sheet, that is, the rope which kept the sail in its proper position, give + a terrible jerk, caught the unfortunate Italian behind, lifted him from + his feet, and actually tossed him over the gunwale. The thing was so + sudden, he had not time to struggle, or even to scream, as he sank beneath + the billows, while the brig swept onward, leaving him far astern. The cry, + "A man's overboard!" was instantly raised by those who witnessed the sad + event. One man sprang into the weather main shrouds in order to keep an + eye on the poor fellow who became a martyr to cleanliness. The helm was + put down, the brig rounded to, and sails laid aback. But attempts to + rescue him were fruitless. He was not seen after he struck the water. + </p> + <p> + After having been about forty-five days at sea, we got sight one morning + of "the Caskets," in the middle of the English Channel, about thirty miles + west of Cape LaHogue, and on the following day entered the harbor of + Havre, the seaport of Paris, situated at the mouth of the Seine. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXXIV. THE GENERAL ARMSTRONG + </h2> + <p> + Nothing remarkable happened during our stay in Havre, excepting an + unpleasant affair in which our good-humored shipmate, Jonas Silvernail, + played a principal part. The master of an English brig, an ignorant man, + but excessively arrogant and presuming, one day took some of our men to + task on the quay, accusing them of having taken a portion of his crew to a + grog-shop, where they plied them with liquor until they were drunk, and + then left them alone in their glory. + </p> + <p> + Jonas, in behalf of the crew of the Casket, stoutly but respectfully + denied the correctness of the statement, so far as himself or his + shipmates were concerned, and was about making an explanation, which must + have been satisfactory, when he was interrupted by the excited Briton, who + not only gave him the lie direct, but went so far as to define, in coarse + and profane language, the particular character of the lie. + </p> + <p> + Jonas, although a model of subordination on shipboard, nevertheless + possessed the spirit of a man, and would not brook abuse or insolence from + any one who had no rightful authority over him. His eye sparkled, his lip + quivered, and his fingers convulsively contracted, while he remarked, in a + tone somewhat emphatic, "When a blackguard gives a gentleman the lie, he + is, of course, prepared to defend himself!" + </p> + <p> + Acting upon this supposition he levelled a blow at the Englishman's face, + which laid his cheek open to the bone, and stretched him on the wharf in + double-quick time, as flat as a halibut! + </p> + <p> + Here was a pretty business! The affair looked serious for Jonas, as the + Englishman swore vengeance against the Yankee ruffian, if there was any + law or justice among a frog-eating people! Jonas was arrested, but by the + kind agency of Mr. Beasley, the American consul, he was relieved from + restraint on payment of a moderate fine. The choleric Briton was taught a + valuable lesson, and in all likelihood put a curb on his tongue ever + afterwards when talking to strangers, especially if the stranger happened + to be a Yankee! + </p> + <p> + After having discharged our cargo of cotton, we sailed from Havre in + ballast. We encountered a strong head wind in the chops of the Channel, + and were beating about for several days. One night we were steering a + course about north-north-west, under single-reefed topsails, courses and + spanker, with the wind at west, while the fog was so thick that the + jib-boom could hardly be seen from the forecastle, and supposed ourselves + at least thirty miles to the southward of the Scilly Islands. Jonas and + myself, who were walking the main deck, while the boatswain was leaning + lazily against the quarter rail, and the captain and mate were sleeping in + their berths below, were startled by a dull, moaning sound, which, ever + and anon, seemed to come up from under the lee bow. The noise became more + distinct. "What can it be?" said I, alarmed. + </p> + <p> + "I know it now," exclaimed Jonas. "It is the ROTE of the breakers dashing + against the rocks, and we must be lively, or we shall soon be in kingdom + come. Boatswain!" shouted he, "Breakers! Breakers ahead! Call up the + captain!" and hastening forward he made such a noise on the forecastle as + to rouse out all hands, who rushed on deck marvellously lightly clad, but + prepared to encounter some mighty evil. + </p> + <p> + The captain was awakened by the word "breakers," a word which sounds + ominous in a sailor's ears, and was on deck in a trice. He heard the + rumbling noise, the character of which could not be mistaken. "Ready + about!": he screamed. "Stations, men! Hard down the helm!" + </p> + <p> + The brig came up into the wind, the sails shivered, but owing to the head + sea or some other cause, she would not come round, and soon gathered stern + way. But captain Mott was a good seaman. "Brace round the head yards!" he + exclaimed. "Lower away the spanker peak!" + </p> + <p> + The brig, by the action of the helm, the head sails being thrown aback, + fell off rapidly on her heel, and soon gathering headway, barely cleared + the dark and rugged cliffs of St. Agnes in the north, which now, as well + as the powerful beacon light by which they were surmounted, broke through + the dense fog. + </p> + <p> + It was a narrow escape. Fifteen minutes more would have carried us among + the sunken rocks and ledges which are piled together in admirable + confusion on the southwest side of the Scilly Isles, and the vessel and + all hands would have been among the things which were. + </p> + <p> + The wind came round to the eastward on the following day, and we shaped + our course across the Atlantic, bound for Savannah, whither we arrived, + without the occurrence of any remarkable incident, about the first of May, + 1817. + </p> + <p> + Having passed a couple of months in Savannah a few years before, I was + aware from personal inspection of the wretchedly low character of the + sailor boarding houses in that city; and I shuddered at the idea of + passing the few days or weeks of my sojourn in Savannah at one of these + "omnium gatherums" of intemperance and iniquity. + </p> + <p> + I gave to my shipmates such a graphic but faithful description of the + sailor boarding houses in Savannah, that the boatswain of the brig, with + Jonas Silvernail and William Jones, agreed to join me in trying to secure + quarters of a character somewhat more respectable than the dens of + iniquity frequented by sailors. We flattered ourselves there would be no + difficulty in finding such a boarding house as we wished, knowing there + were many mechanics at that time in Savannah, temporary residents, who + were accommodated with board in well-regulated families at a reasonable + rate, and we saw no reason why we should not be treated with equal favor. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, the day after our arrival in port, having received our + discharge, we carefully removed from our hands all stains of tar, rigged + ourselves out in our neatest apparel, put on our most sober and demure + faces, and started off on a cruise after a boarding house. We had received + some desultory information from persons we had fallen in with about the + wharves, which in a measure influenced our course. + </p> + <p> + We were not particularly successful in our quest. The simple fact which we + could not deny, that "WE WERE SAILORS," was sufficient to bar every door + against our entrance. It was in vain we represented ourselves as + remarkably staid and sober sailors, possessing amiable dispositions, not + given to liquor or rowdyism, and in search of quiet quarters in a + respectable family. + </p> + <p> + To all this the one fatal objection was opposed, "WE WERE SAILORS," and of + course could not reasonably expect to be received into any respectable + house. No faith was given to our professions of sobriety. The term + "sailor" in the minds of those good people was synonymous with + "blackguard" or "drunken vagabond." It comprehended everything which was + vile or wicked. After applying at more than a dozen different places, and + finding the estimate of a sailor's character every where the same, and + that exceptions to the general rule in this case were not allowed, we + reluctantly abandoned our exploring expedition, disgusted and mortified at + finding such unfounded prejudice existing against sailors, whom WE not + only believed to be human beings, and entitled to rights, privileges, and + indulgences as such, but a class of men which actually included many + worthy, honest, well-behaved individuals, as well as those of an opposite + character. We could not but doubt the policy as well as justice of a line + of conduct which represses every effort on the part of seafaring men to + cultivate a self-respect, and elevate themselves in the scale of society; + a line of conduct which is calculated to thrust them contemptuously back, + and plunge them deeper in the slough from which, perhaps, they are + striving to emerge. + </p> + <p> + In those days there was no "Mariner's House" or "Sailor's Home" + established in our large seaports by true philanthropists for the benefit + of seamen, where this useful but too long neglected and condemned class + might find a quiet, well-regulated, and respectable house, with its doors + thrown open to receive them. + </p> + <p> + We returned, crestfallen and disheartened, to the brig, and passed another + night in the forecastle; and the next morning, being compelled to find an + asylum on shore, we inspected several of the sailor boarding houses, with + a view to select the least objectionable for our temporary home. There was + little room for choice. The landlords were all swaggering foreigners; + their rooms were filled with a dense effluvia arising from a combination + of odors, in which the fumes of tobacco and rum constituted a prominent + part; and drinking grog, playing cards and dominoes, swearing, + quarrelling, and fighting seemed to be the principal occupation and + amusements of the main portion of the boarders. + </p> + <p> + Such were the scenes I was destined to witness in Savannah; such were the + men with whom I was compelled to associate; such were the temptations to + which I was subjected, and which few could pass through unscathed; such + were MY "schools and schoolmasters" in early life. + </p> + <p> + After much hesitation and many misgivings, we finally established our + quarters at the sign of the "General Armstrong," which was kept by John + Hubbard, a tight little Irishman, a regular "broth of a boy," illiterate, + not being able to write his name, with a tongue well steeped in blarney, + with a conscience as elastic as a piece of India rubber, and a consummate + adept in the art of wheedling a sailor out of his money. + </p> + <p> + The sign which was placed conspicuously over the door of this boarding + house was a popular one, and well calculated to attract. It was not + intended to represent General Armstrong of revolutionary memory, the + avowed author of the treasonable "Newburg Letters," but the American + privateer of that name, riding at anchor, and in the act of battling with + the British boats in Fayal. Hubbard had been a petty officer in the + privateer, and prided himself on the part which he took in that memorable + affair, and on which he dearly loved to dwell, to the great admiration of + his half-drunken auditors. + </p> + <p> + The General Armstrong privateer was a brig belonging to New York, mounting + a battery of eight long nines and a twenty-four pounder amidships. The + brig, a remarkably fast sailing vessel, was commanded by Samuel C. Reid, a + young and gallant sailor, who displayed much courage, activity, and skill + in harassing the enemies of his country on the high seas, and had been + successful in capturing many valuable British ships. + </p> + <p> + While cruising off the Western Islands in the autumn of 1814, the + privateer being short of water, to procure a supply put into Fayal on the + morning of the 26th of September. On the afternoon of the same day three + English ships-of-war arrived, anchored at the entrance of the harbor, and + received from the pilots and fishermen intelligence that the far-famed + American privateer General Armstrong was then in port, and lying beneath + the guns of the fortifications. + </p> + <p> + Captain Reid, witnessing the arrival of these ships, did not consider + himself altogether safe from attack. He knew that his vessel was + particularly obnoxious to the British, who would be likely to disregard + neutrality laws, spare no pains, and overcome almost any scruples in order + to insure her destruction; also, that Portugal was a feeble power, which + existed only by the sufferance and protection of Great Britain. Therefore + Captain Reid, instead of relying on international law as a barrier against + aggression, determined to rely on himself and the brave men with him; and + when the British ships appeared in the offing, he commenced making + vigorous preparations for defence. As soon as it was twilight he commenced + warping his vessel nearer the shore. This manoeuver was seen from the + decks of the English squadron, which consisted of the Plantagenet + ship-of-the-line, the Rota frigate, and the Carnation gun-brig; and four + boats were immediately sent off, filled with armed men, who pulled + directly towards the privateer. + </p> + <p> + But Captain Reid was watching the movements of the enemy. He ordered his + men to pause in their labors, and stand ready to give their visitors a + warm reception. When the boats arrived within speaking distance, he + hailed, but received no answer; the boats pulled on in gloomy silence. He + hailed again, but there was no reply, but the men redoubled their efforts + at the oars. Captain Reid, aware there was no time to be lost, hailed a + third time, ordering the boats to keep off, or he would fire into them. + The boats kept on. The word was given to "FIRE," and a volley of musketry + was poured into the densely crowded boats, causing great confusion and + killing and wounding a large number of the crews. The fire, however, was + returned by the British, and the first lieutenant of the privateer was + severely wounded and one man was killed. After a sharp, but severe + contest, in which the enemy made desperate attempts to get alongside, the + boats hauled off and returned to their respective ships. + </p> + <p> + Captain Reid knew this was only the beginning of the drama. He encouraged + his men, and got in readiness for a more serious engagement. He moored his + vessel close to the shore, loaded his large guns to the muzzle with grape + and canister, and every musket with bullets and buckshot. His men were all + on deck ready and eager to meet the foe. + </p> + <p> + The moon had risen, and lighted up the bay, so that objects could be + distinctly seen at a considerable distance. And soon after midnight, + twelve boats, carrying nearly four hundred men, and armed with carronades, + swivels, and blunderbusses, as well as muskets, pistols, and cutlasses, + left the squadron and pulled directly for the privateer. The crisis was at + hand, and although the brave commander of the privateer knew that his + vessel must eventually fall into the hands of his unscrupulous enemy, he + determined to defend her to the last. + </p> + <p> + A fierce and desperate engagement ensued. As soon as the boats came within + range, they were greeted with the contents of "long Tom;" and the nine + pounders also faithfully performed their work. The guns were served with + almost incredible skill and activity, and aimed with the nicest precision. + The fire was returned by the boats, although it was evident that some of + them suffered severely from the effects of the first broadside. Others, + however, dashed alongside, with the expectation of carrying the privateer + by boarding; but here, again, they were disappointed. Pistols and muskets + flashed from every porthole, and boarding-pikes and cutlasses, wielded by + strong hands, presented a CHEVAUX-DE-FRISE which the enemy could not + overleap. The carnage was terrible; the contest lasted over half an hour, + and resulted in the total defeat of the British, who, with bull-dog + ferocity and obstinacy, although foiled in their desperate effort to take + the privateer, were unwilling to abandon the enterprise, and were shot and + hewn down by scores. Only three of the officers escaped; several of the + boats were destroyed, and two of them, after the action, were found + alongside the brig, literally filled with the dead and dying! + </p> + <p> + The boats which survived the conflict, crushed and discomfited, pulled + slowly back to their ships, bearing with them many of the wounded. Of the + four hundred who left the ships an hour and a half before, full of health, + high in spirits, and eager for the battle, hardly one hundred and fifty + returned unharmed. + </p> + <p> + The attack on the boats by Captain Reid and his brave men was so sudden + and overwhelming, that the enemy, notwithstanding the convulsive efforts + of a few, seemed incapable of making any effective resistance. Instead of + being the attacking party, their efforts were mainly confined to + ineffectual attempts to defend themselves. Thus, on the part of the + Americans, the loss in the two engagements was only two killed and seven + wounded. One of those who fell was Mr. Williams, of New York, the second + lieutenant. The first and third lieutenants were among the wounded. Thus, + early in the action Captain Reid was deprived of the services of his most + efficient officers, but he was equal to the emergency, and his cool and + intrepid conduct secured the victory. + </p> + <p> + On the following morning, soon after daybreak, the Carnation gun-brig was + hauled in within point blank gun-shot, and opened a fire on the General + Armstrong; but the gallant commander of the privateer, being determined to + submit to no other than a superior force, returned the fire with his long + twenty-four pounder so effectually, boring the brig through and through at + every shot, that she was soon glad to haul off to avoid being sunk at her + anchors. Preparations were now making to bring in the frigate; and aware + that to prolong the contest would be worse than useless, Captain Reid + ordered the brig's masts to be cut away, a hole blown through her bottom, + and with all his men, trunks, chests, and baggage, took to his boats and + safely reached the shore. They had not been landed fifteen minutes when + the dismasted sinking vessel was boarded by the British boats without + resistance, and immediately set on fire. Such was the fate of the General + Armstrong privateer! + </p> + <p> + It is perhaps not strange that, before my shipmates and myself had been a + week at the boarding house, around whose attractive sign clustered such + patriotic associations, Downes, the boatswain of the Casket, and Jones + both became acclimated to the noxious atmosphere redolent of alcohol and + other disgusting compounds, succumbed to the temptations by which they + were surrounded, and drank as much grog, were as noisy and unruly, and as + ready for a quarrel as any dissolute old Irishman in the whole circle of + Jim Hubbards' household. Indeed the boatswain, a young fellow possessed of + many excellent qualities, and who had made a resolution to reform some bad + habits in which he had indulged, got drunk before he had been three days + an inmate of the establishment, quarrelled with an English sailor, fought + with him, was severely whipped and furnished with a couple of magnificent + black eyes. So true is the sentiment, beautifully expressed in the + language of the poet, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Vice is a monster of so frightful mien, + As to be hated needs but to be seen; + But seen too oft, familiar with the face, + We first endure, then pity, then embrace." +</pre> + <p> + The generality of Jim Hubbard's boarders were what may be technically + termed "a hard set." Among them were many foreigners, who seemed to have + been the off-scourings of their native countries, and whose manners and + morals had not been improved by the peculiar discipline and lessons in + ethics they had become familiar with on board English men-of-war or + Patriot privateers. In truth they were a band of roistering blades, and by + day and by night, when not dead drunk, were restless, noisy, vociferous, + and terribly profane. Flush with their money, and acting from generous + impulses, they would urge a stranger to drink with them in good + fellowship, and if the invitation was declined, were equally ready to + knock him down or kick him into the street, as unworthy the society of + good fellows. + </p> + <p> + Whole crews came to the house, from long voyages, with pockets overflowing + with cash. They were received with smiles of welcome by Hubbard, and the + treasures of his bar were placed before them. At the proper time they were + told by their obliging landlord that it was a praiseworthy custom among + new comers to "treat all hands." Then commenced a course of unrestrained + dissipation, which was not interrupted so long as their money held out. + They became uproarious, and took a strange pleasure in enacting scenes, + which should never be witnessed out of Bedlam. But as their money + diminished their landlord gave them the cold shoulder; their love of + frolic and fighting was sensibly lessened, and their spirits at last fell + to zero on being told by their sympathizing host, who kept a careful watch + over their finances, and kindly aided them in spending their money by + making fictitious charges, and exacting double prices for what they + actually had, that THEIR CASH WAS ALL GONE; that it was not his custom to + give credit, and the sooner they found a ship, and cleared out, the + better. + </p> + <p> + Such, I am sorry to say, was the character of most of the sailor landlords + in "days lang syne." And notwithstanding the efforts which have since been + made to elevate the condition of the sailor, and provide him with a + comfortable house on shore, I greatly fear the race is not extinct; and + that Jack, even in these days, often becomes the prey of one of these + crafty, plausible, smiling, unprincipled scoundrels, who hands him a + bottle of rum with one hand and picks his pocket with the other; who, + under the guise of friendship, bears towards the sailor the same kind of + affection he is prepared to expect from the man-eating shark which is seen + prowling round a ship. If he falls into the clutches of either, he is sure + to be taken in and done for. + </p> + <p> + But among Jim Hubbard's boarders, there were a very few of a different + character from those I have described; some who kept sober, and had a due + regard to the rules of propriety. These, sometimes, sought to restore + order out of chaos, but soon abandoned the attempt as a bootless task, and + bowed submissively to the storm whose force they could not arrest. Among + these was a young man named Catlin. He was rather below than above the + medium size, but had a broad chest and a muscular frame. He was evidently + a thorough sailor; his countenance was open and intelligent; he was quiet + and unobtrusive in his manners, and often seemed disgusted with the unruly + conduct of the major part of the boarders, some of whom had been shipmates + with him in a former voyage. Catlin was troubled with an impediment in his + speech, and it was doubtless owing to this, as well as to his sober + habits, that his voice was seldom heard amid the vocal din which shook the + walls of the General Armstrong. + </p> + <p> + One morning a large ship arrived in Savannah from Boston, with a choice + crew, consisting of the boatswain and ten fine-looking, athletic young + men. After the ship was made fast at the wharf, and the decks cleared up, + the crew received permission to go ashore; and, neatly rigged and headed + by the boatswain, a splendid looking, symmetrically built native of + Connecticut, who stood six feet two inches in his stockings, and wore a + feather in his hat like a Highland chieftain, they paraded through several + of the streets of Savannah, singing, laughing, and cheering, bent on a + regular frolic. They occasionally stopped at hospitable houses, where "for + a consideration" they could be accommodated with liquor to assuage thirst + and enliven their already lively spirits. + </p> + <p> + It was about nine o'clock in the evening when this jovial crew came to Jim + Hubbard's boarding house, entered the public room, and called for + something to drink. Some of these men were disposed to be quarrelsome, and + were insolent to the landlord; clearly wishing to provoke a fight; and a + considerable number of the boarders instantly threw off their jackets, + ready to take the part of their host. The parties being nearly equal, + there was a very distinct prospect of a neat little row, or a regular + pounding match. + </p> + <p> + Just as the parties were coming to blows the boatswain interposed, + requesting his shipmates to keep quiet and close their clamshells; and + then in an arrogant and defiant tone, stretching himself to his full + height, he exclaimed, "If there is any fighting to be done here, I am the + man to do it." And, with a dash of that spirit of chivalry which animated + the Paladins of old, he added, "I challenge any man in the house to step + into the street, and face me in a regular boxing match." + </p> + <p> + His large stature, big whiskers, insolent tone, and menacing gestures were + calculated to inspire awe, and those who had shown themselves most eager + to take part in the MELEE, shrank instinctively from the idea of meeting + this son of Anak in single combat. But Catlin, the meek-looking, quiet, + inoffensive, stuttering Catlin, who had been an attentive looker-on + without evincing any disposition to take part in the proceedings no sooner + heard the challenge, so vain-gloriously given, than he bounded from his + seat in a corner of the room, and stood before the doughty champion. + </p> + <p> + "I ca-ca-ca-nt stand th-th-at," said Catlin, his eyes flashing with + indignation. "I am your m-m-man!" + </p> + <p> + The affair became interesting. A ring was immediately formed in front of + the boarding house, into which the champions of the respective parties, + denuded of all unnecessary covering, and each attended by his second, + entered. The crew of the ship, the boarders of the General Armstrong, and + the inmates of various boarding houses in the vicinity, formed quite a + numerous body of spectators. The combatants very properly dispensed with + the absurd custom of shaking hands before they came to blows. After + glowering at each other for a moment, they went vigorously to work. The + boatswain seemed determined to demolish his puny antagonist at once by + some well-directed blows, and might possibly have succeeded if the blows + had taken effect. But Catlin parried or avoided them with surprising skill + and agility, until the boatswain losing patience, grasped his antagonist + in his sinewy arms, and after a brief struggle, Catlin was thorn heavily + upon his back. + </p> + <p> + He rose from the earth, like a second Antaeus, with renewed vigor, and + when the boatswain attempted to repeat the operation, Catlin dealt him a + blow in the body which fairly lifted him from his feet, and, doubling him + up, dropped him motionless on the ground. + </p> + <p> + By the aid of his second, the boatswain was soon again on his feet. The + fight was renewed, and continued with but little cessation for fifteen or + twenty minutes, during which time Catlin had been twice thrown, but had + received no visible injury; and the boatswain's features had been knocked + out of all shape, and he had been several times felled to the earth by the + terrible blows given by his antagonist. His endurance was wonderful; he + submitted to his pounding like a hero, but he was rapidly losing strength; + was evidently suffering much from pain, and another round would probably + have finished the fierce contest, crowned Catlin with the victor's wreath, + and led to a general tumult and row, when some new actors entered on the + scene and changed the order of the performances. + </p> + <p> + These actors appeared in the guise of a squad of police officers, the city + patrol, who had received intelligence of the row. They broke through the + ring, without regard to ceremony, and made a dash at the men who were + striving so hard to maul one another. The boatswain unable to resist or + flee, was easily captured, and also his second. But Catlin, having heard + the cry of "the watch! the watch!" as these vigilant preservers of the + public peace broke through the ring, gave his antagonist a parting blow + which he long remembered, forced his way through or leaped over the dense + throng which obstructed his progress, and with the speed of a race horse + rushed into the house, and almost before the officers of the law were + aware of his escape, he had donned his garments, and without a scratch on + his person, mingled unsuspected with the throng of spectators. The + boatswain, notwithstanding the woeful plight he was in, for he was + dreadfully punished, was marched off to the guard house, accompanied by + his faithful second, and on the following day was mulcted in an exemplary + fine for disturbing the peace. + </p> + <p> + The most singular battle between two-legged brutes that I ever beheld, was + fought one day between two stout negroes in the neighborhood of my + boarding house in Savannah. They had cherished a grudge against each other + for some time, and accidentally meeting, a war of words ensued, which + attracted a crowd of spectators, who kindly used all possible efforts to + induce them to break the peace, in which charitable enterprise they + finally succeeded. + </p> + <p> + Much to my surprise, and greatly to the amusement of the bystanders, the + darkies made no use of their fists, neither did they grasp each other by + the waist, or resort to the worse than savage practice of gouging. They + retreated from the spot where they had been standing, until the space + between them would measure some ten or twelve paces, a good duelling + distance, and then instead of throwing tomahawks or javelins at each + other's heads, or discharging bullets of lead from the mouths of pistols + or blunderbusses, they bowed down their heads, as if overcome with + humility, and rushed at each other with inconceivable fury. + </p> + <p> + Like knights of ancient days, they met half way in the lists; but instead + of shivering their spears right manfully, their heads came in contact, + like a collision between two locomotives, making a noise like a clap of + thunder. As they rose from the ground from which they were both thrown by + the violence of the shock, fire seemed actually to flash from their eyes, + and they shook their heads from shoulder to shoulder for several seconds, + apparently to know if all was right within. + </p> + <p> + The result being satisfactory, they retreated a short distance, not so far + as at first, and again tried the terrible experiment of seeing which head + was the hardest. After giving several of these practical illustrations of + the noble art of butting, in a fashion that would have cracked, crushed + and demolished the thickest craniums belonging to the Caucasian family, + but which seemed to produce little effect on these hard-headed sons of + sires born on the banks of the Niger, one of the belligerent parties + watched an opportunity when his opponent was off his guard, dexterously + evaded the favor intended for him, and drove his own head with tremendous + force against the bosom of his antagonist. + </p> + <p> + This of course finished the engagement, for the poor fellow was thrown + backwards with violence to the ground, where he remained for some time + senseless, while the grinning victor received the congratulations of his + friends. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXXV. VOYAGE TO GOTTENBURG + </h2> + <p> + I passed nearly three weeks in Savannah at Jim Hubbard's boarding house, + mingling freely with the different characters who frequented that + establishment, making my observations on men and things; and if at times I + felt humiliated and uncomfortable, I solaced myself by the reflection that + my sojourn in that place would be brief, and in the mean time would open + to my inspection a new chapter in the book of life; and being + constitutionally of a hopeful disposition, and seldom troubled with + despondency, instead of suffering my thoughts to dwell on present + perplexities, I looked forward to more prosperous scenes and happier + times. + </p> + <p> + At length I found an opportunity to quit Savannah, of which I shall ever + retain a vivid recollection, by shipping before the mast in a good + wholesome-looking brig, known as the Joseph, of Boston, and bound to + Gottenburg, with a cargo of tobacco. + </p> + <p> + The name of the brig was not a very attractive one, but I had learned long + before that the names of merchant vessels, being bestowed according to the + taste, fancy, or whim of the owner, should never be regarded as indicative + of character, any more than the names of individuals. The first vessel I + sailed in, although named after the most beautiful and swift fish that + swims the ocean, the dolphin, was one of the ugliest and dullest sailing + crafts that ever floated on salt water. + </p> + <p> + Some ship-owners have a great partiality to animals; hence we find noble + ships bearing the names of creatures of every description, from the most + ferocious beast to the most unsightly reptile. Other ships carry on their + sterns the names of heroes and heroines, gods and goddesses; satyrs, + nymphs, civilians, poets, artists, statesmen, and demagogues; of kings, + warriors, buccaneers, philanthropists, and brigands. It is thus we count + among our ships a Hercules and a Joan of Arc; with Apollos, Minervas, + Canovas, Hogarths, John Howards, and Robin Hoods, with a dense sprinkling + of Mammoths and Mosquitoes, Tigers and Humming Birds, Whales and + Butterflies, Nondescripts, Demons, volcanoes and Icebergs. + </p> + <p> + Some names of ships are ingenious and quaint, others commonplace or + ridiculous; some are expressed in a phrase consisting of a few words, + others in a word of one syllable, and sometimes of one letter. Thus we + have the INO, and the GUESS; awkward names to repeat when asked, "What is + the name of that ship?" and the "Catch me if you can," and the "What d'ye + think 'tis like?" which, by their respective godfathers, are thought to be + extremely witty. Thus, we have the "Ay, ay, sir," the "Tom," the "A No. + 1," the "Tallyho," and the "W." + </p> + <p> + During the last war with Great Britain two privateers were built by the + same individuals, and were intended to cruise in company; they were called + the "United we stand," and the "Divided we fall." A number of years since, + three large and elegant ships constituted a line of English packets + between Liverpool and Charleston, in South Carolina. They were, with + commendable taste, named after three celebrated poems by three + distinguished British poets, the "Lalla Rookh," the "Corsair," and + "Marmion." An opulent merchant in Rhode Island, having been repeatedly + disappointed in his wish to have a male descendant, although he was the + father of half a dozen cherry-cheeked GIRLS, gave the name of "Boy" to a + ship of his, which was launched a few weeks after the birth of his + youngest daughter. This ship was a fortunate one, and a great favorite of + the owner, but never arrived at man's estate, continuing "a boy" to the + end of the chapter. + </p> + <p> + Some ship-owners give to their vessels names of individuals distinguished + for talent or worth, or who have served their country nobly by sea or by + land. Some bestow on their ships those names that are dearest to them; + those of their sweethearts, their wives, their children, brethren, + sisters, or friends, as the case may be. Thus we have the "Three sons," + "Ten Brothers," "Four Sisters," "Sally Anne," "Aunt Hitty," and "Huldah + and Judy;" and thus we may account for the euphonious name of a vessel, + once belonging to Windsor, in Virginia, the "Jonathan Jacocks." + </p> + <p> + Some years ago two Boston merchants were engaged in building a ship for + the freighting business. When finished, there was a difference of opinion + in regard to the selection of a name. One proposed the name of a + distinguished southern statesman, Mr. Poinsett; the other, an old + shipmaster, remonstrated against giving the ship the name of any living + person; and he carried his point. "The man you mention," said he, with + energy and emphasis, "is a good fellow enough now; but before two years, + he may change his politics, or do some other shabby act that will stamp + his name with infamy. And then how foolish we shall look when hailing our + ship. No! Never while you live, call your ship, or your child, after any + living great man; but take the name of some one whose excellence is + vouched for by a tombstone." + </p> + <p> + A line of packet ships was projected, and in part established some + thirty-five years ago, between Boston and Liverpool, by some + public-spirited merchants. The project, however, after a time was + abandoned. Three new and beautiful ships were built for this enterprise, + and plied regularly between the two ports; they were named the Emerald, + the Topaz, and the Amethyst. If the undertaking had been successful, other + ships would have been added with names of a similar stamp, as the Diamond, + the Ruby, the Coral, or the Pearl. + </p> + <p> + The government of the United States has, for many years, adopted the plan + of naming ships-of-the-line after the different states in the Union, the + frigates after the rivers, and the sloops of war after the principal + cities; thus we have the Vermont, Ohio, Pennsylvania, etc., the + Brandywine, Raritan, Merrimac, etc., and the Jamestown, Portsmouth, + Hartford, etc. As no more ships-of-the-line will probably be constructed, + comparatively few of the states will receive the honor originally + intended. + </p> + <p> + The introduction of large clipper built ships, within a few years, has + been attended with a new and distinct class of names, some of which are of + a decidedly poetical character, and fill the largest speaking trumpet to + its utmost capacity; thus the ocean is traversed in every direction by + "Winged Racers," "Flying Arrows," "Sparkling Seas," "Shooting Stars," + "Foaming Waves," "White Squalls," "Sovereigns of the Seas," and "Thunder + Showers;" and we may soon see launched the "Almighty Dollar." + </p> + <p> + The brig Joseph was commanded by Ezra Allen, a very worthy, well-meaning + man, of moderate capacity, and an indifferent sailor. The mate, Mr. Bowen, + was an energetic, down-east Yankee, with a drawl as long as the deep sea + line, and almost as much twisted. He was one of those queer mortals, + manufactured nowhere but in New England, who, restless, inquisitive, + ingenious, and bold, can readily adapt themselves to any situation, and, + under a very raw and green exterior, conceal an inexhaustible mine of + practical good sense and available intelligence on almost every subject. + Mr. Bowen, although deferential in his deportment towards the captain, and + ever treating him with a good show of respect, was in reality master of + the brig; his advice being solicited on the most trivial occasion, and + every suggestion he made in relation to the management of the vessel was + eagerly seized upon by the captain. Indeed, Bowen was a model of a mate; + industrious, economical, and faithful, treating the crew with kindness and + consideration, yet exacting their full quota of labor. No "bread of + idleness" was consumed where he had the direction of affairs. Under his + management there was perfect subordination, without the necessity of + resorting to heavers and handspikes as a means of enforcing authority. + </p> + <p> + The second mate, Mr. Conners, was a little, weasel-faced man, of uncertain + extraction, who had a great idea of his importance, and like other mates I + have seen, bustled about the decks, as if to make up in noise and bustle + deficiencies in merit; forgetting that a quiet, decided, straightforward + manner is more effective in enforcing authority, and establishing + discipline, than the roughest language breathed through iron lungs. We had + but a brief opportunity to test his worth, for, on the second day after + leaving port, Mr. Conners was attacked with illness, stricken down and + confined to his state-room, where he lay, suffering much pain, and + uttering moans of a character not unfamiliar to my ears. The chief mate + came on deck while I was at the helm, and in answer to my inquiries, gave + me the particulars of his illness. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Bowen," said I, "that man has got the yellow fever, and it is a + severe case. It will probably go hard with him." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think so, Hawser?" Said Mr. Bowen, slowly drawling out his words; + "well, I don't know but you are more than half right. There have been some + deaths from yellow fever in Savannah already this season, and who knows + but" and turning to the captain, who at this moment came on deck, + carelessly handling his toothpick, he exclaimed, "Captain Allen, Mr. + Conners has got the yellow fever!" + </p> + <p> + The captain started back, aghast, at this terrible announcement. His face + was as white as a sheet. "The yellow fever, Mr. Bowen! God forbid! What + makes you think so?" + </p> + <p> + "Why," replied the mate, "the symptoms are precisely those of yellow + fever; and you know there were some fatal cases among the shipping before + we left Savannah." + </p> + <p> + "That's true, Mr. Bowen true as a book. Perhaps it IS the yellow fever. O + Lord! The yellow fever on board the Joseph! What SHALL we do, Mr. Bowen? + Had we not better put back? Who knows whose turn it may be next? The + yellow fever! Why, this is dreadful!" + </p> + <p> + And the yellow fever it proved to be. The unfortunate man was seized with + delirium in less than twelve hours after he was attacked, and died on the + following day. The captain was terribly frightened, and was half disposed + to make for the nearest port and resign command of the brig. But Mr. Bowen + succeeded in calming his fears, and convince him, that by sprinkling the + cabin and forecastle freely with vinegar, and burning brimstone, + tobacco-leaves, and tar several hours in a day for several successive + days, the infected atmosphere would be rendered pure and innoxious. The + experiment was tried; and for more than a week the captain, to the great + annoyance of the sailors, was every day busy in devising means of salutary + fumigation, and carrying them into effect, or, in other words, trying to + drive out one poison by introducing another a hundred times more offensive + to our olfactories, and attended, if possible, with more unpleasant + associations. + </p> + <p> + We pursued our course towards Gottenburg; steering nearly in the direction + of the Gulf Stream, passing to the southward of the Bank of Newfoundland, + and then standing away to the northward and eastward, with a view to pass + north of Scotland and enter the Skager-rack through the broad passage + which separates the Orkneys from the Shetland Islands. On the passage we + fell in with the little islet, or huge rock, known as Rockal, which lies + almost in mid-ocean, being about two hundred miles west of the coast of + Scotland. This rock is only a few hundred feet in length, and rises + abruptly to a height eighty or a hundred feet. It is craggy and + precipitous, and is the resort of seals, and myriads of birds, as osprays, + gulls, and gannets, which abound in that part of the ocean, and there, + undisturbed by the presence of man, lay their eggs and rear their young. + Rockal has the appearance, when first seen, of a large ship under sail, + and is of a dark gray color, being covered in some parts, probably to the + depth of many feet, with birdlime, or guano, the accumulation of ages. But + as this rock is exposed to the peltings of the pitiless storms, which are + frequent in this part of the world, and is subject to the extremes of heat + and cold, it is possible that the rich beds of guano with which it is + covered are not of the best quality; besides, as it can boast of no bay or + nook in which a vessel, or even a boat, can ride in safety, but is exposed + on every side to the constant succession of waves rolling onward eternally + across the ocean, but not always in the same direction, forbidding the + landing of any human being on its craggy sides, its treasures, however + valuable, will probably remain undisturbed forever. + </p> + <p> + This restlessness of the ocean, creating an undulating surface, even + during long-continued calms, excites the wonder of all who, never having + been abroad upon the waters, imagine its surface is always smooth and + unruffled unless disturbed by a gale of wind. This "tramp of the ocean + waves" is beautifully described by Charles H. Brown, one of the "Bowdoin + Poets": + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Roll on, old Ocean, dark and deep! + For thee there is no rest. + Those giant waves shall never sleep, + That o'er thy billowy breast + Tramp like the march of conquerors, + Nor cease their choral hymn + Till earth with fervent heat shall melt, + And lamps of heaven grow dim." +</pre> + <p> + The next land we fell in with was Fair Isle, which lies about half way + between the Shetland and the Orkney Islands, being about twenty-five miles + south of Sumburgh Head, the southern extremity of the principal of the + Shetland Islands. Fair Isle, as is indeed the case with all these islands + which are susceptible of cultivation, is inhabited by a rude and hardy + race of beings; the men being engaged a large portion of the time in the + ling and cod fishery, which is extensively carried on in this part of the + world. Taking advantage of their locality in mid-channel, the boatmen from + Fair Isle also board vessels which pass to an fro, going "north about," + and exchange fish and a slender variety of vegetables for tobacco and rum; + those articles, so unnecessary to happiness or comfort, being greedily + coveted by the rude and semi-barbarous inhabitants of those regions, who + also, be it said to their credit, will not object to receive a dozen of + biscuit, a piece of beef or pork, or a goodly portion of any other + palatable article of food. + </p> + <p> + We were boarded by two of these boats from Fair Isle, well filled with + stalwart and sturdy beggars; and dealing with such a man as Captain Allen, + good natured and wanting in decision and energy, their solicitations for + favors almost took the shape of peremptory demands, and the brig was + virtually laid under a heavy contribution. Some of the most bold and + importunate visited the forecastle, and manifested such an inquisitive and + rapacious spirit in their quest after tobacco, that we were provoked to + treat them in a manner most inhospitable, and drive them on deck. + </p> + <p> + Proceeding across the head of the North Sea, and running for the "Naze of + Norway," the weather being pleasant and the sea smooth, I persuaded Mr. + Bowen to throw a fishing-line over the stern and let it trail, with the + expectation of catching some mackerel. We succeeded in capturing several + of those excellent fish, and also two or three gar-fish; a kind of fish I + have never met with elsewhere excepting in the tropical seas. These + gar-fish of the North Sea were of comparatively small size, about fifteen + inches in length, but of most delicious flavor. Their long and slim + backbone being of a deep emerald green color, Captain Allen, with + characteristic sagacity, concluded that these fish were poisonous and + unwholesome, and banished them from the cabin. They were heartily welcomed + in the forecastle, however, their qualities fully tested, and the skipper + was pronounced the most verdant of the two! + </p> + <p> + Passing the Naze, a high bluff point at the south-western extremity of + Norway, and then losing sight of the rough, mountainous coast, intersected + by innumerable arms of the sea, called FIORDS, penetrating inland for + miles, we crossed the Skager-rack and entered the Cattegat Sea, which + divides the western shores of Sweden from the coast of Jutland, and which + is about a hundred miles in length and fifty miles in breadth. We soon got + sight of Wingo Beacon, a high pyramidal monument, built on a rock at one + of the entrances of the fiord on which the city of Gottenburg is situated, + and procured a pilot, who took us through a narrow, winding channel among + the rocks, into a snug haven surrounded by barren islets, and brought the + brig to anchor. + </p> + <p> + Here we were obliged to remain until visited the next morning by the + health officer; for the quarantine regulations of Sweden, although not so + vexatious and absurd as in many other ports of Europe, were nevertheless + very strict. A case of plague or yellow fever was never known in + Gottenburg, or in any other port in Sweden, yet it was the universal + belief among medical men that both diseases were contagious, and could be + imported in ships from the Mediterranean and the West Indies. Therefore, + an elaborate code of sanitary regulations was established, and precautions + of the most useless, yet annoying character to persons engaged in + commerce, were taken to prevent the introduction of diseases, which could + not exist an hour in that northern climate. + </p> + <p> + The health officer, a grave and dignified personage, with a formidable + posse, was rowed alongside the brig in an eight-oared barge. He asked the + question, "Are you all well on board?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + The crew were summoned to the side of the vessel, and their phizzes + critically examined by the doctor. We were then ordered up the rigging as + high as the tops, to exhibit our activity, and prove that our muscles were + in good working condition. + </p> + <p> + "Where is your roll of equipage?" asked the doctor. + </p> + <p> + This document, containing a list of the crew as shipped in Havana, and + certified at the custom house, after having undergone an unpleasant + process of purification, was passed to the health officer, by the aid of a + pair of tongs with legs of extraordinary length. + </p> + <p> + On counting heads, and comparing the actual number of those who were + anxiously looking over the gunwale with the list of the ship's company, + that vigilant functionary shook his head. One of the number was missing! + An explanation was demanded. Captain Allen was embarrassed. He trumped up + a clumsy story about a bad cold, ill health of long standing, consumption, + etc., but whispered not a syllable of yellow fever. He was a poor hand at + deception; but he might as well have stated the whole truth, for as in all + places abroad where strict quarantine laws are established, if one or more + of the crew is missing, it matters not whether he died of accident or + disease, the health officers take it for granted, and insist upon it in + spite of evidence to the contrary, that he died of plague if the vessel is + from the Mediterranean, or of yellow fever if from a southern American + port or the West Indies. + </p> + <p> + Greatly to the mortification of Captain Allen, and to the loudly expressed + dissatisfaction of the crew, the brig was ordered to remain TEN DAYS IN + QUARANTINE. + </p> + <p> + Nor was this all the trouble and annoyance consequent on the deficiency in + the "roll of equipage." Fumigations in the cabin and the forecastle, of a + character stronger and more disagreeable than Captain Allen ever dreamed + of, were carried on, under the direction of the pilot and a revenue + officer, several times a day. They were attended with a most inodorous + effluvia, and caused such a general concert of sneezing and coughing, by + night as well as by day, that one would have thought influenza, in its + most fearful shape and with giant power, had seized every man by the + throat. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXXVI. SANITARY LAWS—MUTINY AND MURDER + </h2> + <p> + Laws for the preservation of the health of a community have been + established among civilized nations in every age. And when these laws are + based on reason and intelligence, they undoubtedly subserve a noble + purpose. But the quarantine laws all over the world, with some rare + exceptions, being the offspring of ignorance and terror, are not only the + climax of absurdity, but act as an incubus on commerce, causing ruinous + delays in mercantile operations, much distress, and unnecessary expense. + </p> + <p> + The PLAGUE was formerly universally regarded as a contagious disease, and + to prevent the horrors which attend its introduction in large cities, the + most stringent laws have been enacted for ages. But the contagiousness of + the plague is now doubted by many enlightened physicians. Whether it be so + or not, it never made its appearance in countries bordering on the North + Sea or the Baltic, or on the American continent. Although many vessels + every year, almost every month, arrive in our principal ports from the + Levant, freighted with rags and other articles, constituting a medium + through which this disease, if contagious, would surely be propagated, yet + this dreadful scourge of cities, in ancient and modern times, has never + been brought across the Atlantic. + </p> + <p> + The small pox is another disease against the introduction of which + quarantine laws have been established. That it is contagious there is no + question; but by the blessed discovery of vaccination, this disease, once + so dreadful, is robbed of its horrors, and rendered as harmless as the + measles or the whooping cough, insomuch that laws, formerly enacted in + different states to protect the people from the dangers of the small pox + have generally been repealed. + </p> + <p> + The Asiatic cholera, when it first made its appearance in Europe, was + believed to be contagious. Quarantine laws, of the most stringent + character, were adopted to prevent its introduction into seaports, and + military CORDONS SANITAIRE were drawn around the frontiers of nations to + shut it out of villages and towns, until it was ascertained to be an + epidemic disease, the germs of which were in the atmosphere, and could no + more be controlled than the winds which sweep the earth. + </p> + <p> + The YELLOW FEVER, however, has for many years been the most terrible + bugbear, and to prevent its introduction into the seaports of Europe and + the United States has been the chief end and aim of the absurd and + ridiculous quarantine regulations to which I have referred. It has never + been regarded as contagious by well-informed men in countries where it is + most prevalent, and now, in spite of long-existing and deeply-stamped + prejudices, it is generally admitted, by enlightened physicians, that the + YELLOW FEVER IS NOT CONTAGIOUS. NOT A SINGLE WELL-ESTABLISHED FACT CAN BE + ADDUCED TO SHOW THE CONTAGIOUS CHARACTER OF THE DISEASE, OR THAT IT CAN BE + CONVEYED IN CARGOES OF ANY DESCRIPTION FROM ONE COUNTRY TO ANOTHER. + </p> + <p> + Persons in good health may leave a port where yellow fever prevails, and + carry within them the seeds of the disease, and on arriving at another + port several days afterwards, or on the passage thither, may be attacked + with the disease in its most appalling character, and die; BUT THE DISEASE + IS NOT COMMUNICATED TO OTHERS. Indeed, the yellow fever is not so + INFECTIOUS as the typhus or scarlet fever, which prevails every season in + northern climes. + </p> + <p> + When the yellow fever broke out in New York, and caused much alarm, nearly + forty years ago, the first cases occurred in the vicinity of Trinity + Church, and until destroyed by a black frost, it spread gradually in every + direction from this common centre, insomuch that the "infected district" + was clearly defined and marked out from day to day. Persons, who had been + in the "infected district," and left it for other parts of the country, + were subsequently attacked by this disease hundreds of miles from New + York, and died; but not a single instance occurred in which it was + communicated to others. And so in the West Indies: the yellow fever + sometimes rages fearfully in one city or town, while in another, on the + same island, not a single case exists, although there is a daily and + unobstructed intercourse between the two places. And whenever, owing to + some mysterious agency, it makes its appearance, precautions to prevent + its extension seem useless. It overleaps all barriers, and attacks with + equal severity the inmates of a palace or a filthy hovel, the captain of a + ship in a splendid cabin, surrounded with phials and pills, and Jack in + the forecastle, redolent of tobacco, and destitute of ventilation. + </p> + <p> + The quarantine regulations in Boston formerly partook of the unreasonable + and absurd character, which, to a greater or less extent, has marked these + regulations in all maritime countries. Vessels arriving from certain ports + where yellow fever was supposed to prevail, were not allowed to haul to a + wharf and discharge cargo, or hold any direct personal communication with + the city, until the expiration of twenty-five days after leaving port. + Thus a vessel from the West Indies, having perishable commodities on + board, might reach Boston in twelve days, the vessel and cargo in good + condition, and every man stout and hearty. But it was supposed that yellow + fever might lurk among the crew, or lie concealed among boxes of sugars or + cigars, and, therefore, thirteen additional days were allowed to give it + an opportunity to escape. At the expiration of that time, when the + patience of the men, kept so long in durance vile without the shadow of a + cause, in sight of their homes, was exhausted, and the perishable portion + of the cargo in a most unwholesome state of decomposition, caused by the + delay, the vessel was pronounced pure, in a fit condition to receive + PRATIQUE, and allowed to haul alongside the wharf, receive visitors on + board, and discharge cargo. + </p> + <p> + The reader, inexperienced in the mysteries of sanitary regulations, may + smile at the absurdity of such proceedings, but the system of guarding the + public against the horrors of the yellow fever, adopted by the health + department of Boston, was in those days remarkably judicious and + indulgent, when compared with the regulations in other cities, and which + exist at the present time, not only on the other side of the Atlantic, but + in this country. And, to the credit of Boston, and as an illustration of + the intelligence of her citizens, it should be recorded that this seaport, + the principal one in New England, WAS THE FIRST IN THE CIVILIZED WORLD TO + EXPRESS AN OPINION THAT THE YELLOW FEVER WAS NOT CONTAGIOUS, and to repeal + those ridiculous, useless, and burdensome "quarantine laws," which, + originating in panic terror, have been instituted from time immemorial, to + prevent the introduction of plague and yellow fever, and establish in + their stead sanitary regulations, which are in accordance with the + dictates of common sense. + </p> + <p> + Infectious diseases are sometimes caused by the foul air arising from a + ship's hold, owing to the decomposition of vegetable substances in a hot + climate, or to an accumulation of filth, without ventilation, when crowded + with passengers. The malignant, pestilential disease, caused by inhaling + this noxious atmosphere, often sweeps off portions of the crew and + passengers; and those who visit a ship under such circumstances, and + breathe the poisonous gases, even in a northern latitude, are liable to be + attacked by this fatal disease. But the ordinary quarantine regulations + will afford no protection in such a case. A few weeks' delay in quarantine + after the crew have become acclimated, and fumigations, and sprinklings + with acids in the cabin, until all hands are pickled or smoke-dried, will + not purify the ship's hold, prevent the exhalation of pestilential gases, + and arrest the progress of infection. + </p> + <p> + Then may we not hope that the expensive quarantine establishments, with + sweeping, indiscriminating regulations, founded on prejudice, and + continued through fear and ignorance, a disgrace to this enlightened age, + and a dead weight on commercial enterprise, will soon be abolished? In + their stead let a board of health be instituted, with an office where + business can be transacted at all hours. Let the master of every vessel + which arrives in port, and on board of which deaths have occurred during + the passage, report the same at the health office, that judicious + measures, such as are adapted to the particular case, may be resorted to, + in order to protect the community or individuals from inconvenience or + danger when INFECTIOUS diseases exist. + </p> + <p> + Time passes slowly in quarantine. The officers of a ship are generally + taciturn, surly, and exacting; and the crew are unhappy, discontented, + disposed to grumble, and ready to quarrel and fight on the most trivial + occasions, and often without any occasion whatever. At the expiration of + ten protracted days after we let go our anchor in the outer harbor of + Gottenburg, we were again honored with a visit from the health officer. + The crew manifested their vigorous physical condition by another clamber + up the rigging. The officer came on board, shook hands with the captain, + and congratulated him on being released from quarantine. The pilot took + charge of the vessel, the men were ordered to man the windlass, which + order was obeyed with alacrity. Faces diminished in longitude, and were + lighted up with smiles. The anchor song of "Yeo, Heave O," never sounded + more musical or inspiring than on that occasion. Sail was made on the brig + with magical dexterity, and the crew were in fine spirits, jocund, and + happy, as we thridded the channel extending some ten miles to the city, + looked with surprise upon the innumerable barren rocks and islets + scattered around, and entering the strait, surveyed with increasing + interest and pleasure cultivated fields, and neat-looking dwelling houses, + and men, women, and children, busily engaged in their customary + occupations. We felt that we were in the world once more. + </p> + <p> + Gottenburg is a large and populous city, situated on a plain near the + extremity of the fiord, about thirteen miles from the Cattegat, but almost + encircled by steep and craggy rocks, hills, and a bold and picturesque + scenery, with a fine harbor, the entrance to which is easily defended; it + is conveniently located for the foreign trade of Sweden, and next to + Stockholm, has the most extensive commerce of any port in the kingdom. Its + exports consist chiefly of iron and steel, brought from rich mines nearly + two hundred miles in the interior, by a well-perfected system of inland + navigation. We lay some weeks at anchor in the upper harbor, and I had + abundant opportunities to visit the city, mark its peculiarities and note + the character of its inhabitants, who, in Gottenburg and vicinity, as in + other parts of the kingdom, are simple and industrious in their habits, + and civil and hospitable to strangers. + </p> + <p> + After our cargo was discharged and a sufficient quantity of iron taken on + board for ballast, the American consul informed Captain Allen that he had + a prisoner under his charge, accused of a capital crime, whom it was + necessary to send to the United States for trial, and that the brig Joseph + had been selected for the honor of conveying the criminal across the + ocean. The captain did not appear flattered by this mark of confidence on + the part of the consul; he ventured a weak remonstrance, but finally + submitted with a good grace. Preparations were accordingly made for the + reception of the prisoner, who had made one of the crew of the large + clipper schooner Plattsburg, on board which vessel mutiny, piracy, and + murder had been committed. + </p> + <p> + The Plattsburg sailed from Baltimore about the 1st of July, 1816, bound on + a voyage to Smyrna, in the Mediterranean, with a cargo of coffee, and + $42,000 in specie. The schooner was commanded by William Hackett; the name + of the chief mate was Frederick Yeizer, the second mate was Stephen B. + Onion, and Thomas Baynard was the supercargo. The crew consisted of six + persons, all of whom were foreigners, and among them were some desperate, + hardened ruffians, who had learned lessons in villany on board Patriot + privateers, some of which, under no legal restraint, and responsible to no + government, were little better than pirates. The names of these men were + John Williams a Canadian, Peter Rog a Dane, Francis Frederick a Spaniard, + Miles Petersen a Swede, William Stromer a Prussian, and Nathaniel White an + Englishman. + </p> + <p> + Before the Plattsburg had passed Cape Henry symptoms of insubordination + appeared among the crew. One of the men, named John Williams, was + particularly insolent and troublesome, and was chastised by the captain, + after which the voyage was quietly pursued, and the crew were obedient and + apparently contented. But beneath this apparent calm a terrible storm was + brewing. A fiendish plan was devised by Williams and Stromer, and agreed + to by the rest, to murder the officers and get possession of the money, + which they knew was on board. They first determined to poison the captain, + supercargo, and mates, but owing to some failure in their calculations, + this plan was abandoned. When off the Western Islands, it was determined, + after some discussion to seize on the officers while they were taking an + observation of the sun at meridian, and, following the example of the + mutineers of the Bounty, compel them to embark in the long-boat, and run + their chance of reaching the shore. Williams and Stromer provided + themselves with cords in order to bind the captain, and also with weapons + to knock him on the head if he should resist; but when the time for action + arrived, the hearts of their associates failed them, and the project was + abandoned. + </p> + <p> + Williams reproached his shipmates for their cowardice. They were not + lacking in rascality, but they wanted nerve to carry into effect the + desperate design of taking possession of the schooner. Another + consultation was held, and it was concluded that the SAFEST proceeding + would be to massacre the officers before they could have an opportunity to + make resistance. This plan was resolved upon, and all the details were + carefully arranged, and every man had his part assigned him in the fearful + tragedy which was about to be enacted. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly about midnight, on the 24th of July, being then but little + more than a hundred miles to the westward of the Straits of Gibraltar, a + loud cry was heard from the forecastle, of "Sail, ho! Right ahead!" + </p> + <p> + Mr. Yeizer, the mate, rushed forward to obtain a view of the vessel, and + on stepping forward of the windlass, was felled to the deck by a murderous + blow from a handspike in the hands of one of the mutineers. His body was + instantly seized upon and thrown overboard. The second mate, who had just + been called, hearing the cry of "a sail," hastened on deck and was going + forward, when he was struck a violent blow, and grappled by Williams, who + exclaimed, "Here is one of the rascals! Overboard with him!" But the + captain, alarmed by the cries and trampling on deck, now made his + appearance, and Williams released his grasp on Onion and attacked the + captain, who, unsuspicious of any mutinous intentions, was unarmed. He was + summarily disposed of, being brained by a handspike or heaver, and thrown + into the sea. Onion, greatly terrified, escaped down the companion-way, + and concealed himself in the bread locker. + </p> + <p> + The mutineers now called upon Mr. Baynard, the supercargo, to show himself + on deck. He hesitated, but on being assured that no harm was intended, and + threatened with instant death if he did not make his appearance at once, + he passed up the companion-way, and while conversing with Williams, was + mercilessly murdered by Stromer and Rog. + </p> + <p> + Three of the pirates now entered the cabin in search of the second mate, + and the question was raised whether his life should be spared. After some + debate it was determined that he should not be killed, provided he would + take an oath to be faithful to their interests and aid them in their + future proceedings. Onion, on hearing the decision, came out of his + hiding-place, took the prescribed oath of fidelity, and was admitted a + member of the fraternity. As some proper organization for the management + of the vessel was considered necessary, Stromer was chosen captain, + Williams's chief mate, and Onion retained his position as second mate. + </p> + <p> + On the morning succeeding this terrible crime, the specie was taken from + "the run" beneath the cabin and brought on deck. Each man including Onion + and Samberson, the cook, who took no part in the outrage received a share + of the money, which was measured out in hats and tin pots, a single share + amounting to about five thousand dollars. + </p> + <p> + And now the important question arose to what part of the world should they + direct their course, in order to sell the vessel and cargo and make their + escape with their ill-gotten booty; for they knew the deed would soon be + known and the avengers of blood be upon their heels. They, finally, + concluded to shape their course to the northward, and enter some obscure + port in Norway, where no very strict inquisition would probably be made + into the character of the vessel of their intentions, and from which place + they could easily find means of proceeding to other parts of Europe. + Onion, who was a skilful penman, was directed to manufacture some new + invoices of cargo and alter other papers in such a manner as to deceive, + for a time at least, the revenue authorities of such port as they might + enter; and Williams altered the ship's log-book to correspond with the + story they had agreed upon. + </p> + <p> + They arrived at Cleveland, a small port in Norway, about the middle of + August, and conducted their affairs in such a way as to give no cause for + supposing anything was wrong, But when Stromer expressed a desire to sell + the vessel and cargo, without being particular in regard to the price, + suspicions were excited that all was not right; and those suspicions were + strengthened by some careless remarks of Frederick and Rog after they had + been drinking freely. The schooner was accordingly seized and taken + possession of by the proper authorities, and brought round to another + wharf, where an investigation took place. This of course alarmed the + guilty crew, and before their iniquity was discovered, each man took his + share of money so dearly earned, and in all haste left the shores of + Norway. + </p> + <p> + Williams, Onion, Rog, Frederick, and Samberson embarked in a sloop for + Copenhagen, where they landed in fine spirits; and under the direction of + Frederick, who was a native of that city, undertook to open a store, and + with this object purchased a variety of goods. But it was not long before + some circumstances drew upon them the attention of the police. They were + arrested, and Samberson exposed the whole horrible transaction. These men + were thrown into prison, and intelligence of their arrest was sent to the + American government; but more than two years expired before they were + brought to this country in the United States ship Hornet. + </p> + <p> + Stromer and White went off together; and Stromer probably proceeded to + Prussia with his share of the money. He was never discovered by the + satellites of justice; but White was subsequently arrested and brought to + trial. Petersen, who was a native of Gottenberg, returned directly to his + home. He had parents in that city of respectable standing, besides + brothers and sisters. He told his relatives an ingenious tale to account + for his prosperous condition, but he was speedily tracked by the officers + of justice, and one day while enjoying himself with his friends, and + lavishly spending his money, he was arrested for the dreadful crimes of + piracy and murder, and thrown into a dungeon, where he remained heavily + ironed for nearly twelve months, when he was transferred to the brig + Joseph for conveyance to the United States. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXXVII. RETURN OF THE WANDERER + </h2> + <p> + We sailed from Gottenburg one morning about the first of September, 1817, + bound to Boston. Having been long absent from my home without intercourse + of any description with my friends and relations, and having seen during + that period striking exemplifications of the caprices of fortune, having + experienced "many ups and downs," the downs, however, being decidedly in + the majority, I felt a strong desire, a yearning, to return once more to + my friends in New England. I was convinced there were worse places in the + world than my own dear native land, and far worse people than those among + whom my lot had been cast in childhood. + </p> + <p> + It was on a Saturday we sailed from Gottenburg. It had been Captain + Allen's intention to sail on the previous Thursday, but he was + unexpectedly detained. On Friday morning all the arrangements were + completed; the brig was ready for sea, the wind was fresh and fair, but + not a step was taken towards getting under weigh. Indeed our worthy + captain plumply told Mr. Bowen that NO CONSIDERATION COULD INDUCE HIM TO + GO TO SEA ON A FRIDAY! The crew, one and all, as well as the mate, were + amused at this exhibition of weakness, which did not increase the respect + for his character; for ALL sailors are not superstitious, although they + are proverbially regarded as such. + </p> + <p> + Petersen, the prisoner, who was brought on board in irons, bore no + resemblance in personal appearance to the ferocious, ill-looking, + big-whiskered ruffian, whose image is conjured up by the mention of the + word "pirate." On the contrary he was a gentle-looking youth, only + nineteen years of age, of a slight figure, pale complexion, and a + pleasant, prepossessing countenance. He spoke English fluently, and by his + conduct, intelligence, and plausible representations, soon won the favor + of every man on board. He declared that he did not participate in the + mutiny; that it was planned without his knowledge; that when the murders + were committed he was asleep in the forecastle, and fear for his own life + induced him to accept a share of the money and endeavor to conceal the + crime. + </p> + <p> + His story was believed by Captain Allen and others, and he was relieved + from his handcuffs every morning, and allowed to leave his quarters in the + half-deck and range the vessel, mix with the sailors and assist in the + performance of the various duties; and he showed himself an active, + obedient, and intelligent seaman. He often expressed a wish that his trial + should take place; he was confident of an acquittal, and longed to be once + more at liberty. + </p> + <p> + I may as well state here that the trial of the mutineers of the + Plattsburg, viz., Williams, Rog, Frederick, Petersen, and White took place + on the 28th of December, 1818, before the U.S. Circuit Court, in session + at Boston, Justice Story presiding. They were defended by able counsel, + but convicted on circumstantial evidence, corroborated by the direct + testimony of Samberson and Onion. It appeared on the trial that the mild + and amiable-looking Petersen was one of the most forward and active of the + mutineers. It was he who gave the signal for action by crying "Sail, ho!" + and he subsequently assisted in throwing overboard the mate and murdering + the captain. + </p> + <p> + The execution of these pirates was appointed for the 21st of January, + 1819, but on the ground that the time between the sentence and execution, + twenty-four days, was too short to allow the criminals to make their peace + with God, a respite was granted until the 18th of February. On that day + they were placed in a wagon, and a procession was formed of an imposing + character, which, after passing through Court Street, State Street, India + Street, and Milk Street to the Main street, now Washington street, + proceeded to "the town land on boston Neck," where the execution took + place in presence of twenty thousand people. + </p> + <p> + These men died a terrible death, in a strange land, far from their homes + and kindred. Although such number witnessed the execution, few sympathized + with them in their sufferings, for all acknowledged that their sentence + was just. Their execution, doubtless, acted as an impressive warning to + others, and restrained desperate ruffians from the commission of desperate + deeds. + </p> + <p> + In all ages, crimes of a dark dye when committed on the ocean, have been + regarded as exhibiting a more depraved character in the criminal than + crimes of a similar description committed on the land. At sea there are no + constables or police officers, no magistrates or good citizens ready and + willing to aid in preserving the peace of society, protecting life and + property when endangered, and in arresting a rogue or murderer. For this + reason laws relating to mutiny, piracy, and murder on the seas are + punishable with death. In many atrocious cases it is difficult, perhaps + impossible, to obtain proof sufficient to convict the offender; but + whenever a violator of those laws, whether a principal or accessory, is + arrested, tried, and convicted, THE PUNISHMENT SHOULD BE SURE TO FOLLOW. + The certainty of punishment is a mighty preventive to crime. The impulses + of that false philanthropy which seems to flourish in the present age, can + never be more injuriously indulged than by persevering and unscrupulous + efforts to influence the press and rouse public opinion in favor of + setting aside the verdict of a jury, and snatching a red-handed murderer + on the high seas from the gallows. + </p> + <p> + Nothing particularly remarkable occurred during our passage home. It was + in the season of the year when severe gales are met with on the Atlantic, + but the brig Joseph proved a good sea boat, tight as a drum, and could lie + to or scud without danger of being overwhelmed by the combing waves. On + this passage a little incident occurred off the Orkney Islands, that will + convey some idea of the dangers to which those are subjected whose home is + on the ocean. + </p> + <p> + We were lying to in a gale. The wind blew fiercely in flaws, and there was + a high and turbulent sea running. The brig was at times uneasy, and in the + pauses of the gale rolled heavily to windward as well as to leeward. + Orders were given to send down the fore-top-gallant mast. I hastened with + alacrity aloft for that purpose, and had reached the cross-trees, when in + a lull of the tempest, the brig, lying in the trough of the sea, lurched + fearfully to windward. I grasped firmly one of the top-gallant shrouds + above the cross-trees, but the rope being old and decayed, parted in the + horn of the cross-trees BENEATH MY HANDS. + </p> + <p> + I clung, with a desperate grasp, to the rope, but was thrown out with a + jerk in an angle of forty-five degrees with the horizon, and when the brig + suddenly righted I attained for a few seconds a horizontal position, and + to an observer on deck must have looked not unlike a spread eagle burgee + at half-mast. If I had relinquished my grasp at that moment I should have + been thrown into the sea some thirty feet from the vessel's side, and a + full period would have been put to the adventures of Hawser Martingale. + But, notwithstanding the muscles of my arms were severely wrenched, I was + fortunately able to retain my grasp. The next moment the action of + gravitation, together with the roll to leeward, threw me back with + terrific force against the topmast rigging, which I eagerly seized, and + then rejoicing at my lucky escape from a great danger, and regardless of + the bruises I had received, I went on with my work. + </p> + <p> + On the passage homeward I often indulged in reflections in regard to my + future position in life; and while walking the deck at night loved to let + my fancy roam and picture castles in the air, which, I fondly hoped, might + at some future day be actually constructed. My highest ambition was to + gain, as rapidly as possible, a thorough knowledge of my business, procure + the command of a good ship, and by my own labors, acquire a competence + before age should weaken the faculties or diminish a relish for society; + and then, residing in my own house with a small piece of land attached + which I could cultivate with my own hands, and within a few miles of the + metropolis of New England, surrounded by a pleasant neighborhood, and + enjoying domestic happiness in all its purity, gently sail down the stream + of life. + </p> + <p> + This was not an extravagant dream. Yet the chances were at times terribly + against its fulfilment. But I never despaired, and fully believed that if + Providence should grant me life and continued health, THE CASTLE WOULD BE + BUILT. In the darkest hours I kept a bright lookout ahead, far ahead for + the cheerful and safe harbor which imagination had so often portrayed. And + the dream has been realized almost precisely as it appeared to me in my + youthful days; and I have enjoyed for many years, in the retirement which + my fancy painted, as much happiness as usually falls to the lot of man in + this checkered life, with a strong hope, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "When the brief voyage in safety is o'er, + To meet with loved friends on the far distant shore." +</pre> + <p> + About forty days after leaving Gottenburg we reached the Grand Bank of + Newfoundland, and crossed it in latitude of forty-four degrees. We fell in + with many fishing vessels riding at anchor in thirty fathoms of water, the + hardy crews of which, rigged out in their "boots and barvels," were busily + engaged in their useful but arduous occupation. When on the centre of the + bank, the fog which had previously obscured objects at a distance, was + suddenly swept away, and we counted from the deck seventy-four schooners + at anchor, besides several which were under sail. + </p> + <p> + The Bank of Newfoundland is of enormous extent, reaching some two hundred + and fifty miles into the Atlantic, from the southern part of Newfoundland + and islands in that vicinity. Its southern extremity is in about forty-two + degrees of latitude, and fifty degrees west longitude from Greenwich. The + depth of water varies from twenty-five to fifty fathoms. The Bank is in + the direct track of vessels bound to and from Europe, and many sad + disasters have occurred to the fishermen, while lying at anchor in rough + weather in a dense fog. In some instances they have been run down, crushed + to fragments, by large ships under full sail, and every one of the crew + has perished. + </p> + <p> + The fish on this Bank are chiefly cod, and have been taken in incredible + numbers by the crews of vessels built and fitted out for this purpose, for + more than two hundred years; and in times past this fishery has proved a + certain source of income, and sometimes of wealth, to bold and + enterprising men. But for a number of years this business has not been so + profitable as formerly, and not so many vessels have been employed. It has + been intimated by evil-disposed persons that the capital stock of the Bank + is getting reduced, and that it will ere long fail to make discounts or + pay dividends. But such rumors are the offspring of calumny; the Bank is + undoubtedly sound, has a solid bottom, and its treasures and resources are + inexhaustible. + </p> + <p> + The fishermen of the Grand Bank, in "days lang syne," belonged chiefly to + Marblehead and Cape Ann. They were a bold, hardy, sinewy set of men, + inured to fatigue and reckless of danger, cheerful in their dispositions, + impatient under restraint, fond of what they considered good living, ready + with a joke or yarn on all occasions, and not a little inclined to + superstition. Indeed the fishing vessels on the Bank, if we are to credit + the tales told years ago, were often favored by the presence of death + warnings, mysterious noises, ghosts, and apparitions. Sounds were heard + and sights seen on board fishing vessels on the Bank, which filled the + stoutest hearts with fear and wonder, and would even astonish the most + inveterate spiritualist of the present day. + </p> + <p> + On shore the fishermen were a jolly set of fellows, social in their + dispositions, not given to vicious indulgences, but somewhat careless of + their earnings, regarding their resources as inexhaustible as "the fish in + the sea." They married early, made kind and affectionate husbands, and + were, in almost every case, blessed with a numerous offspring; indeed, + Marblehead fishermen of sixty years of age would remind a person of the + Bible patriarchs for the number of their descendants. Their wives, fresh, + blooming, spirited, and good-humored, were grandmothers at six and thirty, + great grandmothers at fifty-four, and great great grandmothers at the age + of seventy-four! + </p> + <p> + The fishermen were patriotic, too. They were dear lovers of their country + and its institutions, and prided themselves on their attachment to + democracy. In the war of the revolution the citizens of Marblehead and + Gloucester, and Cape Cod, no longer able to pursue their accustomed + vocations, joined the armies which fought for freedom, and rendered + important services on the land as well as on the ocean. In the latest, + and, we trust, THE LAST, war with Great Britain, they came forward almost + to a man, to assist in manning our frigates and privateers; and no class + of men rendered better services, or could be more confidently relied on + when deeds of daring were to be performed, than the whole-hearted and + hard-handed fishermen of Massachusetts Bay. + </p> + <p> + As a nursery for seamen for our merchant ships in time of peace, the + fishing business has proved of immense advantage to the country, and that + policy may justly be regarded as suicidal on the part of the national + government which would throw barriers in the way of its success. + </p> + <p> + To those who are familiar with the extent and geographical position of the + Grand Bank of Newfoundland, it may seem surprising, perhaps incredible, + that fishing vessels have been known to seek for it, day after day, in + vain. Yet that such occurrences have taken place in "olden times" is an + established fact. But to the honor of our fishermen it may be said that + such blunders in plain navigation have been exceedingly rare, and as much + owing to a free circulation of the fiery liquid, which addles men's + brains, as to sheer ignorance. + </p> + <p> + Many years ago a schooner sailed from Gloucester bound to the Grand Bank, + in charge of a thick dunderhead of a skipper, and a crew of about equal + mental calibre. In putting up the stores the grog was not forgotten. + Indeed it was regarded as a necessary on shipboard, as a shrewd counsellor + in difficulty and danger, a friendly consoler when borne down by + misfortune, and a cheerful companion in prosperity, which could not be too + often embraced. + </p> + <p> + The schooner met with head winds before she reached the meridian of Cape + Sable, and was beating about for several days between Cape Sable and St. + George's Bank. At length the wind hauled to the southward, and the skipper + put the schooner's head to the north-east, and let her run, making a fair + wind of it. On the following day, towards night, he got soundings in + twenty fathoms. "Hallo!" shouted the skipper, "what a lucky fellow I am; I + have hit the broadest and shoalest part of the Bank the first time of + trying! I verily believe I could hit a nun buoy if it was anchored in any + part of the ocean. But never mind, boys, let us freshen the nip; we'll + stand well on to the Bank, then let go the kellock, and haul up the cod!" + </p> + <p> + He stood on for a couple of hours, when greatly to his mortification and + amazement, he found his schooner floundering and thumping on a sand bank. + She soon knocked a hole in her bottom, and the crew with great difficulty + made their escape to land, which was not far off. Even then the skipper + was disposed to believe ha had found an island on the Bank which had never + before been discovered; and it was hard work to convince him that he was + cast away on the Isle of Sable! + </p> + <p> + Another case is said to have occurred of clumsy navigation on the part of + one of our Marblehead skippers. The tale is traditionary, but no less + authentic on that account. + </p> + <p> + The fishing schooner Codhook was ready for a trip to the Grand Bank for a + cargo of the deposits, when the skipper, a faithful, skilful, hardy old + fisherman, as is the case with most of this valuable class of men, was + taken sick, and compelled reluctantly to relinquish the voyage. It became + necessary to find a skipper, and as it was a busy season, it was not an + easy matter to procure the right kind of a man. After a time, however, it + was concluded that nothing better could be done than to appoint old Jonas + Hardhead skipper for this single trip. + </p> + <p> + Jonas, or "Uncle Jonas," as he was familiarly called, had been to sea + during the greater part of his life, but for the last few years had been + engaged occasionally in the fishing business; and when he could be kept + sober he was a valuable fisherman, for few could endure more hardship, or + haul up the cod faster than Uncle Jonas. He also boasted of his skill in + navigation, and according to his own story could handle a quadrant or even + a sextant as adroitly as a marlinspike. It was finally settled that he + should act as skipper on this voyage, provided he would promise to keep + sober. Jonas gave the pledge with alacrity, although his feelings seemed + hurt that his sobriety was doubted; he even declared that he was never + otherwise than sober in his life; and was forthwith inducted into office. + </p> + <p> + In order to aid him in keeping his promise to the owners, Uncle Jonas took + with him on board some ten or a dozen bottles of "old Jamaica," a beverage + which he dearly loved; and although he seldom got absolutely drunk when on + shore, it was rarely the case that he went to bed sober. He had no doubt + of his qualifications to perform well his duty as skipper, and was + determined to have a jovial time at all events. + </p> + <p> + He had a quadrant and a Bowditch's Navigator, as well as a chart of the + Atlantic Ocean and of the American coast. But all this machinery was of + little use to Uncle Jonas. Indeed he secretly despised book-learning, + regarding it as a humbug, and relied upon his experience and judgment in + navigating his vessel. He was aware that by steering a course east, or + east half south, and running in that direction for several days, he would + strike the broadside of the Grand Bank, which he expected to know by the + color of the water, the soundings, the many birds, and the fishing vessels + at anchor. He also supposed that when he returned with a glorious fare, a + westerly course would fetch some part of the coast, when he should + certainly fall in with vessels, and easily ascertain the where-away of + Boston Bay, with all of which coast he was familiar. + </p> + <p> + The schooner Codhook left the wharf with a roaring north-wester, and in + order to secure a lucky cruise Uncle Jonas treated himself and his + companions, a jolly set of fellows also, with a stiff glass of grog. He + afterwards drank to a fair wind, to a continuance of the breeze, and + repeated this operation so often, that what little knowledge and judgment + he could boast of when he left the wharf, insensibly oozed away; and for + nearly a week his mental faculties were a great deal below par. In the + meantime the wind blew a fresh breeze from the westward without + intermission, and the old schooner rolled and wallowed along with nearly + all sail set, at a tremendous rate, and actually crossed the Bank on the + fifth day after leaving port. But the weather was foggy, and the eyes of + the skipper were dim. No change was observed in the water, no birds or + fishing vessels were seen. + </p> + <p> + Onward the schooner went, with all sail spread to the wind, like a new + Flying Dutchman, until the seventh day after leaving port, when the wind + began to abate a little and haul to the southward. The horizon was now + clear, and Uncle Jonas began to look out for vessels, and expressed a + decided opinion that he was nearly up with the Bank. The sun went down and + no fishing vessels were seen under sail or at anchor. He was confident + they would be visible on the following day, and in order that his vision + might be clearer, he swallowed a strong potation before he turned in. + </p> + <p> + On the next morning not a vessel of any description was in sight, and the + skipper, confident that the Bank could not be far off, concluded to sound. + The deep-sea lead was thrown, but he got no bottom with ninety fathoms of + line. "Wheugh!" exclaimed Uncle Jonas, "what has become of the Bank?" + </p> + <p> + The wind now blew merrily from the south-west, and merrily sailed the + schooner; Uncle Jonas keeping a sharp look-out for fishing vessels, and + sounding every six hours. Ten days passed away, and he began to be + alarmed, and expressed fears that the Bank had failed, refused payments, + sunk, or cleared out! He continued, however, to consult his Jamaica + friend, and sought its advice and assistance in his perplexity. It is + singular that in times of difficulty and danger, when a clear head is + particularly necessary, men who have charge of property, and the lives of + their fellow-men, are prone to consult the rum bottle, which always + produces an effect precisely the reverse of what is desired. + </p> + <p> + At length, on the twelfth day of the passage, Uncle Jonas, whose patience + was nearly exhausted, saw a large number of gannets and gulls; the water + was remarkably chilly, and seemed to have a tinge of green. "Aha," said + the skipper, "I have got you at last." But he could not see any fishing + vessels, or obtain bottom with ninety fathoms of line. + </p> + <p> + On the following morning, however, much to his gratification, he obtained + soundings in sixty fathoms of water. "There," exclaimed the skipper + triumphantly to his men, "you more than insinuated that I was no + navigator, but I have carried the ship straight to the Grand Bank in fine + style. We will stand on until we get thirty fathoms of water, and then go + to work like men." + </p> + <p> + His companions acknowledged their error, asked pardon for doubting his + infallibility, and promised never again to question his ability to + navigate a vessel to any part of the globe. + </p> + <p> + But, much to the surprise and disappointment of Uncle Jonas, the water did + not shoal, but rather deepened as he kept along to the eastward. He again + became bewildered, and could hardly help admitting that there might be + some mistake in the matter, as he never found such deep water on the Bank + before. He repeatedly swept the horizon with his glass, hoping to conjure + up some vessel, and procure definite information in regard to his + whereabouts. In the afternoon he saw a ship approaching from the eastward, + and his heart was gladdened at the sight. He hauled the schooner on a + wind, hoisted his colors, and prepared to speak the ship. She proved to be + the packet ship James Monroe, Captain Wilkinson, bound from Liverpool to + New York. Uncle Jonas eagerly inquired of the captain of the ship if he + had fallen in with any fishing vessels on his passage. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay," was the reply; "I saw a number of them in the Irish Channel." + </p> + <p> + "Irish Channel!" echoed the skipper, with a howl of agony. "Why, where are + we, my good fellow; do tell us where we are." + </p> + <p> + "We are about thirty-five miles south-south-east of Cape Clear, and on the + Nymph Bank!" + </p> + <p> + Uncle Jonas dashed his trumpet to the deck, and sprang perpendicularly + four feet by actual measurement so true, it is, that astonishment prompts + a man instinctively to extraordinary gymnastic exercises! + </p> + <p> + The skipper was in an awkward dilemma. He had gone across the Atlantic, + with a fair and fresh breeze, safely and expeditiously enough; but he + cherished strong doubts whether his skill in navigation would suffice to + carry him back. He explained the case candidly to Captain Wilkinson, who, + after a hearty laugh at the expense of Uncle Jonas, consented to furnish + him with a navigator. He accordingly put a young man on board the schooner + who was a proficient in the art of navigation an art with which the + commander of a vessel on the ocean should be somewhat familiar. + </p> + <p> + As a preliminary step, the new captain caused the remainder of the + "Jamaica" to be thrown overboard, and every thing else which was akin to + it. Uncle Jonas begged hard to retain it as a solace under trouble; but he + was overruled by the new navigator, and also the crew, all of whom felt + mortified at the result of the trip thus far, and overboard it went. The + head of the schooner was got round to the westward, her sails were trimmed + to the breeze, and the schooner jogged along quietly in the wake of the + ship until the latter was out of sight. + </p> + <p> + In due time, that is, in about thirty-five days after having spoken the + ship James Monroe, for the wind was westerly nearly the whole time, the + schooner Codhook reached the Grand Bank. Neither the navigator nor the + crew would consent to remain there any great length of time indeed, for + various reasons, all were anxious to return to Marblehead. In about a + fortnight afterwards they reached the port from which they started, after + an absence of about two months, having had a glorious cruise, but bringing + home a slender fare. + </p> + <p> + Uncle Jonas was laughed at until the day of his death; but he always + warded off the ridicule by declaring that no fishing schooner had ever + before reached Cape Clear from Massachusetts Bay in fourteen days from + leaving port! + </p> + <p> + We crossed the Grand Bank in the brig Joseph, and proceeded on our way + towards Cape Cod. But meeting with south-west winds after passing the Isle + of Sable, we were forced to the northward on the coast of Nova Scotia. + Here we were enveloped in fogs of a density which seemed appalling. Unable + to obtain a meridian observation of the sun, and swept about by unknown + currents, we were uncertain of our latitude, and more than once came near + wrecking the brig on that dangerous iron-bound shore. + </p> + <p> + After beating to windward a few days, the wind hauled us to the southward + and eastward, the fog towards noon, to a very considerable extent, + dispersed, and Captain Allen obtained a meridian altitude of the sun, the + horizon being as he erroneously thought, well defined. Having thus + determined the latitude to his satisfaction, he ordered the brig to be + steered about west-south-west, which, he supposed, would carry us round + Cape Sable, clear of all danger. + </p> + <p> + This cape is well known as the southern extremity of Nova Scotia, a + dangerous point, on which, notwithstanding the lighthouse on its + extremity, many vessels have been wrecked, and a countless number of lives + have been lost. The fog again gathered around the brig soon after the sun + had passed the meridian, and became so dense that for several hour it was + impossible to perceive any object, even at the distance of twenty yards + from the vessel. But Captain Allen, confident in the correctness of his + latitude by observation, manifested no anxiety, and kept the brig on her + course, without ordering any particular lookout, which, indeed, would + hardly have been of use, or using the lead. + </p> + <p> + There was a steady breeze, and the brig was going through the water at the + rate of six or seven knots, when, just as the shades of evening began to + fall, the thick curtain, which had hitherto surrounded us on every side, + was suddenly lifted. The fog vanished as if at the will of an enchanter; + and, to the consternation of Captain Allen and every person on board, we + discovered craggy ledges of rock rising out of the water directly ahead + and on either side, and not a quarter of a mile off! + </p> + <p> + We were running directly on Cape Sable. It was a narrow escape. The brig + was immediately put round on the other tack, and we clawed off from the + land with all possible speed, shuddering at the idea of the dangers which + in the fog-darkness had surrounded us, and truly grateful for our + preservation. + </p> + <p> + The fogs on our coast are a great impediment in the way of navigation. + They screen from view the lighthouses in the night, and the headlands in + the daytime, and are often the cause of perplexity and dismay even to the + most skilful navigator, and have led to the destruction of thousands of + vessels. The philosopher, who, stimulated by the spirit which led + Professor Espy to attempt to control the storms, change the density of the + atmosphere, and produce rain in times of drought, should succeed in + placing in the hands of the navigator the means of dispelling fogs at will + when navigating a dangerous coast, would indeed be a benefactor to + sailors, and deserve the richest tribute of gratitude. + </p> + <p> + As we approached the shores of Massachusetts, having been six weeks at + sea, every person on board was anxious to obtain a sight of land once + more, notwithstanding our vessel was stanch and strong and our provisions + and water abundant. There is always a pleasant excitement among a ship's + company at the prospect of soon terminating a voyage. We drew towards Cape + Cod, and one night when the soundings indicated that we were not far from + the shore, a good look-out was kept from the topsail yard for the light; + but no light was visible through the night. Soon after daybreak, the + LIGHTHOUSE, right ahead, was plainly seen from the deck with the naked + eye, being not more than five or six miles off. Whether the light had been + allowed to expire through inattention on the part of an unfaithful keeper, + or a thick haze had collected over the land and veiled it from the view of + vessels in the offing, as was suggested by some good-natured individuals, + was never known. + </p> + <p> + All was now bustle and excitement. The land was in sight; the "highlands + of Cape Cod" were plainly visible; the wind was north-east, and every + thing indicated that we should be safely anchored in Boston harbor, or + hauled snugly in, alongside the wharf, before another night. + </p> + <p> + It is pleasant to witness the exuberance of spirits on such an occasion. + Orders were promptly obeyed; every man moved as if he had been suddenly + endued with a double portion of strength and activity; smiles lighted up + every countenance; the joke and the laugh went round, and even Cato, the + philosophic African, as he stood near his camboose and gazed earnestly on + the barren sands, clapped his hands with glee, exhibited a store of ivory + which would have excited the admiration of an elephant. Even the old brig + seemed to participate in the joyousness that pervaded the ship's company, + and glided along smoothly and rapidly, gracefully and merrily, as if + conscious that a quiet haven and a snug resting place were at hand. + </p> + <p> + Passing Race Point we soon came in sight of the "south shore" of + Massachusetts By, the land hallowed by the trials and sufferings of the + Pilgrims. We passed near Cohasset Rocks, dangers, which, it is well known, + have caused the destruction of many a noble ship and in full view of + Boston lighthouse we received a pilot on board. + </p> + <p> + Pilots should be a happy as well as a useful class of men. When a ship + arrives at the entrance of a harbor, after a long passage, the sight of a + pilot carries joy to every heart. He appears truly in the guise of "a + guide, philosopher, and friend," is warmly welcomed, and treated with + kindness and hospitality. The news is eagerly demanded, friends are + inquired for, and the words which fall from his lips are attentively + listened to, carefully noted, and prized as highly as the sayings of the + Delphic oracles. + </p> + <p> + The dome of the State House was soon distinctly seen; a conspicuous + object, which seems to rest lightly upon the countless edifices, a mural + crown upon a kingly city. We thridded the narrows, and off Long Island + Head Captain Allen suddenly recollected he had a prisoner under his + charge. Petersen had been released from durance in the morning as usual, + and light-hearted and joyous, had toiled with the crew, apparently + sympathizing in their feelings. Speaking English fluently, and well + acquainted with the harbor, for he had sailed a voyage out of Boston, it + would have been easy for him to slip quietly over the bow and swim to the + shore, where, it is possible, he might have escaped the fearful punishment + that awaited him for his crimes. But he made no effort to escape, and was + now conducted below by the mate, handcuffed, and confined to his quarters + in the half-deck. + </p> + <p> + We had no sooner anchored off Long Wharf than Captain Allen went ashore, + and in about an hour the United States Marshal, accompanied by a posse + with handcuffs and shackles, came on board and demanded the prisoner. + Petersen was brought on deck and delivered into his hands. But his + countenance had undergone an appalling change within a few hours. He + seemed suddenly to have realized the horrors of his situation. His + features were pale, and his eye seemed glazed with fear as he looked upon + the officers of justice, and, trembling in every limb, was assisted into + the boat. A sense of his guilt, and the terrible consequences, now seemed + to weigh upon his spirits. The penalty exacted by the laws for the crimes + of piracy and murder stared him in the face. + </p> + <p> + We arrived in Boston on the 24th of October, 1817, having been fifty-four + days on our passage from Gottenburg. I had not accumulated treasures + during my wanderings, but I had improved my constitution, acquired a habit + of resignation and cheerfulness which bade defiance to the freaks of + fortune, gained some knowledge of the world, and rejoiced in robust + health, one of the greatest of earthly blessings, and which as often + cheers and enlightens the condition of the poor man, as his more fortunate + fellow-mortal rolling in riches. + </p> + <p> + When paid off, I found myself in possession of means to rig myself out in + decent apparel, and provide myself with other exterior appurtenances of a + gentleman; and also to defray my expenses on a visit to my relations in + New Hampshire, from whom I had so long been separated, and whom I longed + to convince by tangible proofs that I was still in the land of the living. + And thus I returned from my wanderings after an absence of nearly seven + years, during which I had witnessed many eventful scenes, and had studied + the page of human nature in various climes. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding my occasional hard fortune at sea, a seafaring life still + possessed many powerful attractions. I was bound to it by a charm which I + did not attempt to break. Besides, I had put my hand to the plough and I + would not look back. Although I had passed many happy hours in the + forecastle, free from care and responsibility, and associating with men + whose minds, if may be, were uncultivated, but whose heads were well + furnished and whose hearts were in the right place, yet visions of an + important station on "the quarter-deck," at no distant period, were often + conjured up by my imagination; and I resolved that many day should not + pass before I would again brave the perils, share the strange excitement, + and court the joys which accompany life on the sea. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0038" id="link2HCH0038"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + Chapter XXXVIII. THE SEA, AND SAILORS + </h2> + <p> + When we embark on the ocean, we are astonished at its immensity, bounded + only by the horizon, with not a speck of land, a solitary rock, or + landmark of any description, to guide the adventurers cast adrift on its + broad surface, with "water, water, every where;" and when we see its face + agitated by storms, and listen to the thunder of its billows, and reflect + on its uncertain and mysterious character, and on the dangers with which + it has been associated in every age, we wonder at the courage and + enterprise of those early navigators, strangers to science, who dared + embark on the waste of waters in vessels of the frailest construction, to + explore the expanse of ocean and make discovery of, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "New lands, + Rivers and mountains on the spotted globe." +</pre> + <p> + Even familiarity with the sea, which has become the great highway of + nations, does not diminish its sublimity, its wild beauties, its grandeur, + and the terrible power of its wrath. + </p> + <p> + The immensity of the sea, notwithstanding its surface has been traversed + and measured by thousands of voyagers for centuries, fills the + contemplative mind with awe, as a wonderful creation of Almighty Power. + One can hardly realize its vast extent from figures and calculations, + without sailing over its surface and witnessing its immensity, as day + after day passes away, the cry being still "onward, onward!" and the view + bounded on every side by the distant horizon. + </p> + <p> + On gazing down into its depths, when not a breath of wind sweeps over its + surface, when its face is like a polished mirror, we find the water almost + as transparent as the air we breathe, yet the keenest optics can penetrate + but a few fathoms below the surface. The movements, the operations + instinct with life, that are constantly taking place in that body of + water, and the mighty changes which are going on in the vast tract of + earth on which it reposes, are invisible to mortal eye. + </p> + <p> + Within a few years, the progress of scientific knowledge has enabled man + to measure the depths of the ocean, which were formerly believed to be as + unfathomable as boundless in extent. From soundings which have been taken, + it is ascertained that the configuration of the earth at the bottom of the + sea, is similar to that portion which rises above the surface, undulating, + and interspersed with hills, and valleys, and plains, and mountain ranges, + and abrupt precipices. The greatest depth of water at which soundings have + been obtained, being between five and six miles, is deeper than the + altitude of the highest mountain of which we have knowledge; and there may + be cavities of far greater depth. Geological researches prove that at an + early period of the history of the earth its surface was vastly more + irregular than at the present time. Not only the mountains on the earth + were higher, but the deepest valleys of ocean were far deeper. + Disintegrations caused by exposure to water or the atmosphere, and + abrasions from causes with which we may not be familiar, have lowered the + mountain tops, and created deposits which raise the plains and fill the + deepest chasms. And here geologists find the origin of the earliest + formation of stratified rocks. + </p> + <p> + Men have striven in vain to develop the secrets which lie hidden in the + sea. Imagination has been at work for ages, and in some cases has pictured + the bottom of ocean as a sort of marine paradise, a nautical Eden, with + charming grottoes, spacious gardens, coral forests, ridges of golden + sands, and heaps of precious gems; and abounding in inhabitants with fairy + forms, angelic features, and other attributes corresponding with the + favored region in which they flourish, who sometimes rise to the surface + of ocean, and seated on the craggy rocks, sing sweet ballads to charm away + the life of the unwary mariner. Leyden, a Scottish poet, imagines one of + these charming denizens of the deep to describe, in the following poetic + language, the attractions of this submarine world: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "How sweet, when billows heave their head, + And shake their arrowy crests on high, + Serene, in Ocean's sapphire bed, + Beneath the trembling surge to lie! + + "To trace with tranquil step the deep, + Where pearly drops of frozen dew, + In concave shells, unconscious sleep, + Or shine with lustre, silvery blue. + + "Then shall the summer's sun from far + Pour through the waves a softer ray, + While diamonds, in a bower of spar, + At eve shall shed a brighter day." +</pre> + <p> + Others, however, with fancies equally vigorous, but less ornate or + refined, give us different sketches of the doings in Neptune's dominions. + They picture the bottom of ocean as un uninviting spot, replete with + objects calculated to chill the blood and sadden the heart of man; + inhabited by beings of a character rather repulsive than prepossessing, as + salt-water satyrs, krakens, polypuses, and marine monsters of frightful + aspects and hideous habits; glimpses of which are occasionally seen by + favored inhabitants of these upper regions, sometimes in the shape of + monstrous sea-serpents, with flowing manes and goggle eyes, lashing with + their tails the astonished waters of Massachusetts Bay. + </p> + <p> + In "Clarence's Dream: we find Shakespeare's idea of the sights exhibited + far down beneath the ocean waves: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Methought I saw a thousand fearful wrecks; + A thousand men that fishes gnawed upon; + Wedges of gold, great anchors, heaps of pearl; + Inestimable stones, unvalued jewels; + All scattered in the bottom of the sea. + Some lay in dead men's skulls!" +</pre> + <p> + Although man can fathom the depths of the sea, and may by scientific + experiments, conducted with immense labor and expense, succeed in mapping + out the great ocean basins, and obtaining an accurate idea of the + configuration of that part of the earth which lies beneath the waters, yet + the true character of the scenery, vegetation, and inhabitants of that + region must remain unknown until some new philosophical and mechanical + principles shall be discovered to pave the way to a system of submarine + navigation, and the enterprise confided to some daring Yankee, with the + promise of an exclusive patent right to its use for a century to come. + </p> + <p> + In the mean time we may rest assured that no valuable gems or lumps of + gold have yet been brought up by the plummet. Indeed, so far as is shown + by the soundings, the bottom of the ocean is covered with microscopic + shells, so wonderfully minute that thousands may be counted on the surface + of a single square inch. We know also that the bed of ocean, for at least + four hundred years, has served as a repository, a burial-place, not only + for earth's choicest productions and myriads of human beings, gone to the + bottom in sunken ships, but for disappointed hopes, false calculations, + and sanguine schemes for the realization of fortune and honor. + </p> + <p> + The immensity, the majesty, and the wonders of the sea are manifest, and + acknowledged by all. But what can surpass its beauty when in repose! What + scene can be more sublimely beautiful than the sea when gazed upon from + the mast-head of a ship, gliding along as if impelled by the breath of a + fairy! Every thing in the vicinity, as well as the vast expanse stretching + out on every side, is calculated to inspire confidence, invite security, + and give complete reliance on its gentle and pacific character. While + enjoying the delightful scene, the passions are hushed. The sea seems the + blest abode of tranquillity. We are alive only to its beauty, its grace, + its magnitude, its power to interest and charm, to benefit mankind and + beautify the world. + </p> + <p> + And how calmly beautiful is the close of day! What nameless charms cluster + around a sunset at sea! The heavens and light clouds are not clad in + purple and gold; but the western sky is attractive and lovely in the + richness of its sober brilliancy. The sun, with undivided glory, goes down + in the west, sinking gently and gradually beneath the well-defined + horizon, like the spirit of a good man in the evening of life, departing + for a better world. + </p> + <p> + Night drops her curtain only to change the scene and invest it with holier + attributes. The moon sheds her light on the surface of the ocean. No + sounds break the stillness of the hour as the ship, urged by the favored + breeze, quietly, yet perseveringly, pursues her course, save the murmuring + ripple of the waves, the measured tread of the officer of the watch as he + walks the deck, the low, half-stifled creaking of a block as if impatient + of inactivity, the occasional flap of a sail awakened out of its sleep, + and the stroke of the bell every half hour to mark the lapse of time, + sending its musical, ringing notes far over the water. What a time is this + for study, for contemplation, for enjoyment! The poet Gilfillan, in + describing a lovely night at sea, says, with true poetic warmth and + energy, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Night closed around the ship; no sound + Save of the splashing sea + Was heard. The waters all around + Murmured so pleasantly, + You would have thought the mermaids sung + Down in their coral caves, + So softly and so sweetly rang + The music of the waves!" +</pre> + <p> + Were such scenes always met with at sea, was its surface always smooth, + the winds favorable and the sky unclouded, little resolution or physical + endurance would be required to navigate the ocean; the energies which call + THE SAILOR into life would no longer be necessary; the sea would be + covered with pleasure yachts of the most fanciful description, manned by + exquisites in snow-white gloves, propelled with silken sails, and decked + with streamers, perhaps with flowers, while their broad decks would be + thronged with a gay and happy bevy, of both sexes and every age, bent on + pleasure and eager to enjoy the beauties of the sea. + </p> + <p> + But this attractive spectacle is sometimes changed with magical rapidity! + The scene shifts; and instead of gentle zephyrs and smooth seas, the + elements pour forth all their pent-up wrath on the devoted ship, and + events are conjured into being which rouse into action the noblest + faculties of man. If the records of the sea were truly kept, they would + tell of hurricanes, shipwrecks, sufferings, and perils too numerous and + appalling to be imagined, to struggle successfully against which demands + those manifestations of courage and energy, that, when witnessed on the + land, elicit the admiration of mankind. These chronicles, if faithfully + kept, would tell of desperate encounters, of piracies where whole crews + were massacred, of dark deeds of cruelty and oppression, of pestilence on + shipboard, without medical aid and with no Florence Nightingale to soothe + the pains and whisper comfort and peace to the dying! + </p> + <p> + And what may be said of the mariners, the life-long actors on this + strange, eventful theatre, the sea, who perform their unwritten and + unrecorded parts, face danger and death in every shape, and are heard and + seen no more? Is it remarkable that, estranged from the enjoyments which + cluster around the most humble fireside, and familiar with scenes + differing so widely from those met with on the land, they should acquire + habits peculiar to themselves and form a character of their own? + </p> + <p> + The failings of this isolated class of men are well known; a catalogue of + their imperfections is scattered abroad by every wind that blows; they are + acknowledged, even by themselves, and enlarged upon and exaggerated by + those who know them not. True are the words of the poet, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Men's evil manners live in brass; + Their virtues we write in water." +</pre> + <p> + Those who are familiar with a seafaring life, and have had opportunities + for analyzing the character of the sailor, know that it possesses many + brilliant spots as well as blemishes, and that it would be cruel and + unjust on the part of those more favored with the smiles of fortune, to + steel their hearts against sympathy for his sufferings, or respect for his + intrinsic worth. + </p> + <p> + The sailor is said to be rough and unpolished, as well as addicted to + vices. It is true he is seldom a proficient in classical studies, or + versed in the logic of the schools. But he is conversant with men and + manners in various parts of the globe, and his habits of life, and + opportunities for observation, supply him with a fund of worldly wisdom + and practical knowledge, which qualify him to render good service when + strong hands and bold hearts are in demand on the land as well as on the + sea. It should be remembered, also, that the sailor has few opportunities + of receiving instruction in polite literature, of learning lessons of + moral culture, and of sharing the pleasures and refinements of domestic + life. The many temptations to which he is exposed should also be + remembered, and it will be found that, with his generous heart and noble + spirit, he is far more worthy of confidence and respect than the thousands + we meet with in society, who, in spite of words of warning and the example + of good men, with every inducement to pursue the path of rectitude, + voluntarily embrace a life of dissipation, consume their substance in + riotous living, and become slaves to habits of a degrading character. + </p> + <p> + The same records that tell of stormy passions, profligate habits, + thrilling disasters, and violent deaths on the sea, also chronicle the + manifold deeds of philanthropy, heroism, self-devotion, and patriotism of + those, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Whose march is on the mountain wave, + Whose home is on the deep!" +</pre> + <p> + Of those who, however rough and unpolished, are ever ready to lend a + protecting hand to the weak, to spend their last dollar in encouraging the + unfortunate or relieving distress, and to risk their lives in defence of + the honor of their country, and the flag which waves over their heads. + </p> + <p> + When we look at the hardships, sufferings, and perils of the sailor, with + his few enjoyments and recreations, and consider the services he renders + society, that by his courage and energy we enjoy the countless advantages + of commerce, and that through his means are spread abroad the blessings of + civilization and Christianity, while for HIM "no Sabbath bell awakes the + Sabbath morn," we ought to cherish a sense of gratitude and indulgence for + that class of men "who go down to the sea in ships and do business on the + great waters;" to that class of men to whom we intrust, with confidence, + not only our golden treasures, but our wives and our children, all which + are most dear to us. + </p> + <p> + So far from despising the character and calling of the sailor, and + regarding him with an eye of distrust, let us throw a veil over his + faults, appreciate his virtues, be ready at all times to give him words of + good cheer, and encourage him to keep within his bosom a clear conscience + and an honest heart. Let us not grudge our influence or mite in favor of + measures to elevate his character and promote his comfort while sailing + over the tempestuous sea of life; or in preparing for his reception, + towards the close of the voyage, when broken down with toil and suffering, + a quiet haven, a SNUG HARBOR, where, safely moored, secure from storms and + troubles, he can calmly await the inevitable summons aloft. + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + My task is finished. I have given, in the foregoing pages, a brief, but + strictly truthful, summary of my adventures during a few years of my early + life. It would have been comparatively easy to concoct a series of + incidents far more wild, romantic, and improbable, and, therefore, more + interesting, than any thing contained in this simple narrative. But I have + preferred to give a faithful transcript of events which actually occurred. + </p> + <p> + If the tale of my trials, temptations, resources, and enjoyments will tend + to brighten a passing hour of the indulgent reader, throw light on the + character, habits of life, recreations, and perils of the common sailor; + guard an unsuspecting young man against temptations to vice, and encourage + him to exert all his energies, and boldly press forward in the channel + which leads to usefulness and honor; my labors will not have been in vain, + and I shall never regret having attempted to lift a corner of the curtain, + which has for centuries screened from public view, JACK IN THE FORECASTLE. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The End +</pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's Jack in the Forecastle, by John Sherburne Sleeper + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JACK IN THE FORECASTLE *** + +***** This file should be named 8638-h.htm or 8638-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/8/6/3/8638/ + +Produced by Theresa Armao, and David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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