 CHAPTER XIX NEXT GOES COASTING This was the last trip I made in that craft. From her I joined a neat and pretty schooner, called the General Green, under my old captain, who would always have me if good wages could secure me. For he appeared to think full as well of me in these days, as when we were peddling fish and clams in Connecticut, during my early apprenticeship. We advertised for freight and passengers for New York. In a few days we were loaded and made a safe passage. Took freight back again, and afterwards made several trips to Philadelphia, Charlestown, and Savannah, continuing in a general coast-wise business about three years. On one of these trips we left New York, bound to Philadelphia, with a fresh breeze from the northwest, ran along to the southward with the land in sight, came down within twenty or thirty miles of Cape Ann, and hovered to, heading offshore, thinking we might be handy to the Cape by daylight. At twelve o'clock at night went on deck to take my watch. I had only been on a short time, when a pilot boat was observed working towards us. This I reported to the captain, and asked if I should take a pilot. He replied that it would be best. The boat soon came up, and the pilot hailed to know where we were bound, and if a pilot was wanted. He told him yes. Came on board, gave the course for Cape May, and ordered sail made upon the vessel. I asked him if he knew where we were, and he replied that he knew pretty near, but had not seen the land for a number of days. I told him that at dark we judged ourselves such a distance, naming the number of miles, from the Cape, and thought it most proper not to increase the sail, for fear of getting too far to leeward, without being able to see the land. He said that he knew his business. From running under a foresail only, hoisted the mainsail, and set the jib. She was going a good lick, and the captain remained below, until his watch expired. I told the pilot that it was my humble opinion. He was making trouble for all hands, but he was not to be convinced till daylight dawned, when from aloft I saw we had left Cape May many miles to the windward of us, and informed him of the interesting fact. We had to double reef, fore and aft, hauled sharp on the wind, and beat the live long day. Just at night got so that, with a favouring breeze, we were enabled to run up. This bit of experience only served to strengthen my convictions, that some pilots didn't know any more than they should. While in this craft had frequent opportunities of visiting home, the suits referred to were progressing slowly, being carried from one court to another, but I managed to keep clear up to the present time, believing that in general a great deal more of law is practiced than justice, which was perfectly demonstrated before these pending cases were settled, previous to which settlement I was pressed as a witness in a trial instituted against Mr. Coffin by the captain of our old ship. I was put upon the stand, upon being questioned, told the council, it was but little I knew of the affair, and very much disliked to tell it. Being asked if I thought Mr. Coffin went ashore of his own accord, replied that I thought he did not, that he was ordered to take his things and leave, under penalty of being forced to by a file of soldiers, while Mr. C. protested his helplessness in a foreign country without money. The attorney then asked if Mr. Coffin was really desirous of continuing the voyage. I replied that was my opinion. Was then asked if Mr. C. was a good officer, who, knowing his duty, performed it, etc., to all of which I was obliged to answer in the affirmative, as also many other questions which were replied to with regard to truth, but in as few words calculated to injure the feelings of any as I could place them. There were men who, in giving their evidence, did so with a view to promotion. Thus I did not care for, as I had no axe to grind, no hobby-horse to ride. My wailing was done, but not so with some others. And it was somewhat amusing to hear the individuals, who had been almost starved at times on the voyage, express so fully the great respect they entertained for their old captain, on account of his uniform kindness, and the generous quantity and quality of provisions he had always furnished. The consequence was our evidence didn't exactly correspond. During the cross-questioning I was asked if what I said in regard to Mr. C.'s unwillingness to be discharged was correct, and if I had heard him express himself willing to perform the voyage, and reply, I claimed to be correct, but had not heard him say it in so many words. Now the spectators thought I had a foul anchor, sure. Was asked if I never heard him say so, how did I know what his wishes were? Sir, we often hear, quoted, Silence gives consent. If then he was not willing to go the voyage, why did he object to leaving? At this reply a laugh ran around the courtroom, and I was excused from testifying further. The case was soon after thrown out of court, and though much money had been expended, none but the lawyers received the benefit of it. As the period was near at hand, anticipated in my boyish fancies in being the possessor of a snug and comfortable house of my own, I determined to make a purchase, having previously secured a lot pleasantly situated in the immediate vicinity of the village. The building which I thought would suit our wishes was but partially completed, and at having been attached for debts and offered for sale I applied to the agent, and was told that it could be bought for two hundred dollars. I considered it too much, as the building would have to be removed, and to complete it would require additional expense. I offered one hundred and forty, which was refused. I had let forty dollars to a friend of mine, called upon him, and formed him of my intention to buy, and that the money would be needed in case I did. Finally engaged him to go to the parties who had attached the property, and make the purchase of them, which he very kindly did, buying it, for only one hundred dollars, the residue of which I paid him. Shortly after meeting the agent, he informed me that I had lost a chance of buying a good building cheap. Told me it had been bought, and such a time was allowed for removing it. I told him it was all right, that my lot was all ready for it to be placed upon it. What? said he. Was it bought for you? I replied that it was. Well, you have got it pretty slick after all. A few days after it was placed on the lot. I then shipped on board the sloop five sisters, Thomas Milton Commander, to enter the lumber business. Our vessel lay on the south side of town wharf. A ship was at the end, heading to the south west. The wind was from the southward and westward, and we were getting under way to leave Port. The captain ordered the main sail, which was quite new, to be hoisted. We up with it, headed north west. I asked if he intended getting under way as she lay. He said yes. Well, said I, if you do you will cut a caper. Why? said he. I replied that we should be a fowl of the ship and tear our sail, that we had better run out the kedge and pull by, as the tide was setting down. He said no, and ordered the jib hoisted, and our boughs shoved off with a pole. The current swept us across the ship's boughs, and the jib-boom and all the rigging went through the main sail, splitting it into quarters. We ran out an anchor, which appeared very much like locking the cellar door after the meat-barrels had been emptied. And after some heaving, cleared from the snarl, up jib, and headed out of the harbour. Had a strong, fair wind, and soon went to work repairing the torn sail. We happened to have plenty of needles and twine, but only one palm. By the time we got down to Chatham it was ready to hoist, and favourable winds soon carried us down to Gooseborough, Maine. We went up to the mouth of a river, and let the anchor go. The captain was going on shore, said he shouldn't trouble the vessel much, as he had trading to do, and that when the cargo was taken in, to put on all the help needed, to live well, if it was not on the vessel, to buy it. He was to inform me when the lumber was procured for the cargo. It was my intention to buy what was required to complete my house, which at the going rate would be taken by freight with our load. I went to the mill to make a raft, formed the acquaintance of the proprietor, and finding he was a great lover of sea-yarns, often endeavored to entertain him. Two men assisted me in rafting the lumber. One day the lumberbroker said to me, Come here. I want you to give me some of your good stories. I told him it was two busy times, I must get the raft completed. Said he, Never mind your working, I will turn on a man to do the work. So seated myself, and commenced to do his bidding, and kept it up till the raft was finished. Took the raft down river and loaded it, and in a day or two went after another. I bought some for my own use, and made a small raft of it. Now, said he, While my men work for you, I want some more stories. I told him that I had bought a house, that the lumber marked for myself was to be put into it. But, said I, I see you have any quantity of rough-hues lumber piled around. I want you to give some of it to me, for the course finishing up about the premises. He replied that I could have as much as I desired, and ordered one of his men to get it out for sending down with my raft. I was telling him big stories all the while, when, looking up, perceived a large pile had collected under the industry of his mam, and told him to hold on. Said he, You have not enough yet, you are welcome to all you will take. The pile was increased, when I told him again to stop, for my conscience would not allow me to take all there was in the yard. After getting home, found that I had enough, and some left, beside a pigsty and other outbuildings. The mainsail was repaired in good shape, and re-bent, when we made a start for Gooseboro again, under charge of Mr. A., a gentleman who was to accompany us for the purpose of purchasing lumber for assault works. We had the wind south-west, had passed Chatham, I had the helm, trying to keep along as straight as possible, but it was a hard craft to steer. Half a mile ahead of us was a fishing-pinky at anchor, and the captain proposed running as near as he could, in order to get a fish. I told him he had better take the helm himself, but said he, Do as I bid you, and it will be all right. The captain stood forward with a junk of salt-pork in his hand ready to throw to the fisherman. As he got handy, hailed the only man on deck, the others being at dinner, to throw a cod-fish on board. Getting too near, the captain sung out, Hard to port! The fish struck on deck, and about the same time our vessel struck the pinky aft, taking off all her quarter-boards, unhung the main boom, and completely stripped her as we passed along. By this the crew were out of the forecastle, and not a little cursing and swearing was indulged in them, till we were out of the reach of their voices. As we never met afterwards, the bill of damages has not been presented, but I thought it a foolish experiment, and should not have been attempted, for we had no business so near her. But accidents will happen in the best-regulated families. It was so rugged the quality of the fish was not tested on that day. We had for a passenger old parson-thaxter, whom we were to land at Boston on his way to Hingham. As previous to our arrival, the boy who did the cooking on board was getting breakfast early in the morning. The parson was out, combing his white locks, preparatory to landing, and by some means threw a loose one into the frying-pan, where the boy had his pork and slices frying. It was not observed by him, and the fish was accordingly cooked, and breakfast announced. Mr. Airey and the captain were seated on one side of the table, and myself opposite. I noticed something in the platter did not exactly look like lard or even fish, but said nothing. The captain assisted Mr. A to a good piece, and asked me if I would have some. I replied that as my appetite was poor I should have to decline. He helped himself, and then gave another piece to Mr. A. They thought it very nice. Presently, in attempting to get a little more, the captain hauled out the lock of the old parson's hair, he having a short time before left the vessel. He looked at it, and asked what it was. I replied that it had the appearance of hair. Well, said he, it is not to be wondered that your appetite failed if you had seen it, and they both began to feel rather qualmish in the region of their bread-baskets. Said he, why didn't you tell us? I replied that I didn't wish for them to lose a good breakfast or have the boy punished, so in the hope that it would pass off unnoticed kept still. We continued our voyage down east, loaded quickly, and returned homeward. Had thick, southerly weather for a number of days, sometimes laying our course at others making leeway, and sometimes running to leeward of her course. The vessel loaded by the head the cabin filled with lathes and shingles. We did not see the sun for the passage. One day while at dinner Mr. Ari asked the captain where he calculated to fall in. He told him the highlands of Cape Cod would be site at three o'clock. I couldn't help laughing, our calculations differed so widely. Mr. Ari asked why I laughed, and my reasons were given. Began to sound about one o'clock, still thick, kept sounding, but got no bottom with the scope of line we used. Kept running with a good look out, was now three o'clock, no land in sight, and not any soundings. Captain Milton said he had been mistaken and asked what my reckonings were. I told him at six o'clock we should be up to Cape Ann. At five o'clock thought I would go aloft and take a survey, having often observed that objects may be discerned over the top of fog-banks. Had but reached the cross-trees and looked away to the northward when I saw the land under our lee-beam. At first had nothing to assure myself what it was, and tracking the land made it to be Cape Ann. I then informed them that Cape Ann was off our lee-beam. The captain said it must be the highlands of Cape Cod. All then, said I, it has undergone a strange revolution for, instead of running north and south, it runs east and west. The fog soon lifting, it was soon settled that my calculations were correct. A fleet of lumbermen and wood carriers soon appeared, as the fog drifted off to Leeward. They were light and bounded to Maine from Boston, which fully decided that we were still in the vicinity of Cape Ann, or these vessels would not have been in their present position. The next day reached the Cape, and the day following arrived at home. Made one more trip in this vessel. During my absence had carpenters at work completing my house. We returned safely from the last cruise, though we had a rough time. We lost both anchors, and met with some trifling incidents, but nothing worthy of note. But before I leave this stage of my narrative, let me remark that our captain was a noble-hearted man, generous to a fault, and the best man to victual accrue I ever sailed with. He was one of those very sanguine men who, if convinced against his will, would be of the same opinion still. CHAPTER XXI. Of eighty years a shore and a float, or the thrilling adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. CHAPTER XXI. A Snake in the Grass. The workmen employed upon my house had progressed so well that we were enabled to move in the first of November, where in the society of my family I remained till late in the spring. The first fruit of our union was a boy, with whom we were considerably elated. During the previous winter a brig was cast ashore to the southward of gay-head light. The cargo was taken out, and the vessel stripped of her spars and rigging to her lower mast and abandoned. A severe gale occurring soon after, she was driven up high and dry at low water, and sold at auction, Thomas Mayhew of Edgerton and Captain Seth Daggett of Holmes Hole being the purchasers. These gentlemen agreed, with ten or twelve persons from the former village, to get her off. I was one of the number. Everything requisite was conveyed by water, and on the shore we constructed a rude cloth shanty. And dry weather it answered very well, but in rainy times it was rather leaky. Among our party we had a lad, about fourteen years of age, who served us as steward, and a real smart little fellow he was, full of life and thumb, always ready to answer to the call when Theodore was wanted. He was a son of Robert Winpenny, in this position cheerful and somewhat given to singing, though usually harping on the same tune and words which made so deep an impression on my own mind they still are fresh in memory. For the edification of any of you who are fond of choice selections, I will repeat this little ballad. Born by the Taunton River, where the herrings sport in play, you be home, you Yankee-lubber, you be home by Christmas day. Our young steward had some distance to go after water, procuring it from a spring in the edge of a swamp. One day he went out, he nearly gained the spring when he was brought to a halt by a very singular noise. Very attentively for a moment he proceeded with cautious footsteps in the direction from which the sound came. On approaching quite near the spring saw a hideous-looking black snake in the act of bringing its charms to bear upon a helpless robin immediately in front of him. The reptile was whipping his tail through the air, producing a noise very much resembling a spinning wheel. Young folks can ask their mothers what that instrument is. The eye of the snake was fastened upon his intended prey, and the bird trembling and fluttering seemed perfectly under the control of his magnetic power. I think the charmer must have been a full-blooded medium, but Theodore dispatched the snake and delivered the bird from his dangerous enemy. The boy was taught a lesson which, through years of eventful life, gave him a very decided aversion to snakes in the grass, either of the brute or human species. Snakes were abundant in this region of our country, frequently paying us visits, which was very annoying, particularly after we had retired. The rack was found bedded in the sand, nearly up to her chain-bolts. Screws were placed under, first digging for solid foundations on which to rest them. After a while, raised and blocked her up. She was very heavy-timbered, and two hundred tons birthing. Finally, we're ready to lay the ways, but awaiting a favourable time to launch, on account of the rugged shore, just such a day being absolutely necessary. The next night came on to blow, and the morning revealed to us the interesting fact that our work must be done over again, as the blocking had been undermined, and the vessel and the condition in which we found her weeks before. After many days of hard-dragging, supposed her all regular again. The gale arose, and the swell swept up the shore in its vengeance, and down she went the second time. As before, she was again raised, and now we really thought she soon would be floating. In place of the short timber used a midship here to four, we now introduced her rudder, which was very large and strong, and we felt quite secure. But this, too, was destined to be a failure. A strong westerly gale destroyed all our carefully arranged plans, and the third time our work was vain and fruitless. We pretty much concluded that she would lay her bones there forever, but Mr. Mayhew thought different. As he had already expended much money, he was determined to get her off, if it took all the vessel was worth to accomplish it. A hard rain set in about this time, and our shanty leaked like a sieve. All hands concluded we would endeavour to procure lodgings in the barn owned by Mr. Schiff, the light-keeper at the time. Unfortunately for us, one of our number was a coloured man, but a good old soul as ever lived. Upon application for the barn for lodgings, Mr. Schiff flatly refused, because he was with us, squealing out, if that darn nigger should sleep on that air hay, my old horse would snuff and snort and wouldn't touch a mouthful of it. So we returned to our old quarters, consoling ourselves with the reflection that we didn't love him any better than he did negroes. Our rudder, that we had so much depended upon as a support for the vessel, was reported the next morning, apart lying on the rocks at squib-knock-at-light, and the balance on the north side of Gay Head, had a place called Cooper's Landing. With a boat one was brought back, and the other was brought overland by an ox-team. This done, a part of the company went to work to raise the vessel again, and two or three sent to town with the boat after provisions. As the season advanced, the weather became more settled, work progressed finally, and at last we were ready to lay the ways. The rudder was spliced and hung, some little arrangements were made in the way of sales when we should require them, and then a successful launch was made. Keeping account of all the distance she had at different times been raised, it amounted in the aggregate to twenty-one feet. The summer was now drawing to a close. Our job was nearly completed, and no accident had occurred to any of us. But not so with those who were at work in the clay-pits nearby, and a little to the northward. Thinking that perhaps my services may some day be required, the incident may as well be cited. Quite a number of the natives were grubbing out the clay for shipment, when one in the act of striking a heavy blow with the instrument used for that purpose accidentally fetched it down upon the shoulder of a squaw, making her yell with pain. She soon made rapid strides for the house. While others were in search of a horse to send to Edgertown for the well-known bonesetter, Jeremiah Pease, Esquire, I went to the house. I asked if the shoulder was broken. She thought it was, as the fingers were stiff and her arm could not be lifted. I asked if I could examine her arm. Oh, yes, dear, it says. I gently crowded the part most injured, and in went the fractured bone with a snap. Now, said I, raise your arm. She did so without trouble, and I was pronounced a skillful surgeon. This was my first experience, but I did not tell them so. I have had no practice since. The vessel was now at the end of the ways, but still not floating. We had carried out anchors to haul out by, and had made some arrangements for putting on sail when necessary. Hove the anchor up and made sail, and in two days reached the harbour, the vessel leaking freely. She was fitted up slightly for the purpose of being taken to Portland, in hopes of selling her to her former owners. Discharged all the men, with the exception of three beside myself, who, with the owners, were to proceed in the vessel. We reached Cape Cod, took a headwind and ran into Provincetown, where, being taken sick, and each day growing worse, I took passage in a western-bound lobster vessel toward home. Was landed on Cape Pogue, and brought to town by the kindness of the light-keeper. Did not feel very well for some time, but finally recovered and was just as good as new. It being now well towards fall, remained about home till spring opened. End of Chapter 20 Chapter 21 of Eighty Years Ashore and a Float, or The Thrilling Adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. The Sleeper Vox recording is in the public domain. Chapter 21 Uncle Jethro in command of the Fair Lady Early in March took the fishing-smack, Fair Lady, for a season's work, off the south side of Nantucket Island. A neighbor of mine, who was familiar with the cruising-ground, accompanied me. Our craft was a clever little vessel, only eleven tons berthin, cedar-bottom, built slinker fashion, or better understood, lap-streak. She was decked over ten feet forward, which served as a cabin, having two berths below, a small fireplace for cooking the grub. It was not very high in the posts, for if we occupied a seat six inches high our heads would come in contact with the deck above. And our first cruise out was rather fearful of her abilities, not being full decked, and it being an unusually rough place. But soon found she was to be trusted. She was a very able boat, on top of the seas, seldom shipping more than a bucketful of water, however rough it was. Cod and halibut were very plenty, and we considered ourselves number one fishermen, usually filling our well in a single day. The fish were carried to New Bedford, always finding a ready market. Would procure bait at home, and go out again. We wound up the business the last of June, having made more money for the length of time than ever before or since. Hooked at home, when anything offered until May of the following year, was not much driven with business, and consequently took life quite easy for a while. Captain Lott Norton, about this time, was bound to the coast of Labrador fishing. I shipped with him, made the voyage and returned, being gone about four months, that length of time, being the shortest to entitle those who fitted her to the U.S. bounty. We all hoved together, and made a good season's work. Captain Norton was a pious old man, and many a good meeting we had on board the Bethel Fishermen, frequently receiving visitors from other vessels to our Sunday services. Our fish were disposed of to vessels bound up the Mediterranean, and we returned in ballast. I told Captain N, if nothing prevented, I would go with him next season. Sometime in the latter part of the next march, Captain E. Ripley had charge of a coaster. It was coming from New York. It was a dark, thick foggy night, and by some mistake in his reckonings he ran as craft on a ledge of rocks to the northward of Gay Head, called the Devil's Bridge. She struck several times, but beat over and sank in five fathoms of water. The crew took to the boat, and landed at Tarpelling Cove. With others whom he employed, I went to the scene of the disaster, and, if you like, I will give you a little account of our expedition. END OF CHAPTER XXI. CHAPTER XXII. OF EIGHTY YEARS ASURE AND AFLOAT, OR THE THRILLING ADVENTURES OF UNCLE JETHRO by E. C. Cornell. The cargo of the wreck was composed of bailed cotton, copper sheets for ship bottoms and boxes, a quantity of corn in bulk, and cotton cloth. We first secured two vessels, in which the necessary equipment for raising were taken with the party who were to assist. Two long spars and chain cables, and a dozen men, accompanied these vessels. Found upon our arrival only the mast heads above water. Placed one chain under forward, the other under aft, with a vessel on each side of the sunken one. First the spars across the decks of the three, took a turn of the chain around the spars, put a large oak-heaver on to turn the spars, making what sailors call a Spanish windlass. Hove a heavy strain at dead low water. The tide began to rise, and we hoped that by full sea she would be lifted clear of the rocks. If so, we intended to get her in a little nearer shore, and repeat the experiment. As the tide came in, she did not appear to come up at all. Found that one of our vessels was too small to take her part of the strain, and was gradually being brought under as fast as the tide arose. We held on until her deck was under, and were obliged to slack up and take the small one out. We went to Nantucket, hired a larger craft, and rigged as before. It was now quite rugged, and the current was quite strong, so waited until it became smoother, and hoved down again. Before high water gave us a chance to test our new arrangement, it came on to blow hard from the westward, parted the cables, and very gladly we left her to lie a while longer. Dispatched a vessel to New Bedford, procured a ship's cable, and in a suitable time rigged again, not willing to give up beat. Hoved down once more, getting every inch that was possible at low water. At about full sea she began to move. Sail was made on the vessels, with a fair tide headed to the northward, took her clear of the rocks, and headed down vineyard sound. After a few hours reached Lambert's Cove, and the tide coming in ahead anchored. The wind, coming up strong from the westward, hoved in a terrible sea. We chafed, and ground so badly, had to slack up and let her sink to the bottom. Shortly after, hover up again, bringing her taffrail and night-heads above water, and started with her for Edgar Towne. Arrived all right, and unloaded the damaged cargo. The owners made us an offer for saving the property, but not being satisfactory, we sent a responsible man to Boston, who libeled the vessel and cargo. It went to court in due time, and after a while a settlement was made, the lawyers as usual taking the lion's share. The expenses of litigation being adjusted, we made one dollar and twelve cents per day. From the action of the copper upon the corn, it was supposed that it might be poisoned. One of our citizens, somewhat interested in the purchase of the corn, wishing to test it in this respect, did so in rather a queer way. He had in his family a canaca, who accompanied him to this country on his last voyage at sea. He concluded that he would have a quantity of the corn boiled and fed out to the native on trial, saying that if it did not produce his death it would be safe to feed his hogs upon it. It was tried, and no visible injury resulting, the corn fetched at auction twelve cents per bushel. The town presented the appearance of one grand general washing-day, most every fence about being used for the purpose of spreading cotton cloth to dry. Thus ended my first experience in the wrecking business. Quite soon after, however, had a plenty of it to do. End of CHAPTER XXII CHAPTER XXIII Of eighty years a shore and a float, or the thrilling adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. CHAPTER XXIII A WEST INDIA MAN ON THE SOUTH BEACH It had now, got to be so late in the season, gave up my previous intention of another Labrador voyage. Only one morning it was noised around town that a large top-sale schooner was high and dry on the south end of the island. Soon learned that she was from the West Indies, loaded with rum and molasses, a very inviting cargo, to those fond of the critter. She was not bilged. The cargo was all removed, and with a strong wind on shore she was cast above low water mark. Mr. Thomas Mayhew contracted with her owners to get her off for a certain amount. He hired eight or ten with myself to assist on the job. In a small crafty owned we took all the apparatus required and began work on her. The beach, being high, did not raise her much, laid our ways to launch, but made a failure the first time. As the weather was rather catchy at getting along towards fall, it took a number of days waiting for a good chance to operate. At last launched her into the surf, but she did not float. Had an anchor out some distance from the shore. Now it began to blow and snow. The sail was made on her. Had just hoisted the mainsail when the sheet parted, the boom struck the shroud, broke it in two pieces, also tore the sail. Took in the broken boom and sail on deck. As the combers rolled in, her bows would jump, but still she hung by the stern. As the tide arose we hove at the windlass, and just at night she started. Drop the sails, hove up the anchor, ran from the shore a short distance, and let three anchors go. We were not anxious to drag out to sea, as we had neither water nor provisions in the vessel. The wind canted to the northward, and a very cold night set him. As the chimney had previously been caved in, we could have no fire, and take it all together had looked rather dismal for comfort. By and by the wind changing to the westward got underway and reached the harbor of E. the next day. Very soon after there was a smack called the Lookout, cast ashore and very nearly the same spot as the one just launched. No one was on board, and her crew were supposed to be lost. T. Mayhew bought her, and I went with him to assist in getting her off, and also brought her to town. Mr. Mayhew used to take many such jobs. He was a remarkable man, for ingenious inventions in this line, and always extremely unwilling to abandon a job once undertaken. He could hang until his efforts were crowned with success. I frequently afterwards accompanied him during his excursions, dragging for lost anchors, which at that period was quite a lucrative occupation. On one occasion with two vessels, one called the Surprise, under my charge, and the Lookout, on board of which was Mr. Mayhew, were on the south side of the vineyard, where we had been sweeping for cables. Suddenly it shut in a dense fog, both vessels being at that time under sail. Soon it was impossible to discern the other craft. My partner said, What are we now to do? I replied that I should take the vessel into the harbour. Well, said he, You will have to do it for all my help, for I don't know the first thing in such a fog. I told him to hunt up a line suitable for sounding. He found only a small scupt line with its sinker, weighing less than a quarter of a pound. Among so many shoals and reefs, with the current setting from two-and-a-half to three knots, it was but a poor substitute for a deep sea lead. We kept along to the northeast, hauled up to the northward, and with the intention of giving Cape Pogue a wide berth, ran for some time, till satisfied I could fetch by. Letter come in stays, heading for, as I calculated, the gurnet or eel pond opening. My partner asked, Where are you now? I replied that if he would heave the lee it as I left up, I would tell him. Soon judged where we were, and as we shoaled the water upon the opposite shore, told him to keep a sharp look out. As yet nothing but fog could be seen. He asked me again where we would fetch up. I then said to him, Soon we will drop the anchor, and tomorrow morning, when the fog is cleared, we shall be lying between the shores of Chapaquetic and Collector Norton's house, and Mayhew's vessel will be to the northward of us, on her beam ends on the flats at low water. Sure enough, next morning, when I went on deck, I saw it just as I had imagined. Called up my part, and said, What do you see? With great surprise, he said, It is just as you predicted. You would out-devil the old fellow himself for a pilot in a foggy time. I thought it would not have so happened again in a thousand years. Of CHAPTER XXIII. On the first of May, started on a voyage to Labrador with my old friend Captain Lott Norton. We made a harbor at a place called Port Sanders, Newfoundland. There had been a snowstorm, and it still lay upon the ground two feet deep. It was now raining some, but cleared off in the afternoon, and from the woods a little inland saw a smoke arising. Having this part of the country to be uninhabited for many miles around, our curiosity was a little aroused to find the meaning of it. Our boat was launched and paddled toward the shore. When we landed, and as we approached the fire, saw a large Dutch blanket hanging from the trees, and upon near approach found it used as a protection from wind and rain, for the comfort of fourteen men, women and children, who were stretched on the ground under its lee. The snow had been scraped away, and boughs from the trees were spread for a bed, on which, feet to the fire, this singular looking group were very contentedly enjoying themselves. Upon accosting them, found that they could speak our language. We asked an old white-headed veteran if there was not danger of taking cold. He replied, if our feet are kept warm, there is no danger to be apprehended. They were the members of a single family, who were moving, as frequently they did, from one harbor to another, picking up what game came in their way, and living from year to year in the same manor, not owning any house, and having no regular abiding place. Among them I noticed a little fellow peeping over his protector's shoulder to get a look at us, as we talked, and asking her, who appeared to be his mama if I couldn't have him to take home with me, he burst into tears, and opened his mouth, so that I surely thought the whole of the upper part of his head was coming off, and ours too, as he loudly yelled. We asked how they got along with the very aged ones, who did not appear able to do much traveling, and were told that they were carried by the younger ones on their backs. The only articles of property we could see consisted of the blanket, two old guns, a copper kettle, and a small quarter of what appeared to be beef. It was what they called caribou of the dear family. We asked the old gent if he would sell us a part of it. He said we were welcome to the whole of it. We told him that would not do. They must keep some of it for supper and breakfast. He replied, never mind us, we have good guns, and know how to use them. A part was taken, and found to be very nice. The old man was asked to accompany us on board, and we would pay for it. He was helped to the boat, and a little something was given him to drink, which pleased him. Also gave him bread, molasses, and a bucket of Indian meal. He had never seen any meal before, and was told how to prepare it for eating. As he was about to leave, gave him another drink. Now, said he, I suppose my squaw would like a small drink. So we filled a bottle, and told him to give a little all round. We did not land again, but three years after we put into the westward, three hundred miles distant, at a place called Cod Bay, a boat came to us, in which were two squaws, one of whom, addressing myself, asked for meal. I asked her what she knew about meal. She replied, you once gave me some. I remember you very well, sir. They had baskets for sale of their own make, which she insisted upon my buying. She said, have you children? I informed her I had three when I left home. Well, said she, you must have three baskets, and in return I will take meal. We had plenty, and the trade was made. She eyed me closely, and observing it, I asked her where she ever saw me before. She told me she was one of the party at Port Sanders, etc. Our voyage was continued, and as we reached the usual fishing grounds, I had heard some of our crew speak of a certain individual as being there in command of a vessel, with whom I once sailed. One day, and approaching our vessel, as I was coming in from boat-fishing, saw him on the deck of our craft, and informed the man with me of it. He said he was so far off, could not tell him. I replied that I should know his ashes after he was burned. All hands were in the cabin. Our boat was secured, and my partner had followed the others down. The visitor had shaken hands with those whom he knew, when my partner told him there was another coming who knew him. He looked at me as I started into the cabin, and asked me if I knew him. Said I, yes, or to my sorrow. He asked where I had ever seen him, and I told of a certain voyage we made together. Our captain agreed to let him have our fish, his business being to purchase, and to braider basin we went to deliver them. We had a remarkably handsome lot, as we thought, but as we passed them on board the other vessel the captain, standing at the scales, discarded many as poor. I was on his deck helping to pile up the scales, and handled them rather faster than suited him, and he asked to have me removed and another sent to take my place. Our captain asked his reasons for the exchange. I came back to my own vessel, but did not like the idea of his sending back so many fish. Directly a very large one that, on account of a hole cutting its nape, he refused to take, was returned, and what the other refused was kenched below by itself. Going towards noon a boat landed alongside our craft, and two ladies got out, who were going to pay a visit to the captain of the brig alongside of us. Consequently he was obliged to leave the work of weighing to entertain them in his cabin, but asked another captain who was on board to attend to the scales in his absence. Told him to take no fish, but what were good. Being so fine an opportunity, I told the boys to keep a good look out, and let me know if the captain of the brig came on deck. I jumped into the hold, and while others passed up the fish as they had been doing, I went to the pile of castaways and passed them out as fast as I could. Worked some time. When the report was made of the uprising of the man I did not just then cared to see, for on the top of the scales was that identical large fish fair in sight. He came directly to the scales, took the fish up, and hailed me, saying, Did I not send this fish back once? I answered that he did. Well, said he, You have been sending up the refuse fish, have you not? Told him I had. And if he had not come up just as he did they would have been all stowed in his hold, as it was a few only were left. He looked at me pretty hard, when I returned the look, and told him that I rather thought now he knew me. He then told the captain of our vessel that if that Ripley was allowed in the hold again he would take no more fish. The rest of the cargo was delivered, and drafts were signed by him upon his owners. They started for home, arrived some time in September, remained about one month, and then took a trip to a warmer climb. End of Chapter 24 Chapter 25 of 80 years a shore and a float, or the thrilling adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. The Sleaver-Vox recording is in the public domain. Chapter 25 A Cruise to the Sunny South The first of October, shipped on board Sloup Hero, and went to Boston to take in an assorted cargo for Charleston, South Carolina. Usually when goods came aboard, the question was asked if we were going direct to sea, or intended making a stop at Edgertown or elsewhere. We always told them if we had freight to be delivered, should stop. A boy used sometimes to come with goods for shipment. The captain would sign the bills of lading, and no questions were asked in relation to our stopping. We completed taking in cargo, and started for E. The most valuable portion of the cargo was insured, without any specifications in regard to stoppages on our passage. We came up to Kate Pogue, and fell in with Schooner Eliza Jane, Captain V. P.'s commanding, bound to Philadelphia, with a number of passengers on board. He was a driver, and sailed his vessel on shares, and, as the saying goes, allowed no grass to grow on his vessel's bottom by lying around. We had just tied enough to weather Kate Pogue, and get into the harbour of E. Ran in, and in less than two hours had landed what freight we had to deliver, and were ready for a start. The wind holding ahead thought it advisable not to attempt to get out. Were delayed a number of days, waiting for a suitable time. One afternoon the wind died out, and Captain P. got under way, and worked up to Tarpaul and Cove. We still remained. Next morning took a light breeze and started. The wind was southeast, and occasionally it would blow a little harder, and calm down again. So we worked along the best we could. We got nearly abreast the Cove, when the breeze struck across the sound, and the fleet lying there took their anchors, set sail, and came out. Soon discovered the Eliza Jane in the crowd, was within a mile of her, and went out on the same tide with her, the Captain recognizing us as well as we did him. Before dark passed No Man's Land, and before twelve o'clock, were put to scutting under the head of a square sail, and wind enough at that. The gale lasted all the next day, and hauled from the northeast, a little to the southward, still blowing a living gale, and finally changing to the southeast. Were compelled to heave to under a storm tri-sail, on the port-tac, headed to the westward. Capture so for five days and nights, a heavy sea-on, and we loaded very deep. The wind started a few points more to the southward. My watch below, until twelve o'clock, was then called. As the Captain was about to repair to the cabin, I asked him if it would not be well to wear ship. Told him if I had charge should certainly do so, for we had been on the same tack five days and nights, and might have overrun our calculations. He insisted there was no necessity for it, as neither sand, rocks, nor shoals endangered us, and went below. In my watch was a swede, as good a fellow when awake as ever was, but one of these drowsy individuals who could not stay anywhere without dropping asleep. I stood, abaffed the binocle. Watching by compass, the course the vessel was making. At first the sea was tumbling in a mid-chips over the main deck. I had been watching but a few moments when I observed that the sea rolled along more quartering. Again scanned the compass to see if our course had been altered, but found her still heading as last seen. The conclusion I hastily formed was that we had gone into shoal water. I took the lead, gave it a cast, and found less than three fathom. Clapping the helm and the weather-bucket, grabbed the swede, and sent him forward fast enough to be certain he was awake, ordered the tri-sail halyards let go, and called all hands. Up came the captain, who wanted to know what the matter was. I told him there was matter enough. We're going on shore, sir, said he. How much water have you? I replied, three fathom, sir, some help here as quick as possible. Let's get the tri-sail to leeward of the halyards. We got the clue around the sheet partly aft, hoisted it up, and trimmed flat. Now, sir, said I, we will try the lead. Did so, and found a quarter less there. He was perfectly astonished. Now the old swell gave it to us right in the face and eyes. It was neck or nothing, but we deepened the waters lowly. Put a reefed jib on her and gained a little, carrying it until ten the next morning, when it blew so heavy that we had to furl it, keeping her dead to leeward the while. Sounded and found fifteen fathoms, let her lie, catching it just as she could. We suppose the shoal to be barnagate. The wind going down and hauling to the westward made sail and shaped our course for Cape Hatteras. Got pretty well up with the cape, and another easterly gale came on. She was put under close sail again, three reefs in the main sail and reefed jib. Thinking we could not weather Hatteras, war ship stood northward, and in the forenoon thought best to go into Hampton Roads. We bore away for Cape Henry, and ran in by, the wind slanting to the southward a point or two, the captain had the helm, ran in by the right, and went into Lynn Haven Bay, just to the south of Cape Henry. I said that I hoped he was not going to anchor up there. He said he was. He did not like to run a dozen miles out of his way when he was ready to start again. I told him we had plenty of time, and a safe anchorage was of a great deal more consequence than a few miles. He said when the wind came fair we should have less distance to run. I told him no time would be lost by keeping up. If he anchored here he would find his mistake before morning dawned. We came to anchor there, it was now quite late in the afternoon. The captain went below and turned in. Our sails were reefed sea fashion, not very snug. I told the men we would shake out the reefs and put them in better shape, and everything was put in good order for what soldiers would call a stampede, for I felt it in my bones such would be the case before long. I told the Swede to take the first watch, thinking he would be most likely to keep awake the earlier part of the night. Told him to keep watch of the weather, and the other man who was to relieve him was told the same. Waiting to stand the last watch myself I went below and turned in all standing, except my boots and hat. Had been below about an hour when the Swede came along and hurriedly in, formed me that a gale was blowing on shore. When I first awoke thought perhaps he had been asleep, and the wind had changed without his knowledge. She was heading nearly west, and it was blowing violently, with her lee rail most underwater. She had not yet swung to her anchor, so I knew the wind had just come round, as the Swede said. It was instantaneous. She headed it soon, all hands were called. As the breakers were right under our lee, hove ahead on the cable. Hove short, up with the reefed mainsail, and took the anchor. She was pitching her bows under, fell off to the westward. We upped Jib and put her to it, heading to the north-west on the starboard tack. It was so rough, she made but little headway. I seated myself to the leeward of the rudder-head, and perceived that she was gaining toward the shore. I told the captain she would hardly fetch by the point. He said it was impossible to tack, and two wareship were just as bad. The only thing to be done was to trust luck, and keep her running, thinking possibly she might go clear. We had got to the very turn, and if there had been half a cable's length to spare it would have been all right. But as she settled into the hollow of a sea, she struck hard. Another sea lifted her, and down she would go again. Let the sails run and drop the anchor, in the hope that she was over the worst bar and would hold on. A decent scope of cable was paid out, by which she was held. Still every time she went down, bang, she would strike. The captain stood holding on by the main rigging. I asked him if he intended to let her knock her bottom out there, to which he replied that he didn't know what was to be done. I told him I did. Then, replied he, do it, as quick as you can. I ordered the boys forward to slip the cable, set the jib, and haul the sheet flat after midships. She slewed around and headed for the shore. A heavy sea struck her stern, forging her ahead some distance, and another kept her going inshore. The jib would not allow her to broach too, and headlong she fetched up, hard and fast on the beach. The first heavy sea, after grounding, stove in one of the deadlights near my berth. I grabbed my well-stuffed canvas mattress, on deck with it, doubled it up, secured a rope to it, then ordered one of the hands to pass it over the stern. From the deadlight window I caught it. Then it was toppled over, and I hauled it up to the window, and fitting tightly, as long as it lasted, it kept the water from dashing in. It was for a while the tightest deadlight we had. The other beds were also prepared in the same manner, in case of further emergency. The first gave out before long, and was replaced by another, and as often as they failed, us another was used, until there was none left. Then used, for the same purpose, an old sky sail. We had not bilged, and we thought we were doing very well. But just then a tremendous sea came, and the three other deadlights all went in at once. Had only time to get our chest and dunnejon deck, before the cabin filled with water. They were placed forward of the windlass. The sea was breaking from stem to stern. It was now midnight. When we ran on the tide was up. It had now begun to ebb, and we were some little distance from the shore. The shoal water extending out pretty well. In the morning judged it to be low water, and preparations for landing were being made. Our small boat would not live a moment in so heavy a sea, but we soon began to cut and contrive. We had a large spar on deck we sometimes used for offender alongside. To this we bent on a rope, and threw it overboard, the sea washing it up until it grounded before on shore. With the end of the rope in my hand, went out on the end of the bow-sprit, and carefully making it fast a little slack, I dropped down to the water, and as a good-sized sea swept along, allowed myself to be carried with it, the rope rendering through my hands. The rest of the crew landed in the same manner. It was now somewhat cold, being the 16th of October. Anxious to find some place of refuge, went in search of a house. A large pond lay between us and the upland, and following around to westward, we struck a road which conducted us up to a dwelling. We went in, and found it occupied by an old bachelor, who was a planter, and owned quite a drove of animals, which at that time were called slaves. We were welcomed. A large fire was going, up the old-fashioned chimney, composed of logs six feet long and large in proportion, but we did not complain. The old gent wanted to know where we came from, and all the particulars of our shipwreck, but was told after we had procured something to eat, and a little sleep, we would tell him all about it. He said we must make ourselves as comfortable as possible, and soon breakfast would be ready. As we became thawed out, with one accord a drowsiness crept over us, and before a great while we all slumbered and slept. He aroused us, and we sat down to a nice warm breakfast of hoe-cakes, fried bacon and coffee, prepared by the negro servants. We enjoyed our meal hugely, and afterwards, by permission of our host, went to bed. While regaling ourselves with the sleep so much needed, the negroes dried our clothing in good shape. The gale continued, with unabated fury for a number of days. But as it moderated, we began to think about changing our boarding-place. Soon after, with the help of the slaves, unbent the sails, took them on shore, and constructed a tent. Saved the cargo, and stored it in the tent. We tore down a small wooden fish-house near the shore, and with the boards closed up the dead-lights, and went to work pumping out the water which was soon accomplished. As it was now thought best to carry an anchor out, and our boat was not near large enough, we went six miles up to the eastward, to a river where was kept a large saining-boat. We started with her toward the vessel, but before getting back the wind prevented us from carrying out our intention. We're compelled to land and haul the boat up for safety. Returned on foot to the wreck, and found it nearly floating. But as the waves hove in, each one drove her further up, until at last she was nearly to the highest part of the beach. Was rolling heavily, first one way, then the other, with the force of the sea and wind. We were afraid she might be left healing to seaboard. So we boarded her, took the kedge anchor over the high beach, and with the end of the holster attached it to the main haliards, hover down, deck inshore, and secured her. When the tide went out she was all right. Northerly winds and sea banked the sand around her fearfully. The cargo, in a damaged condition, was advertised and sold at auction, at a considerable loss to the shippers. The weather, after some time being more favourable, our captain contracted with the planter to get the vessel off. But he would only make the attempt in case he could secure my assistance, as he knew but little about launching vessels. The captain told me what he had agreed on, and finally with the assistance of the slaves we went to work. Trees were cut down and hewn off on two sides flat. We had heavers instead of screws, but after some hard work raised her sufficiently to place the ways underneath. I objected to the timber used for the purpose, properly judging it not strong enough to bear the heft of the vessel, but the boss thought he knew about this better than I did, so let him try it. Greased the ways and started her down, but sluicing a little on her way to the water, brought an unequal bearing, and down went the timber and the vessel and the sand and water, by far in a worse condition than when we started her. For now all the work done must be done in the wet. Other and larger trees were cut, squared and placed under, and in due time she was launched down, only hanging by the stern on shore while her boughs floated. We all hands turned on at high water to heave her clear of the land, but for some time worked in vain, she would not go. Gave it up for a higher tide. Shortly a good breeze blowing off shore, boarded and set her sails. Everything drew, but yet she started not, and as the tide began to fall we left her. Soon, however, a terrible rumbling voice was heard among the pine trees. It was a squall of wind, and when it struck the vessel with her sails still hoisted, it made her groan, but it took her off, and she swung at her anchor. We boarded her, lowered their sails, and made preparation to go up to Norfolk. A person had been on board whom we had secured as a pilot, but afterwards found he was a very ignorant one to say the least. The captain gave the charge up to him and went below. We started, could hardly lay our course. The pilot had the helm, the tide was ahead, I saw we were sagging down toward a lightboat, and spoke to the pilot about it. He said there was no lightboat there, that it was only a vessel at anchor. I knew better, for I had seen her ever since we had been on shore. I then told him he was no pilot, and didn't know but little anyway. We tacked ship and stood to the southward. I kept heaving the lead, and as we shoaled the water would come and stays. We had made a few tacks, and were standing to the westward. The pale beams of the moon threw their light over the water, and looking toward the land I saw Hampton Bar, which fact I communicated to the pilot, and told him we'd better go about. He said we were not near it yet, but I insisted that I was correct, and that if we did not soon tack, we should be on the bottom. I had the helm now myself. He took the lead and line, hove one cast, while I watched the line as it ran out, and perceived it to be shoal water. Clapped the helm down hard, she shot ahead a considerable, which brought her upon the bar. The captain came on deck, and wanted to know if we were cast away again. I told him we had a jackass for a pilot, for he liked to have run the light boat down, and didn't know there was such a thing about here, and now has run us on the bar. The sails were instantly lowered, and an anchor carried out from the port bow. But, not being able to heave her off by that, took the anchor and carried it astern. Soon brought her to it, and went up to Norfolk, arriving there December 23rd. We were unable to get any person, white or black, bond or free, to go to work on our repairs, as every individual must have three days for the Christmas holidays. From what I saw of it, concluded one day was to get ready for it, one was for a good drunk, and the third to become sober. The caulkers and carpenters then turned out, and put the vessel in good order. The captain one day was on shore. I was aloft fitting some part of the rigging, expecting soon to start for Richmond. A gentleman came on board, and inquired for the captain, and being told that he was on shore, then asked to see the mate. I immediately came down, and shook hands with him, calling him by his name. He returned the greeting in a cordial manner, but with some surprise said, You have the advantage of me, sir. You appear to know me, but I do not recollect that I have ever met you before. Nor have you, sir, and I have no advantage of you in the least. I have not seen you before, nor did I know there was such a man in existence, but allow me to ask you, if you did not once have a brother by the name of Butler, who resided on Martha's vineyard? He said that Matthew Butler was his brother, and did once live there. Well, said I, you resemble him so closely. If I had not known him to be among the dead, should have supposed you were the man. But as you are not, you must be his brother. This gentleman, being a pilot by profession, his services were engaged to take us up. We loaded with flour for Charleston, arrived with it, and before the river closed up, made a start for Santee for a cargo of rough rice which was taken in bulk. Continued in the rice business during the winter, sometimes loading at Santee, sometimes at Tranquility, and Wambu. Some of the rivers visited we were obliged to cut our way up, the foliage was so dense along their margins, but the season was good and the business very agreeable. In the spring took in a cargo of staves on freight, for an individual of our acquaintance who had been trading and in part payment took staves for the New York market. We come out of Georgetown with a heavy wind, stood offshore, fifteen or eighteen hours, a heavy swell heaving in toward the land. The captain said we had better let her come around and stand in. I told him we could not yet fetch by Cape Hatteras, but not agreeing with me did as he was disposed and tacked. I asked him how far off he judged us to be. He named the distance. I told him he was twelve or fifteen miles further out than my calculations brought me. I gave as my reason that the old swell had impeded our headway at least one not an hour, but he doubted it. The wind soon came out fair. We were under whole sail, it was somewhat smoky and thick, and I felt anything but comfortable for fear of what I thought was ahead. I maintained a good lookout not long after I discovered right on our track a shoal. He ported this to the captain, who had the helm at the time, and asked him if he was aware that he was running on to look out shoal. He replied that he was not, nor was I. I then told him that the shoal was right ahead, and that if we did not alter the course we would surely strike it. Said he, I never in all my life saw such a man as you are. You are always borrowing trouble for yourself and everybody else. I told him how much better it was to avoid trouble before getting into it. He told me to take the helm, and he would hunt up all the line there was on board the vessel, and see if he could find any bottom. He was some time in the cabin. And last, getting out of patience, I told him that a short line was all that he would need, and that would be useless if he did not come soon. He came up and bent the line on, sounded and found but a few fathoms. It had now begun to thunder and lightning, and a way to the northward and westward saw an ugly squall coming down for us. Let every sail run flat to the deck. It came on violently, but in a few moments it had passed and left us perfectly becalmed. Hoisted the jib and mainsail, a heavy swell, meanwhile rolling us toward the shoal now quite handy to us. We took a large sweep or ore over the quarter, and on the bow opposite, after a while, swept her bows to the swell. Cleared away the cables and anchors, ready to let go if necessary. Took the sweeps on each side, double manned, and began to pull for dear life. We were just able to hold our own. She was pitching, first her bows under, then the sternboat was terribly thumped. It was now a little past noon. We kept on pulling, feeling rather ugly, and if I correctly remember, somewhat inclined to be impudent. Just at sunset a little breeze came to our assistance, and gladly our sweeps were replaced in their lashings, and we shot out clear of the corner of the dreaded shoal. Looking to see the trim of the sheets aft, observed the clue of the mainsail was about gone, from the slatting it had taken. Lowered it down, put in a single reef, and reset it. Finally passed Cape Hatteras, arriving in a few days at New York. The staves were sold, fetching twenty-five cents less, and was required to pay freighting. Returned to the vineyard some time in July. The underwriters had refused to pay the insurance on our outward bound voyage, claiming that our vessel had deviated on the passage, the agent, Mr. John Thakster, went to Boston, returning soon after for my deposition, which was subsequently taken into court, and I was in hopes to be able to avoid having anything further to do in the affair. Some few months after, however, I was summoned to come into court to be holden in Boston. I went, was put upon the stand, and questioned very closely in regard to the voyage. When asked if I was mate, and where I kept the log, replied that I was, for want of a better man, and that my log was in my head. In the course of my evidence, I gave the details of the passage and proceedings to the best of my knowledge and recollection, much as it has already been given to you. In reference to my being able to identify the Eliza Jane already alluded to, I was questioned and cross-questioned by the several attorneys for nearly three hours. Said one, We presume if she had left the cove the previous day any other craft would have answered your purpose equally as well. Much was said relative to the distance the vessels were apart. I had observed one of the lawyers frequently consult a paper on the desk before him, and concluded it must be the deposition formerly given. I asked him if it was not. He replied that it was, and that I must follow a beeline, or I should be trapped. In reply, I told him that he rather had the advantage of me, but when it was given months before, I gave it with a view to the truth as it existed. But thinking the affair would be adjusted without any further proceedings on my part, I might have allowed some of the circumstances to pass from memory, and might vary a trifle in some subjects, but added that, however true this might be, the vessel I could never be mistaken in from her peculiar construction. She was built at first for a sloop, was bought on the stocks previous to her being planked, she was sawed apart amid ships, and a piece put in the middle made her very crooked or moon-shaped. When her masts were put in they pitched aft, the main truck being over the top sail. I knew her well, and if anyone was not satisfied with my ability, I would take them to Goldsboro and show them the stumps from which her timbers and planking were caught. It was decided by the jury that I knew the vessel, and a verdict was rendered in favor of the owners of our vessel, on the ground that it being unsafe for a superior vessel, to our own to make a passage under the same circumstances as ourselves, was not sufficient reason to rob shippers of their just demands for insurance on the losses which could not be foreseen or prevented. The result being mainly attributed to the weight of the evidence I was able to impart. In the way of compensation for my valuable services, the owners did not give me as much as a plug of tobacco, oh perfectly familiar with my propensity and strong attachment to the weed, and which no doubt so disgusted me, that in less than twenty years' time I abandoned the habit of its use entirely. Have since enjoyed a good degree of health, besides conferring a great favor on my ever-devoted companion, the bosom friend of my earlier life. The next season took charge of this vessel, and if you care to hear it, we'll tell you where I went. End of Chapter 25 Chapter 26 Of eighty years' ashore and afloat, or the thrilling adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell The Sleaver-Vox recording is in the public domain. Chapter 26 A Voyage to Labrador in Sloop Hero Started for Boston May 1st, with eight men and a boy, to fit for a fishing voyage and in a few days put to sea. Our first landfall was Gabaruse Cape Breton, we dropped anchor on account of bad weather and headwinds. A boat containing a man shoved off to us. He had with him a bag of young pigs which were offered for sale. As we did not care for them, declined to purchase. But after considerable talk he was offered and gladly accepted half a bushel of meal for two of them, and told us to take more of them, if we desired. I told him two were as many as I knew what to do with. He put them on board, the boy placed them in a barrel, and was ordered to take care of them. Sometimes we would give them fresh fish. They enjoyed stripping it up and throwed nicely. We had a good run, made a stop at Bay of Islands, procured wood, water, boat spars, etc. and continued the passage, arriving at Braeder Gulch where our fishing was to be prosecuted. We were quite successful during the season. The latter part of June had a visit from a gentleman residing by a neighbouring harbour. He said he had noticed we had pigs running around on the rocks on shore and was very desirous of buying them. He said he wanted them dreadfully. We refused to let them go, for on the 4th of July we intended to celebrate, and the pigs were to be butchered for the dinner. On the first day of the month, myself, with a number of the men having some business to transact with the gentleman alluded to, we went to his house, found him with his wife at home. I happened to be seated near the outer door, alone, while the others were together on the opposite side of the room. The lady came along and took a seat by me, and commenced to speak of matters and things in general, but I perceived she had something on her mind of more than ordinary interest. Directly in a quiet and subdued voice, bending her form most gracefully to me, she attempted to give utterance to the burden of her heart. Just think of the painful suspense in that moment of seeming inability to control her emotions or express her longing desires. Taking a long breath, the tremulous lips began to move, and with her bright eyes resting on mine, hardly less brilliant, just about that time, she broke forth. Mr. ain't you the man that owns the pigs? I told her that I was. Wow, said she. I do want them dreadfully. I will pay you any price for them. I told her that I could not think of disposing of them, that we anticipated having a general good time on the 4th of July, and must have the pigs for our dinner. Oh! said she. It is too cruel to kill those little hogs, and I do want them so badly. I saw that I should be enabled to prevail against such pleadings, and finally, with considerable reluctance, gave way with a promise that she might have won if she was so much in want of one. But still I found her only partially satisfied. Once more, she turned to me, and very naturally asked if they were not of different sexes. I replied that they were. Is it not then best to let me have them both, and not destroy the family relation? At last, finding her not to be put off, I agreed. If she would pay the boy two dollars for his care of them, she might have them, as I did not wish to speculate in pigs, and was not anxious to make anything out of them. Her countenance was radiant, and she gave me such a smile of gratitude, that I was glad I let her have them. Although no doubt, if she had not been an exceedingly handsome lady, we should have eaten them as we had hoped to. For this act of kindness, I was severely censored when I returned to the vessel and informed the crew of what I had done. One going so far is threatened to inform the owners that I had sold the vessel's provision for speculative purposes. I told him the trouble would be saved him. When we arrived at home, I told the circumstances to Mr. Timothy Coffin, our owner, and he said he wished I had taken all the pigs down and given them away. In the fall, saw the pigs. They had grown nicely, and I tried to buy them of the lady again. She said I hadn't enough money on board the vessel to tempt her to part with them. These were the first pigs ever introduced there, and I afterwards learned that they became quite plentiful. Our fish were now sold, with the exception of about eighty quintals, still awaiting a fair day to complete the drying. A spell of wet easterly weather hung on, and finally concluded the vessel and waiting had better proceed on her voyage, and we would take the fish on board our vessel and start for home. We did so with a fair wind the following morning. In the afternoon it commenced to blow. At four o'clock I took the helm, and the gale increasing, the vessel was brought to scutting under a square sail. Eleven hours had been blowing, and the sea was extremely dangerous. When my trick at the wheel was up, could find none who dared relieve me. They claimed that as I was more accustomed to the vessel, it was unsafe to trust her with anyone else, for fear that she might broach too when it would be all up with us. Nineteen hours I remained without a spell, occasionally taking a mouthful of grub or a hasty drink as I could catch it. After it moderated gave up the helm. We're now off Codroy Harbor, which we entered and for a number of blowy days lay at our anchors. I told our folks it would be best to secure the ballast by flooring over with boards, to prevent it from shifting in case of more rugged weather, which we might reasonably look for before getting home. They all preferred to go out gunning and did so. During their absence I went into the hold, laid a floor, and with the spurs, stanchioned down solid, made it quite secure. But for fear the stanchions between the deck and flooring might work loose with the motion of the vessel, I cut hinges from the legs of old boots, and nailed them to the heads of the posts, and to the deck as a preventive. The wind came fair, and we made sail, shaping our course for scattery a ninety miles run. With a fair wind, and plenty of it, we were going off a pretty good jog. It began to blow still harder and thicken up, and there was every appearance of a Southeaster. Not long were we in forming the conclusion that sail must be reduced, and the vessel hoved too. Now we wished we had more sea room. We wore ship, and headed off on the starboard tack, and place of the mainsail set the tri-sail with the jib reefed. Soon had to take in the jib, and it had become dangerous to longer remain on deck. Lashed the helm to the lee, and all hands went below and closed the gangway slide. It was a hard old night. A sea would strike and heave her lee rail all under. Some of us looked rather pale in the vicinity of the gills, somewhat fearful of the ballast shifting. It was a queer-looking group, seated on the cabin floor during that tempestuous night. I told them there was much more danger to be apprehended from what lay to leeward of us than from the ballast in our hold. We only had forty miles drift way, before we should be piled up on the shore, where the coast was rock-bound, and some places more than five hundred feet high. The next four noon the wind suddenly changed to the opposite direction, blowing a gal from that quarter, but still we did not dare to run. Layed two twelve hours for the sea to get regulated, and then put her before it, under the sail we had hoved two under. Had a good passage, the rest of the way home, arriving the first of September. I remained about home for some time, occupying myself in various ways, sometimes by short trips on the water, or lumping along shore. I took two more voyages to the straits, which I shall slightly allude to. My usual occupation, on land for more than thirty years, was the fitting of rigging on-board wrecked vessels, and for the fleet of whalers then owned by our citizens. There were three of us, who were in the gang, a Mr. Godfrey, acting as our boss, until his death, when I took the position, though Mr. G had never been in the habit of cutting a gang of rigging without consulting me. Mr. Collins was our third man, until quite a number of years since, previous, however, to the decease of our boss, when a Mr. Courtney, a retired whaleman, lent us his assistance. Mr. C. was one of the best whalemen that ever went in the head of a boat, and had the satisfaction of seeing thick blood flow, a great many times, under the accuracy of his aim. And even now it is somewhat amusing to listen to his bloody stories of ugly whales, and how they were at last forced to surrender. It rarely happens that he spends an evening in a crowd, but that several voyages are made, and enough oil taken, to supply a pretty quick market. Not only did I find employment as rigor, but in a general way performed a little of all sorts, relating to fitting away ships, or stripping them on their return, or sometimes acting as oil watcher at night. Also assisted in breaking out the cargo, etc., etc. Anything which offered which was remunerative and respectable. Many accidents have attended me, during my experience, since I left a regular seafaring life. More than once I have missed my footing, and come from aloft much quicker than I went up. And through the kindness of a watchful providence, have escaped without any permanent injury to limb or disfiguring of features. I am still able to walk erect, and enjoy the gratifying reflection, really not bad looking for a man of eighty. Not a great many years ago, while engaged in fitting the rigging on board a vessel, a rope above me parted, letting a large-sized hoisting block plump upon my head. Two hours after, the same thing was repeated, and yet I sustained my senses, though for a while in both instances I saw stars distinctly. Not a few times have I barely escaped with my life from similar accidents, besides the capsizing of boats, and a general variety of mishaps, incidental to an individual's destined to be always in harm's way. About three years ago a little incident happened, so out of the regular course of things, and the means of restoring myself being strictly original, and with all not extremely expensive, I think it best for the benefit of my hearers, and of mankind generally, to speak of it. I was at work, by the day, on a ship fitting for a whaling voyage. As was our usual custom, at noon all hands knocked off, and went for our dinners. For the want of anything better, my good woman had fried some bacon. Somewhat hungry, for hard work will most always make person so. Seated myself, and doubtless displayed some eagerness in putting my allowance away. Not having a great many teeth, with which to chew my food, and as I have since discovered, but a very diminutive swallow. In the act of taking a piece of meat, it became fixed in the throat so tightly, that it was very much feared I should strangle myself. A person was dispatched, with all haste, for Professor Mayberry, one of our eminent M.D.'s of our village. He arrived, and considering it quite essential, to provide himself with some surgical instruments, in order to relieve me from my critical condition, returned to his office less than half a mile distant. In the meantime, I became somewhat impatient, for although the doctor was not gone long, it seemed to me an age, and at last I became so exasperated, that I took a long, slender stick, split the end, picked up a dirty piece of rag that happened to be lying round loose, drew a part into the stick, winding a quantity over the end, and then leading the outer end to the end of the stick that was to be held in my hand. I gave it a desperate shove. The meat went down, and I got up. I did not stop to finish the dinner, but took my hat, and started for the ship. I met the doctor on his way, when I told him it was so near one o'clock, the turning on time where I worked, that I couldn't stop any longer for him. Went to work as usual. Since that time, when strangling, I always use the same means, and do not, send for the doctor.