which gave their characteristics a touch of sublimity. We have
travelled far since those days of aboriginal stupidity and sordid
blood-sucking. The contrast between the comforts and conditions of life
at sea then and now cannot be imagined. We may only talk of it; we can
never truly estimate the change. I do not draw attention to the
comparison because I think the sailor has got any more than he is
entitled to. I refer to it in order that he may recognize a desire on
the part of modern shipowners and the Legislature to give him every
possible advantage consistent with the peculiarities of the trade in
which he is engaged. One of the most recent advantages suggested in
their report by the Mercantile Committee, who sat for, I think, about
twelve months taking evidence from shipowners, shipmasters, sailors,
and others, is that an amended food scale should be adopted, and that
the seaman should have the right of appeal against a bad "discharge"
that may be given him. In my opinion the great body of shipowners will
endorse that portion of their recommendations. It is to be desired that
the seamen will recognize in this a willingness on the part of their
employers to deal justly with them, for undoubtedly it was the evidence
given by shipowners that influenced the Committee.

CONTENTS.

CHAP. PAGE

I. THE WILD NORTH SEA 1

II. CAPTAIN PLUNKER 30

III. CAPTAIN MACGREGOR 67

IV. PIRACY IN THE ARCHIPELAGO 97

V. SAILORS' OPINIONS OF NOTABLE PUBLIC MEN 148

VI. MARY ROUTLEDGE 181

VII. FORECASTLE LIFE 206

VIII. GRUB 253

IX. MISCELLANEOUS 283

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

By THOMAS RUNCIMAN.

PAGE

FOUNDERING OF THE "SILVERSPRAY" _Frontispiece_

FINDING THE LEAK 40

CAPTAIN PLUNKER ASTONISHED 90

"THERE WERE MANY CALLERS" 140

HAVING A NIP