tomachs were being rolled about in sad confusion, we
generally managed to lie on our backs, and grin, and try discordant
staves of the 'Flowers of the Forest' and the 'Low-backed Car.' We
could sing and laugh, when we could do nothing else; though A---- was
ready to swear after each fit was past, that that was the first time
he had felt anything, and at this moment would declare in broad Scotch
that he'd never been sick at all, qualifying the oath with 'except for
a minute now and then.' He brought a cornet-a-piston to practise on,
having had three weeks' instructions on that melodious instrument; and
if you could hear the horrid sounds that come I especially at heavy
rolls. When I hint he is not improving, there comes a confession: 'I
don't feel quite right yet, you see!' But he blows away manfully, and
in self-defence I try to roar the tune louder.

"11.30 P.M.

"Long past Cape St. Vincent now. We went within about 400 yards of the
cliffs and lighthouse in a calm moonlight, with porpoises springing
from the sea, the men crooning long ballads as they lay idle on the
forecastle, and the sails flapping uncertain on the yards. As we
passed, there came a sudden breeze from land, hot and heavy-scented;
and now as I write its warm rich flavour contrasts strongly with the
salt air we have been breathing.

"I paced the deck with H----, the second mate, and in the quiet night
drew a confession that he was engaged to be married, and gave him a
world of good advice. He is a very nice, active, little fellow, with a
broad Scotch tongue and 'dirty, little rascal' appearance. He had a
sad disappointment at starting. Having been second mate on the last
voyage, when the first mate was discharged, he took charge of the
_Elba_ all the time she was in port, and of course looked forward to
being chief mate this trip. Liddell promised him the post. He had not
authority to do this; and when Newall heard of it, he appointed
another man. Fancy poor H---- having told all the men and, most of all,
his sweetheart! But more remains behind; for when it came to signing
articles, it turned out that O----, the new first mate, had not a
certificate which allowed him to have a second mate. Then came rather
an affecting scene. For H---- proposed to sign as chief (he having the
necessary higher certificate) but to act as second for the lower
wages. At first O---- would not give in