. . . Friday 21. Had breakfast went on board the ship Golconda. Come back, hired a cart to take the luggage; took the said on board. Went back, went to fetch the family on board and slept on board that night; some on boxes and some on other things, just as they could, so the night passed away morning come on.

Saturday 22. Talked about leaving the docks. Had biscuit & oatmeal & rice, sugar & tea served out. Went into the town and bought some things necessary for the voyage and food and returned. [p.1] The day was spent in moving our luggage; hanging up our tin pots, kettles, boilers and other utensils. It began to make a pretty appearance. A little before an employ ship but soon showed more the appearance of a tin shop or a broker’s shop for the ceiling very hung with our tinware. Round our births was our clothes. So in all, it was like a pawn shop. The night came on. We slept in our own berths so passed the night. Morning come.

Sunday 23. It truly was a day of business. Much of the luggage that still remained on deck was removed down to their proper places removing some to the stern to make room. Hauled the ship out of the docks by hand then the steamer come and tugged us into river. Laid there till morning. It was something like the beginning of being out at sea. We could not go onshore only by boats. Night come on. Had prayer. Went to rest in our berths, all appeared to sleep. Not as many were busy and some of them not accustomed to such sort of employment. They appeared some what tired. All was soon silence; some for the first time taken a night rest on the water.

Monday 24. Still in the river. The talk among the Saints was when shall we leave the river but the morning passed away. Many began to see it was not expected we would leave the river that night so many went on shore and bought many necessary things; food and other necessary things. I went for me and returned but found there were many things wanted and what silver I had found would be worth not so much as in England. So I sent and told them to spend all the silver and copper money we had but soon returned. Here is a warning of the encroachments that are made upon such as wish to come onshore. When you come they will be on the ship side anxious to take you and when you want to come on board again they will take every advantage. [p.2] They charged me 6 to go and 6 to come back again but being the afternoon when I went again. They took him from the vessel to the shore for sixpence [PAGE TORN] was coming back they Had to pay 2/6 or THEY [PAGE TORN] them to them to [SIC] the ship but they returned safe and [PAGE TORN] had to pass the doctor before they left. The [PAGE TORN] passed away night come on again. Had pray [PAGE TORN] all appeared to be in good spirits. This [PAGE TORN] left the ship with a view of staying [PAGE TORN] as his wife was too ill to come on board [PAGE TORN] shore time enough to take his leave [PAGE TORN] it was a sight that caused feelings to kiss [PAGE TORN] such as never can rise in the breast of [PAGE TORN] as have felt something like it themselves. I know [PAGE TORN] many talk about feeling and that for others [PAGE TORN] none upon earth can feel for another as them that have tasted of the same cup. All took their leave of him that could. He give the last parting kiss to 2 of his female companions and then clasped the infant to his aching breast. Someone wished to take it for him. I have no doubt with the intentions to render him that assistance as they thought where needful, but his answer was no; I can't part with that, no. It was the birth of that dear child that had cut the bride thread of the life of his partner that he was about to take his last farewell in this world. He felt like one of old. His life was bound up with that of the child. I could have said my heart feels all your worry [p.3] [-] took him by the hand as he got on the ladder [-] Bulwarks of the ship, took after him [-] the night soon hid him from my sight [-] his 6 dear children then in an open [-] can guess a boat 1/2 mile from shore [-] day all went to rest again for the night [-] morning though rather cloudy the wind in [-] to start the Brother that went on [-] the last breath drawn by his beloved wife [-] after most of us were at rest now some of [-] Brother Richards, Brother Long and others [-] board to bid us good speed which truly [-] they did from their very souls at length the steamer appeared again all eyes were fixed upon it a line was made fast to the side of our ship so that it could guide us to a yard on either sides but when further advances it had a line fixed to the head of our ship and the Heaven of the steamer and away we went and soon reached the mouth of the Channel being about 3 o'clock in the afternoon near the steamer eft us all sails were hoisted the seamen then began their tuneful notes while they hoisted their canvas to the winds so we cut our way through the waters at a rapid rate of more than 8 knots an hour soon lost sight of the English sores and come in sight of the Welsh Coast but being towards night it was too dusky to discern the different places on from another we passed by one place before it grew dared like a fort of some kind or a lighthouse without it. A castle as it appeared at a distance but like it was by other places being dusky we could not discern them to understand anything about them to know where they were and what they were, but the next sight was a beautiful sight to behold; the different lighthouses at a distance. Most of us being landsmen it was truly a pleasing sight to us at length we come in sight of Holy Head but our ship had quickened her pace the wind in our favor. We went at the rate of 10 to 12 knots an hour, though we were going at that pace the sight of the lighthouses such as Holy Head lasted in sight some time. The first night being out at sea, we did not go to rest very early, but the different sights kept most engaged looking about as long as we could. But at length after we had prayers and been on deck as long as we thought proper they retired to rest. All quite once more except the captain or mate giving their orders and the seamen's tuneful notes while they hoisted or lowered or [-] their sails. Thus the night passed away. One thing I forgot, we passed many vessels of different sizes and sorts. Some going out the same way as we were going and some going towards Liverpool. Some that had the start of us some days, but we passed all we came in sight of which made it appear correct what the seamen had told us that she was a good sailer. But be that as is may, we passed all we come near which call to mind what they had said for we found we went quicker than any others we saw, so the whole of [p.5] sights were pleasing; many birds flying to and fro the whole of the day all adding to the scene sometimes in the air above the masts of the ships, another time just above the waters catching at the small fish that floated at the top of the sea.

Next morning came. On 26th, we found we were in sight of the Irish Coast but the morning rather foggy. We could not see her lofty mountains to understand what parts they were but we could see it was the land and knew it was those mountains and the daisy clad hills that had occupied the pen and mind of the many able writers in ages passed by. It is true they some of them appeared very lofty the tops and clouds to us appeared to touch each other as one writer states when speaking of those lofty scenes he declares when by all appearance was gazing there on was led to say the mountain high tops that are lost in the clouds where the eagle built her nest her young to hatch from thence was trained to fly. We kept in sight of those hills and mountains the whole of the day till night hid them from our view. Many of the Saints began to feel the ill effects of the sea not being used to its rocking tho it was not half so rough as I expected, but the change of air and the moving of the water causes the whole of the frame of our bodies to be changed. The motion of the ship soon caused many to be what they called seasick; some worse than others. There were 14 of us in the family namely: myself, wife, 2 married daughters and their husbands; they had one of them got one child, the other 2 children and [p.6] 5 children of our own besides the 2 married ones. The 2 oldest daughters and one of their husbands suffered more of the seasickness then any others. 2 more of the boys and one of the younger girls suffered but not so much as some. Myself, wife, the 2 youngest children, 2 daughter’s children and the oldest daughter’s husband suffered very little. I felt nothing of sickness till I helped others then I felt the sickness come on but I drank some water from the sea and I fetched that up and I felt very little more of the sickness. I believe to drink the water from the sea is a very good thing to drink to take the sickness away. I can say I know it by experience that it is a good remedy to caring of the sickness though it is hard to persuade people to take it. We saw a few sails and birds. The moon shone beautiful to our view as it rose and its brightness reflected from the waters. A heavy gale blew up which caused the seamen to take in some of the sails. Nothing more particular occurred as I recall. Had prayers. Set our watch as usual as it was necessary to have a watch of our own in addition to the ship watch; orders to put all lights to be put out and most in their different berths.

Next morning Thursday 27 went on deck. Found we had lost sight of all land at which many then began to talk about what we were to encounter in our way. We were not going quite so fast. Saw many birds. Passed a few ships. Nothing particular occurred on account of the sickness on board. We had prayers rather early and give as many of the Saints an opportunity of going to rest at an early [p.7] hour. 8° wind still in our favor but rather rocking about has caused many of our things to roll about such as were not lashed secure. Many of the Saints in this thing got deceived when they were told to lash their things secure. They just left thinking them secure but soon found them out for things that were not made fast were rolling about and made some to laugh and some to look cross as some of the things were broke. We now found ourselves out of the Channel and entered into the Mediterranean Sea; still sailing with a fair wind, going at the rate of 10 knots an hour. Passed one sail our captain hoisted [-] colors–five different colors which was answered by [-]. Chief mate stated we should [- - - ] the wind kept as we were in our [- -] one thing surprised me to see the sunrise [- - - ] ship and we at the same time sailing to the west. Saw a [-] of a vessel as we supposed to [- - -] mate told us we should soon [-] of our great boat if we continued to go as we did. We passed Cape Clear in the course of the night all [- -] soon as rest and a sleep after the little rocking. [UNCLEAR, THIS PAGE IS BLOTTED WITH INK IN SEVERAL PLACES.]

Friday 28th Morning clear and a beautiful sight to see the sun rise in all its splendor. We were going ahead all right. The wind still in our favor. A sail appeared in view ahead of us. Supposed to be the “Ellen Maria.” We gained on her supposed to be about 10 miles off. Still gained ahead of her. Soon we could see it was a vessel. This caused many eyes to be engaged in looking after her. So we [- - ] of her. The captain put up more sail [-]. He would overtake her if possible to hear. Saw a fine fish and another ship on the starboard side of us. She sailed of at a distance [p.8] towards Liverpool as we imagined now was supposed 1000 or more miles of Liverpool. Lost sight of the ship that was ahead of us through the night coming on. Had prayers and went on deck after the family were gone to bed and a delightful sight it was to see the small fish in the water as they glittered, sparkling like so many stars glittering in the waters. This occupied my mind for sometime. I could not help lifting up my voice with my whole heart as much as I could so that I was not heard by those on deck with thankfulness to my God for the blessings of health and strength and that he had preserved us up to the present time by giving us such a prosperous journey so far. Truly I could only compare it to a pleasure trip on our river when in England when I thought of the many accidents that we are so oft hearing about that happen on the mighty deep my mind was led to reflect upon them I had left on the shores of England. How many times we have talked about the dangers of the wide waters and how we had talked about those that had gone before us. When we have heard the wind blow when we were on land. I retired to rest after those reflections and after offering my prayer to God and thanksgiving to our Heavenly Father for all his blessings. I retired to rest and slept as well as if I was on a bed in a house with all the grandeur that could be surrounding a bed of state. Yea, I think I was happier than many of the rich of the land of that is called Babylon which I had left behind in the world. I was taken my rest; no fear came across my mind. All appearance of fear was fled so I was lulled off to sleep by the gentle rocking of the ship. Morning came on again.

Saturday 29. Went on deck. Looked for the vessel that had taken so much of our attention the day before to most all on board but could not see any of her. I looked on all sides but could not see anything of a vessel. The sun rising again with all its beauty. Looking around, I saw a vessel at a great distance on the larboard side of the ship but soon lost sight of her. About an hour after saw another on the same side though not in the same direction. She made up to us to all appearance as fast as she could and soon come up to us at our stern. Our captain hoisted his colors and [p.9] [-], so did the other but running closer our captain had a piece of chalk and wrote on a board 15-15. I did not know the meaning of that nor the figures but since we have learned it is what direction he is sailing and after the side with the figures had been showed to them the name of the ship was turned towards them, namely Golconda. Then the two captains conversed with each other. It was asked our captain what part he left. The answer was Liverpool and asked him where he was bound. He answered New Orleans. A few more questions & answers and then left each other which questions and answers I could not understand -- we on our journey to the west and they towards English. I understood she was a Dutch man. Her colors were 3 stripes: red, white, & blue. After this we sailed away on our course cutting away in full speed, fixing our sails, the wind still in our favor; the night coming on. We saw nothing more particular. The Saints talked about what they had seen during the day. Some had seen some fish; some small ones, and some they said was as big as a dog; some as big as a man, and some as big as a donkey. As for myself I saw none of them but I certainly sought for some but saw none. We had prayers and went to rest. There still was some remained sick at present but chiefly those that indulged themselves in lying in bed or in high living, but all was mending.

Next morning Sunday 30. It was said we had passed one vessel in the course of the night & one child was born of a sister that had lost her husband about 5 months. As it was accustomed with me, I went on deck; looked around to see if anything was in sight. Soon discovered a vessel at a distance but did not appear to come nigh us. Soon saw another but sailed off so that we did not see much of them but another soon made its appearance on the larboard side and drew nigh to us. About 10 o'clock in the morning she come quite in sight of us, but while we were in prayer and three of the [p.10] elders addressing us on the subject of our duty to our Heavenly Father for his kindness to us in giving us such blessings which we have received at his hands in causing the wind and waves to be in our favor and that we were so far on our journey and that the sickness which had been on board in a measure were abated and declaring if we were faithful there should not be one soul lost while we were on our journey. But, while we were engaged, the ship come up with us and to our surprise she was on the other side of the ship but no conversation took place between the two captains during the time as I heard by either of them. It was said it was a brig. Many sails appeared in view but at a great distance. The Saints spent most part of their time in singing the songs of Zion. Most part of the day all appeared cheerful enough come on. We at our end of the ship that is our division assembled at the stern and sang hymn, prayed. Two of the elders addressed us. Closed our meeting by singing and prayer. Then most of us took to our different berths. Slept well till morning.

Monday 31. Several ships in view on both sides; one passed us. Our captain hoisted his colors and that was all I saw of that affair. I heard of no one that had a sight of it but it appeared the captain saw it as one of the men said that he the captain saw one or he would not have hoisted the colors. He further stated it was the name of our ship. Saw a few more sails but none come near us. We were going along well, which made all cheerful, which made thing pleasant. A sister fell down the hatchway but I did not hear that she hurt herself much. She was taken to her berth and I heard no one of her taken any harm. Night coming on. We were called to prayers by our presiding elder over us. Had prayer, next to rest. A pleasant night passed over [p.11] heads. All was silent, except the men on duty and the watch. Next morning I rose from my berth.

Tuesday Feb. 1. I went to the hatchway & looked up. Saw the sails in the same direction as they were the night before. I looked out soon saw a sail at a distance. She come up towards us and passed on at a distance. I did not see that the captain or mate took any notice of her though as I thought [she] come very near to us--so near, that we could see plainly it was a vessel in full sail. She was on the larboard side of us as if sailing towards the east. We soon saw another vessel on the other side of us but soon passed each other for it was stated we were then going as fast as we had been going since we left Liverpool. I think we saw 3 more sails but at a distance. Some one side, and some on the other side; all passing each other without notice, only as the brethren saw them. I believe nothing passed or went unnoticed. Some was sure to see as some were looking over the bulwarks of the ship. They saw a quantity of fish cross to the side of our vessel darting along through the water though we were going very fast. Some of them appeared to swim very fast, darting from wave to wave and sometimes quite out of the water. The greatest part of them then darting head downwards into the deep making a pretty appearance which pleased the brethren & sisters much as this were the first time we saw such a sight. Truly it were a delightful scene to see the living that inhabited the mighty world of waters, sporting in their powerful strength and in their own elements of the greatest pleasure and what [p.12]a great distance in the course of the night, and the seamen looked cheerful acknowledge it was only a pleasure trip. We had seen no sea. It was like a river more than the open sea . The morning passed away with singing the morning songs in different parts of the ship; both on the deck and below and in the first & second cabins. We saw one sail at a distance on the starboard side. We did not come near her to see what she was. We had her in sight for sometime but at last lost sight of her. The evening coming on, Elder Harmon addressed the Saints at the end of the ship which consisted of our divisions upon the many blessings we were favored with since we left the British shores and the distance we came in so short a time and stated we had entered the trade winds and by all probability we should have a good and steady wind for sometime; at least, till we come to the Gulf of Mexico and then we might expect a little rougher sea than we had at the present, but we ought to still continue to pray to God to bless us and still guide us on the remainder of our journey as we had no blame upon God no longer than we obey him. We were then dismissed with prayer and thus retired to rest to all appearances with cheerfulness. Next morning rather dull, but the wind in our favor.

Saturday 5. It was the conversation about deck that we had sailed a great distance in the course of the night and though the captain had ordered some of the sails to be furled, yet we were going a first rate and in the right course. Not one sail appeared to our view during the whole of the day. The Saints were joking one another about going to market being Saturday. So the day passed away. Had prayer and went to rest. The wind still in our favor which was pleasing. [p.13]

Sunday 6. The morning fine. All busy in washing, shaving, and cleaning ourselves. The wind blew like a morning in June when in England; more so, than some mornings in that month. It was delighting to see the sunrise, breakfast come on. Had prayers. The Saints were informed that Elder Gates and others would address them at 10 o'clock. Before that time come on the whole company were put in motion by the cry that a man were made fast to the masthead for stealing a piece of beef; about 15 pounds, the property of the captain’s. The Saints assembled on the quarter-deck and a delightful sight to see all seated around on the deck without a covering more than the clear blue sky. All appeared to be in good spirits, but the Irish Man at the mast. I know not whether he enjoyed it. There were a quantity of Irish emigrants from Ireland. They had one part of the ship parted off for them and this man was one of them. There were 3 charges against him: one for a knife; the second for a quantity of potatoes; and the 3 for a piece of beef. The meat was missing and as they had no means to cook it, only at the cooks galley; the cooks were on the look out and poor Pat brought the beef to be cooked. He thought it was beef, but declared it to be pork, but as the cook was an Scotchman he did not know how to make beef pork, so stated. An Irish man had a piece of pork as he an Irish man called it; but in his country's language he called it beef and though poor Pat had tried to make it appear as much as possible like pork; still it was beef and proved it to be the property of the captain and for this he was taken to the foremast and there tied till 8 o'clock in the evening. He was again taken to another mast on the day following for about 2 hours then taking down on condition he acknowledged his faults and promised never to do the like again, but would do anything the captain would desire [p.14] of him. And upon these conditions the captain had nothing on him and shew him mercy and let him loose, so much for the Irishman. And now return to the deck. Elder Gates declared the time for our commencing our meeting had arrived and called upon Elder Speakman to give out a hymn which was sung, “Afflicted Saints Draw Near & Elder Comicle [Carmichael] opened the meeting by prayer. Sang another hymn. Then Elder Spencer then addressed the meeting at a great length followed by Elder Harmon and Elder Speakman. In conclusion, Elder Gates spoke and concluded by prayer and dismissed the meeting wished the Saints to retire to their different apartments which they soon did and most of their dinners were ready and waiting for them. We do not have our dinners brought home to us, but we go for them or they continue to be where they are. Must say the men on board tho they had to attend to their duties, they were very attentive and steady to their said duty not at all disturbing us and on that day I could but notice how clean they appeared, not like what I have heard of a seafaring life; for some of them I did scarcely know them. I looked at the Irishman. He was still there and for my part I could not help thinking it not too much punishment for him according to the crimes he had committed. For someone must be blamed for it. I thought it was a blessing for us as well as others that the right man was found out for he proved himself to be a bad man. For in case of the knife it was a knife lent to the cook by Brother Bailey and when the cook had done what he wanted with it he laid it down. Poor Pat declared it to be his and took the knife into his possession and when Brother Bailey asked abut his knife the cook was at a loss at first to know what became of it but recollecting the circumstance of Pat and the knife when Pat went to take his dinner to be cooked the knife was forced to be produced [p.15] as there were no way for his escape. For, when the cooks had him the Irishman in the cook’s galley they would not let him go until he delivered the knife in question which was done and another indictment was he had taken a net full of potatoes from the cooking galley stating to the cook they were his own property but were proved by the net to belong to another which put Poor Pat in the hole or rather on the mast. But after all, he had some friends on board. There were 2 women on board talking saying, “poor creature, he has had punishment enough. Let him be taken down and exclaiming blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.” But I thought if it had been their meat so soon their tale would be changed as too often we see it to be the case. The tale would then be, “oh, a good for nothing wretch. It’s not half bad enough, but now to our duty.” We had prayer in the evening by Elder Comicle [Carmichael] and others and the Saints were dismissed by prayer that the blessings of our Heavenly Father to rest upon us all through the night and that the winds and waves might be in our favor which truly they were. I awoke in the night and found all going along just right and steady and at a good rate.

Morning come on Monday 7. It was truly a delightful morning to see the sunrise all made a glorious sun [-] of the Saints went on deck at an early hour washing themselves and looking over the bulwarks of the ship to see if they could see any fish. The man was taken to the mast but did not remain there more than about two hours on account of his pleading or confessing his guilt and promising to do better for the future and was willing to do anything the captain would require him to do. The day passed away cheerful and most all on board were getting better of their sickness. One of the sisters were very ill. She was caught cold I think, but this day two elders and myself was [p.16] called to lay hands upon her and she recovered from that time. Oh that the sons and daughters of God had more faith in the promises and commands of God. Then they would be revived and realized more then they are as it was in the days of old when the prophet had to exclaim oh that they would be more faithful, then would their blessing flow like a river and their righteousness abound as the waves of the sea. This day the men of the ship were employed in repairing the sails, tightening the ropes and turning the rope ladders &c which looked like business. As we understood they were preparing for a hotter climate. The masts were painted to keep them from splitting, shrinking, & cracking when more exposed to the hot sun. The Saints began to look out for the West India Islands as some of the seamen talked we should soon see them or some of them. We had prayer and most went to rest.

Tuesday 8. The morning [-]. I went on deck as soon as I could see; washed myself, looked at the sea. I saw a quantity of seaweed passing by which caused the Saints to notice this as we had seen nothing of this kind since we left Liverpool. Many opinions were passed upon them. Most come to this conclusion–they were not far from land either one side or the other. The captain said they come from the Gulf of Mexico. This was a great amusement to the younger part of the Saints to form something to catch the weeds as they passed by which they succeeded in doing. It was a yellow green color and like berries on it or seeds. We took a piece and hung it up to dry as we thought it a curiosity to find weeds. As according to the first mates talk we were 2700 miles off Liverpool. This afternoon a sail appeared in sight at our head or rather on our starboard side. It appeared at a great distance when we first saw it, but it come up with us on our starboard side close enough to see & hear the men on board. They heard us as they passed. The Saints returned it as that was the only sail that we had passed us so near it caused all to be greatly [p.17] looking out to see it our captain hoisted 5 different colors and the ship in view as it passed by us hoisted their colors but appeared to be different to ours and our captain hoisted some others and the 2 captains conversed with each other which I did not understand. After that, they sailed off northward and we on our way westward or rather on our journey. The name of the vessel was the “West London.” She was a West Indian trader. Many of the younger part of our company were engaging themselves by catching seaweed that swam by us. Night come on again. Prayers was again introduced at one end of the lower deck. The meeting was opened by singing & prayers. Elder Gates then addressed the Saints. After him, Elder Spencer. They appeared to be full of the spirit teaching the Saints their duty towards God as our Heavenly Father and towards one another as Brothers & Sisters of one family of the true and living God. Was dismissed by singing and prayers and most of the Saints retired to rest. As for myself, I slept well as ever I did in any place.

Next morning Wednesday Feb. 9. The first news I heard from the Saints that had been on watch was the child that was born on board the vessel since we left Liverpool was dead. This is the first death that had been on board and I think we need not be surprised as we was told from the first the child could not suck and was a very weakly child and being the first the mother had it was hard for the child to get the milk at first. I let my youngest child go and try to draw the nipple out for the child but it could not or been strange it [p.18] would not. But, this was not enough to make one wish myself at England. As my mind is still the same, onward onward; the cause is in view and still feel determined to press forward in spite of men & devils, let them be ever so many. This morning we saw some more flying fish. It is true I haven't seen any myself yet, but I wish to see all I can, but having so large a family to look after I cannot see all I could wish, but all this is duty and I do not wish to flinch from duty to God or men. The weather now appeared as warm as in England in June or July and very fine with it which makes our trip a pleasant one. Indeed, if all fails I do upon the subject. The sisters at this time are sitting upon deck–some sewing, some knitting, netting and many other such employments that you may see in a country village on a summer’s evening among the industrious part of the inhabitance in any village in England. All on a sudden the whole party were in motion–all on the move towards the quarter-deck, but what was the cause was the inquiry. The child that died was about to be buried in the deep and what was the most surprising to the oldest seamen on board was to see the child put in the water in a coffin and the coffin made whole and without holes in it but how was the child to sink was the wonder of the party. Why tie a piece of coal to it? A piece of coal was tied to the box and all was let down but the coal slipped. [p.19] the box floated, but how long is the question. It might be washed on shore shortly or it might be about the ocean for years. It might be seen by many vessels or it might go unnoticed for a long time. It served for a subject for conversation for a length of time. Some saying one thing–some another. It was stated it might be picked up by some vessel–others it might be drifted ashore to some port a cause, a wonder, how it came thither. Some stated it might be drifted about for years, but after all it was considered to be a foolish transaction to put a child like that in a box to put it in the ocean. Thus the afternoon passed away the water being warm. Some flying fish was seen in the course of the day and in the evening the Saints walked about the deck till 8 o'clock. We then had prayer and then to rest. The night clear the wind steady.

Next morning Thursday Feb.10. Went on deck. Saw a sail at a distance eastward from us on our larboard side. We did not come near her but lost sight of her this morning. Some more flying fish was seen. A person had a fish made to imitate a flying fish and tried to catch a dolphin but did not succeed in the attempt. We saw no more sails today, but the captain said that this day was 20 degrees hotter than yesterday. Two birds was seen this afternoon different from any we had seen before. They were larger than the seagull and had a very long tail. To all appearance, they looked to be [p.20] the length of a person’s arm. All these things pleased the Saints. The weather being so fair added to the beauty of the scene. The day passed away cheerful to all appearance. The night come on. The Saints were called to order by singing & prayer at that part of the vessel where was called the first section. We had a testimony meeting where several of the elders and Saints spoke. Elder Speakman addressed the Saints at a great length upon the duty of man & wife showing the man to be the head and the wife and children to attend to his instructions and if he directs them wrong the curse will rest upon him, but as much as possible to chastise in love, but he must show his authority and if he the husband could not rule his wife she would be given to another that could rule her and he would have one he could govern. But concluded, by hoping no one would think him harsh upon them for he wished to give instructions and take the hints himself. Likewise, not to give it all away and forget himself as too many were too apt to do by thinking they need no teachings themselves but everyone needed all teachings & warnings they could get. A few more spoke their own experience and the meeting was concluded by singing and prayer and all dismissed to their berths. The night come on. The wind arose and some rain fell in the course of the night. The wind [p.21] stronger than usual the ship cut its way through the waves and it was stated we had gone 100 miles in the course of the night.

Friday Feb. 11. The morning appeared. The sun rose upon us but a cloud soon covered her and although that was the case the brightness soon returned. About 9 o'clock in the morning a cloud came over and a shower descended & being many Saints on deck some run one way & some another, but being warm it did not hurt them. It was like a warm shower we might expect in the harvest time on a warm summers evening as we should call it; not as the 11 of Feb. in England. I saw a flying fish this morning for the first time though others had seen many, and this morning a great sight was seen which delighted all that saw it on board–even the captain appeared to take delight in the sport. There were a quantity of large fish made their appearance around the ship. At last a cry was heard there were a whale at the stern of the ship and all that could cast an eye to that part of the water at this time. The captain was taking his part in the sport. Brother Spencer went to fetch his gun to shot at them, the captain clearing the way for him, saying; “Now then this way, here is one, here is one.” Truly it was a beautiful sight to see them swim along, suppose to be about a yard below the surface of the water. They looked as many colors as the rainbow or rather more green but they could be seen at a great distance. As they advanced, it appeared to be no trouble to them to catch us and going along as if they were going by us but all at once they would dart under the ship as if going to the other side. Brother Spencer shot at one but could not tell whether he hit it but like most [p.22] all others that are sportsmen he thought he hit it but if he did we could not tell, but stated, “now I have shot a whale but shall not have the credit as I cannot get it.” There were two birds flying about at the stern of the ship about the size of a large duck. The neck, head & bill appeared to me to be much like the duck species and tho there were so many people on deck it did not frighten them away for they came quite as near as the seagulls, but soon after this we lost sight of fish & birds. Nothing particular occurred during the course of the day. The evening was rather cold but was serene as a summer’s evening as in any of the summer months in England. We had prayer and went to rest. The night was warm below deck and we stood in need of very little covering.

On next morning Saturday Feb.12, went on deck. I saw a vessel ahead of us going the same way. Some thinking it to be the “Ellen Maria,” but whether it was or not we could not tell. It was very clean to be seen. It was going the same way but she kept her distance from us. For sometime we could scarcely see her and one time and then again we could see her plain. I conversed with a seaman this morning and he stated he had followed the seafaring life for 27 years but never was out at sea for that length of time and went the distance we had at this time with so steady wind and so long in favor as it had been with us up to the present time, nor never did he experience such a steady and pleasant voyage in all his days. We saw a few large fish this morning. Some of them throwing themselves out of the water so that we could see the greatest part of their body above the water. This morning I heard 2 of the seamen talking about the ships name Golconda. One stated it was not a human name. The answer was no, it was a gold mine by that name [p.23] but the reply was no, it was a diamond mine in Peru called Golconda. And again while we were engaged at lookout, the fishes this morning, the captain were amusing himself with his gun in his hand watching the movements of the fish, but did not have the opportunity of shooting at one. There were one made its appearance at a distance. The captain made ready, but did not fire at it for as the fish advanced which he did at a rapid rate it took to deep water. We thought it went under the ship but it did not come up on the other side. The ship we saw in the morning still kept in sight and caused for a thing for a general amusement for many on board the whole of the day. The evening came on and a beautiful sight it was to see the sun set in the western sky with all that beauty that could be seen or imagined. The sky looked a gold color with a stripe of green along way just above the water as it appeared to us then and above a beautiful blue as it other times. This took the attention of the Saints for sometime, but the last thing to be looked for before dark was to see where the vessel were that had taken their attention so much in the course of the day and wondering where she would be in the morning, so we lost sight of her for the night. We had prayer and then went on deck. The evening was a delightful one and many were on deck till 9 o'clock and the dancing that had been on the quarter-deck in the afternoon such as quadrilles & such like. They were very merry and in the evening they concluded by such as thought proper to join them [p.24] in country dances all in full glee and hope in that way without sin. Darkness come on and most went to rest. The watch was set and all appeared to be in silence. It was very warm below deck. We wanted very thin clothing.

The morning come on Sunday Feb.13. The first thing was to look for the sail that were seen the night before and I saw her just before us or ahead of us rather on the starboard side of us but she was nearer to us then she were the night before when we last saw her for we could see her clearly as if about a mile ahead of us and about half a mile on the right side of the ship. The sun soon rose with all its splendor and felt to cast great power on us. As soon as it had risen, not more than 1/2 hour high; I saw a few flying fish, but no large kind of fish was seen this morning. The time for assembling ourselves together for divine worship come and the captain deserves all credit that is due to a gentleman moving in his sphere of life for he ordered the sail that were placed on the quarter-deck in time of need when required according as the wind was blowing and that sail which was formerly used for the purpose of wafting the ship along was placed in that direction as to prevent the sun from pouring down upon the Saints so as to be in any way too powerful while rising in its meridian splendor in the clear blue sky. By so doing the Saints could sit in peace and comfort in the shade while the servants of the Lord come forth and taught the Saints that which was profitable to them for body & mind. The meeting was opened by singing, and prayer by Brother Harmon. Sang again, then [p.25] a discourse by Brother Harmon followed by Brother Carmile [Carmichael] and then Elder Spencer & Elder Gates finished the discourse by wishing the Saints to attend to their duty in all things especially to the counsel that is given them from time to time. Concluded the meeting by singing and dismissed the Saints by prayer by Elder Gates. The vessel in front of us were still in sight and it appeared we were a little nearer and another made its appearance on our starboard side. We could not see what she was at first but soon learned out she was a barque. The even come on. It was a delightful sight to see the Saints walk about the deck as if it was on Clarehats Places or Trumpington Road. After that we assembled for our evening devotion. We opened our meeting by singing & prayer. Elder Gates addressed us and then Elder Speakman and then concluded the meeting by singing and was dismissed by prayer to our Heavenly Father to preserve and keep us in all the changes we had to pass through and direct us safe to our journey and we went on deck again for a short time and then to rest. All still and I went through the night and anyone might have imagined they were at rest on their beds at their former or late homes.

Monday 14, went on the forecastle. Saw the vessel that were ahead of us and I thought we were still nearer. Saw the one on the side of us and she was nearer than the night before. The day was still & warm and the sea as smooth as the river calm. This was pleasant to behold but it was against us as we wished to be going on our way to the Valley of the west but now it was almost a dead calm only moving about [p.26] 1 ½ knots an hour. A boy that were at play lost his cap, so the day passed away. The evening very warm. We could see the vessel still ahead. Had prayers and went to rest.

Next Morning Tuesday 15. The sun arose. A beautiful a morning as ever. I saw a few clouds come up but they cleared off and it became very warm and clear. The vessel we saw the day before was still in sight all a calm as a river and we did not know whether we moved or not but we saw a cloud rise and then a breeze freshened and we moved on. A little towards midday and a large whale was seen at a distance and throw the water up at a great height and in the afternoon a cloud appeared at a distance. We supposed it to be a storm. We saw the ship that was ahead of us now on our side, that is on our larboard side, though ahead and she appeared to be in this storm as we could scarcely see her for it looked the same as a storm onshore. We could not see through it and all was lost to our view that were beyond it. The breeze freshened a little but the wind did not blow more than usual and towards evening the ship on our right side was still in sight and the storm that appeared on the other side of us was working towards that ship and she was then near enough for us to see they were taken their sails in as fast as they could and this being Tuesday we was about to have a speaking meeting and just as the meeting had commenced and called to order and Brother Harmon had scarcely begun a squall come on that the seamen called a white squall in that part of the country. It blew all at once, on a sudden, and the ship went on one side a little but not a great deal and in less than 5 minutes all the new looking masts with all the sails & tackle was blown off and [p.27] and [SIC] broken as if a stick in the hands of a strong man taking the 6 top masts and all the rigging clean off as if cut away with an ax. In one gush of wind taken all of that were above the main masts. I looked out as it is in all cases with me. I did not feel too content myself below deck I was on deck. I looked around and saw that the rigging that I had looked upon with delight was once spread before the wind to waft us along was all blown away except the 3 lower sails and masts. All the others were hanging topside downwards over the side of our ship. As soon as the squall come on our captain sung out but it was too late. His voice was heard almost in all parts of the ship but before a sail could be lowered or furled the wind had done his work. What a change in a very few minutes. A little before we were praying that the wind might blow that we might be going on our way a little faster. It is true it did blow for a short time but it was soon over. The moon soon shone beautiful again and I could but see the hand of God in all this. We were a little before saying how fast we were going and how soon we should be at our journey's end and I fear almost forgot that God was the director of all and forgot to be thankful to him but when there came a calm. We then began to pray as we called it to God to send a breath, hasten it on and when it came it was too hasty for us and how soon we or many of us see fear and all faith had forsook many if ever they had any. It is true the cracking of the timbers the [-] as they fell and the rattling of the chains as they come in contact with each other was a little alarming and some did show it. The shriek was heard that the ship was sinking and some cried out we are all going to the bottom and the elders that had the lead of the meeting could not prevail on the Saints to be calm for there were no danger but this same was heard to make to believe it showing that we were lacking the one thing needful for all the faithful, that is be ready and willing to trust God in all times and [p.28] all places but with difficulty order was in part again restored. The meeting carried on and concluded and at the same time the captain soon had his men in action to haul in and out away so as to clear all they could from the ship side and water. The moon certainly I shone with all the beauty and brightness as if to give as much light as possible to enable all to see and clear away what was necessary. The captain acted as in all cases for tho all had happened he did not appear to put himself out of the way. He gave his orders and helped as hard as any on board and took as hard a part of the work as any person on board and as daring position–sometimes on the out side of the ship–then down to the waters edge then on the top of the bulwarks–making fast the ropes to the different parts that were needful and when spoken to returned an answer with good humor and good feeling. One instance I cannot pass unnoticed. The second mate was over the side of the ship making a rope fast to something. There were great danger it appeared but what it was I did not know. The captain sung out with all his might to come in. The wind blew a little harder so that the second mate was driven from his handhold so that he could not get on board as soon as was wanted by the captain. The captain flew forward and if it was great danger he like a brave man, caught at the mate clinged to him by his head & shoulders, drawed him in on deck. The mate is a man I think about 5 feet 10 inches high and a fine looking and I think a Dutchman but both escaped unhurt and I believe in all cases he inquired after the welfare of his men. Another case, one of the seamen was cutting away something. The sea heaved a little. One of the yardarms passing downwards the man’s arms was caught between the 2 pieces of the ship and it appeared to pain him very much. The captain had his eyes about him and asked the man is the skin broken. The man answered no. [p.29] Tho not inquiring was it broke, the man answered no sir, but he appeared to be in great pain and went to the forepart of the ship to his cabin where he had his arm dressed and tied with a bandage. I saw him lie there. I believe nothing were broken but badly bruised. There were nothing more particular as I saw. The seaman and some others that were on board that had been in the habits of a seafaring life was at work the most part of the night if not all night but most of the Saints want to rest very much disappointed, expecting all hopes were at an end of arriving at New Orleans at the time they had expected but this proves we are no longer safe unless we keep God's commands and continue faithful. Elder Gates declared he had expected something would happen as so many of the Saints had become so lukewarm and careless about prayer and in such cases no wonder at what had occurred. If such be the case, for my part, I fear for them and fear for myself as well as others I must exclaim guilty for I fear. I thought as things were going on so well it was to continue so and so almost forgot that we were depending on God and it was his tender mercies towards us that has kept us so far and tho we had not seen or experienced danger we were in the midst of the sea and ought not to forget that in prospering as well as adversity we ought to acknowledge God and pray and never faint or how can we expect to prosper or everything go on right if it was so it would not be according to God's word for he God has declared that so long as we serve and obey him he will keep from danger & from death and when we forget God & his commands it is more than our Heavenly Father has promised for his word is do this and you shall live. Keep [p.30] my commands and it shall be well with you. Break any commands ye shall die. This was the command given to our first parents. God is the same now as he was at the first and will be forever.

Wednesday 16 Feb. All the men was busy employed in removing all the broken fragments of the masts & sails, yardarms, ropes, and such things that were in the way or out of place through the accident. I heard the captain had been up all night but whether this was true or not I know not but it is true I saw him in the morning. He looked as if it had been so but I saw no difference in his behavior as respecting his labor. He was as active as he was the night before and if possible I thought more so. All hands on board helped as far as they were able and soon a great many of the different things were removed. One sail passed us today towards midday and going as if in the direction towards England. They hoisted a signal to inquire whether we wanted any help. Then we were led to think of that vessel where going to England they would take poor news as respecting the vessel Golconda that left Liverpool so lately landed with so many Saints. The night come on again. The Saints rather dull and many that had been sick had the sickness returned again but all this did not make the Saints wish to return to England. I did not hear of one saying anything to that effect. Another child was born this evening and was glad to hear that both mother & child were doing well as far as I could hear. The night coming on again. The different opinions were passed upon the accident. Some said the man at the helm ought to have turned the vessel to the wind. Some said the captain ought to have taken the sails in but let that be as it may. The timbers that the masts were of, a most indifferent kind. They were very short-grained and very knotty and the [p.31] ropes being new they had stretched and did not have that stay upon the masts as they would have done had they been tight. We had prayer again and all appeared to be in earnest in praying that we might be yet blessed and prosperity attend us on the remainder of our way. The night come on and the wind blew and all wished we had our masts whole so that we might be going along at our old rate to New Orleans. But as it was, we ought to be contented which I hope was the case with most to a certain degree, but it was natural for us to wish our journey to be at an end as soon as God would permit.

Next morning Thursday 17. The morning rather rough. Most of the broken fragments was cleared away and began to get a new mast in readiness. Prepared one, and began the second. All went on pleasant so far. Nothing particular occurred. Night come on again. Its true the Saints did not walk the decks as before but quite as cheerful as might be expected but retired to rest after prayers rather sooner than at some other times that are passed.

Friday Feb. 18. The morning more calm and clear. One mast almost finished so far as could be done on the deck. Preparations was made for hoisting our new mast and at one o'clock they had succeeded in getting the middle mast on its end ready for a fresh bite or hold to hoist it higher and I could not help lifting my voice in silence to God to bless us again by giving the men strength and health to do their work that we [p.32] might be on our way again and thanked God that he had blessed us so far as he had. On this morning the joiner cut his leg with a chisel but I hope not very bad. At this time some began to talk about how much time we had lost and how far we had gone out of our way. As some began to notice how and what direction we were sailing by looking at the sun when it rose and at 12 o'clock then it was full south and again when it set in the western skies. At evening tide we could see what was done. The middle mast was once more in its place and the grand [-] one hoisted and prepared to get the sail up again. Night came on again. We did not see any sails pass the way we was going neither passed us to go the other way. Had prayer. Went to rest.

Saturday Feb.19. Morning clear. I went on the forecastle but could see no sail either one way or other. Saw a quantity of seaweed which delighted the young people much that were on board and they spent their time in trying to get some and some fish made their appearance. Some called them old wives'; some toad fish and the seamen called them turd fish. The passengers soon began to try to catch them and it was my lot to have the first. For my son caught the first and after he caught one there were many caught but the worst thing was as is too often the case not to take good care of anything you may have thinking when that is gone I can get another, but at sea this is not the case. There is no [p.33] going to shop and replace what you have broken or lost. Now when the fish was caught it lay on deck and a person caught hold of it and in trying to take the hook out of the fishes mouth he broke the hook and this put an end to my family fishing. I tried to make another from a knitting needle and a nail & a worstered needle, but for the want of proper tools and a fire I fell short of performing the task I took in hand to do. Nothing more particular occurred. We did not see any vessel. We began to prepare another mast for the foremast. There were not much wind and little sail so we could go but very slow on our way but all helped. Some chopping; others planing; some boring the holes; and some making the [-] and so we got on. The night come again. Had prayers and went to bed. Slept well.

Next morning Sunday 20. Went to see if I could see any shipping. I saw some dolphins and flying fish. Had the fish that was caught for breakfast. It tasted much like the sole fish. The day was calm so that we made very little progress on our journey. We had division service. Sung & prayed and was addressed by Elders Gates and Speakman and it appeared that the Spirit of God was upon them and in our midst and the day passed away something like the Sundays that had passed before and the Saints began to become reconciled to their fate and more submissive to the will of their Heavenly Father. The afternoon was spent in singing and such like diversions. Some assembled and [p.34] performed singing meetings to teach one another to sing. In the evening the Saints engaged in prayer and after that walked about the deck till the watch called time to go to rest which then did. Another child was born.

[THE WORDS Next day ARE CROSSED OUT] Monday 21. The morning as calm as any summer’s morning in England. Went on the forecastle. Saw many dolphins playing about from one side to the other and round the head of the ship. This morning our second new mast were ready for hoisting and preparations was made for the same. We saw a ship rather on our right side and ahead of us. Looked as if it was in the same plight as ourselves. She looked as she post her masts or rather it appeared as if she had lower masts then ourselves, but we were not near enough to see what she was, but she served for a subject for the Saints conversation and diversion, but after morning different opinions passed upon her. None could tell what she was or what had befalling her, so the day was spent and in the evening we went to prayers as usual. After prayers we went on deck till 10 o'clock and then to rest.

Next day Tuesday 22. The morning truly delightful as any summers morning could be. This was very pleasant but this did not hasten us on our way. Went on deck at an early hour. Went on the forecastle. Saw the vessel that we saw the day before and she was still ahead of us, but on our larboard side. But being so calm, the ship went completely round just as the tide would take her. As she did not move fast enough for the rudder to act for the ship which we saw in front soon was looked for and she was at our stern and then looking again and she was seen on the starboard side. [p.35] And looking after her again we found our ship had turned quite round as the dismasted vessel was in the same direction as when we first saw her; the second mast being now ready for hoisting. The morning very still as if to suit that very purpose. All hands was called to assist in rasing the same and soon without any extra trouble, tho large as it appeared to be when on deck; it was soon raised from the deck after a little coercion, was placed up right as when it was growing, but now to help us along on the wide ocean. This was pleasing to the Saints, but next the yard arms which was soon hoisted up and placed about halfway up to the place where it was intended to be placed and while this was going on the men were employed in getting up the stud in sails which all made it appear we should soon be going ahead again if God should be pleased to cause the wind to blow. And according to our desire the cloud began to rise which besport [UNCLEAR] that as they arose a breeze would follow. And this we soon realized, for the wind blew a fresh gale and the rain aescended and we had soon more sail hoisted which quickened our pace and we were once more going along on the mighty ocean at about 8 or 9 knots an hour. This sight so pleased the Saints that tho it rained it did not cause them to go below for all appeared to enjoy the fresh breezes so much so that they were not daunted at a little rain. We were called to prayer and after that we went on deck where many were enjoying themselves in seeing the swiftness. We were going along and passing their opinions at what rate we were going–some saying 7; some 8; some 10 knots an hour. But, in the midst of all this, a flying fish [p.36] flew on deck which caused all that knew of it to haste to see. The steward had it and it were cooked for the captain. It was very much like the mackerel in color & size only the two fins that are just against the head was much larger so that they formed the wings which they fly with. One sail passed us in the course of the day but we did not know what she was.

Wednesday come on Feb. 23. Morning blew. Went on deck. Saw a sail at a distance on the starboard side of us. It appeared as if it were coming up with us but it passed on behind us. They hoisted their colors but I did not see our captain answer it in no one way tho sail that we thought to be a wreck we quite lost sight of her. Another appeared in the same direction but this proved to be a barque bound for England or some other post on our stern. Went on the quarter-deck. Saw a vessel making up to us. She come up with us. At our head she hoisted their colors. In answer to that our captain hoisted the union jack. At that they come up with us. Our captain spoke to them asking them where they were bound. I did understand the answer, but I learned from different parties she was bound for the St. Thomas Docks with planks. And asking our captain what latitude they were in; the captain appeared much delighted. Stomping his foot on the deck and clasping his hands; run to the man at the wheel and tacked about directly after us as if they were going in the same direction as us. I understood that our captain had said that they had gone 500 miles out of their way, but let this be as it may they turned quite a different course after our captain had spoken to them and instead of sailing up to our side they followed us directly after us. [p.37] Another child was born in the course of the night.

And next morning Thursday 24 I went on the quarter-deck to see them put down the pins to see how fast we were going and I think it was 7 knots an hour. Another whale was seen this morning and a porpoise was seen this afternoon. The new mast for the mizzen mast was hoisted and the sails for the foremast was set which made it appear something like as at first. The wind blowing in our favor we now went along and in the right course. This increased our joy thinking we should be blessed again with a prosperous journey the remainder of our way to New Orleans. This evening it was pleasing. The wind blew enough in the state we were in to enable us to go 5 knots an hour and not cold but soft & warm. The clouds cleared away and we were in fear that we should be becalmed again but when the clouds disappeared it freshened up and a nice gale kept up and only the rolling of the ship that was in any way inferior to us. In the company of [-] Saints we had prayer and then went on deck for a short time and then to rest. But, before I got to sleep, the ship give us an extra rock or roll and a few of the things that was not properly hid begun to roll about which caused a grumbling among those that they belong to and a hearty laugh among those that delighted in fun, but the different things were all placed again in their places and all quiet again. I awoke in the night thinking it was daylight. I went on deck. I could but notice the moon as it were at the full and instead of that appearing [p.38] as a face and nose, eyes &c it looked as it appears just in the maps; no form of a face whatever only the dark places of no particular [-], but I think brighter if possible and the stars are as if they were upside down. If I am right say what we all call “Dick and his Wagon.” The [-] wheels as we call them are at the lowest end or rather pointing towards the north with the three stars that is called “the horses” are pointing towards the south, but where I am they are the contrary. The three stars that we call the horses are pointing towards the north.

But as daylight appeared of Friday 25 went again on deck to see if I could see any vessel or any other object. I saw many flying fish. At about 12 o'clock a sail appeared at our stern. Supposed it to be the schooner that we saw the day before that were going out of the way and about one we saw another in front of us but at a long distance. This was seen all day till darkness hid it from our view. We hoisted the yardarm to the new mizzen mast. This made us complete as far as we could do at sea and I thought we done well to get them as we did and now the carpenters were employed in corking the decks. The sight on the quarter-deck was pleasing to see the brethren & sisters engaged in the different works. Many were engaged in making their wagon & tent covering while some of the younger sisters amused themselves in pelting and playing with one another. All was cheerful & pleasing like one family living together so the day passed and the many little difficulties that we had to encounter with went off easy. The night come on again. Many talked about seeing land for some that had maps was looking them over and passing their opinions upon the distance we had [p.39] to go before we should see the first island. Had prayer. Walked about deck till about 9 o'clock then to rest. The night very warm. Had but little to cover us but still felt the heat.

Next morning Saturday 26. Went on the forecastle to see if I could see any vessels. Saw one on the starboard side, but whether it was the one we saw the night before we could not tell. She sailed off towards the north, or we sailed from her, let that be as it may; we lost sight of her. I saw some flying fish and there were a great quantity this morning and many large birds with black back & wings a white head and belly and a long tail. And after that we saw more but larger and longer necks but much the same color. About 10 o'clock it was said a man could see land at the masthead, but did not know whether it was true, but about one o'clock we could see land with the naked eye. But here I might say that a stranger to traveling by sea might be mistaken in seeing land as it looks so much like a cloud and to be sure you can watch whether it moves as the clouds. If not you may then feel assured it is land at a distance which was a pleasing sight to all the Saints to think they were in sight of the land of which formed a part of the West Indies; now, all the telescopes and glasses of that nature were brought into action. We could see there were many hills on that land and somewhere a great height. The name of the first was Antigua and this were on our right side or what the seamen called the starboard side. As they sung out land ahead on the starboard side but we had been expecting to see land on the other side first as that was the side we understood the seaman saw it first. But afterwards we could see land on the larboard side and it is true it might be seen by the seaman first as we got to that land [p.40] first, but being so much the lowest and perhaps the farthest from us when we passed it that gives the reason that we did not see it. First tho we were up to that first in being opposite to it and the lower it was much larger & longer, this we could see for some time. The name of it was Montserrat. We were in sight of another at sunset and regretted we could not see more of it but in the course of afternoon we could see more ahead of us and a sail coming towards us but she passed by us in the course of the night or turned of to some of the islands. We lost sight of her and in the course of the night we come opposite to the land we saw ahead of us in the afternoon.

About one o'clock in the morning Sunday 27, the watch stated the houses could be seen. I went ondeck about 3 o'clock. I could see we were about opposite to it but as it were moonlight I could not see any houses to be evident. I could see it was a high country and the mountainous part were much higher than the one we had passed. The name was Nevis. The watch stated they could see the houses when they come up to it but they turned of and passed it leaving the land on the right side of the ship and that side had no houses to be seen. Come up again about 4 or 5 o'clock I could see we had made some progress on our way as the land we had in sight and opposite to it was almost out of sight and looking at it that were almost behind us it is true. It was very lofty in some parts and looking round us I saw another island more towards the west. It truly looked like or about the size of Castle Hills that we had left behind us in England, but it was farther off us as we passed it than the other was and this was on the same side as the first we passed. We saw many birds passing about [p.41] it but some said that the hill we had passed was covered with birds and every blade of grass was eaten up by them. Some birds were black and some black and white. The name of the hill were [-] and looking towards I could see another island, but appeared to be further off then any we had passed before. And looking at it, we could plainly see it was land and much longer than any we had passed and as it became more lighter and the sun brighter and we were more opposite to it we could see to all appearance it was higher than any we had passed and looking forward we saw another in the same direction from us only at a greater distance from us. Truly it was wonderful to see so many islands and mountains; one here and another there and the world of waters all around them. How wonderful the works of creation and how wonderful has the earth been divided since it rolled from its creator at the first and how it was divided as is spoken of that it was divided in the days of Peleg. Of a truth it must have been in one or how could it have been divided in the days of Peleg or how could it have been needful to say it was divide if it had never been in the whole. We saw another whale today. Night coming on. We lost sight of land but of a truth this had been a delightful day and the sights pleasing to the Saints. We had prayer then went on deck again. I saw we were going along at a good rate; the wind behind us. All was soon at rest.

Next morning 28 Monday. Morning clear but not so hot as it had been. I looked around [p.42] but I saw no sail in sight, but saw many flying fish & birds of different sorts. This made many suppose that we could not be far from land or at least not many miles as that appears to be one guide to the seamen when the birds appear in great quantities there is sure to be land not far distance. It is true when anyone is on the sea where we was they are surrounded by land on all sides as the captain said we could reach land any one way in that part of the globe in 24 hours sail on either sides as there were so many islands all around us. We had our morning service on deck and was addressed by Elder Spencer stating we were assembled for to worship and he would then commence by singing. Had prayer. Sung again and then Elders Rostam [Rostrow]& Speakman followed by Elders Die [Dye] & Harmon and Elder Spencer concluded by saying he was pleased with the remarks that had falling from the lips of the different speakers and hoped all would attend to what had been said and hoped we should all attend to counsels and give notice that we might expect to hear some of the elders in the afternoon at 1/2 past 2. At that time many of the Saints met and 3 of the elders addressed us upon the subject of our duty; not to forget that our duty towards God was to obey him and all his servants and by so doing we might have eternal life and no other way was made known to man whereby he could be saved. Night coming on again. Many was talking about seeing land by break of day and many making the inquiry what would be the name of the island we should see next. Had prayer. Went on deck after prayer. Saw nothing particular. The wind was blowing in our favor.

Monday, the morning rather cloudy and a [p.43] little rain fell, but not for long. The day cleared off. Had our flour, rice, biscuit, sugar, & tea served out. Many were up the lookout to see land but did not see land at present. We saw many flying fish more so than we had seen before and more large birds and one was said to be one that measures 10 feet from tip of one wing to the other. It was flying high so I could not judge myself, but it looked very large. It might be so large or it might not. It was of a certainly very large to all appearance. The chief mate let down the line I think every hour this day and if right we went sometimes 8 and sometimes 9 knots an hour. This was pleasing to all to see our ship [sail] but away so fast and more steady than she had done. Tho night coming on, I did not attend to prayers as I had to attend to the guard of the ship. He had hurt his hand and it turned out bad and festered and was to be fomented to keep the inflammation out of his body. So, I was upon deck as I undertook the job as the man stood in need of help or he would lose his hand or life. I was up at almost all hours, but many thought of seeing land; but did not. About 12 o'clock the watch said they saw land which if they did it must be St. Domingo, or Island, supposed to be all blacks and belongs to a black governor.

The morning Tuesday March the first. The morning rather wet & dull. All anxious to see land but none was seen that day which was very clear that our captain thought proper to run wide of all these islands and so we passed many and not see them. A vessel appeared in sight ahead of us. We overtook her but not near enough to speak to her. We passed her or she dropped back astern of us and went another way and again we saw another ahead of us. We appeared to gain on her and another came up from some of the islands and come in sight just behind us but steered off out our stern [p.44] and appeared to make off to the ship ahead of us and towards night they appeared to get close together and darkness had them from our view. After prayer many were on deck to take the air as long as they could or as long as was allowed by the rule and order of the ship. I went and paid my visit to the steward a little before 10 o'clock. Found him rather easier and dressed his hand. I went to rest.

Wednesday March 2. Visited the steward about 3 o'clock. Found him outside the cabin waiting for me. I went in the cabin and dressed his hand. I laid beside him in the cabin till 5 o'clock then went to the cooking galley for hot water to foment his hand again. Looked over the bulwarks to see if we were near land but saw none but looking round I saw a sail which we soon come up with though at a distance on our starboard side. She sailed wide of us and went off on our starboard side and so we lost sight of her. We supposed she went to some of the surrounding islands. About 12 o'clock we saw another sail making up to us. She come up with us and passed us on our larboard side going towards the south and we still kept on our way towards the west. The 2 captains did not speak to each other. As I heard it is true I was in the cabin most of the 2 last days that are passed and I saw that the captain and his mate was very busy every day in reckoning up all his accounts and had their maps & charts out most of the day and appeared to be very much in earnest about what they were after. So the day passed away all looking out for a sight of land and all was disappointed but there is no room to be dissatisfied with the length of our journey or rather the time we have been coming so far. When we compare our trip with many [p.45] that have come the same way. There is no room for doubt or fears when we have only been a little over 5 weeks since we left Liverpool River. And at this time we are going about 7 or 8 knots an hour and the wind very near behind us and we near to the Gulf of Mexico. It was said the man at the masthead could see land but as we could not see it ourselves. We were doubtful and even when we could see land we were almost in doubts whether it was land or not as it looked so much like a cloud but when looking at it in earnest we found it was stationed. At length we were sure we had land in sight for a surety for many were satisfied on the subject as it was now visible to all that liked to look at it and the land was found to be Jamaica as we were told and as we could learn by the maps and this has 300 miles of land beside the seashore and at evening tide we could see the lights from the lighthouses and other places. I saw them plain as I was passing by the bulwarks to the cooking galley for water for the steward's hand. For, the orders from the doctor was to deep fomenting it and put poultices upon it often. This give me an opportunity of seeing over the side of the ship as I passed. This was seen from 4 or 5 o'clock till 10 in the evening. I want to dress the steward’s had about 10. After that had a walk on deck to look for the lights but could not see them but could discern there were something there. After dressing the stewards hand, I thought of leaving him till 3 o'clock but the doctor said dress it again at 12 at which the captain give orders to have some [water] kept hot till that time in the cooking galley which was done. I looked over the bulwarks as I passed about 1/2 past 12. The moon shone bright but I could not see the island.

The morning come on Thursday 3. I looked out about 4 o'clock. Could see but little of [p.46] Jamaica but as daylight come on I could see it plain though it looked like a fog arising. I looked around saw a vessel on our starboard side at a distance. Looked again and saw another and after that another on the same side all marking towards us or in their course to Jamaica. About 12 o'clock one come nearer than the others. Our captain hoisted our colors. The vessel being in the rear, it was out of reach by voices. I looked towards Jamaica and saw a vessel on that side but at a great distance, but could not tel whether she was going or coming. After that saw another upper side to us or rather behind apparent making towards land. We saw something smoking. Suppose it to be a steamer but it was thought to be a sugar boiling factory, but this we we could not decide. But, it appeared to be something of that kind as the likes was seen further along and this to us looks close by the seaside. And while in the captain's cabin I heard them call over there accounts of the voyage which I knew to be so because it were mentioned what had occurred on our voyage. This I knew to be so as I recorded many things that had transpired especially our accident and what had been used in repairing the same and what storms they had and where and what time and what wind whether east, west, north, or south and the main yard being sprung and such things as were damaged and not replaced; yet, the occurrence was mentioned and all that were washed overboard. This was done by the captain, the first and second mate. This was just like what I delight in hearing tho I could not listen to it as I could wish as I had the steward to attend to as I had his hand in doing at the same time and as I could see the ocean from the cabin window and all that were going on at the stern of the ship. And at this time I saw 2 ships following us and very grand they looked [p.47] as they spread their sails to the wind and crossing just at our stern or by the cabin window and then turning myself towards the door of the captain's cabin, for that was the place where the steward and myself was sitting; I could see through the first cabin to the deck. It put me in mind of looking out of the door of an house into a yard or street for the Saints were some sitting at work, some reading or writing, and some walking about and many other ways they were amusing themselves. I say it looked like taken a view out of an house into a yard or pleasure ground. This was the scene out of the door and the sight out of the window was equally engaging to see the stream curl as it rolled from the ship every time they worked the rudder or helm and now and then a fish would fly from the waves and the bird across; some one way, and some the other. All this added to the glorious sight. I think this day the steward's hand was better. There were a large ship come up with us on our larboard side. I did not hear her name but it was an English ship because they knew it to be an Liverpool built ship because the make was something different to the most part of the ships that are built having no head as they called it only a plain keel, but–I heard she was on an emigrant ship from Glasgow. This was the first ship we met with that could or did pass us as I see all the way. We come long on our way from our first leaving Liverpool. To the present time but this I must said did, but not very far ahead of us, but it was almost like fighting a man with one arm as we had one top sail and she in full trim and she passed on before as tho we had all our sails pointed to the wind. We still had Jamaica in view. I know of nothing particular this day. The night come on and hid all these things from our [p.48] view but before the close of our diversion of the day; we had preaching on deck by Elders Gates, Spencer & Harmon which occupied the time till 9 o'clock. And after that the Saints walked the deck till 10 then some went to their berths, but being warm some slept on deck all night in hammocks and on other things as they could and some on boxes below. I did for one for it was much the coolest.

Next morning Friday 4. Went on deck about 2 o'clock. Saw nothing particular and again about 4 o'clock the brethren began to turn out and pass their own remarks about what they had seen. One stated he had seen Cuba about 2 o'clock, but the fact was there were a calm and the helm could not govern the ship. She turned her around as the tide ebbed and flowed so as the ship went round they saw Jamaica from both sides of the ship and they did not notice whether she turned or not but it was certain she had turned as we had seen the case before by daylight. For, we sailed up to 4 o'clock in the afternoon and again I was in the cabin and I heard the first mate say we had sailed 48 miles since 4 o'clock in the morning and let that be as it may we kept going all the day and did not come to Cuba which proves we did not come nigh Cuba in the night or we must have seen it again before night as we went along at a good rate as the wind had strengthened much and blew a good breeze. We saw 2 vessels in the morning and 3 in the afternoon; in all, 5 in the course of the day. As we are among so many islands which are at a distance from America there are many going to and from each other with of these little islands with their produce to the larger ones to take one sort of their produce that they grew upon that soil or other productions which they could not produce on their own little spot of land or of what they not a sufficient of themselves. And while the steward and myself was sitting in the cabin, something attacked my ears. I thought I could hear [p.49] a peal of bells ringing. It sounded to me as if it were Hasenfield bells ringing as much as possible at a distance. I said nothing to the steward about it as I thought he would think it foolish of me to think of hearing bell ringing in the midst of the ocean. To all appearances we were so, but the steward mentioned it to me first. Then I took the opportunity of saying that I certainly heard it myself but did not say anything about it as we were on the sea but I asked the steward whether it were possible to hear the bells from the land of Jamaica. His answer was we could hear bells at a long distance at sea. If I understood the captain this afternoon he inquired of the first mate something of the distance we were from a certain part. I think he called it the peak. The mate answered he knew it to be the peak as he knew it well now. This day we had Jamaica in full view. We could see it plain so as to discern the highest hills from the lower ones and could discern the valleys lying between them which to us appeared to be a delightful land and could see a small boat in one place had its sail up as if it were a fishing smack and in different places we certainly could see the smoke ascending either from their sugar factories or something of that kind. Now all this appears we were not far from land but whether we could hear the ringing of bells or not I cannot tell, but I am certain I heard a something like bells and it lasted at least upwards of an hour. The evening came on. We had prayer and I had the privilege of meeting this evening as I left the steward in part as I began to imagine from what I heard and saw that the captain thought I had been there almost long enough. So, I agreed to dress the steward's hand at my own berth and after prayer we went on deck. It was near 10 o'clock in the evening. A small schooner come up to us at our head. She had a light, but it was a small light on board, but she had a light. Our captain inquired where she was [p.50] bound for it appeared it was for the middle islands as I understood as their captain inquired how far it was to that place. I don't know whether it was answer to that question or not but our captain's answer to them was 20 miles north. The small vessel passed us and at a distance and then tacked about again and followed us and soon came up with us on the other side and some more conversation took place between the two captains but for want of understanding their phrases and as I cannot hear so well as some others, and by these 2 evils I could not understand what passed between them, the 2 captains, but it was very pleasing to hear their two voices echoing as they called to each other in the silent hours of the night, when all was still not any thing to be heard, but them. And perhaps I might say, I never heard 2 voices echo so true as it did it that time, but after this we separated; we going on our way and them to all appearance the contrary way. Thus, passed the day and evening.

The next morning Saturday 5. The morning clear. The wind on our side rather towards our head, but we moved on at a gentle rate about 6 knots an hour. This made the Saints rejoice again as we had done before as this morning we had the appearance of a calm but it turned out more favorable and as the clouds gathered up so the wind strengthened we had a good breeze again and we went on well all day. The wind got round more ahead but did not stop long in that direction but tacked again and got almost behind us. Some sails were continually making their appearance most from our right side or starboard side. We saw a sail or two on the side of Jamaica but most on the other side next St. Domingo and some of them were of a large size but most of them small ones such no carry 2 masts only and some 3 masts. So, Saturday passed away, and none of us went to market but many were joking [p.51] about it. We saw no fish today as I heard of today which I felt suppose as I thought of seeing more as we come towards the land. The captain was often singing out to his men to be upon the lookout as vessels were frequently passing. Left the steward time enough for prayer. Went on deck for a time and then to rest.

Sunday 6. I think as pleasant a morning as ever could be seen. The wind blew cool and clear but healthy the sun shone with all its glorious appearance and this tokened a warm day but as the sun got up it was not so hot as might be expected. There were two sails appeared on our starboard side going towards Jamaica as we supposed. We had our morning service 1/2 an hour sooner. Three of the elders addressed us and concluded about 12 o'clock and met again at 1/2 past 2 o'clock in the afternoon and most appeared to be delighted. I was asked this day whether I often thought about Cambridge. I answered it was astonishing to me but I did not think much about that place only when I was thinking of them I had left behind and hoping they would soon see the necessity of coming to the Valley of the mountains and hoped there would be a way made open for them in some way or other and I think this is the case almost in all on board for scarce anyone is talking about the land they left behind them only when they talk about the slavery they have had in that country. This Sunday passed away. All on board appeared full of glee and spirits. The steward's hand was not so well. He says he could not rest of night. Left him about 1/2 past 10 and I think he was asleep before I left the cabin this evening [p.52] The wind blew a fresh and we went along at the rate of 10 knots an hour. I went to rest. I arose about one and went on deck. The night was clear. The stars very bright. I inquired of the watch what was the time. I learned by that it was about one. I saw we were going along at a quick rate with a side wind. Went to bed again, rose about 4.

Monday, I went to the cooking galley to get some water for the steward's hand. I looked over the bulwarks and saw we were going along well and the sails much as they were at night when we left them to go to rest. I saw a few more sails in sight. None came up to us but all went on their way to and from the different islands and all passed on peaceably. I found this afternoon about 3 o 'clock we entered the Gulf of Mexico. The wind lacked a little and we were still going along first rate. The ship rolled a little more than it had done and a few of the sisters was taken rather sick again. I heard they thought of seeing the land of America about the middle of the week. The night come on again. I dressed the steward's hand a little sooner and go down to the steerage time enough for prayer. Went on deck again for a time and then to rest. Slept well. Rose again about 1/2 past 3 o'clock.

Tuesday 8. The morning clear & cold but very pleasant. Called the cook of the passengers galley and much praise is due to that man for his kindness to the steward. For, I have had hot water from him at almost all hours that is at 10 & 11 at night and 3 - 4 & 5 in the morning and I speak the truth of him. I never heard him utter a word of complaint in all the times I called him from his [p.53] bed to wait upon me on the steward's account. I had water this morning and am happy to say I found him sleeping. I did not wake him but I laid down on the floor beside him in the cabin and I think I slept about an hour at the least. The steward awoke and shook me to saying you are waiting for me? I answered yes. We soon went to work and I done my duty to the afflicted hand which I hope I could say it looked better. The steward acknowledged he had a good night's rest. I saw a very large bird. It looked most part black with the end of the tail tip of the wings and crown of the head were white and it resembled the Herronshaw as we call them only larger and I saw some much like English Rook, both in their shape and movements. Their wings moved much the same and much the length and shape in a word. As I have said if we were to see them on land not knowing what they were we should say there goes a rook and this strengthened my opinion that we must be near land as the birds were now a heavier bird; not like the seagull or such birds as we have seen on the ocean. And another thing took our attention, that is a kind of shellfish was seen–something like the tortoise. They had a fin or sail if you please to call it so which they kept out of water about 2 inches above the level as it appeared to me which some say it is to blow them along. But, let it be as it will, I know not the truth of it. Some call them the sailfish, others call them the Portuguese Man of War. There were one passed by that had 2 small fish swimming alongside of it as if playing about it. The fishes were about the size of sprats. The sails as some call them put me in mind of the ladies with their hair combs fixed in their hair, [p.54] as their sails stand up about the same height as the combs do out of their hair and not much unlike them in shape and size. The Saints rejoiced today to hear they were not more than 200 miles off New Orleans and about 50 miles off the bar or the first of the land we come to. We had but little wind this afternoon, but that little were in our favor. The night came on and it were still and pleasant though we should like it to blow rather more but our Heavenly Father knows what was and is best for us. We went to prayer and then to rest, all being still once more; --some on their berths & some on the floors while others were lying on their boxes for coolness.

Next morning Wednesday 9. All appeared to be well except the infant that lost its mother the same night we started from Liverpool. The child died in the course of the night and in the afternoon they let the body down into the deep. I saw it first touch the water then they drew it up again and when they found as I suppose that it would sink they let go one end of the cord and it soon sank out of my sight. This is the second death on board, but being both very young and one could not suck because it were too weak and the other little dear had no mother. It might be well said the mother is the greatest loss, the greatest blessing, the greatest curse. It is by the mother it is nourished while it hangs upon the breast that will make it thrive when nothing that groweth is able to do so like it and the greatest responsibility lies upon the mother in training that child God has given her. Either the mother will teach her child and fit it for life and death will teach it wisdom so as to be a useful member to society, a tender and compassionate being to its fellow creator in a world, willing to do good to all. This will surely be the case if the mother sows the seed; she know doubt see the fruit appear, but let the mother train the child for a fool an ill natural being, one to break the peace of all he may be in company with either in family or society and make the child miserable to himself and others while God may see fit to let him live too unfit to [p.55] live and afraid to die. Let the mother do this and she will realize the prophesies to the letter tho not to her hearts content as may of them say, but one day or another or at one time or another they shall drink the bitter cup to the very dregs. Mothers hear & listen to this though it may seem to go against you and you will not repent nor take the warning though it is in love to you and your child that may be your darling–and if not you may experience that sorrow that many mothers have had to do to the grief of their soul and then say, “I did not think of this or I should not have done it,” but I say many have told you mothers this and you have hated them for it and at this time while you read this some may say ah that is just like that old fool, but what I have written I have written like [-] of old, I have written it and I don't want to alter or recall it unless to make it more plain and pointed because I know it to be true. And ancient and modern history as well as experience & observation teaches me so and all that hath an ear let them hear so that they may keep within compass and then they will avoid many evils that others ran into, but now to my history. Today, the captain give orders that the passengers might have what water they pleased to wash with and this was followed out for most of the Saints took his advice, excepted the gift and fell to work at washing. It would have pleased you or any landsman to see the group of men, women, & children busy engaged in sorting out their different wearing apparel. Some fell to work to washing in pails, tubs, pots, pans, boilers, basins, saucepans, or anything they had or could borrow. And much to the praise to the captain, for he not only give them water; but, he had the coppers that were used for cooking filled with water for the people to wash with and though some had to wash in their boilers. They did not dry in the [p.56] chimney corners for from the forecastle to the quarter-deck there were seen clothes lines having some crossing the ship and some at the length of the ship and all filled with clothes of all kinds shirts, sheets, blankets, & quilts, counterpanes & rugs, coats & trousers and all that the females are in the habit of wearing and a little more. Truly it were a laughable sight to see instead of seeing the ropes & rigging and them all clear so that the seamen could handle them or go to them in the dark you might turn your eye from head to stern and see clothes hanging and from one side to the other and you see clothing hanging and upon the quarter-deck a part where it was only for the captain & mates and the rest of the nobility that was decorated with clothes hung there to dry. [THE DIARY ABRUPTLY ENDS HERE] [p.57]

BIB: Clark, Benjamin T. Diary. (Ms 8795, reel #12, item #3), pp.1-3, 5-57. Acc. #574. (HDA) (source abbreviations)