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and which was cheerfully agreed to. P(illegible text) of a cold ham was found on board; but, after taste of it being given, it was thrown overboard least it should increase their thirst without t(illegible text) means of allaying it.
The weather was at times wet, cold, and w(illegible text) fog and sleet. The cutter could sail, but h(illegible text) only two oars. The jolly-boat, which had three oars and a small sail, &c., was frequently oblig(illegible text) to be taken in tow.
The third day they were much benumbed w(illegible text) wet and extreme cold; and the ladies were th(illegible text) prevailed upon to take the stated allowance (illegible text) spirits, which they had before refused. It afforded them immediate relief.
The fourth day was stormy, foggy, and w(illegible text) heavy seas, and the spray of the sea freezing (illegible text) it flew over the boats. All felt a depression (illegible text) spirits. In the commencement of the storm, (illegible text) cutter having shipped a heavy sea, was obliged to cast off the jolly-boat’s tow-rope; when (illegible text) was lost in a fog, which occasioned much distress, and particularly as she had on board considerable part of their stores, the quadrant and spy-glass. The men began to be dejected but were roused to duty and to exertion. The ladies behaved with great heroism,, and afforded the best examples of patience and fortitude. (illegible text) joined in prayer, which tranquilized their minds and afforded them the best consolatory hopes (illegible text) bettering their condition.
The fifth day it rained, and was so cold, t(illegible text) those in the boat could scarcely move : th(illegible text)
