We are still some miles from
land; but the sea is calmer than Loch Eil often was, and the big
HOOPER rests very contentedly after a pleasant voyage and
favourable breezes. I have not been able to do any real work
except the testing [of the cable], for though not sea-sick, I get a
little giddy when I try to think on board. . . . The ducks have
just had their daily souse and are quacking and gabbling in a
mighty way outside the door of the captain's deck cabin where I
write. The cocks are crowing, and new-laid eggs are said to be
found in the coops. Four mild oxen have been untethered and
allowed to walk along the broad iron decks - a whole drove of sheep
seem quite content while licking big lumps of bay salt. Two
exceedingly impertinent goats lead the cook a perfect life of
misery. They steal round the galley and WILL nibble the carrots or
turnips if his back is turned for one minute; and then he throws
something at them and misses them; and they scuttle off laughing
impudently, and flick one ear at him from a safe distance. This is
the most impudent gesture I ever saw.
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