unt of the subject, than which none more interesting could
well be imagined, but to the limitations of the writer, whose long
experience of sea life has done little to foster the literary faculty.

One claim may be made with perfect confidence--that if the manner be
not all that could be wished, the matter is entirely trustworthy, being
compiled from actual observation and experience, and in no case at
second-hand. An endeavour has also been made to exclude such matter
as is easily obtainable elsewhere--matters of common knowledge and
"padding" of any sort--the object not being simply the making of a book,
but the record of little-known facts.

Great care has been taken to use no names either of ships or persons,
which could, by being identified, give annoyance or pain to any one, as
in many cases strong language has been necessary for the expression of
opinions.

Finally, the author hopes that, although in no sense exclusively a
book for boys, the coming generation may find this volume readable and
interesting; and with that desire he offers it confidently, though in
all humility, to that great impartial jury, the public.

F.T.B. Dulwich, July, 1897.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER I--OUTWARD BOUND Adrift in New Bedford--I get a ship--A
motley crowd--"Built by the mile, and cut off as you want 'em"--Mistah
Jones--Greenies--Off to sea.

CHAPTER II--PREPARING FOR ACTION Primitive steering-gear--Strange
drill--Misery below--Short commons--Goliath rigs the
"crow's-nest"--Useful information--Preparing for war--Strange weapons--A
boat-load.

CHAPTER III--FISHING BEGINS The cleanliness of a whale-ship--No
skulking--Porpoise-fishing--Cannibals--Cooking operations--Boat-drill--A
good look-out--"Black-fishing"--Roguery in all trades--Plenty of fresh
beef--The nursery of American whalemen.

CHAPTER IV--BAD WEATHER Nautical routine--The first gale--Comfort
versus speed--A grand sea-boat--The Sargasso Sea--Natural history
pursuits--Dolphin--Unconventional fishing--Rumours of a visit to the
Cape Verdes--Babel below--No allowance, but not "full and plenty"--Queer
washing--Method of sharing rations--The "slop-shop" opened--Our
prospects.

CHAPTER V--ACTUAL WARFARE. OUR FIRST WHALE Premonitions--Discussion
on whaling from unknown premisses--I wake in a fright--Sperm whales
at last--The war begins--Warning--We get fast--and get loose--In
trouble--an uncomfortable situation--No Pity-Only one whale--Rigging the
"cutting-stage"--S