January
January 4, 1865
The most extraordinary thing happened today. I was tending the shop when, all of a sudden, there was an abundance of commotion and noise in the street. I stepped out just in time to see three of the most handsome men I have ever laid eyes upon! It seemed a miracle to see men under any circumstances, let alone such handsome ones! They were passing out handbills announcing a meeting tonight for women to join them on a voyage to Washington Territory, to a town named Seattle, as they have a shortage of women there. I was overcome by excitement. The whole town is absolutely buzzing with the news!!I couldn't wait to close up the shop in order to run home and be finished with dinner in time for the meeting. I arrived about 10 minutes late. Almost every young woman in town was at the meeting, myself included! As I arrived somewhat late, all the seats were taken and I had to stand in the back with about 20 others. Mr. Jason Bolt is the name of the man who did the speaking. His town, Seattle in Washington Territory, has a shortage of women. Since New England has a shortage of men, because of the war, he and his brothers came here in hopes of finding "marriageable" women of "quality" who would be willing to make the voyage to Seattle. It will be a long trip by sea and will take 6 months!
Many of the women signed the contract tonight, but I have to think about it and talk it over with Mother. I must say, I would love to go! Life has been difficult here lately, with Mother thinking of remarrying Mr. Landford, whom I detest! My younger siblings can help with the chores and running the shop. I've been so lonely since my father and brothers were killed in the war. Mother and I do nothing but fight these days. Because we are of German descent, the other families have shunned us, except for a few, and I feel that I have no real friends. Maybe a new place will be different. I might even change my name! I do so wish to marry and have my own family!
January 5, 1865
Mother and I had a long talk about the Seattle trip. She is very hesitant to let me leave, since I'm only 16 (but soon to be 17) and her only daughter. However, she does understand my desire to go and has consented to meet Mr. Bolt and his brothers as soon as a meeting can be arranged. I wrote a letter to the Bolts today, asking for such. I have decided that I truly do wish to join the others. A few of the girls I am acquainted with are going, although no one I could call a close friend. I'm afraid my real friends are few, but maybe this voyage will change that.January 6, 1865
I received an answer to my letter from Mr. Jason Bolt and he has consented to meet with Mother and I. I had to go to the New Bedford Inn to arrange a meeting, which was absolutely terrifying for me. I really must find a way to overcome my shyness. I somehow found the courage, however, and arranged a meeting for this Friday next. I cannot believe how nervous I become when speaking to such a handsome man.January 8, 1865
Mother and I met with the Bolts today and made our decision. I will be leaving on January 16. Thank the heavens that Mother understood and accepted the idea. My only problem at this point is figuring out how to pack. We are only allowed one trunk apiece and whatever we can carry. I have a hope chest that is quite full now. I have to have enough clothing and necessities to last for the 6-month voyage and then some, as I have no idea what I will need once we reach Seattle. I will not be able to take everything, but I am so excited and hopeful that this will change my life. Oh, how I hope to meet my true love in Seattle. I have heard many of the other girls talking about setting their sights on the Bolts. They are quite handsome. Jason is the oldest, but much too old for me. Joshua is quite outgoing and popular, and seems too old for me anyway. Jeremy is very shy and quiet like myself, but he is so attractive and I've heard so many other girls talking about him, that I would not stand a chance with him, I fear. I must confess, I do find him quite appealing! If I do not find a way to overcome my shyness, I fear I will not stand a chance with any young man!January 14, 1865
This past week has been so hectic, with getting ready for the voyage and saying our good-byes. It seems nearly impossible to believe that I'll be sailing on a ship for Seattle the morning after next! I have packed and repacked my trunk so many times I have lost count. I do so hope I am doing the right thing. When I first decided to go, I was so sure it was what I wanted, but now I'm overcome with anxiety and fear. I suppose that is only natural. This will change my whole life. As fearful as I am, I am also equally curious, excited, and hopeful about this voyage. I feel that perhaps this is my destiny!January 16, 1865
We are at sea at last, but my goodness, what a day this has been!! Quite soon after the ship set sail, we were shown were our quarters were. My heavens, what a shock we were in for!! This is far from what any of us had imagined. I am writing this from the comfort and luxury of a mule stall!! This is a mule boat! Well, Candy Pruitt decided to take matters in her own hands and led some of the braver of the girls to protest. She actually had a gun! I cannot believe how brave she is sometimes! I daresay I feel safer having her aboard, however. Well, Mr. Jason Bolt managed to calm everyone down with a prayer about us women sailing around the world to become wives, which means making a home wherever they are, which made Candy and the others feel ashamed.I stayed down below with most of the others, and only heard of this later. I heard that he actually made Candy cry. I never thought I would see the day that anything or anyone could make Candy Pruitt cry! Of course, it is all anyone has talked about all day! In any event, we spent most of the day cleaning and organizing our "quarters." We have to sleep two to a "stall." It's actually quite comfortable, as there is plenty of straw and with quilts and pillows, it is not too bad. We still have plenty of cleaning to do. It'll probably take the whole six months to make this ship livable. I was very nervous about making friends and figuring out where to sleep, but I found a new friend. I noticed a girl who seemed to keep to herself and had already chosen a stall all the way down at one end, which is exactly where I had planned on going. The others were all absorbed in the "mutiny" going on upstairs while a few of us were trying to figure out where to put our things. Anyway, her name is Peggy and she and I struck up a conversation and found that we both like to keep to ourselves. I found the courage to ask her if I could share her stall with her, and she said that it was also a relief to her to have that over with also, as she had no real friends aboard either. I was so relieved! Although I know a few girls on the ship, they don't seem to like me and, quite frankly, the feeling is mutual. Well, it's getting late and everyone is starting to blow out their lanterns. I must say, I am quite exhausted.
January 19, 1865
This has certainly been an interesting and exhausting voyage thus far! After working almost constantly since we came on board, our "quarters" have become much more comfortable. Candy, Biddie, Franny, and some of the others have organized schedules for everything such as cooking, meals, laundry, and such. We have made curtains for the portholes and scrubbed everything. Even the Chinese cooks are wearing aprons with ruffles! They really look quite comical, but are quite good sports about it and seem to enjoy our amusement. I have been so busy, as have all of us, that I haven't had time to talk much to anyone except Peggy, but there seems to be quite a feeling of camaraderie amongst us. It has been no small feat getting this vessel in order. Today is the first time I have had the energy or time to write and reflect upon this voyage. The sea seems to be getting somewhat rougher today and the weather bitterly cold and windy. Many of the other girls are getting the dreaded seasickness we have heard so much about. I feel a bit queasy myself and am trying my best to keep my mind off of it by going what they call "topside" for fresh air often and keeping busy. It is bitterly cold. Many of the girls are quite miserable and homesick. I feel quite homesick also, but I am trying to keep my mind occupied.January 26, 1865
These past six days have been the most miserable I can recall experiencing in my life! I succumbed to the seasickness as well. I have no words to describe the misery. Today is the first day I have been able to keep anything down. I feel much better, thank the good Lord, although still a bit weak. Most of the others are also feeling better today. I feel dreadful about missing our first Sunday service at sea, but could not even lift my head that morning. I was not the only one, thankfully. I was rather amazed that some of the girls did not experience any seasickness at all. The sea seems to be getting a bit calmer and it is not quite so cold.January 27, 1865
Upon awakening, we were greeted by delightfully warm weather and calm seas! It felt wonderful to stroll on the deck and take in the fresh air. Everyone's spirits seemed elevated, including my own. I even found myself smiling and saying hello to almost everyone I passed. I still feel quite shy around the men, but perhaps I can overcome this. Many of the sailors have smiled and said good day to me. The two eldest Bolt brothers were quite pleasant, making an effort to greet each and every one of us. Their ability to retain all of our names in their memories is remarkable. I haven't heard Jeremy speak at all, but he makes an effort to smile. He seems rather as bashful as I, which makes him all the more appealing!January 29, 1865
A dreadfully tragic event occurred this evening! One of the sailors fell overboard and the crew was unable to save him! We have all wept for him and I find tears coming to my eyes as I write this. I had not met him personally, but he was young and it all seems so tragic, especially after losing so many men in the war. This was the first day of the Sabbath that I and many others attended services. Candy Pruitt led the services and did quite a fine job. Someone even produced a concertina and the music was comforting, though also made my homesickness worsen. I find myself missing my mother dreadfully and of course my dear late father and brothers. I long even to see my annoying younger brothers. Perhaps this is compounded by the fact that my 17th birthday is tomorrow and not a soul on board knows. I am beginning to make a few more friends, however, and Peggy and I get along well. It has been a profoundly depressing day and the tragedy of this evening has left my heart quite heavy. The sea has also been quite rough today and the weather colder, as if to match our melancholia.January 30, 1865
What a different day this has been! I was feeling quite sad still and wishing to tell someone it was my birthday, but somehow I didn't feel that was a proper thing to do. I busied myself with laundry, as it was my group's turn, and managed to keep my mind off things. Much to my surprise, after dinner tonight, I was greeted by Peggy and almost all of the girls with a small cake and candles singing Happy Birthday! I was quite overcome both by surprise and embarrassment, and burst into tears. It seems that Peggy had seen my journal, which I had unintentionally left open. I was quite touched to see how much everyone cared and made me feel so much better.When I went topside, even the Bolt Brothers wished me Happy Birthday. I daresay that people are not nearly as terrible as I thought.
February
February 4, 1865
We seem to be settling into a comfortable routine now. We crossed the Southern Hemisphere and the weather is wonderful. One of the sailors has been playing the concertina on deck and there is much dancing and flirting amongst everyone. I still haven't the courage to talk to any one the Bolt brothers or the sailors. Several of the sailors have tried to engage me in conversation, but I find myself tongue-tied. Peggy says I had better practice flirting or at least talking to them, so I will be adept at it when we reach Seattle. It seems a romance is developing on board between Candy Pruitt and Jeremy Bolt. They have been spending a great deal of time together since yesterday afternoon. She is the first person anyone has seen him talk to besides his brothers and Dmitri the navigator. There go my hopes of landing him! I couldn't possibly compete with her.February 9, 1865
We are approaching Rio de Janeiro and will be able to set foot on land there! We are all quite excited about it. The sailors say it is quite beautiful. I cannot wait to see land. I am getting used to being at sea now and I actually enjoy it some, but land will be a welcome respite. Some of the girls are talking about finding husbands there just to get off the boat, which would be in violation of our contracts. I cannot understand how they could possibly go against their word. My parents have also instilled in me that a person's word is sacred. Captain Clancey has been the subject of much ridicule lately. It seems that whenever someone calls this vessel a "boat", he becomes red in the face, sputters and spouts, and replies "It's a ship!!", along with some rather colorful language that I do not dare repeat.February 10, 1865
After a nearly sleepless night, as we were all so anxious to see land, we anchored in the Rio de Janeiro harbor this morning near dawn. We were all quite disappointed in not being able to see the city from the ship. There were many other ships in the harbor. It seems one must be transported to the city from the ship in a smaller boat. Mr. Bolt announced to us that we would not be permitted to go ashore until he and his brothers had made sure it was safe for us ladies. The shoreline of Rio is quite different than anything I have ever seen, but quite beautiful in its own way. It was a rather frustrating day, with the majority of us being ever so curious about the city of Rio and unable to actually see it. The Bolt brothers and Captain Clancey left for the city in the late afternoon, leaving us under the watchful eye of the crewmen, led by McNab, who also seemed frustrated to be left on the boat (I mean ship!) I busied myself with the usual chores and, at this late hour of midnight, the Bolts have still not returned. Candy Pruitt seems more upset than most of us and is determined that we all be taken ashore tomorrow.February 11, 1865
Well, we still have not left this ship! The Bolt brothers and Captain Clancey apparently arrived back sometime in the middle of the night and apparently were quite intoxicated, except for Jeremy. Candy led most of the others in another ultimatum, demanding that we all be taken ashore. The meeting apparently did not go well, as Jason did not feel particularly well, but we were promised an excursion into Rio in the next few days. It is rather nice to be docked in the harbor for a change, and the comings and goings of the men are ever so interesting to witness! I still haven't the courage to speak to the men, but I am enjoying myself immensely. It is so very exciting to be away from home and in the midst of such adventure!February 14, 1865
My what an exciting time we have had! The city of Rio is far different than anything I have ever imagined. There are many Negroes milling about with white people everywhere, and they say that they even marry each other here! It is really quite shocking. Some of the girls, such as Amanda and her "uppity" friends, were quite appalled. I find it rather interesting and I really cannot see anything wrong with it, although I myself might have a hard time adjusting to such things. The Bolt brothers were ever so protective of us and I am quite grateful for that, as I would be terrified without their guardianship. We even saw the royal family pass by in their carriage. They have an Emperor here. Apparently, we made spectacles of ourselves waving at them and later learned that, in Rio, respectable women are never seen in the streets! For some reason, I found that absolutely hysterical and burst into giggles. It must have been contagious, because almost everyone has been laughing about it all night! I daresay, the girls who hoped of finding husbands here have changed their tune now. The thought of living in a country with customs so different than ours would be quite difficult indeed. I enjoyed our tour of the botanical gardens the most. Such beautiful flowers, the likes of which I have never seen, grow in this very different climate.February 15, 1865
We were treated to a beautiful excursion to the top of the Corcovado, a most beautiful spot with a magnificent view of the ocean and surrounding country. The food was wonderful. I found myself more relaxed than usual and even looked up and smiled at almost everyone I encountered. Peggy teases me and says I will probably become more outgoing than even Candy Pruitt if I ever come out of my shell! She is not one to talk! She is almost as shy as I am. Candy Pruitt and Jeremy Bolt seem to be becoming quite close! She is very lucky indeed. How wonderful to gaze at the view from the Corcovado with an attractive man who obviously seems to adore her. Oh, I hope I shall be as fortunate in finding a love of my own in Seattle!February 18, 1865
We sailed away from Rio this morning. As interesting as Rio was, I am happing to be moving on. I feel as though my destiny is in Seattle! A family of missionaries has joined our cruise until we reach Chile; Reverend Simonton, his wife, son and daughter. Captain Clancey even gave up his own quarters for them! They seem somewhat austere, but perhaps they are shy and reserved. He will be leading our church services while aboard. I was carrying a load of laundry and bumped right into Jeremy Bolt this afternoon! He helped me onto my feet and actually looked into my eyes for a moment. I thought I would surely faint. I could swear I felt my heart stop. Thank goodness, he was equally uncomfortable and looked away and hurried off. I do not believe I have ever seen eyes as blue as his. Oh my, I cannot stop thinking about him! I really must find a way to overcome my shyness. I will try to speak to at least one member of the male species sometime this week.February 21, 1865
Today, I finally conjured up enough to courage to speak to two of the Bolt brothers. I am afraid the experience has left me quite exhausted, but I am rather proud of myself! This incident was on deck this morning before the Reverend Simonton's service. I saw Jason and Joshua Bolt coming my way and, as they always say hello to me, I decided to at least look up and say "Good Morning" back to them. I even managed a smile! Jason then said, "Why Miss Wetzel, you have a most lovely smile and should share it with us more often!" Joshua then said, "Indeed you do, Miss Wetzel! Why, you brighten this gloomy morning immensely!" Even though I was literally shaking all over, instead of turning tail and running, I answered back, "Why thank you very much, Mr. Bolt and Mr. Bolt!" I did hurry off then and could feel myself blushing all over. I had to go sit down and rest after that. I told Peggy about it and she was quite impressed. I confessed to her that I had a crush on Jeremy and swore her to secrecy. She confessed to me that she has a crush on Joshua! I never would have guessed! She said she had no idea of my feelings either, thank the good lord! I would be absolutely mortified if anyone else knew! Everyone is in an uproar over the Reverend Simonton's sermon this morning. He has been chastising some of the girls for their behavior and he implied that all of us were rather shameless. Personally, I feel quite indignant at such an implication. I have never even been alone with a young man, much to my own frustration. After all, that is the whole reason for this journey! It is 1865! We are not living in the dark ages. Some of the girls are somewhat bold in their flirtation, but I have never seen any of them behave improperly. Carla Riley walked right out of the service this morning. We were all quite shocked, but I have the utmost admiration and respect for her for doing so!February 27, 1865
Well, I am doing better every day with managing to smile and say hello to almost everyone. This afternoon, Jeremy Bolt passed me and, even though I felt as though my heart would leap out of my chest, I managed to say "Good afternoon, Mr. Bolt." He seemed rather surprised, but said, "G-g-good afternoon." I had heard that he had a stuttering problem, but this was the first time I had ever heard him speak. We both hurried off, but I have been thrilled all day with my progress! I was feeling rather confident, even slightly "cocky", after this. One of the sailors came up to me this evening while I was looking out at the sunset. We actually had a whole conversation. His name is Jake and he is from Virginia. We discussed the Reverend Simonton's sermons last Sunday and how brave Carla Riley was to walk out! I doubt anyone will be in attendance at his sermon tomorrow. It was rather pleasant to talk to Jake and feel as though I have made a new friend. He did not try to flirt with me. He is rather average looking, but close to my age, and is as easy to talk to as my dear departed older brother.
March
March 1, 1865
We are entering the Straits of Magellan and about to sail around Cape Horn. It is growing bitterly cold and the ocean is getting quite rough. Captain Clancey anounced that we will only be sailing during the day and anchored at night, as the sailing is much too treacherous at night. Everyone seems somewhat irritable and tense. The Reverend Simonton has reduced several of the girls to tears with his lectures and blatant disapproval of all that goes on. Candy told them not to let him upset them, that he is obviously a fanatic, and that we should all hold our heads up high, as none of us has done anything wrong! I could not agree more! I spoke briefly with Jake, but he was quite busy, as are all the sailors. Their work will be difficult and challenging getting around the Horn. He warned me to stay below when the sea starts to get rough. I happened upon young Tom Simonton poking a stick at Diana, Serena Jacobson's cat, this evening. I love all animals dearly and my temper got the best of me! I would have preferred to let someone else deal with him, but as I was the only one around, I grabbed his stick and threw it and shouted "How dare you abuse a sweet innocent animal such as her!" I was rather taken aback by my actions and unsure what to do next. Fortunately, Candy, Biddie, and some of the others came along and finished chastising him. He disappeared pretty quickly! I just hope it doesn't happen again. We will all have to watch out for Diana.March 5, 1865
We arrived in Port Tamar, Chile yesterday afternoon. While going around the Horn, I became seasick much worse than when we first left New Bedford, but fortunately it only lasted for two days this time. I felt much better yesterday. A group of us went onshore yesterday. Peggy, Sally, and Carolyn and I went together, and Jake asked if he and his friend Ned could escort us. We had a wonderful time. There was an old ship called the Salamorter that had wrecked in 1843 that we all collected souvenirs from. It had been carrying a load of bricks and they were scattered everywhere, so most of us took one. Katchie McQuire came up with a good idea to use our bricks in the fireplaces of our new homes. Later that evening, the men started a bonfire. Joshua Bolt started playing his guitar and singing, and we all joined in. It was quite wonderful. He has a wonderful voice. Jeremy even sang along and he also has a wonderful voice. Peggy could not take her eyes off of Joshua. I understand how she feels! I feel quite comfortable with Jake, but nothing more than friendship. I do think he feels the same way. He knows that I want to be married and have a family, and he wants to see the world. It is wonderful to have his companionship, though. He is so like my older brother, whom I miss so dreadfully. Even though I have a crush on Jeremy Bolt, I do not feel any jealousy toward Candy Pruitt. They are obviously becoming very close and they seem so happy together. I would not dream on intruding on something so special. He only has eyes for her, anyway. I only hope I find the same in Seattle.This morning, I went to Reverend Simonton's sermon more out of curiosity than anything else, as did many of the others! I felt somewhat hypocritical, as I have decided that Reverend Simonton is a pompous, bullying fanatic, but it was worth well worth it just to hear Jason Bolt speak! Reverend Simonton went into a tirade. It seems that he blames some of the girls for his son leaving the ship and joining in our outing yesterday. He had some of the girls in tears again. Jason Bolt got up and contradicted him by reading a scripture from Proverbs, not only redeeming the integrity of the "brides", but extolling the virtues of all women. He is a remarkable man. He has a gift with words and managed to put that awful Reverend Simonton right in his place! I was rather surprised to find out that Jason Bolt had such knowledge of the Bible. He does not seem the church-going type.
March 8, 1865
I was strolling on the deck and happened to see Joshua Bolt and Carla Riley dancing in the moonlight. It was rather touching! I was well out of their sight, but greatly enjoyed watching them, and the music from Carla's music box was lovely. I have noticed that she walks with a cane. I do not know what caused her limp and would not dare ask. I have already grown to admire Carla greatly, but even more so tonight. It was wonderful and inspiring to see her dancing when I know how difficult it must be for her. She seemed to be enjoying it immensely, however, and probably not thinking of her affliction. I cannot even imagine having the courage to dance and I have no excuse other than my shyness.March 10, 1865
There was a bit of excitement. It seems that Tom Simonton accosted Charity Stanford and Joshua Bolt came to her rescue, "punching the daylights out him", as Jake described it. Charity is one of the girls that seems quite uppity and snooty, along with Abigail and her friends, but I would not wish the likes of Tom Simonton on anyone. It is really quite shocking! Everyone is buzzing with the news. Apparently, it is supposed to be a secret, but I cannot see how any secrets can be kept on this boat; I mean ship! Captain Clancey still becomes most upset when anyone refers to his ship as a boat. The Bolt brothers seem to get an extraordinary amount of enjoyment out of teasing the Captain by doing so at every opportune moment, however. We girls rather enjoy it also!!March 11, 1865
We had a rather frightening experience today. We enjoying beautiful scenery this morning off the coast of southern Chile when there was a loud boom and a cannonball shot across the bow of the ship. It seems that a nearby man-of-war had mistaken our ship for an enemy. It seems they have a small War going on. There was a bit of panic going on as Captain Clancey tried to sail into Lota. He missed Lota altogether and began to sail into Coronel, a blockaded port. Another shot was fired. Anyway, some of the Spaniards came on board to ascertain whether or not we were their enemies, after which we ended up anchored in Lota.March 12, 1865
Katchie McQuire led our Sabbath services today. She was quite wonderful and inspiring. She spoke of women being partners rather than either beneath or above their men. That is why God created Eve from Adam's rib rather than his foot or his head. I had never thought of it that way before, but how wonderful! I do feel that is how it should be, although I daresay some of the men do not agree. Jake has four sisters at home and says he cannot imagine it any other way! Bless his heart!March 14, 1865
The Simontons departed the ship today! There was a definite atmosphere of celebration and mostly relief amongst us all! I feel especially relieved for poor Diana. We have all done a pretty good job of looking out for her, but it has kept me worried when I did not where she was. I'm sure Diana is relieved as well.March 17, 1865
Today, we had a choice of accompanying Joshua and Clancey to the marketplace area or to the home of Dr. Silver, the American Consul, for a luncheon and stroll through the grounds. I elected to go to Dr. Silver's home with Carolyn, Ruby, and Pearl. Peggy went on the marketplace tour because that is where Joshua would be! Jake had ship-duty and could not attend. We had a wonderful time. They have a beautiful home and gardens, with a lovely view of the ocean! Mrs. Silver entertained us with stories of Chile. We also walked along the beach. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day! Candy and Jeremy seemed to be wandering off by themselves most of the time. I do feel envy, but not jealousy, if that is possible. Jealousy and envy seem different somehow, but I am not sure why. I will have to ponder that some more. I am sorry to say that Peggy did not have such an enjoyable day. She confided in me tonight that she tried to engage Joshua in conversation, but he barely seemed to notice her. She cried herself to sleep. I wish I knew how to help. Felicity Parker was spotted talking alone with Jason Bolt on the beach for quite some time. That has become the subject of gossiping and whispering tonight!March 20, 1865
A lovely party was held for us at Dr. Silver's home. Oh my stars, what a night! Carolyn, Ruby, and Pearl attended. I could not convince Peggy to join us. She is still rather forlorn because of Joshua. I tried in vain to change her mind, but I do understand that she needs a little time to herself. She promised to keep an eye on Serena also, so that Emmy Lou could go. Jake was able to accompany us tonight, along with Ned and Frank. The decorations, food, and music were every so enchanting! There were many handsome officers there tonight and I felt myself practically paralyzed with shyness again and wished I had stayed onboard the ship myself. I have told Jake of my shyness and he encouraged me to use this occasion to practice flirting. If not for him, I would not ever have made it through this evening. The music started and Jake asked me to dance. I was terrified, but I did. I do know how to dance, but it has been a very long time and only with my father and brother. I feel very comfortable with Jake, as he is a wonderful dancer, and started to relax. Then, we sat and watched the others. Carla Riley danced with Joshua and Jason. She is so very brave! I do admire her immensely. I noticed that Jeremy and Candy were not dancing, but seemed quite content watching the others and lost in their own world. How lucky they are!Well, dear diary, it has finally happened! Yes, shy little Lili Wetzel has finally flirted and danced! One of the officers came up to me and asked me to dance. My first reaction was to turn tail and run like the wind, but Jake poked me in the ribs. It took all my courage, but a I looked up, smiled, and said "Why, I'd be delighted Sir." He was a wonderful dancer and quite charming. I danced three dances in a row with him. His name is Robert Lancombe. I found him easy to talk to and even found myself flirting. It was actually a great deal of fun! He said I had a lovely smile and wished my stay in Chile would be longer. Jake had a twinkle in his eye when I rejoined him and said I done splendidly! Two other officers asked me to dance! Their names were Nathan and George. Then, Robert asked me to dance again. I was quite amazed. It soon became time to leave. I felt as though I were in a trance and walking on air. I cannot believe that it was me dancing and talking with strange men! It was absolutely wonderful! Jake said he always knew I could do it, that I just needed a push. Thank heavens he was there to push me! Peggy seemed in better spirits when I returned. She seemed genuinely happy for me! I confess I almost felt guilty for having such a good time while she was feeling so low.
March 21, 1865
Today, we left the coast of Chile behind. The sea is becoming rough again and, although not seasick yet, I do not feel quite myself. Captain Clancey and Jeremy Bolt went ashore to a town called Talchuahno and brought us all back some whales' teeth as souvenirs. It was ever so thoughtful of them, but the whales' teeth made me all the more homesick for New Bedford and my family. As we leave Chile, I am reflecting on my wonderful memories and will always remember Chile as being the place that I began to come out of my shell and overcome my shyness.March 31, 1865
The dreaded seasickness has been plaguing me for the last week. One would never guess that I am the daughter of a whaling man! This morning was the first day I have felt back to normal. Everyone was eagerly awaiting an eclipse tonight. Many of us stayed up until midnight. It was rather disappointing, as we expected complete blackness when the moon became eclipsed. Instead, the moon became a pinkish, salmon-like color. It was quite interesting, but not quite what I expected. Jake and I had a nice talk. We were both missing our families. I told him how much like my brother he is and he said that I also remind him of his favorite sister.
April
April 7, 1865
Today, we anchored off Charles Island of the Gallapogos Islands. This island was named for Charles Darwin. Captain Clancey announced to us that this would be our last opportunity to be on dry land for nearly three weeks, so most of us went ashore. We found a lovely, secluded lagoon, where we were able to bathe and swim. It felt so wonderful to be clean! We washed clothes also. This island is quite different than anything I have ever seen. It is quite barren without much in the way of plants or trees, mostly volcanic rock, but quite beautiful in its own way!April 13, 1865
Captain Clancey is becoming upset, saying that his crew is distracted by the women flirting with them at night, and ordered us to stop fraternizing with them. He threatened to leave us stranded in San Francisco if we do not comply. Many of the girls are quite upset. Personally, I do not mind the curfew, although often I cannot sleep. I do like to get some fresh air late at night. The only sailor I talk to is Jake and some of his buddies, but they never neglect their duties as far as I can see. I have noticed some of the others, however. It is a shame that the actions of only a few are causing restrictions on the rest of us. However, we only have one more month at sea and I am happy to comply.April 16, 1865
Well, apparently some of the girls have refused to respect Captain Clancey's wishes. He has insisted upon a curfew. Past 10 p.m. we have to be below deck. Sally Hill seems to be the most upset. She does enjoy her flirting! I think that some of these girls are making a mountain out of a molehill. Biddie Cloom said she wished she had a reason to be topside after 10 p.m. We were all overcome by an attack of the giggles after that statement. I daresay that most of us find this incredibly amusing and do not take it seriously.April 18, 1865
Well, poor Ruby Maxwell got caught out after 10 last night and Captain Clancey furiously escorted her back down to the hold. Biddie, Rachel, and Ann tried to sneak out around 10:30, but Owen Pritchard was posted at the top of the stairs. This infuriated almost all of the girls. Although I personally do not mind the curfew, I can understand their anger. No one should be kept a prisoner and treated like a child! Well Kitty Mulhern led a group to distract Owen and escape. They made the poor man miserable, feigning illness, arguments, or injuries. Finally, about 20 girls escaped. It was all rather amusing, as Captain Clancey could not round them all up at once. Before this curfew, there were only about 5 girls that actually were the culprits, but the idea of being locked up against our will was too much. I myself did not participate, but I do understand why the others fought back.April 19, 1865
This morning, Captain Clancey demanded to meet with Kitty Mulhern after learning that she was the one who had been behind last night's activities. We all tried our best to hear their conversation, but other than a great deal of yelling and cursing, we could not make it out. In any event, Kitty emerged with a triumphant smile and announced that our curfew was over, much to the relief of all!
