 CHAPTER I. OF EIGHTY YEARS A SHORE AND A FLOWT, OR THE THRILLING ADVENTURES OF UNCLE Jethro, EMBRACING THE REMARCOBLE EPISODES IN A LIFE OF TOILE AND DANGER ON LAND AND SEA. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Phyllis Vincelli. Eighty years ashore and afloat, or the thrilling adventures of Uncle Jethro by E.C. Cornell. CHAPTER I. INTRADUCTORY The writer of the following narrative, having often listened with no slight degree of interest to the stories of an old man, feeling desirous that others may enjoy their recital, after mature reflection, has given himself to the attempt of combining them in one volume, fully believing that if it does not possess so much of the marvelous or supernatural as works emanating only from the imagination of the novelist, yet it may be no less wonderful when properly regarded as a truthful narrative of episodes and the life and experience of one who is still able to give us the facts, that are stranger than fiction, from his own lips, as it is not our intention to give to the work an independent preface, not claiming for ourselves no merit as a professional scribbler, permit us to say that even the contemplation of preparing such a work for the public scrutiny has given us many misgivings. Often the idea has been strangled, ere its conception was perfected, but finally, regardless of the jeers and rebukes of unfriendly critics, we enter upon the duties involved, imparting to it at least the benefits of integrity and truthful delineation, which it is hoped will enhance its value, or make it prolific in interest to those who scan its pages. The subject who will figure most conspicuously in this narrative is allowed the privilege of introducing himself, as best suited to his own good taste and judgment. Now lend an ear, both young and old, as tales quite strange we shall unfold, of life in years almost forescore, lived by one man on sea and shore. For in other words, let us listen to what Uncle Jethro has to say. CHAPTER 2. HIS EARLY HISTORY Well, boys, I tell you what it is. If you say go ahead, go ahead it shall be. If correctly informed, I was born in a small hamlet, on the outskirts of the village of Edgertown. My parents were not, would at the present time, would be considered wealthy but enjoying the reputation of respectability. And as a good name is better than great riches, they should have felt rich, especially after I was born, which incident happened in the earlier part of my life so long ago in fact that to me the particulars attending that important occasion are almost obliterated. Trusting, however, to the family record, it was the year of grace 1793 that bequeathed to society an ornament destined to appear upon the mantelpiece of the nation. For the information of individuals not familiar with our exact location, let me tell you that Edgertown, the shire town of the county of Dukes, situated on the southern extremity of the today far famed island of Martha's Vineyard, without its celebrated oak bluffs and highlands, its Bellevue, sunset, and ocean heights, its lookout mountain and katama, is only remembered as a small and sparsely populated village, the principal occupation of its inhabitants being the catching of fish, of the different kinds and dimensions with which its neighboring waters were abundantly supplied. Here and there might have been seen among its places of business the shop of a hatter, blacksmith, and cooper, a few signs significant of the fact that West India goods were for sale, coffees, spices, and oils, not forgetting rum, gin, and brandy, articles of commerce at that early period very necessary, especially the last mentioned. For to be without these, let it be remembered, was like the Irishmen going to be married and depending upon the magistrate to furnish the bride. A number of wharves graced the shores of the Inner Harbor, which it is not boasting to say is one of the finest on the American continent, as many a sailor has found to his great joy when enabled to drop anchor there after buffeting the bitter blasts of a wintery storm. Besides the many vessels of different grades and nationalities that frequently were seen swinging at anchor between the opposite shores of Chappaquitic and our own, not unfrequently a ship or lighter craft, principally owned on the island of Nantucket, would be brought here for the purpose of being fitted for a whaling voyage, an occurrence attaching to the village and importance not to be lightly regarded. As my narrative progresses I may have occasion to refer to the whaling interest, for to a great degree are the financial resources of our island attributed to the success attending the whale fishing. And here it may not be out of place to state that the vineyard has furnished commanders for more ships engaged in that business since the time of the opening of our story than the same population in any other part of the globe. In the early period, of which I have been speaking, it was not customary for boys to spend a great portion of time at school, and even were the facilities offered it was not deemed essential to the happiness of the rising generation to make any advances beyond the literary attainments of the fathers. If enabled to handle a sail or take a trick at steering, it was an accomplishment useful indeed, if not quite as ornamental, as was often realized during the hazardous voyages which comprised much of my subsequent life. At the age of eighty years my much revered father's death cast its shadows over our happy household. To be thus early in life deprived of the love and care which only a parent can bestow was illy calculated to lighten the burdens of youth or make the future to me more bright or hopeful. As troubles never come singly it was deemed prudent that our family be represented. Accordingly a situation was soon procured which resulted in giving me a home if entitled to so endearing a name. In the family of my uncle, who was a sour and crusty specimen of human frailties, apparently taking delight in every conceivable manner to impress upon me its unwholesome fruits, which if not deservedly measured out, rather tended for the time being to appease an unhallowed disposition, at the same time doubtless endowed me with the iron will and constitution that my future career was destined to require. By nature a modest lad, somewhat sensitive with all, I was easily provoked, not always strictly in accordance with the teachings of the Bible to good works, but more in unison with the disturbed and turbulent feelings which the training of a hard master constantly instilled within me. Passing over a few years, the memory of which presents no silver lining and, from the absence of incident, interesting or instructive to know them, I come to a more active period in my life, leaving conjecture to supply the interim, with the assurance that whatever of hard lines the imagination may portray, the picture will not be overdrawn. At the age of twelve years I find myself chief mate of the two-masted schooner Jay, of twenty tons burden, commanded by my guardian who was owner, sailing master, and all hands, accepting myself who, as has already been said, held the responsible and honorable position of mate, the duties of which office, from my experience along shore in open boat, fishing, etc., I felt perfectly qualified to perform. Though small of stature, my healthy condition of body, as well as the natural aptitude of mind, made up the deficiency of my insignificant proportions and neglected education. 3 My First Trip From Home About the middle of July, 1804, very early in the morning was snugly lying in the quiet and placid waters of the southern or upper part of the harbour, a neat little craft. Her rigging was set up tight, and the silver beams of the moon glistening upon the newly painted hull and spars indicated to the observer that a voyage was contemplated. The vessel was almost landlocked, by a point making out, dividing the waters of Katama Bay, from our harbour coming in close proximity with a point reaching out from the shore opposite, making it a very desirable location for safety, even in the worst weather. This place was called the Swimming Place, doubtless from its being frequently used for the purpose of swimming cattle from one island to the other. It was on board of this vessel that I was ordered to put the cargo ready for shipment. My boyish imaginations as fancy pictured the prospective voyage imparted an excitement to the occasion long to be remembered, and the cargo consisting of co-hogs, oil, fish, and wool was soon taken in, and securely stowed away, when I reported, ready for sea. The captain soon after came on board, accompanied by two ladies, who sought passage for New Haven, where we were to market our goods. All on board sail was soon made, our moorings loosed, and with a fair and gentle breeze our home and native village receded from our view, which, as I had time to reflect upon it, cast a slight shade of sadness on my heart. For, let it be remembered, it was the first time leaving the spot endeared to me by many pleasant memories, and a short voyage, even at that early period, in so diminutive a craft as our own, was considered quite an undertaking, while the daring spirits accomplishing it were looked upon as almost kindred to old Neptune himself. During the passage, which proved exceedingly pleasant, nothing worthy of note occurred, if we accept an occasional glimpse, of the bright eyes of our lady passengers, as they appeared from the cabin gangway, and with a little fright of which the captain was the innocent cause. On the night of the first day out, the captain took the early watch on deck, calling me at twelve. The wind was dead aft, quite moderate, and instructing me to keep off all I could without jiving, he repaired to the cabin. The shores of Connecticut were on our starboard beam. The wind canting moor to the southward, I kept off, and by so doing obeyed orders, and ran on a ledge of rocks. Finally beating over, escaped without further damage than giving our passengers a fright, from which they did not wholly recover, until safely landed, on the wharf at Newhaven. After the exchange of friendly wishes and parting salutations, our sails were furled, and the deck cleared for business. From sailors we very soon became merchants, and when we had exchanged our chattels for fruit, both from our deck, and sometimes using a peddler's wagon, scouring the country for purchasers, and in return taking country produce, we very soon found ourselves in readiness to return. Nantucket being considered the best place to dispose of our goods, we went thither, found a ready market, and in less than ten days from the day of our departure dropped anchor at home. Beside acting as chief mate, I was also cook, and attended to the preparation of the table generally. Now we are ready to make up another cargo or freight, which is principally done by catching fish, including the bivalves, or as sometimes a good opportunity offers, they are purchased at a low figure and disposed of in the manner already mentioned, making five or six cruises through the season. I continued in this business during that, and the following summer, not always, however, going to the same place for customers. It was on one of these cruises that I received from the hands of my faithful guardian the last infliction of his wrath, and when it occurs to memory I can scarce suppress my laughter, as still I seem to behold him in the unenviable plight my unrestrained passion placed him, when forced to the conclusion that the time had fully come when good nature, or endurance, ceased to be a virtue. I do not remember just what I had done to arouse his anger, nor did it always need a pretext to ensure what he considered a punishment. For sometimes I judged he would punish for fear I might need it at some future time. Be that as it may, it was while lying alongside a wharf in Boston after disposing of a load and ready to return homeward. It was Sunday morning. Calling me aft, with the end of the draw-bucket rope he commenced to administer upon me in a way not at all pleasing to myself, nor gratifying to the bystanders gazing with wonder and amazement from the peer above and arguing the case with him. No moral effect being attainable as I was able to discern, I told him, clenching my fists, that if he gave me another blow I didn't know, but I would be the death of him. He still appeared undismayed, when quickly catching the rope attached to the well-filled bucket of grease and water, giving it a tremendous jerk, I wholly disqualified him to attend church with any degree of decency, as his light, tight pants strongly represented some dishcloths when hung up to dry. While with him, after that time he treated me more humanely, and when I left him, to make other and longer voyages we separated in a friendly manner. Chapter 4 Of 80 years a shore and a float, or the thrilling adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell Chapter 4 Another Trip to Connecticut Besides our usual cargo, we had two gentlemen passengers, a man and a boy, both from the rural districts of Connecticut. They came in search of health along the shores of the vineyard, showing good sense there, if they did not in anything else. Had been absent from home since the Monday previous, it now being Friday, and you can judge how very desirous they were of returning after such a separation, as also our active measures to facilitate their wishes. As readily assumed, seamanship had not been to any extent embraced in the culture or education of our cabin occupants. If they manifested a disposition to remain in it, in preference to appearing on deck, they certainly were excusable, even though the circumstances of the case required for their own safety, what aid or assistance they might render. Chapter 5 Starting with a fair wind, we soon entered vineyard sound, but the weather changing, and a thick fog coming in, we found it absolutely indispensable that we should put in to tarpel in cove, a convenient resort for wind-bound vessels, on the northwest side of the sound, bearing from gay-head light nearly north. Here we were detained by a gale and dense fog for a number of days, which, from the loneliness and dreary aspect of the place, did not serve to keep us in the best of spirits. Fearful that our shellfish would suffer the consequences of our delay, it was decided that encase the weather would not permit us to prosecute the trip westward, to return home, and by putting them into their native element prolong their vitality. Early the next morning made sail on our craft, the captain ordering me to take the helm while he cat-headed the anchor and cleared up deck. Ran out of the cove, soon after discerning, through the fog, a ship on our weather bow. Luff, luff, cried I, in accents wild, as the vessel threatened to run us down. Hauling off to clear us, we forlaid him, and hailing asked him if he wanted a pilot. Instantly heaving his yards back, he replied, yanky-like, by asking, Where are we now? After giving the information sought, we found her to be the Boston-bound ship, John Jay. The fog lifting, he preferred to keep on and procure a pilot after getting into home's hole, thinking perhaps it could be done for a less sum than was required by our captain, V's forty dollars, to be taken to the foot of Nantucket Shoals. Hardly had he filled away when the fog again closed, perfectly obscuring the land, when rattle-rattle went his blocks, and with his yards the second time aback, he hailed us to send a pilot to his relief, as he was shut up in the dark. As the captain jumped into the boat to board, he instructed me to follow the ship to the flats at the entrance of our harbor, there to set a signal for help from shore to get us in. The fog thickened, rather than diminished, while on kept the ship, and by not being able to judge when to alter my course, followed until too late to put back found we had passed Cape Pogue, and that we were in a region of country, if the sea may be so called, where I was entirely unacquainted. What could now be done was the question I asked myself, with the wind blowing agale, it was my only chance to still keep the ship in view. But for the safety of the vessel and ourselves sail must be reduced, or we should soon run under. An ugly sea, causing our lug for sail to cut and slash in a terrible manner, demanded immediate attention. I called for the passengers to come and take the helm. At first they flatly refused, but after some naughty words, their fears of a watery grave, which was eloquently portrayed, had the effect of inducing the man to appear, and the assistance he rendered doubtless made one less disaster at sea to be recorded. The vessel, being thus relieved, made better weather. When I turned my eye to where the ship was last observed, with dismay I found myself unable to catch a glimpse of her. Now, thought I, we are in for it. Whether she had kept on sailing, hauled a back, or changed her course, I was unable to determine. And if alarm was not depicted on my usually placid countenance about that time, it never was in all my life. And vain it is to tell that the face is a true index to the emotions of one's heart. The fog apparently could be sliced with a case-knife, like old cheese, which, from the emptiness of my stomach, having fasted since the previous night, was very suggestive of that same article and hard tack in the locker below, being the usual rations in bad times on board such craft. Remembering the bearings of the ship when last seen followed in that direction, thinking that probably there were shoals in her way, which she would have to alter her course to avoid. And thus first bringing upon our own vessel, I could not, with any degree of composure, await the consequences. For I always had a dread of the water as a beverage, especially when taken in two large quantities, yet generally giving me the stomach ache. I felt that my position was rather unenviable, every minute seemed an hour, and the almost distracted groans and cries of my companions issuing from the cabin did not have a tendency to tranquilize my own mind, or suggest any way of escape. In pity I endeavored to dispel the fears of the unfortunate landsmen by hiding my own as best I could, till gladdened by the ship heaving in sight right ahead, with her sails clued up waiting for our approach. Ascertaining where we were, the ship gradually kept on. Afterwards did not lose sight of her until after going alongside and receiving our captain, who, after being paid off, gave the commander of the ship the course from Nantucket, bade him a prosperous passage, and joined our own craft again. He received for his services forty-three dollars, overrunning the amount charged by three dollars, which I thought ought to have been given to me. But my uncle did not see it in that light. Hauling sharp on the wind, beat all that night until nearly dark of the next day, when we ran safely into our snug little harbor, and took out our shellfish to recruit their energies. Our passengers went up to the old tavern, only too glad to tread terra firma once more. They didn't care whether school kept or not. One week after, we resumed the voyage with better success, landing our passengers in safety, and, as before, disposing of our freight to good advantage, making a very profitable cruise, with the exception of frightening me so decidedly that it required thirty years of afterlife to regain my growth. Shortly after, the schooner Betsy and Polly, returning from a fishing voyage up the straits, with a cargo of salted fish, I accepted the chance to cook for the party who were employed to cure them, which was done at a place called Pondlot, where a gravelly beach was handy for spreading, etc. In the winter that followed, my time was variously occupied, more particularly in the ealing business, in which a great deal of jobbing is done, though not in those days requiring quite the muscle as at present. It being followed simply to satisfy the immediate demands of hunger instead of furnishing an article of export. Spring approaching, feeling that the recompense heretofore received was not according to the views of my ambition, I decided to ship on board some other craft and carve out my fortune on my own hook. An opportunity soon presented, and the parties to whom my plans were made known, being acquainted with my abilities, were quite desirous to make me the offer of Cook's birth. I'm board the standing top sail schooner Nancy, of forty-three tons, bound to the coast of Labrador on a fishing expedition under the command of Captain Lott Norton, with a crew of eight men beside myself, an account of which you shall have forthwith. End of Chapter 4. Chapter 5 of 80 years ashore and afloat, or The Thrilling Adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Chapter 5. A Cruise to Labrador Our small stores on board the schooner, the fishing tackle in apple pie order, and the salt for curing the fish we anticipated catching in the hold, with the wind southwest, we set sail in the morning of the first of May. A thick fog enveloped us, lifting as we came up with, or in the vicinity of Nantucket Point, from which our departure was made. For the five days following, we were prevented by thick weather from getting an observation, strong westerly and north winds prevailing. The schooner was a terrible hard craft to steer, requiring almost the strength of a Goliah to keep her under subjection, and making rather uncertain at times the exact distance run or course followed. At night of the fifth day our skipper remarked that at two o'clock the next day his reckonings would be up, and we should be assure, on Cape Race, Newfoundland, which caused much uneasiness among the crew, as they were not desirous that the voyage should terminate in just such a manner. At one o'clock, however, we discovered right ahead of us two boats, which proved to be fishermen from a vessel lying in the harbor of Cape Race. Getting near enough, we hailed them, and inquired how soon they intended to go in. We do not care how soon, was the reply. Upon being invited to come on board, they immediately complied, smelling no doubt the glass of grog they expected to get, this pleasing incident in the recognized custom of those days warranting such an indulgence. It did not prove an illusion of the brain. The bottle was passed, and a nipper all round made us feel as young as we used to be. So finding that our calculations did not vary thirty minutes, to the honor of those who had the navigation of the vessel in charge, the whole sail from our leaving port being accomplished in weather thick as mud. With the boats in tow, soon squared away for the harbor, where we found our neighbors, and enjoyed with them a good gam, imparting to them the latest home intelligence, and enjoying the short season together satisfactorily. There is much of sameness in the experience of the Labrador fishermen, and writers have so often detailed those interesting cruises that I will not weary you now with a recital of the full particulars relating to them. Suffice it to say, after remaining here two or three days, our course was continued, making the bay of islands for boatsmasts, wood, and etc., from there to shallow bay, remaining awhile, then crossing the straits to a place called Dog Island, where our fishing commenced. Here we fell in with a number of our townspeople, which gave the place an air of pleasantry, as often we came together and talked of home and the loved ones. One day, in company with the boats of the top sail schooner Betsy and Polly, went out to try our luck, moored our boats to a rock which projected out of the water, while the boats of the other vessels anchored off. We would talk and pass jokes very freely, until almost unconsciously to ourselves, our boats were quite laden with fish. And by this time, too, a considerable swash was caused by the rising wind, which somewhat hastened our movements in letting go our moorings and regaining the vessel. It was not long before other boats were coming, but observing that there was one less than there was before on the fishing ground, from its absence it was fear that it had been swamped, which proved true. The occupants of the lost boat were one white man and a deaf and dumb negro, both finding a watery grave, where no memorial will ever be erected to mark their last resting place. Continued in this vicinity until the fish struck eastward, when we followed them, entering a harbor called Nancy Belong, hard by a village consisting of a few huts occupied by Canadians, both English and Americans having the right to cast line in these waters. Up to this time we had taken about six hundred quintal of codfish, making them on the rocks at Brader Basin, and readily selling them at three dollars per quintal to vessels bound to the Mediterranean. We came home embalased. Getting back as far as Bay of Islands, the wind came out ahead, blowing so hard that we made a harbor where we remained a few days. In some hurry to get home, and the wind lessening, thought to gain a little to windward. Hove short got sail on her, making a long leg and a short one back. Being a remarkably dull sailor and the wind greatly increasing, it was soon discovered to be necessary to shorten sail. Heading her inshore, we fell to leeward of the port we had left, and in order to make a harbor which our safety demanded, were compelled to run dead to the leeward eighty miles. This was getting home with a vengeance. But such was life I often had been told, and found it even so while I've been growing old. The wind coming in our favour, we made another start, and arrived off Halifax, when very suddenly a gale even more severe than the first, threatened to give us an opportunity of paying our compliments personally to Davy Jones. We hoved to under close sail, and the wind began to slacken, finally dying away to a calm, the old swell causing us to rock fearfully. The deck watch thought it best to call all hands for the purpose of getting enough sail on her to steady her. The call was made, but before they had time to get upon deck, a heavy roll to windward brought us just right to let a sea board us, taking off quarter rails, stanchions, and completely sweeping the decks, smashing in the deadlights, staving the boats, and breaking things generally. The cabin was almost filled with water, and the men on deck only saved themselves by clutching the tiller and crutch ropes aft. We soon made sail, cleared the wreck, and with a moderate breeze, after a tedious passage of 40 days, arrived in Boston, getting our drafts honoured at mercantile houses of that city. Then returned to Edgertown, where the vessel was refitted by Captain T. Jernigan, the merchant of some reputation, and a citizen of the place. Thus ended my first voyage to sea, and my share of the proceeds amounted to the no meagre sum of thirty-two dollars of as good money as the country afforded, and as a present for good behaviour, one hundred and twelve pounds dried cod. Besides giving me an air of independence, I had never before fully appreciated, which no doubt, boylike, was exhibited to the best advantage, especially when entertaining ready listeners with the remarkable incidents and hair-breath escapes consequent to a life on the ocean wave. Where the blue waters leap, while our watch we keep, and the gallant old ship plows he furrows so deep. End of Chapter 5 Chapter 6 of 80 years ashore and afloat, or the thrilling adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Chapter 6 Second Voyage to the Straits In the balmy month of May, the spring following, I shipped, on board the four top-sales schooner Franklin, of ninety tons birthing Captain Timothy Daggett commanding. As was the usual custom, the vessel was taken to Boston for her outfit, her crew of eleven men accompanying her, and on the tenth of the month cleared for another cruise to the Straits, wanting masts, spritz, etc., for our boats, and fuel for cooking purposes, and after a good run put into Bay of Islands for a supply, thence to Shallow Bay, eighty miles, and a northeast course where we cast anchor. Here we fell in with schooner resolution of Derby Connecticut, under the command of James Stewart, who also was from the vineyard. The crews of both vessels went on shore, and in the course of our rambles, over this uninhabited part of creation, we suddenly came upon a newly made grave. Some curiosity was manifested, and no little fear was traceable on the countenances of our companions, as one proceeded to read the inscription attached to the headboard, which revealed the fact that the occupant of this lonely burial place was a victim to the uncurbed wrath of a mulatto, who had been living with this individual and his brother, while spending the season just past for the purpose of hunting moose, fox, and other game, of which there was an abundance. We afterward learned that the murderer was caught, and contrary to the present manner of disposing of such unmitigated criminals, was dealt with according to the justice of a death sentence. As total abstinence was not in those days a prevailing virtue, it was not strange that among the crews of these vessels were to be found men who sometimes indulged with no slight degree of freedom in those beverages so well calculated to destroy their usefulness, filtering from them every high and noble aspiration which the creator intended for a more elevating purpose than the simple gratification of an appetite productive of results alike fatal to oneself and to those with whom he comes in contact. While on shore, the little brown jug, doubtless and near relative to that alluded to in the popular song of that name, was often consulted. Its contents imparted to the men a slightly elevated sensation which enabled them to see things in a very different light than they really existed. Thus we readily account for a fright quite a number of our men experienced, and which came near terminating in a tragical manner. One of the crew, in afterlife familiarly known as Uncle Lot, who, unlike his namesake of ancient days, was possessed of a companion who was never known to look back, but with him met the struggle of life with an unyielding decision and determination. While for many years of their declining life their lamps were trimmed and burning, guiding the tempest-tossed mariner in safety to a desired haven, as gladly to the sailor's gaze, Captain Pogue Lighthouse sends its glimmering beams over the waters of vineyard sound. But returning to the thread of our discourse, as a good brother sometimes expresses himself, Uncle Lot, going inland in advance of his companions, being rather of a fun-loving disposition, fully in the belief that a good joke now and then is relished by the best of men, and therefore not a criminal offense, thought he would try would affect a little one might have. Secreting himself, behind some vines and bushes, near a number of trees, which he judged his shipmates would soon attempt to cut down, divesting himself of his coat, pants, and hat, bringing his red flannel shirt and drawers in view, and drawing over his face and head a bright crimson bandana, he lay perfectly quiet, awaiting the approach of his victims. Presently advancing footsteps were heard, and it was not long before the work of chopping began, a portion of the men only waiting as lookers on, intending to assist in conveying the wood to the boats when it was in readiness. Suddenly rising from his ambush and shouting in imitation of the wild Indian whoop, he startled them most fearfully. Quickly gathering, not the wood, but their remaining strength for a stampede, they cried aloud, Red Indians, Red Indians help, help! Made for the shore. One of the party covering his retreat with a heavily loaded shotgun of which, in case the supposed foe had been found to be gaining on him, he would not have hesitated in lending him the contents. The boats gained, no time was lost in regaining the vessel, where they were assisted on board, so pale and terrified, their nearest relations would hardly have recognized them. At the dinner table the story was related, when at last the cause of so much trouble was found to be a little joke of Uncle Lot's, a hardy laugh went round, and good cheer was contagious. The night following the day so propitious for the race was very calm. The vessels lay within a cable's length of each other, which, as it was dead low water, brought us very near the shore. By and by the silence which reigned around was disturbed, as the rattling of stones on shore, and the apparent moving of the hulk of an old boat, seemed to indicate something approaching, which readily suggested, to our already excited imaginations, the certainty that the Indians were about to attack us. Fully armed to repel borders, anxiously we awaited their arrival, until the day dawned, when hastily our anchors were taken, and with our boats we towed out to sea, preferring to trust ourselves to the mercy of the ocean, than to fall into the clutches of a merciless foe. We afterwards felt somewhat chagrin to learn that our fears were entirely groundless, being caused simply by the scratching of birds, industriously seeking crabs and other nutriment on which they subsisted, only being able to procure them when the tide was out. We went on our way rejoicing, arriving after a three-days passage to Braider Gulch, where fishing commenced, and we procured two-thirds of a fare, the fish striking to the eastward soon after. We followed on to Red Bay and completed the voyage, having a favorable passage of ten days, curing our fish in part, at or near, where now reaches out in the waters of Katama Bay, the favorite landing, for the thousands who come to enjoy its quiet scenes, and reap the benefit of the refreshing seaside facilities so abundantly afforded. So terminates another voyage at sea, for which I was paid off at the rate of ten dollars per month, plus enabling me to give to my dear old mother forty dollars as a little present, which was very acceptable, for I, being the eldest of the children, it was but little the others could do, and every item that I was competent to add to the treasury was carefully and judiciously invested. With feelings of mingled pride and gratitude does memory of the past, associated with the warm affection and reverential awe which I ever felt for my parents, even now, when trembling limbs and silver locks remind me that the voyage of life will soon be over, gild the horizon of my declining sun, with the hope of at last gaining a safe anchorage, near that blessed shore where tempests near break, or billows roar. Chapter 7 CHAPTER VII SHIP WRECK OF THE ELINOR Waking a short stay on shore joined the sloop elinor of Troy, New York, fraying flower and grain from Troy and Albany to Boston, continued in the same employment on board this craft for three seasons. Late in the fall, after putting the vessel in good condition for the rough coasting in the inclement weather of an approaching winter, was loaded at New York with a cargo of flour, cheese, and dead hogs for the Boston market. At one o'clock p.m. we left Port. A strong westerly wind, or rather gal it might better be called, brought us down Long Island Sound, a humming, though able to carry but little sail. Getting to be nearly dark we judged the core steered would clear Block Island, but the main sail being on the port side, our craft stole to windward of her course. And before we had time to haul offshore after making the discovery, to our horror, fetched up on the rocks bounding the northwest point of Block Island. Immediately jibbing the main sail and giving her a part of the jib she forged over. And before the main sheet could be hauled aft, struck hard and fast on the bar inside the point, thumping heavily. She soon bilged and began to break up. It was very rough, the sea making a clean breach over us. But the boom being in shore healed her that way, making it possible for us to save ourselves, which at first looked rather dubious. Bitter cold as it was, our boats riddled the deadlights broken in, and the cabin fast filling with water, our escape from an ocean grave would seem almost a miracle. Until daylight approached we stood in the water. Then warmed by our bottomless rack that what we were to do to save ourselves must be done speedily, we crawled upon deck to take a survey, and discovered a man upon the beach, who informed us that as it was now low water, we must affect a landing immediately or not at all. Our compliment of men consisted of five, each of whom was considering the surest way to extricate himself from the threatening danger. The ground froze as fast as the water receded, and you may judge how soft was the landing, as we swung from the weather rail toward the shore by the jib halyards, letting go our hold when overreaching the water fifteen or twenty feet in the air. In this manner we all succeeded in landing safely, at the exception of several severe bruises, which were constant reminders of that unfortunate cruise for many long days and nights after. But getting from the wreck was not destined to end our grief or consummate our troubles. Observing some mile and a half inland a residence, we started for it, but soon came to a pond frozen over, which we preferred to cross rather than go round, as the incessant cold was fast benumbing us. Had proceeded to near the middle of it, when it began to crack, and finally led us in altogether. As fast as the circumstances of the case would permit, we fought our way to the shore nearest the house, upon reaching which its hospitable doors were opened, and a cordial invitation was extended to enter. We were not slow in accepting. A cheerful fire and warm drink soon made us quite comfortable, and before many hours Richard was himself again. After a good night's rest we repaired to the beach, and succeeded in saving a few articles of our personal effects, as well as small quantities of the freight. With the spars and sails the ladder was sold, and to the families who had so generously entertained us we gave the hull of the craft. The severe weather detained us upon the island for three weeks, when we were taken away by a little pilot boat bound to and belonging in Holmes Hole. We anticipated a short run down the sound, but when only half the distance to Gay Head had been accomplished, a strong gale arising were compelled to scud for a lee-port, which we made at Stonington, waiting one week for a favorable opportunity. Got home all right at last. As freighting was now quite dull on account of the embargo, and wages consequently low, I thought best to remain ashore, which I did, working a little here and there until the winter wore away. When spring opened the herring fishery of our own island, affording something better than idleness, I turned my attention to that interest. And, by the way, I will try to give you a slight description of this ancient enterprise, and moreover tell you how it has come to pass that the old madacuset has gone up. 8. A Fishery of Olden Times Described Like most of the inlets, ponds, coves, and villages, the fishery alluded to bears an Indian cognamen, and without doubt Mr. Indian had an interest in the so-called Madacuset Creek previous to the settlement of the island by the whites. At any rate, the oldest inhabitant cannot remember when its running waters did not invite the Finney tribe to its precincts. No, it has long since changed almost for its entire length. Running parallel with the south beach for a gone distance, the surge of the broad Atlantic constantly narrowing the space between shore and creek it has been filled up many times, and redug further northeast, until any traces of the old Indian property would be difficult to find. For many years afterward it was considered personal property, whosoever owned a share therein was considered a fortunate man. For in it he saw something strongly resembling the widow's cruise of oil which could not fail. Happy indeed was the individual who owned two-six, for that was almost a competency, especially if the season was a fortunate one. Fishing in this creek was, early in its history, reduced to a system by the fathers, from which the sons have never materially departed. The ownership of the property once fully established it was sufficiently secured against any encroachments, and in just proportions was dealt out each person's share of the catch, after necessary expenses attending the same were deducted. The whole interest was divided into quarters, each quarter bearing a name by which it was always recognized, V's, Jenkins, Plain, Town, and Chappaquiddick, each using twenty-four hours as they came respectively. Each quarter was divided and subdivided, even to sixty-fourths, thereby giving to the owners of a sixty-fourth one fish out of every sixty-four taken, and so proportionately those representing a larger share. Each full share, that is, every sixth, was supposed to provide a man to represent it. Others appearing and tendering their services were termed reformators. Why such a name was thus applied has always remained a secret, unless it was that persons who were accustomed to mingle there, having become somewhat demoralized, it was thought best to give them the benefit of outside influence. Be it so or not, they were usually compensated, prior to the division being made, by the agent, in counsel with the proprietors, deciding how many herring were justly due. The number being named, they were instructed to do their own counting, and frequently being very poor at figures, the bag was filled without regard to accuracy, requiring two or three men to handle it, when, if no error existed in the count, a small boy could easily have shouldered it. About such as life we have had reformators in every age. Six nets were generally used in catching, three on each side of the creek, between which boards placed edgeways divided the passage of the waters in the middle. At the weirs the creek was some seven or eight feet wide. Nearby, on the bank, were large boxes, capable of containing sixty barrels of fish each, which sometimes had to be emptied to make room for those taken later. They were removed from the boxes, or kids, as they are denominated by the fishermen, in half-barrel strapped tubs, and credited to the different shares, the account of which was chalked down on the tailboard of somebody's cart, usually by the agent of the quarter. Opposite the net handles were small houses, which in bad weather were very convenient. These were designated bollicators. Here, too, I am in the dark for an explanation, after swallowing Webster on a bridge. If any of you should, in any future period, make a dictionary, you will confer a great favor by defining it in the word bollicator. The houses resembled, and were quite suggestive of, sentry boxes as seen upon a fort, capable of seating one man and affording a shelter from wind and rain. It was not an uncommon thing for disputes to arise in regard to the division of the fish, and not unfrequently, the disputants would engage in a fistfight, until one or more would, accidentally of course, be tumbled into the water, thereby getting cooled off, when business would be resumed. The first catch of the season began as early as March, continuing until June, when the fish that had escaped the vigilance of the fishermen, or had been allowed to pass, unmolested between sunset of Saturday night and the same hour of Sunday, having deposited their spawn in the fresh ponds above, came down on their passage to the sea. Often thirty or even forty men and boys might be seen in and around the creek house, ready to do whatever offered in catching, dividing, etc., sometimes securing from three to four hundred barrels and twenty-four hours, at which time these men would leave, giving room for the next party to commence operations. When so many fish were taken, it was attended with a degree of excitement, which at times was quite animating. And this fishery, being the most celebrated artificial one in the country, it often attracted visitors from abroad, ladies as well as gentlemen. Moreover, the road leading thereto, across the great plains, furnished a most desirable ride in pleasant weather, giving to strangers an opportunity, which they appeared fully to appreciate, of walking on the surf-bound shores of the Atlantic, beholding its beauty and majesty, as mountains high it rolled its gigantic waves far up the beach. When, as frequently was the case, the fish showed no disposition to run up, and latter years, more especially, long sticks were used in driving them, requiring considerable skill to do it successfully. At these times there was a king who, with his long-booted subjects, would quietly go to where the creek emptied into the salt water, and when any considerable number entered, a rush was made, and their retreat was cut off by placing very deep nets across the creek. Then the pounding and splashing would finally persuade the fish to go up, rather than have the life pelted out of them. Sometimes getting very thick together, the fish, apparently, in a flurry, would all with one accord make a beeline for the nets above, raising the water in advance of them, all foaming nearly a foot high. Now for a time the sight is novel indeed. Perhaps in less time than it requires to describe it, twenty or thirty barrels are secured. The habits of the fish are very regular. They will not enter the creek only at particular times, not even obeying the mandates of the king, who has probably had to do with more herring than any other man in the whole country, he having given them some awful smokings. When the fish do not appear, there is but little work done. Then it is that the evil one finds any quantity of mischief for idle hands to do. The house alluded to was roughly furnished with births of hard pine, also long plank seats, both of which were used by the sleepy ones to stretch out upon. When the floor was not preferred or considered most safe, as sometimes accidents happen in the house, as well as in the open air, as it frequently proved, sleeping was not an indulgence much courted by the denizens of this favorite resort. The uninitiated, however, overcome by weariness, almost unconsciously, would sometimes find a little nap disturbed by the loud shouts and boisterous laughter of a jolly crowd, who very innocently were gazing on a countenance well begrimmed with lamp-black. At another time some victim would be aroused from the land of bright dreams, feeling a disagreeable sensation of suffocation, caused by the chimney-top being filled with hay or other stuffing, preventing the natural escape of smoke from the fireplace below. Such times the individual victimized would make a dash for the door, only to be confronted by some hideous or ghostly figure, or perhaps to fall headlong into the half-hog's-head of slime and water, so disposed that to shun it was impossible. Occasionally one might find himself elevated, or suspended by his heels to the rafters or beams girding the building. When a general wakefulness prevailed, the weary hours of night were beguiled by storytelling and song-singing, though maybe not of the most refined character. The bay into which the creek emptied was a favorable place for striped bass-catching, which was to some extent practiced by those who frequented the herring fishery by baiting a hook with part of a fish thrown far off from the shore. It was allowed to remain until the fish in search of food would greedily attempt to swallow it, when he would get hooked so securely that he would soon die. The owner of the line looked to it occasionally through the night. Not unfrequently, however, the pleasant anticipation of the fishermen would vanish, after a hard and long pull, discovering, not a large bass, as he fancied, but maybe an overgrown sheep which some lover of fun had procured from a neighboring farm, and attached to the line in the temporary absence of the proprietor. Such was the place where many days and nights of my life were passed, usually receiving good pay, sometimes in fish, yet other times cash. This fishery was a source of no inconsiderable income to the inhabitants of the island generally. Most any business interests could easily determine when it was in a flourishing condition by the influx of money, which, readily changing hands, made trade lively, giving to the place a healthy spirit of activity. Fences in that immediate vicinity were not allowed to remain more than one season, for almost of a certainty some cold, dark night would they be used for firewood. A few years ago, the creek being in a somewhat dilapidated condition, almost the whole interest being represented by the king, and a few faithful followers, who cared more, seemingly, to catch every fish who dared to invade its waters, rather than to make any improvements, a number of very wicked men conceived the idea of letting the salt water into the nursery above, by tapping the beach, which divided it from the ocean. For a long time, guards were stationed at the various localities most propitious for so vile a purpose to prevent, if possible, such a disaster. But finally, the vigilance of the guards becoming bankrupt, digging began, and before daylight betrayed the diggers, as they were termed, a ship channel was made, and the pond so reduced that the creek became useless. The main object in opening the beach was, passing shoals of herring, and other members of the Finney family, might have a suitable port of entry, where in large quantities they might be taken by the illegal process of seining. The parties supposed to be engaged in so nefarious a work, were placed under arrest, tried, and permitted to give bail for further examination, which resulted in their acquittal, their case being argued, by Honorable B. F. Butler, the lawyer of some eminence, and for a number of years a member of Congress. He, from the fact, possibly, of his being slightly cross-eyed, was unable to see that the rights of Matta Kieset had been invaded, representing, with no little show of truthfulness, that no such fishery in fact existed, as the spot originally granted, was half a mile out to sea. And now, having given you quite an elaborate history of an interest which, for a century, supplied the markets of New England and the South West with a great table luxury, besides attracting to our shores fish of larger species, which was not only desirable, but exceedingly profitable, asking your pardon for a seeming digression, I will continue my narrative, which brings me to the nineteenth year of my age, when I joined the little pilot boat exchange for a season of fishing on the shoals south of Nantucket. End of Chapter 8. Chapter 9 of 80 years ashore and afloat, or The Thrilling Adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Chapter 9. Fishing, Voyage, and Bad Rum. Our vessel was under the command of a Captain Dunham, with a crew of five men and her cook, in which latter capacity I served, with the understanding that for the services rendered I was to receive all the fish caught by myself, which proved a good arrangement on my part, as my line stood high hook. The reason why may be easily explained, it being partially from industrious habits, but more particularly, perhaps, from strict adherence to temperance principles, which I am sorry to say, was rather the exception than the general rule in practice on board our vessel, many a good opportunity sliding by while our men were sleeping off the ill effects of their boozy carousels. After being out nearly a week, it was thought best to make a harbor, as the jugs were about drained, and they could not stand the pressure of their departed spirits with any degree of comfort or composure. So the craft was headed for Chatham, and not withstanding, it was blowing a gale heedless of consequences, in such haste where they'd again the land, that a fresh supply might be procured, sail was crowded on to such a degree, that the main mast was badly sprung, besides very nearly numbering our mess as each moment, wave after wave, threatened to engulf us. Good luck, rather than skillful management, at nightfall of a Saturday, enabled us to reach port. Without delay, a messenger was dispatched for the article in question, which already on that, as on many other occasions, had so nearly proved the destroyer of both body and soul of men illy prepared to meet such a fearful end. Following morning opened finally, our captain in his suit of go-on-shore apparel told me of his intention to attend church, wished me to set him on shore, and watch for his return to take him on board again, and be sure not to keep him long in waiting. The crew, preferring to remain with the vessel, did so, spending the day in the gratification of an appetite which seemed to control and master all the better feelings and emotions of their nature. This they took pleasure in demonstrating in various methods, one of which proving very nearly fatal to myself, I will speak of. When the hour had about arrived for the captain to return, some of the crew, thinking to embarrass my ability to obey his order, filled the boat with water. Then, in a commanding voice, told me to jump in and bail her out. And first, feeling somewhat angry, I flatly refused, whereupon I was told if the order was not immediately complied with, they would throw me into the ocean. Still refusing, they made good their word, and roughly clutching me when a little off my guard, regardless of my cries that I could not swim, tumbled me headlong over the vessel's side. One more human than his companions, seeing my fruitless endeavors to regain the vessel, threw over a rope, by the aid of which I succeeded in crawling in the water-logged boat. Receiving a bucket, I lost no time in clearing the boat from the water, as I was assured the experience already received was but a preliminary to what might be expected if further refusal was persisted in. Soon the voice of the captain warned me of his approach, and as speedily as possible I finished bailing and pulled in after him. Somewhat displeased that he was kept waiting, he inquired the cause, and when informed that others were more to blame than myself, he swore roundly, threatening to reduce each man's allowance from to three quarts per day. Soon got under way, and in a few hours were on good fishing-ground. Remained this time two or three weeks when a fearful gale from the eastward caused us to make for a port. Not a stitch of canvas could be carried, and under bare poles we scud like the wind, the fury of which we were endeavouring to escape. It was dark when we entered Edgertown Harbour, ran in under Tower Hill, let go both anchors, which they dragged, and high and dry up the beach we went. By removing a part of the fish we shortly hove her off, and went out on another trip, continuing them with varied success and unimportant incidents until the closing of the season. During the fall and winter of 1803, passed my time much as I had in previous winters, when not on ship-board, endeavouring to earn an honest penny, sometime clamming and ealing or clearing woodland—stumping, as it was called, though not exactly in the sense it is generally understood at the present day—but procuring the means of smoothing to the best of my abilities, the pathway of my still-surviving parent and the family looking to us for support. Early in April of the same year, on board the Sloup-Smack Democrat, Sea Peas followed fishing on the south side of Nantucket, marketing our fares at New Bedford. Afterward, as the season became more favourable, we changed our business for the lobster trade, where, along the shores of Cape Cod, we would make up our load, disposing of it to New York dealers. Five or six weeks were usually consumed and making a round trip. On one of these trips we were run down by a large schooner bound in a different direction. It was dark at the time, and nothing was observed until the vessels collided. Our mainsail was badly torn, and the hull of our vessel amid ships cut down, so that it appeared we could not long prevent sinking. However, by stuffing the open seams with old clothing, bags, etc., we finally reached port, repaired damages, and resumed our trips, continuing them till fall. I then took to the woods again, where felling trees and stubbing kept me engaged until the North River Sloup Eastern Trader offered me a chance at $22 per month. Our business was fraying grain from Albany and New York to Boston. In order that you may have some idea of the perils of weathering Cape Cod in the winter season, I will devote a few minutes, if agreeable, to the consideration of the subject. 10. A Cruise of the Coasting Sloup Eastern Trader The vessel was under the command of Captain Ripley, my former guardian, and here it may be well to mention that she was very low decked, and consequently when laden the water would often flow over it, which in freezing weather did not have a tendency to increase the comfort of those on board. Soon after sunrise, the tide serving right, we left the harbor of Edgertown, in company with a number of square rigors, and a top sail sloup. A favorable wind took us down as far as the highlands of Cape Cod, when it changed into the northwest and blew a hurricane, and it became necessary to put the vessel under as snug sail as possible. This, the extreme cold, made very difficult to perform, especially as the clue of our mainsail was carried away, and in lowering down we could not well avoid dropping it into the water. As we got it on board, it immediately stiffened with ice, but at last we got in three reefs, and with a tackle on boom end hooked onto the flu, hauled out as well as we could and reset it. Took Bonnet off the jib and stood offshore, making a northeast course. Ran till morning, and then warships standing in to the westward, the hull of our vessel, looking like a floating iceberg, being fairly logged with the quantity of ice that had collected, almost hiding our identity. We fetched in as near Chatham Beach as the wind allowed. Let go the anchor, and set colors in the rigging Union Down for assistance, which very soon attracted the attention of a number of men who came to our relief. Our captain asked if they could get us in, which, after clearing the craft of her formidable load they succeeded in doing, to our great joy. In order to avoid large quantities of drifting ice which came down with the ebb tide, while we had one anchor in the channel, another was taken on to the shore, which hauled us close in out of a strong current, as we just kept the channel cable tight, without fear of grounding, and at flood tide swung by it. The topsoil sloop with one schooner, soon after came in. Also a brig, which had been run down during the night, dropped her anchor a little to the leeward of us in a crippled condition. The vessel with which she had been in contact doubtless sank, and her unfortunate crew found a watery grave. Thus, from a fleet of over forty sail, only four succeeded in making an anchorage, the others being driven out to sea. Learning the particulars of the sad catastrophe to which I have alluded, we found that the first blow received by the brig carried the bowsprit by the board close up to the stem, and broke the anchor flue. She next got a blow midships, which cut her down till the cotton in the hold and on deck fetched her up. By this time the water was running in, but by opening the bells of cotton and stuffing the gaps, she was kept afloat, and by lashing the kedge anchor to the broken flue and letting go, they were enabled to out-ride the gale. We lay there a number of days, our provisions giving out, went ashore, and bought what we could. We also butchered a bullock, which was divided among the several crews. Thus making the best of a bad bargain, finally, one Sunday morning the weather moderating had looked favourable for a start. The mate was ashore, which somewhat delayed us, but we took the shore anchor in, letting the vessel swing into the channel, and anxiously waited for the mate. Presently a large field of ice came sweeping down with a strong tide, which piled in upon us, running up the rigging a dozen feet high, then falling with a crash upon deck. Directly our cable parted, and unable to help ourselves, we were crowded upon a shoal, broad side to the ice, which threatened to demolish us. About this time the mate arrived, and as the tide gradually slacked, cleared the ice, and by a small anchor, hove off and return to our former anchorage, but with the loss of our large anchor. We hired the longshoremen to try and recover it for us, but they, not exerting themselves much, it was lost to us. Doubtless, when they were disposed to attend to the matter, it was not much of a job, it probably paid better to get it for themselves than to have secured it for us. We left in a few days in company with the top sail sloop, and got into Boston Bay, taking another snowstorm and easterly gale. The sloop was just on our weather-bow, heading as nearly as possible for Boston Light, when a heavy sea boarded her, breaking the stern boat clear from her beyond recovery. Not long after, glad enough and tired enough, we tied up at Long Wharf, and the sloop nearby at Central. Both vessels soon had good fires going, to warm their crews and dry their clothing. Directly the alarm of fire was sounded, and hastening on deck, we found that on board the sloop too much of a good thing was proving injurious. The wooden funnel, leading from the old-fashioned fireplace, commonly used in those days, having taken fire and communicated to the spars and sails, needed attention, which it soon received, and the flames were extinguished with only the loss of articles mentioned. Our cargo was sold in lots to suit customers. We then made other cruises to the west, and returning, not always having so rough a time, but generally requiring about three weeks to go and return. This business I continued, until late in the fall, when the vessel went into winter quarters, resuming it again in the spring. End of Chapter 10 Chapter 11 of 80 years ashore and afloat, or The Thrilling Adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Chapter 11. Uncle Jethro forms the acquaintance of his future bride. Considering myself, by this time old enough to appreciate female society, it may not appear strange that my thoughts sometimes roamed or the broad domain of fancy, in quest of an object on which to place my affections, as I pictured in my imagination little home of my own, which I hoped in the future to share with somebody's daughter. About this time a circumstance did occur, though slight in itself which, in its final results, had the effect of changing the whole tenor of my life. And many times since, when congratulating myself on the good fortune attending me, I have been led to say, it was the only genuine streak of good luck I ever did have. The trouble between our country and Great Britain having been settled, commerce revived, and business interests on sea and land generally improved. Yet, awaiting an opportunity, just suiting my wishes, I remained ashore, or occasionally, made short cruises in and about the fishing waters of Vineyard Sound, or out the south side of the island, for a swordfish expedition, or a codfish voyage, usually returning quite early in the day. Upon my return from one of these excursions, having carelessly neglected taking along my rations, the gnawings of hunger hastened my footsteps to the home of my mother, and the little family, who, upon arriving, I found to be out making calls. Not being a stranger to the cupboard, I soon refreshed myself, and sat down to meditate. I was soon in a brown study, and the autumnal sun went down ere my reverie was disturbed. But shortly after, the voice of the lady who occupied the lower tenement, Mrs. Pent, aroused me. As from the foot of the stairs, she informed me of the presence of two young ladies, whose acquaintance she wished me to form, adding that I must change my clothes as soon as possible, and present myself. Not being the possessor of so elaborate a wardrobe, as is considered necessary at the present day, I was not long in deciding what I should adopt. Soon attired, I reported for duty, by entering the presence of the company, to whom I was introduced, and endeavored to make as good an impression as possible. Have since found out that they never would have mistrusted that I was half as green as I fancied myself. Their call was not a long one, and, if I remember correctly, there was not much that I found to talk about, which possibly will account for my not being taken for a verdant youth. But the real fact in the matter is, that as often as I cast my eyes toward the particular location occupied by one, it became almost impossible to utter a sentence. And from that brief interview, the discovery was made that the heart so long all my own, as regards matrimonial inclinations, had been captivated by one I had never before met. After the ladies left the house, Mrs. Pent, or as better known later in life, Aunt Debbie, from the uniform kindness of heart and Christian spirit she ever manifested, asked me what I thought of the girls. My reply was that they appeared very pleasant. Being still further interrogated, confessed my preference for Miss Stewart, adding the assurance that if she would not refuse me, I would marry her as I was a living man. Oh! says Aunt Derby. You are joking! My reply was, you wait and see, for as I am a living Jethro, she shall be my wife if I can get her, which promise, I am proud to say, was kept five years afterward, to the joy and comfort of a long and checkered life. Of eighty years ashore and afloat, or the thrilling adventures of Uncle Jethro, by E. C. Cornell. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. CHAPTER XII. CAPTURE OF THE WALER, MARIANNE, BY AN ENGLISH MAN OF WAR The young lady, to whom I have eluded, was the daughter of a well-to-do farmer, who, possessing no ordinary talents in the art of husbandry, was amply rewarded, as his successful improvements in agricultural implements and abundant harvests indicated. If advice was needed or suggestions were to be made, farmer Benjamin Stewart must be consulted, and his views and opinions received as decisive. The family consisted of two sons and one daughter beside her already referred to, each in some degree, inheriting the proud spirit and noble ambition of the father. With the exception of the eldest son, they all appeared to take delight in the honorable calling of agriculture. He, early in life, manifested a strong desire to follow the sea, thinking of farmer's life too tame to suit his roving propensities. Starting when but a lad, he made a number of voyages in the whaling business, till returning from one he was captured by an English man of war, and all hands made prisoners, some of them being sent to England, the remainder, including himself, being held on board the warship. They destroyed the whaler, which was the Marianne, belonging to the island of Nantucket. Here it was that the vim of the family was clearly demonstrated, and the stubborn will of Sam, the son of Benjamin, Britain's heel, could not subdue. Nearing our coast, it was remarked by the admiral, that getting short of provisions they must put in somewhere for a supply. Over hearing the talk, our ex-wellman replied, Sir, I can tell you where you may be supplied. Said he, can you take us in where our stores can be recruited? I can, sir. New York is a grand place. I will take you right in. For your impudence, he replied, you will form the acquaintance of Dartmoor Prison, and it was not long before his words were verified. While on board the ship, he flatly refused to touch his hat to the British officers, which greatly aggravated them. But no punishment that was threatened induced him to comply, which oftentimes caused him severe treatment. Such was the determined spirit of one of the family, which to a greater or less degree was apparent in the character of each of the others, not accepting my intended. But to dispose of Sam, whom I have taken the liberty to introduce to you, permit me to add that after a long confinement in the filthy dungeon he was liberated, in order to take command of the English ship Elizabeth, bound on a whaling-cruise. The ship was taken by the natives during the voyage, but subsequently was recaptured through the daring bravery of her captain, and safely returned with a valuable cargo of oil. He made a number of voyages which, proving successful, placed him in comfortable circumstances, which he made more so by taking to his heart and home a most amiable and lovely English lady for whom he had formed an attachment. A few years after, it was supposed to have been poisoned by the natives, whom he visited while still pursuing his favorite calling. A few years since, one of his sons came to America, and visited the childhood home of his departed parent. What his opinion of the premises was we are unable to conjecture, but, if fond of a quiet life and the constant role of the ocean, he could not have failed to enjoy the scene to his heart's content. Fresh in our memory are the scenes of our childhood. Forget them will never by night or by day. Old ocean and plain, the scrub oak and wildwood, make familiar the spot where in youth we did play. End of Chapter 12. Chapter 13 of 80 years ashore and afloat, or The Thrilling Adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Chapter 13, Almost a Hero. Before I continue this yarn any farther, I must tell you an old story, an incident which occurred during the turbulent days in the latter part of the War of 1812, which came near making a hero of your humble servant. There is a destiny that shapes our ends, rough hue them as we will. Early in the morning of a very fine day, a number of men strolling on the south beach of Martha's Vineyard discovered among the reefs a vessel displaying signals for a pilot. Immediately shoving off a small boat kept for that purpose, they bordered her and found her to be a prize to an English convoy that had recently been prowling around in company with a man of war. The vessel captured was just returning with a load of codfish, and her crew was prisoners in the hold of the vessel which had been partially emptied of fish for their reception. The officer in command requested to be taken into some neutral port for supplies. Accordingly she was cleared from the shoals, and after a few hours anchored between the lighthouse in Edgerton Harbor and Chappaquitic Point opposite. Observing her and judging that one of our fishing fleet had arrived, with a neighbor I launched a skiff and pulled off to have a gam, not apprehending the least danger until it was too late to retreat. Ran alongside and our warp being passed, we were invited by the officer of the deck to come on board, discovering to our dismay, and instead of her being what we supposed, she belonged to her majesty's service. But putting on the best face possible, I replied to the questions put by the commander as if we perfectly understood our position. Said he to me, Are you aware what kind of a craft you have visited? In reply, very indifferently, I assured him that I did know, for I had observed previously to gaining the deck, that the buttons on his coat bore the emblems of the English Navy, instead of those representing our own. Trying what effect his words might have upon us, we were told that we would not be allowed to leave the vessel. To which in reply I said, I think, sir, you will be gentlemanly enough when we are disposed to leave, which we are in no hurry to do, to permit us to do so. Yes, oh yes, certainly, I was only joking. But, he continued, we are out of small stores, and you must furnish us with what are needed without any money, as we have none to pay. I told him it was not in accordance with my feelings to feed my enemies. But, said he, does not your Bible teach you to do so? Well, at any rate, you cannot expect to be furnished with provisions without remuneration. Ah, said he, I have it now. In our vessel's hold is stowed a quantity of dried fish, in exchange for which you must satisfy our demand. This we agreed to do, and preparation being made to take our leave, he communicated the counter-sign, which was supposed to ensure attention from the ninth century, at which time he recommended us to return. On reaching shore, we immediately repaired to a grocery nearby, kept by one Thomas Mayhew, who very willingly supplied the requisition, which in due time was conveyed to the vessel. On our near approach, as previously instructed, we rested on our oars in order to attract the attention of the sentinel. He, failing to appear, we ran alongside and gained the deck, where, upon looking around, we discovered to our amazement and surprise that we were masters of the position, the sentry not to be found, and the vessel's company asleep below decks. Proceeding forward, where the cabin in such craft usually was built, found the scuttle, nearly closed, which fact I was not long in communicating to my companion, and forming him that by shutting the slide and dropping into the clasp atholp him, the anchor could be slipped, the vessel beached, and all her crew and officers would become prisoners to our little strategy. Said he, it will never do. Fearful that it coming to the ears of her majesty our town would have to suffer the consequences. Very reluctantly the idea was abandoned. Making our presence known, such a tumbling upstairs was never before heard of. In such a hurry were they, a number came near receiving fatal injuries, by getting so completely wedged together, it was with difficulty that they were extricated. The goods being received on board, the fish were passed into the boat in generous quantities, so many in fact I feared the intention of the officers was to sink us. At last I begged them to desist crying, enough, enough! When the order was given to cease firing. We then rode for the shore, the vessel soon after, taking her departure of the pilot, who still remained on board, only leaving her when the foot of the shoals was reached, receiving, as we subsequently learned, $25 in hard specie for the service he rendered. The fish thus received from our midnight excursion were sold for a good price, and the whole affair regarded as a profitable investment. Yet it was difficult to rid myself for years after of the tormenting thought that I had lost, beyond the hope of recovery, the only opportunity ever offered to do a big thing. But as everything happening is for the best, I accepted the consolation of this reflection, still pursuing my humble walks in life. and afloat, or the thrilling adventures of Uncle Jethro by E. C. Cornell. Soon after peace was proclaimed, a small sloop came into our harbour for the purpose of procuring men who were willing to proceed to Portland, Maine, to assist in bringing to Bristol, Rhode Island, the ship General Jackson, a 500-ton prize to the privateer Yankee of Bristol. With a number of others I agreed to go for the sum of $20 for the run. On arriving at the place designated, found that as the vessel was yet to be loaded, our services were required in getting the cargo on board, for which we received daily wages. Her hold was stowed off with a variety of small lumber, and on deck were taken spars and heavy timber. We left port with a fair wind, but to enjoy it long was not in our line of luck. Soon changing to a gale, and a snowstorm accompanying it, we were obliged to send down top gallant yards and masts, close reef the lower sails, and tried to make the best we could of a bad bargain, as it was impossible to get back. Hald the ship on the port-tac, keeping or so for three or four days, when the weather became better, and we resumed our course. Got along very well, until a thick fog enveloped us, and the wind canted to the southward, finally dying away to a calm with a strong current setting to the northward. Indications of the near approach to land, by a roaring sound born to us through the dense darkness, led us to the conclusion that it would be wisdom to throw the deep sea lead, which, being done, we found shoal water, and at every trial it was becoming beautifully less. Cleared away both anchors, overhauled a range of cables, ready to let go at a moment's warning. Judging ourselves to be in the vicinity of South Shoal, which probably was correct, a light breeze springing up, we shot out clear, our pilot taking a departure on the supposition. The fog and southerly winds continued to prevail, and we saw nothing to relieve our anxiety for a number of days. At last our soundings indicated that we were in Block Island Channel, and Block Island Bearing West, southerly, four miles distant, shaped our course for Newport. Soon after, having spoken a vessel just out from there, entered the river and soon arrived at Bristol, where we were paid off and allowed to return home. Thus terminated my first voyage in a vessel square rigged. For a week I remained at home, which visit was very agreeably spent. How and where, for the greater part, we will leave our friends to imagine. But as I was making preparation for a longer voyage than I had hitherto made, there was much to be looked after, and I rather judge that part was pretty well attended to. End of Chapter 14