copper lamps, and formed reflectors much in the same way as the
gentleman before mentioned.
Everything about the ship was strong, kept beautifully clean, and in the
most admirable order. The crew consists of the captain and mate, with
twelve or fourteen men, a portion of whom are on shore off duty. The
life is very monotonous; and the only amusement they have is fishing,
with reading and a few games, such as draughts and chess. They had only
a small library of books, which did not appear very interesting. Papa
left them a few interesting tracts and other small books, and gave them
a short address, urging them to trust to Christ, and follow His example
in their lives. They listened attentively, and seemed very grateful.
They have a large roomy cabin, and an airy place to sleep in. The
captain has his cabin aft, besides which there is a large space used as
a lamp-room, where all the extra lamps and oil and other things
pertaining to them are kept. They seemed happy and contented; but when
a heavy gale is blowing they must be terribly tossed about. Of course
there is a risk--although such is not likely to occur--of the vessel
being driven from her moorings. In case this should happen, they have
small storm sails, and a rudder to steer the vessel. When this does
happen it is a serious matter, not only to those on board, but still
more so to any ships approaching the spot, and expecting to find
guidance from the light.
Standing on, we passed close to the Bembridge or Nab Light-vessel. This
vessel carries two bright fixed lights, one hoisted on each of her
masts, which can be seen at night ten miles off, and of course it can be
distinguished from the revolving Warner light. Farther off to the west,
at the end of a shoal extending off Selsea Bill, is another lightship,
called the Owers.
Having rounded Bembridge Ledge, we stood towards the white Culver
cliffs, forming the north side of Sandown Bay, with lofty downs rising
above Bembridge. Near their summits are lines of fortifications,
extending westward to where once stood Sandown Castle, near which there
is now a large town, although papa said he remembered when there was
only a small inn there, with a few cottages. On the very top of the
downs is a monument erected to Lord Yarborough, the king of yachtsmen,
who died some years ago on board his yacht, the Kestrel, in the
Mediterranean. He at one time had a large ship as his yacht, on board
which he maint
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