[Logbook of the yacht "France"] 1922-1928

JOURNAL

BIRD DEPT. LIBRARY 51S HL/S

1 cd vol l pce. co. lc gdc

2 Yacht "France" Dec 23 At Lelippa Id. Havana Harbour. Light variable breeze, fine weather Bar 30.00 7/Am. Dr Reich ashore for collecting. Crew variously employed and getting fine wood. 3/50 P.M. All on board again 5/50 P.M. Arose up and proceeded out under sail. 4/20 P.m Set course for the Foreland Efi Island. Fine weather and light easterly breeze during the night. Dec 24 Wind fell light about 4 Am and finally dropped altogether. 7/26 started Engine 10/55 Anchored, mile South of Barumba 5/15-5/55 Shifting up to Bozemba with engine. Anchored in 11 fms opposite Dr Reids house. Light variable airs, fine during night. Dec 25 Similar weather conditions to above Bar 30.02 Christmas Day, so no work or collecting store. Fine weather during the night Dec 26 Light variable airs, very hot, fine Bar 30.02 Sabbath day observed. Fine weather during the night Dec 27 Light variable airs, fine, Bar 30.02 Sent boat ashore at day light to give notice of our departure. 6/10 P.m Arose up & started off under sail 7/15 ... Started engine. 9/30 .. Arrived and anchored at Kingdow Bay in 5 fms. Dr Beck ashore collecting. Crew getting fresh water from the stream and various other wood on board. Given liberty during afternoon to wash clothes. Fine weather during the night. Vessel pumped dry daily as required 3 Yacht "France" Dec 28 5.40 Am. Arose up and proceeded out with engine, which failed soon after vessel was headed out, set all sail and continued with light Ely breeze. Wind freshened during fore noon and continued during afternoon 3 P.m-3/45 Arose to while Dr Beck went off with small boat to shoot. Wind fell light about 7 P.m and finally fell calm. 10/7m - 10/29 Used engine to Round Efi Pt. Wind light all night. Dec 29 Local N & E wind at 5 P.m, and stood N.E, tasked at 7 A.M. and steered for South Ambryn. Wind fell light again and started engine at 11 Am. 11/50 Pm. Anchored at (Kingdow Bay) Ramon Anchorage. Boat ashore with Dr Beck (and took in two loads of fresh water T.R.L) very heavy surf. Dec 30 Light variable wind, fine, Bar 30.08 Surf on beach going down. Dr Reich and Hicks ashore collecting. Crew employed painting ship. 5/30 P.m. All on board again and hoisted boat. Fine during the night. Dec 31 Similar weather conditions Bar 30.06 Dr Beck ashore taking photographs of natives. Hicks and Hill away for collecting. 5/0 Pm All on board again, hoisted boat. Fine weather during the night. Jan 1 Light variable winds & fine cloudy weather Bar 30.02 1927 New Years day, so no work carried out crew allowed shore liberty. Fine weather during the night. Jan 2 Similar weather continues Bar 30.08 Sabbath day observed. Fine weather during night. Vessel pumped dry daily as required

4 Yacht "France" 1927 4.45. Aore up & proceeded out from Jan. 3 Pannon. $2/57 - 5/6 AM. Used engine. Light E'by wind. 8/7 AM. Started engine, down sails 9/5 " Arrived and anchored at Trenchy Tit Penticost Island. Mr Beck & Hicks ashore collecting and crew getting fresh water from stream. Jan 4 Light variable wind, overcast, very hot, Bar. 29.98 Mr Beck & Hicks ashore collecting. Crew filling up all tanks and getting fire wood. 4 P.M. All on board again. 6 P.M. Very heavy thunderstorm & lightning, continuous heavy rain till 9 P.m. Ancho watch Kept. Jan 5 Light E'by wind, overcast - Bar. 29.96 6.30 AM. Aore up and started engine at 6.54 PM. 6.17 Hill, sailor, left the vessel before her departure to go to Mr Newman's plantation to work, his wages to date were transferred to George Profills to whom he owed money. 8.10 Anchored off the waterfall, 6% miles north of Trenchy in 5 fms. Mr Beck & Hicks ashore collecting. Barometer falling from noon on, 29.8 at 4 P.m. All on board at 5.30 P.M, hoisted boat & in evening and left all ready for getting away. 7 P.M. Thunder, lightning & heavy rain. 9.30". Bar. 29.94. Weather looking better, rain all night till dawn. Ancho watch Kept. Vessel pumpd dry daily as required 5 Yacht "France" Jan 6 Light variable air, Bar. 29.90 Mr Beck, Hicks and one man ashore collecting. Crew sending new fore stay sail and variously. 5.30 T.m. All on board again. Ancho watch Kept. Jan 7 Similar weather to yesterday Bar 29.94 Mr Beck, Hicks and one man ashore collecting. Crew variously employed 6.0 T.m. All on board again, hoisted boat Ancho watch Kept. Jan 8 5.10 AM Aore up and proceeded under sail towards Doba. Light variable air 6.3 T.m Down main sail and bore to awaiting daylight. Fine weather during the night. Jan 9 Stood in to the land at dawn, steering for Big Rock. Engine for 1 hr 20 m 8.50 AM Arrived and anchored Pine Bay. Party landed for collecting. Overcast and passing showers. Ancho watch Kept. Jan 10 Light S E wind, overcast and cloudy. Bar 29.90 Mr Beck and Hicks ashore collecting. 5 T.m All on board again, hoisted boat 5.16 T.m Aore up and got away under engine power till 5.34 T.m, then set all sail, Heavy rain at 10 T.m, so down mainsail and live to wind variable. Jan 11 Stood in at dawn and entered Sigord Channel at 7.30 AM. Engine started at 10.52 AM. 11.50 AM Arrived and anchored at the Doctor Crew washing and painting the cabin Continual rain showers Bar 29.93 (aug) Jan 12 Light variable wind, heavy showers. Bar 29.90 1/4th "Massina" arrived at 6 AM and by her came Mr Downs to join the France 3.45 - 4.15 P.M Shifting to Lourgarnille Ancho watch Kept. Bar. 29.82 at 4/1.m Vessel pumpd dry daily as required.

Yacht "France" Jan 13 Light h'ly breeze, heavy overcast sky, passing showers Bar .29.84 at 2 PM. Mr Beck and Mr Droune ashore after noon collecting. Heavy showers at times All on board by 6 T.M. /Bar.29.81 at 4 T.M. Boats hoisted and anchor watch kept. Jan 14 Light h'ly wind, clear sky Bar .29.85 5.10 A.M. Afloat up and proceeded out with engine. 5.25 " " Stopped engine and all sail set Bouys freshened later, passed Big Rock, Cuba, at 11.30 A.M. Started engine at ½ T.M and at 1.30 P.M Anchored at Red Cliff, Cuba in 5 fathoms, boat afloat with party collecting. Jan 15 to 21st Vessel remained at Red Cliff during this time, parties going out collecting daily, with the exception of Sunday. Heavy rain at times, vessel rolling and pitching to the ground swell. Crew employed painting cabin and various. Anchor watch kept. Jan 21 4.5 P.M. Afloat up and proceeded with engine. 4.16 " " All sail set, stopped engine. Wind variable during night, passing showers. Jan 22 Close in to the land at daylight, stood on of the coast to find an anchorage. 7.30 A.M. Used engine for 5 minutes to make Aurora Is. anchorage at Cascade in 14 fathoms. Mr Beck & Hicks ashore collecting. Jan 23 Light breeze (SE) fine weather Bar .30.05 Sabbath day observed Jan 24 Moderate SE wind, fine weather. Boat away at 6.30 A.M. with party collecting. Crew employed filling fresh water tanks. 6 P.M. All on board again, hoisted boat. Fine weather during the night Vessel pumped dry daily as required. Yacht "France" Jan 25 5.30 AM. Afloat up and proceeded under sail. 6.42 " " Started engine, wind light and variable. 8.45 " " Arrived and anchored in a bay 10 miles north of the cascade in 9 fathoms. Mr Beck & Hicks ashore collecting. Crew employed setting up jib stays. 6 P.M. All on board again. Jan 26 Wind SE light, fine weather Bar .29.98 Mr Beck & 3 of the crew ashore collecting. Remainder variously employed. All on board at 5 T.M. 6 P.M. Afloat up and proceeded under sail for the north end of the Island Jan 27 1/2 5 AM. Part of Aurora Is. ahead, stood to, etc. N & E Wind light, moderate SE swell, fine & clear from Position Lat 14° 43'S Long 168° 18'8" wind fell calm and continued during night. Jan 28 Similar weather conditions continue. Mr Beck away with small boat shooting sea birds from Position. Lat 14° 28'S Long 168° 22'8" Calm in afternoon, Mr Beck away shooting again. Jan 29 Light variable winds. Bar .29.92 Mr Beck away with small boat collecting from Position Lat 14° 30.5 S Long 168° 48.3 Wind came away from NW and freshened Jan 30 Squally with heavy rain early A.M. Afloat up at 1 P.M. Made sail again at daylight and sighted Mitre Is. on Port bow, thick rain afterwards. Beating to best advantage towards the Island during the day. Jan 31 Strong NW wind and rough sea. Beating towards Island under reduced sail. Vessel making much water, pumps kept going

Yacht "France" Feb 1 Moderate N.W gale and strong squalls with rain. Heavy sea, vessel plunging violently and shipping water. 8 AM The lab stay and boom guy carried away in a heavy squall. Hove ship to under fore stay sail and double reefed mainsail. Heading N.W. 6 P.M. Wore ship to S.S.W and continued all night. Vessel making a lot of water. Feb 2 Wind and sea moderating. All hands repairing head gear from daylight till 10 AM, when we proceeded with all sail, beating towards the Island. Feb 3 Moderate to light N.W wind and sea 7:45 AM started the engine and steered for Island. 12.15. Arrived and anchored at Dutro Id, in 12 fms water, Islands bearing N.W Boat away with Dr Rich collecting; 3.30 Boat returned, unable to land for the heavy surf. Hove up and got away under all sail, wind light and variable. Freshened up at 5 P.M. Feb 4 Thick rain and squally, reduced sail Wind N.W and sea increasing, beating towards the Island. Hove to at sun down. Feb 5 Made sail again at daylight and continued beating to best advantage. Hove to at sun down. Raining all day. Feb 6 Made sail at daylight, heavy rain and squally. Beating all day. The starboard after backstay of main rigging carried away just before noon in a squall. Hove vessel to and repaired what we could. Making water all the time and pumping. Yacht "France" Feb 7 Observed Cherry Id at 3.30 AM, to windward. Jacked ship at 8 AM and made all sail 10:30 started the engine. 11.52 Arrived and anchored at Cherry Id in 6 fms, highest part of Id bearing N.W. Heavy surf pounding on reef, impossible to land. The natives came off & the ship's swimming and brought yams etc in afternoon by the same method. Feb 8 Moderate N.N.W wind at daylight and sea more moderate. Sticks landed for collecting, swimming ashore from boat. Returned at 11 am 2:40 Hove up and proceeded under all sail towards Lucipia. Cloudy and squally. 5.0 PM Down mainsail and outer jib. Feb 9 set sail again at 4 AM and at 7 AM found by observation that vessel had been set 20 miles to the East during night. Beating all day towards the Island. Feb 10 Sky cleared at dawn and wind fell light. From Position 12°39'S 162°36'E Lighted the Island at 1 P.M bearing N.N.E Kept to windward of it all night. Fine weather during the night. Feb 11 Stood in for the Southend at daylight and at 9.40 AM anchored in 15 fms at Lucipia Island, south east side. Sounded with boat astern of vessel and found 25 fms, as gave 43 fms chain lately ashore collecting, returned at 6 P.M. Squally all night, anchor watch kept. Pump kept going almost continually.

10 Yacht "France" Feb 12 Look I W large and equally wild shown. Boat away with collecting party at 8 AM, remainder of crew employed repairing head gear and variously vessel shearing about and grunting at the cable, probably dragging it over the reef. 6 T.m. I have up and started off under sail, but had to leave to as the Island who were on board refused to swim ashore and as there was only one canoe our own boat had to make two trips to the shore. Engine was used a short time 9:50. Got away under all sail. Thunder lightning and heavy rain squall. Feb 13 Sky clearing at daylight Bar 29.95 Wind continually veering and backing. Confused sea with big t'ly swell. from Position 12° 34 S 7,68° C E Wind steady from NW, sea more regular. Tacked to the portward at 6 T.m Line during the night. Feb 14. Tacked to SW at 9 AM. Light W breeze, moderate sea. Line Bar 30.05 from Position 12-32 S 167-36 E. Line during the night. Feb 15 Lighted Vanikoro at daylight. Light variable winds and smooth seas. 1/17 1 M, started the engine 1/18 " Entered the reef, 1/19 " Arrived and anchored at Teou Bay. Feb 16 Fine weather during the night Bar. 30.05 Started getting the repairs done, Obtained wood from the timber Co also repairs to chain plates and pump Fine weather and light SE winds Pumping nearly all the time when at sea. Making trials a day in port 11 Yacht "France" Feb 17 Light breeze, fine weather Bar 30.07 Repairs to rigging, pump, and chain plates continues. Get water at same time when possible. Feb 18 Similar weather conditions. Working away as yesterday also getting fire wood and water. Feb 19 Light SE breeze, fine weather Bar. 30.08 Rigging now finished and being set up. Carpenter making a wood hose pump as a stand-by. Not finished till after dark. Feb 20 Light SE breeze and calm. Bar 30.10 At 11 AM, I went forward and ordered the crew to heave up anchor and get the vessel under way, they refused to obey and stated that they had been working all the week and also for the previous three Sundays and required a rest. He agreed to go to sea at daylight. Fine weather throughout the night. Feb 21 Have up at 6:30 AM and as the wind was light, started engine at 7 AM. Passed out of reef at 7.27 AM, stopped engine, winds light N'ly. Working towards Santa Cruz during the day, heavy rain showers in the night. Feb 22 Lighted Santa Cruz at daylight, wind light and variable with heavy showers throughout the day. Lashing to best advantage towards the Island. Sky clearing at sun-set and weather finer. Pumping a lot when vessel is pitching into head sea.

Yacht "France" Feb 23 Wind NW and variable, frequent heavy showers, standing in for South end of Santa Cruz. 3 P.m started the engine and at 3.25 P.M arrived and anchored in a bay East of Cape Byron in 13 fms Fine weather during the night. Feb 24 Wind from the Seward light. Bar 30.10 Boat ashore with party collecting at 6.30 A.M. Crew variously employed. 5.7 M. Boat returned, all on board. Very fine weather, wind E and variable Feb 25 Boat ashore at daylight for water and at 7.45 A.M. leave up and proceeded with engine till 8 A.M. 10.25 - 10.35 A.M. Engine used for cutting and anchoring at Byron Bay. Boat ashore on arrival with party for collecting All on board by 6 T.M. and hoisted boat Fine weather during the night. Feb 26 Light Variable wind and fine weather Boat away at 7 P.M. with party. 8 A.M. Bar 30.10 9-10 A.M. a very heavy rain shower. Crew employed painting and clearing up the hold etc. 5 P.M. All on board again and hoisted boats Feb 27 Heavy rain showers during the night. Sabbath day observed. Fine weather all day and during night Feb 28 Light variable wind, cloudy sky Party away collecting at 7 A.M. Very heavy rain storm from 9.30 A.M. to 1 T.M. Crew variously employed All on board by 5 T.M. Hoisted boats. Vessel pumped out daily as required Yacht "France" March 1 Fine weather During the night. Leave up at 6 A.M. Engine from 6.7 to 6.15 P.M. Light 'E'ly wind, standing over to Tinakula. Wind light and variable Rain showers from 4 T.M. on, beating to windward to best advantage. Current taking us away from Island. March 2 Wind light and variable during early morning, about 6 miles off at daylight 7.14 to 9.30 Engine used to take us in; boat ashore with Mr Buck & Dr Downes then stood off the land and in again as required Engine used for 4 mins throughout the day. Ticked up boat at 4.30 P.M. and stood off under fore sail & stay sail all night. Very heavy rain from 10 T.M March 3 Heavy rain all morning, island visible at times, made all sail at 10 A.M. and passed to the Seward of it at 1 T.M. Heavy showers, tacked ship to beat advantage. Wind fell light and calm from 8 T.M, current taking us fast to SE. Midnight Santa Cruz about 7 miles off. March 4 Reef Is in sight at dawn. Vessel about 16 miles from Tinakula Engine from 10.10 A.M - 12.45 P.M. Boat away with collecting party and vessel stood off under all sail. Tacking ship as required during afternoon. Ticked up boat at 5.32 P.M. 5.45 South end of Tinakula abeam. After dark we observed the

14 Yacht "France" March 4 while I W side of the island to (continued) be covered with red hot lava, running down the side of the mountain right to water level. This continued all night. Some slight explosions were heard when close to island. Volcanic ashes fell on deck. Wind light all night and vessel out making much headway owing to the current running to E.S.E. March 5 Wind light from the Eastward Bar. 30.01 From Tinakula bore N.E. & E 4/1 mile distant Similar weather conditions during afternoon and night. March 6 Light Early breeze, passing showers Bar. 29.97 From Position 10-38 S 164-35 Similar weather conditions to fore noon March 7 Light breeze and passing showers. From Position 10-41 S 163-42 E Wind variable and calm. March 8 Similar weather during the night. 9 AM. Observed the land on port bow. From Position Owa Raha (Santa Anna) S x W 21 miles 4.30 Started engine, heavy rain over land. 6.15 Approaching the reef, heavy rain squalls. 6.32 Arrived and anchored in Port Mary. Heavy rain during the night, anchor watch left. March 9 Boat ashore at 6.15 A.M. with party collecting Rain showers at times; 8 AM. Bar 29.95 After 8 AM very heavy continuous rain Crew employed scrubbing the deck. All on board by 5 T. M. March 10 Similar weather during the night Boat away at 6.30 with party, returned by 5.30 P.M. Crew variously employed Vessel pumped out when required 15 Yacht "France" March 11 continuous rain during the night Bar 29.95 8 A.M. Boat away with collecting party at 6.30 AM. Crew variously employed about the decks. Hicks returned at noon with fires. Charles also laid up. Dr Beck on board at 27. M. Passing showers during the night. March 12 Dull, cloudy weather Bar. 29.98 Boat away with Dr Beck at 6.30 P.M. Poster and Hicks went later. Rain during afternoon and evening. All on board by 3 T. M. March 13 Cloudy and passing showers Bar. 29.95 Sabbath day observed, all hands ashore for dinner at Dr Kupers. March 14 Moderate E.S.E. wind, fine clear Bar 30.00 Boat ashore with collecting party at 7 PM. Crew employed at various work and painting overside. Heavy showers at 3 T.M. All on board by 6 T. M. Fine weather during the night. March 15 Dull, overcast and passing showers. Crew variously employed. Boat with collecting party away at 10 A.M. All on board by 4 T.M. Rain showers during the night. March 16 5.20 AM. Crew turned to getting ready for departure. 6.15 Anchor aweigh & started engine, sails set but very little wind. Heavy rain while off Cape Survile. 8.34 Arrived anchored at Slor Harbour in 16 fms abeast of Island Bar 30.04 Boat ashore with collecting party at noon, returned at 6 T. M. Fine weather during the night, Vessel pumped out as often as required

16 Yacht "France" March 17 S.E.S E breeze, overcast and light rain Bad 8 AM 30.04 Mr Beck away with small boat at 7 AM. Crew employed mixing paint and getting ready for painting ship. Doctor & Hicks away on Anchor Id collecting all on board by 6 T.M. Fine calm weather. March 18 Balm & fine. Clear sky Bar 30.09 Small boat away with Mr Beck & Hicks at 6.30 AM. Crew employed painting ship & rigging. finished her all round by 3 T.M. All on board again at 5.30 Fine weather during night. March 19 Balm fine. Very hot weather Bar. 30.05 Mr Beck & Hicks away collecting Crew variously employed. The schooner "bendana" arrived from the north during the afternoon. All on board by 4 P.M. Fine & calm during night. March 20 Similar weather during the day. Sabbath day observed. March 21 The fine weather continues Bar 30.11 Both boats away at 6.30 AM with collecting party for fresh water. All on board by 6 T.M. Fine during the night. March 22 to April 2. The vessel remained at Star Harbour. Fine weather with light variable winds. Parties away daily collecting. Crew variously employed. April 3 Wind from North & N.W freshening and suddenly with rain. at 3 T.M. the S.S. "Palala" arrived and anchored close to us. Rain during the night. April 4 Northly wind and passing showers Mr Beck over to the steamer buying stores. Weather clearing up, wind goin to the Eastward. Vessel pumped out daily as required. 17 Yacht "France" April 5 8.30 AM Left Star Harbour with engine variable winds and passing showers, from stopped engine. 1/2 S.S. started up again, very heavy rain till 5 T.M. 6.20 T.M Arrived & anchored in Kanoni Bay at the R.C Mission in 14 fms. April 6 Variable winds fine cloudy weather. Party away collecting. Remainder of crew attempting to get fresh water off from the beach. April 7 Light variable winds & cloudy weather. 8/10 Hove up & proceeded with engine 2/1 stopped engine and dofted about till 3 T.M when the engine was started again & we made for Kira Kira at which place we arrived & anchored at 4.10 T.M. The Lily (?) the Government Official boarded and spent the evening & fine during the night. April 8 Light variable airs & fine weather Mr Beck & Hicks away collecting. Crew getting fresh water from the government House, a long way to carry it to the beach. 5.30 T.M All on board again A fine night. April 9 Similar weather continues. Mr Beck & Hicks away collecting. Crew variously employed. April 10 Fine weather & a light S.E breeze Sabbath day observed. April 11 6/27 AM Hove up & proceeded under sail with light S.E. breeze. Wind fell light soon after leaving so returned to anchor at 10/30 PM. Mr Beck & Hicks ashore collecting till 5 T.M Vessel pumped day as required.

18 Yacht "France" April 11 (continued) 7.50 P.M. Heave up & proceeded with S.E by breeze, variable & light making very little headway and by midnight becalmed Close to Ugi. April 12 Similar weather conditions during fore noon. 11/30 A.M. Started the engine and at 4/15 P.M. arrived anchored in Selwyn Bay, Ugi. Mr Beck & Hicks ashore collecting. April 13 Fine & calm during the night. Party ashore at 9 A.M. collecting. Crew variously employed 5 P.M. All on board again 5/45 S heave up & proceeded with engine, setting all sail. 6/10 P.M. Stopped engine. Wind light from S.S.E, smooth sea. April 14 4 A.M. the breeze finished. 8 A.M. Started the engine & stood over towards San Cristoval 9.35 A.M. arrived & anchored at a village 7 miles south of C. Reclus. Wind freshening from Eastward, cloudy sky 3.15 P.M. Heave up & proceeded under sail for Guadalcanal. Breeze continued throughout the evening but fell light and then calm by midnight. April 15 Calm and light airs continued till 8.40 A.M. 8.50 A.M. Started the engine. 12.10 P.M. arrived and anchored in Marau Sound at its Graham, 14 fathoms Party away collecting, returning at 6 P.M. Fine weather during the night, sticks run very strong Vessel pumped out daily as required 19 Yacht "France" April 16 Light variable winds & fine weather. 7 A.M. Mr Beck & Hicks landed for collecting. Crew employed sandpapering the bright work. 4 P.M. All on board again. April 17 Fine weather continues. Pabbatt day observed. April 18 Fine, clear weather Bar. 30.02 Mr Beck & Hicks away collecting. From the "Trendana" arrived from the South & left for Tulagi at 5 P.M. April 19 Similar weather continues Mr Beck & Hicks away collecting. Crew employed scrapping the poop & sewing off new halyards to fore sail. All on board by 6 P.M. April 20 Fine weather, light variable wind Bar. 30.00 Mr Beck away collecting alone. Crew variously employed. 3.20 P.M. Heave up & proceeded through the Sound under engine power. 4.12 P.M. Arrived & anchored under the high land of Malapa Id in 19 fathoms. April 21 Fine weather during the night. 7 A.M. Mr Beck & Hicks away collecting. Crew employed scrapping the decks. All on board again by 4/30 P.M. Getting vessel ready for sea. Sky clouding over & at 6 P.M heavy rain Started continuing till 9 P.M. April 22 Wind fresh from NW with overcast sky. 6/10 A.M. Heave up & proceeded down channel with engine. 6.50 Anchored at a bay south end of Beagle Id. 4.0 P.M. All on board again. 4/40 - 5/12 P.M. Shifting to anchorage 2 miles up channel Vessel pumped out daily as required, making water freely.

20 Yacht "France" At Marau Sound April 23 Fine weather during the night 7.15 A.M. Party landed for collecting: Bar 29, g 6 Dull & overcast, with moderate E.N.E. wind 3.15 P.M. All aboard again. Very strong tides running at this anchorage April 24 Fine, calm weather Sabbath day observed. Dr Beck taking photographs. April 25 Dull & overcast sky. Light N.W. breeze 6 A.M. Aweigh up & proceeded with engine out of Marau Sound and up along the coast close in shore. 8/45 A.M. Arrived anchored at Kau Kau in 12 fms opposite Lewis Bros House. Party landed for collecting. Crew sand papering the poop's ceiling some 6 1/2 P.M. All on board again. Some showers during the night. April 26 Light N.W. breeze & fine weather. 1 P.M. Party landed for collecting. Crew employed filling up the tank from the stream. 6 T.P.M. all on board again, fine weather. April 27 Similar weather conditions. Dr Beck & Hicks away collecting. Crew variously employed, cleaning ship. 6 T.P.M. All on board again. April 28 Light S.E. airs, fine weather. 9 A.M. Aweigh up and set all sail. 9/25 - 10/30 Engine used till breeze freshened; going along the Guadalcanar coast till 5 T.P.M., then set a course for Banango. 10/30 5 T.P.M. Started the engine Midnight Entering the harbour Vessel pumped out when required, making a lot of water daily. 21 Yacht "France" at Sulagi April 29 1/6 A.M. Arrived and anchored in Sulagi Harbour opposite the town in 25 fms. Regulation lights exhibited. 4 P.M. Dr Beck ashore to post office for ship's mail. 5 T.P.M. Dr Buck, myself & Doctor ashore to report arrival at Government Office. Crew variously employed throughout. April 30 Calm & light airs during the night. Doctor Dronne went to hospital this morning and Charles Phineas A.B. was sent during the afternoon for treatment for malaria. Light S.E. breeze & some rain during the day. May 1st Light variable airs in morning and fresh E by wing afternoon with a heavy rain shower. Daniel Pehi A.B. went to hospital for treatment similar to C. Phineas. May 2nd Light breeze and fine weather. Hired to get engineers to come off to overhaul the engine, all very busy. Carpenter at work on steering gear. Crew employed painting outside. May 3rd Fine weather. Carpenter came and finished the steering gear Crew variously employed. May 4th Fine weather. Mr Adams, the engineers came over to inspect the repairs started on some of them. Mr Pehi & C. Phineas discharged from hospital May 5th Similar weather continues Engineer at work on repairs. Crew assisting with the work. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

Yacht "France" May 6th to May 17 — The vessel remained at the same anchorage and took in stores and did various jobs. On Friday May 12th Taora was shipped as cook and on May 7th R. King was paid off and sailed in the schooner "Elise" for Dourois. May 12 At 7 A.M. to day, the cook, Taora, went away with The Deck, George & 2 of the crew to do a diving job. They were successful in fixing things to raise a sunken vessel. 11/53 Steamed up & proceeded to sea with engine. 12/35 Clear of the harbour and stopped engine, very little wind from N.E. Variable during afternoon and closing tide as usual no from 4 P.M. May 13 Fine weather during early morning. 7/13 A.M. Started the engine 10/42 P.M. Arrived & anchored off the Government station at Colo. Boat ashore at once with collecting party. All on board by 5 T.M. Heavy rain at 7 P.M. & continued at intervals during the night. May 14 Light breeze & overcast sky Bar 30.05 Party ashore collecting at 7.30 A.M. Boat for sail, cleaned spare & varnished some All on board by 4 T.M. Heavy wind during the night. May 15 Rain and overcast sky during fore noon Fine later Sabbath day observed Vessel pumped out daily as required. Yacht "France" May 16 Fine, clear weather, light S.E. breeze. Party landed for collecting at 7 A.M. Belt the old fore sail. All on board by 3.30 T.M. Fine during the night. May 17 Fine during fore noon. Light variable breeze. Party landed for collecting at 7 P.M. Crew getting fresh water during afternoon. Rain showers at times. All on board by 5 T.M. Fine during the night. May 18 Light Westerly breeze, fine. 5/35 A.M. Got under way with the engine and proceeded along the coast to the westward. 9/13 A.M. Came to T. off Berrande in flow Party landed immediately for collecting. Tides running strongly at the anchorage All on board by 5.17 P.M. Fine during the night. May 19 Light S.E. breeze till 8 A.M. Variable winds together with a hot & squally during afternoon. Crew employed getting fresh water from the house all the morning. Collectors returned at 4 T.M. Light S'ly during the night, passing showers. May 20 Light S.E. to S.E'ly, cloudy & dull Bar 30.01 The Deck handled for collecting at 7 P.M. Crew variously employed. All on board by 5.30 T.M. Waiting for land-buys to start. 7/15 T.M. Steamed up & proceeded out with light S'ly breeze, making very little headway, passing showers all night. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

24 Yacht "France" May 21 Light variable wind, overcast and passing showers. Vessel drifting with the tide about 3 miles off Barunga Isl. at 5 P.M. Started the engine at 6 A.M. after much trouble in getting it going. 2/55 A.M. Arrived and anchored in Tulagi harbour. Sent mail away by "Motaram". Squally with rain during the night. Vessel dragged her anchor about 30 yards. May 22 Light breeze fine clear weather. Sabbath day observed. May 23 Calm and light airs Bar 30.04. Got all ready for departure at 5.30 A.M., but the engine was not ready and later it refused to start, sailing abandoned and Mr Beck landed for collecting, Hicks fixing the engine. Mr Beck returned at 2/45 T.m., have up at 5 proceeded at 2/55 under engine power through the channel sound Garauta Isl. 4/55 T.m. Arrived anchored in Port Turris calm and light rain showers. May 24 Calm and fine clear weather Bar 30.00 6.30 A.M. Party landed for collecting. Crew employed painting the boat and putting off new main ballysides. All on board by 5 P.M. Fine during the night. May 25 Calm and light variable airs Mr Beck landed for collecting Crew variously employed. All on board by 6 T.M. Fine during the night Vessel pumped out during the day as required 25 Yacht "France" May 26 Anchored in Port Turris, similar to yesterday. May 27 Calm and variable airs. 8 A.M. Bar 30.01 6.17 A.M. Afloat away, but had to wait till the engine would start before lifting the T, the proceeded down channel 7/35 Arrived off Gavutu Isl and stopped, Mr Beck landed to visit the stores. 8/6 got away, but soon had trouble with the engine, which finally stopped. Set all sails and got asternage way on her to clear between the reefs. Engine started again after 1/2 hour. 9/35 Arrived and anchored in Tulagi. Took in 100 gals of fresh water. Hicks trying to fix the engine. Very heavy rain all night. May 28 Light breeze, overcast and passing showers 5/30 Afloat short and waited till 6/35 for the engine to get fixed and started, then proceeded out, setting sail as soon as possible. Mr Beck stopped the engine without reference to me, while in the channel between Sylvia & Southern boso Reefs. The vessel had only the head sails on her at the time and the fore-sail was being set. We passed through steering by the wind. Set course for Guadalcanar and breeze freshened. 12/35 Arrived and anchored at Domna. Party landed for collecting. Fresh Easterly wind and moderately rough sea. Set go the star T at 3 P.M as the vessel had dragged a little 5 P.M. All on board again; wind and sea going down. Fine during the night Vessel pumped out daily as required, making a lot of water while at anchor with the bad sea

Yacht "France" May 29 Light S.E. breeze and smooth sea during the fore-noon Bar 30.50 I shiver up later and had a rough sea till about 6 P.M. Light breeze, smooth and fine during night May 30 Calm and light variable airs. Bar 30.14 Party landed for collecting at 6.30 P.M. Slacked away to 6 fms of cable in Port I.Crew employed chipping the cable and cleaning out the lockets. All on board by 6 P.M. Swell from the S.E started at 8 P.M. and continued all night. Vessel rolling heavily and had to keep pumping as she makes a lot of water. May 31 Light S.E. wind and fine, the swell continues and vessel rolling. Party landed for collecting at 6.30 A.M. Indiger A.B. laid up with fever, remained of crew sailing down meat which we obtain from the plantation here. Swell had gone down by noon. All on board by 6 P.M. Fine during the night. June 1st Light E.ly breeze and smooth sea Bar 30.04 Party landed for collecting at 8 A.M. Indiger still laid up, remainder of crew employed chipping the cables. A hard squall from the N.E with driving rain at 3 P.M. Vessel started to drag, so let go Star I. All on board by 5.30 P.M. Weather had cleared up and continued so during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required, making a lot of water even in fine weather and smooth sea. Yacht "France" June 2nd Light E'ly breeze & smooth sea. Bar 30.01 Found at daylight that we had a round turn in cable, set to work to clear same. Mr Rich landed for collecting. Indiger A.B. still laid up with fever. Started to heave away at noon, the engine having refused to start after much trying, got away at 12/30 under sail. Passed very close to Donna Reef, Breeze freshened up and sea becoming rough. Steering for north end of Savo. 4/50 Arrived and anchored on the West side of the Island in 4½ fms water. Very strong tides running at the anchorage, fine during the night. June 3 Light E'ly breeze & fine, clear weather Bar 29.98 Party landed for collecting & photographing at 7 A.M. in small boat. Big boat on deck for repairs. Breeze freshened up about 3 P.M., gave her 15 fms more chain. Squally and heavy rain showers till 10 P.M. fine later. Bar 30.00 June 4 Light variable breeze, dull & overcast Party landed for collecting at 7 A.M. Squally and rain showers from noon. 3/5 P.M. Heave up and got away under sail wind variable and light. Tacking to best advantage during the night, tides against us when in harbor. June 5 Light variable winds and calm. Smooth sea, fine & very hot. Vessel drifting with the tide. Similar conditions during the night. Vessel pumped out daily while in port. Frequently at sea. Making much water.

28 Yacht "France" June . 6 . 1927. June 6 Light breeze, dull and overcast Bar 30.10 At day light the vessel close to the land. 7 A.M. Started the engine and made for South end of Longangra Island, having passed this we steered to pass inshore of Sylwia Reef. At 7.35 A.M. the vessel struck the reef extending from the S E end of Tulagi Island and stopped. Kept the engine running but no more. Found than we were stuck fast, dep water from main mast forward, June 9 Boat over and hedge put out and line hove tight. Started to shift all the stores from aft to as far forward as possible. At 8/15 we moved off easily and love up the ledge. 8/43 Unchored off Tulagi Island in 19 fms with 4/5 fms chain. After anchoring the crew and myself examined the ships bottom by diving and it was found that about 2 ft of the copper plating on the keel, in a position abaft the mainmast, had been torn off. As far as could be ascertained this was the only dammage done. We entered the harbour in the way stated in order to save distance if possible because the engine was running on two cylinders. During the afternoon Mr Adams, the engineer examined the engine and Hicks started take it down for overhaul. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

{ "text": "30\nYacht \"France\"\nJune 13 Light E SE breeze, fine clear weather Bar 30.10\nInch Beck boats crew went over to\nTavautu in the fore noon.\nFilled up the fresh water tank from\ncaptain's wharf in the afternoon.\nLine during the night.\nJune 14 Calm and light air Bar 30.09\n7PM Thirteen Boys from Makambo\ncame off and started to scrub the\nvessels bottom.\n10/30 Finished the scrubbing, made a\nfairly good job of it.\nCrew started to paint the top sides\nmoderate C'y breeze & showery in the\nafternoon.\nA total eclipse of the moon occurred\nfrom about 6AM to 8/15.\nLine during the night\nJune 15 The s.s. \"Mataram\" arrived during early AM.\nbalm and fine clear weather Bar 30.08\nFrom this date to July 7 the vessel lay\nat Tulagi getting the engine overhauled.\nThe crew were variously employed at\njobs about the decks.\nJuly 7 1/35 PM. Heave up and proceeded out, but the\nengine soon gave trouble and so returned\nto anchor at 7/0 AM.\n9/30 - 10/30 Tried the engine again\n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

Yacht "France" July 12 Light variable winds in Bay, fresh SE winds outside Bar 30.00 Collecting party landed at 7 A.M. Crew employed repairing mainsail & getting fresh water from stream All on board by 6 T.M. Heavy rain showers during afternoon. Fine weather & light airs all night. July 13 Similar weather conditions to yesterday morning Party landed at 7 A.M. Bar 30.02 Crew employed severing off new lanyards in fore rigging & got a load of fresh water All on board by 5/30 T.M. Fine during the night July 14 Light variable airs, dull overcast Bar. 30.05 5/10 A.M. Hoise up & proceeded under engine power towards cape Hunter 7/25. Arrived & anchored off Boneggi river in bay to N.W. of Hunter Rd, in 12 fms. Party landed for collecting, Dr Browne staying on board. Crew employed on rigging. All on board again by 6 T.M. Fine during the night July 15 Light variable winds in bay, overcast & cloudy Party landed for collecting at 7 A.M. Crew employed cutting up the old mainsail All on board by 6 T.M. Fine weather during night. July 16 Similar weather conditions to yesterday morning. Dr Browne & Straeger landed for collecting at 7 A.M. Mr Beck getting gear ready for camping out next week. Crew variously employed All on board by 8 T.M. Fine during the night Vessel pumped out daily as required Yacht "France" July 17 Light breeze and fine clear weather Sabbath day observed July 18 Light variable winds, cloudy, but fine At 7 A.M. Party landed to go inland and camp. Mr Beck, Hicks & David are to stay ashore, 3 of the crew went with them to carry the gear. Dr Browne away collecting, returned at 3 T.M. The men did not get back till after dark. Fine weather all the time. July 19 Similar weather continues Dr Browne away after sea birds with the small boat. Wind freshened up after noon & cloudy sky. Passing showers Fine during the night July 20 Light breeze & fine weather A heavy swell setting into the bay from the S.W. Dr Browne away collecting till 4 T.M. Look the small boat on deck & painted her. July 21 Similar weather to yesterday. Heavy swell & big break on beach. Tried to get boat ashore for fine wood, but no good. Dr Browne away collecting in morning. July 22 Light variable wind & fine. 6 A.M. Mrs Beck & Straeger left to go up the mountains & meet party, remainder of crew clearing up hold. Two men (natives) arrived from the mountains at 4 T.M., for more stores for the campers Mrs Beck & Straeger failed to return, some believe they must be staying at camp. Vessel pumped out daily as required

Yacht "Irance" July 23 Light breeze, dull overcast. Dr Droune away collecting sea birds Rain started about 8 A.M. I continued till 1 P.M. Crew got a load of fire wood in afternoon. 4 T.M. Hicks came on board with birds from the camp; Lazarus returned later. Mr Rich, David staying in mountains for week end July 24 Light breeze fine, clear weather Labbeth Day observed. July 25. Similar weather conditions as above. Bar 30.08 Dr Droune away collecting at 7 A.M. Crew getting fresh water from pond; Doctor said it was not fit for drinking when he came on board, although the tank had barely's crystals put in it. Will use the after tanks for drinking. July 26 Light breeze fine weather. Crew employed cleaning out the port after water tank & towards filling it from the starboard one. Lazarus went away collecting in afternoon All on board by 5 T.M. July 27 Light breeze fine, clear weather. Dr Droune ashore collecting at 7 A.M. Crew employed setting up the main rigging removing old new tanyards where required. All on board by 3 30 P.M. July 28 Light h'g breeze, fine, cloudy Lazarus went ashore collecting, returned 2 T.M. 4 T.M. Mr & Mrs Rich, Hicks & David returned from the mountains. 6 55 A.M. Cove up & proceeded out with engine. 7 T. Stipped engine and set all sail, light land breeze Vessel pumped out daily as required. Yacht "Irance" Proceeding towards Russel group. July 29 Light breeze and calm at times during the night and morning, vessel making very little headway. 8 A.M. Mr Rich away with small boat collecting sea birds till noon. Breeze freshened up in afternoon 4 30 T.M. Lock in mainsail & outer jib at 9 T.M. have to under fore sail & staysail. July 30 Wind variable in early morning, heavy rain showers from S.W. Made all sail at daylight and stood in for the land. Started engine at 6 37 A.M. I at 8 I arrive at Koie Id & Lore to, put boat out & Mr Rich & Dr Droune went ashore collecting Picked up boat at 9 47 with hunter proceeded under engine to Kionie Id and landed party again at 1 20 A.M. Kept vessel standing off shore. All aboard at noon & proceeded with engine towards Banika. Stopped engine at 1 T.M. & with fresh breeze, sailed. Anchored at 3 38 T.M. at a plantation, but love up again almost immediately as the I'age was too close in. Went over to a small unnamed Id & found I'age in 15 fms, rock bottom 6 30 T.M. Vessel dragged off, love up worked back to Island with engine and at 7 45 T.M. anchored again in same place, also put kedge ashore close to reef. Vessel lying fairly well; this is a poor place to anchor. Strict anchor watch kept. Vessel pumped out daily as required

36 Yacht "France" July 31 Light S.E. breeze & fine weather Vessel lying quietly hanging to the ledge line most of the time. cable grinding in the hawse pipe when the swell lifts her; put a preventer on it to ease the windlass. Sabbath day observed Aug 1 Similar weather to yesterday in early morning, breeze freshened up about 10 A.M. from S.E. Mr Beck, Doctor & Hicks ashore collecting & sent off some fresh meat. crew getting fire wood All aboard by 5 P.M. Wind shifted round to N.E. with heavy rain about 10 P.M. & continued from that quarter all night. Vessel swinging round & lay close to reef, hanging to the J. Aug 2 Light breeze, dull overcast. 5/30 AM. Let go the ledge line & lifted 'th anchor. Started to heave up the Star bower J with all hands. Very heavy heaving with all that chain out. Using engine as required to keep out from the reef. 6/30 T awash & full ahead setting sail as soon as we passed the sand bay. 7/45 Stopped the engine & proceeded along the coast with fair wind. 1/50 P.M. Arrived & anchored in Fletcher Bay. Tavarua Island in 16 fms. collectors landed at once. crew cleaning out fresh water tank & filling from shot. A squall at 9 P.M. sent us close to the reef while swinging round. Vessel pumped out 2t times when required 37 Yacht "France" Aug 3 calm, light airs fine Bar 30.10 collectors ashore at 6.30 A.M. brew filling the fresh water tank, Hove up & shifted the vessel out into deeper water at 11 A.M. Heavy rain at mid day, fine later. All on board by 5.30 P.M. Fine during the night. Aug 4 calm, fine weather Bar 30.05 S.A.M. Mr Beck, Doctor, Hicks & David away collecting. brew employed washing paint work. All on board by 5 P.M. Fine during the night. Aug 5 Similar weather to yesterday. Mr Beck ashore collecting by himself in fore noon, Doctor & Hicks in afternoon. brew employed at various jobs about decks. Aug 6 Light E'ly breeze fine. Doctor & Hicks away collecting. brew sculled vessel round outside. All on board by 5 P.M. Aug 7 calm & fine clear weather Bar 30.05 Sabbath day observed. Heavy rain started at 8 P.M and continued all night, Aug 8 Overcast and continuous rain brew filled up all the fresh water tanks Party landed for collecting in afternoon, rain cleared off about 1 P.M. All on board by 5/30 P.M. Fine during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required

Yacht "France" Aug 9 calm, fine clear weather Bar. 30.04 5/50 A.M. Hove up & proceeded out under engine power. 6/55 Stopped engine & set all sail, moderate S.E. breeze, heavy swell. 12/50 P.M. Arrived off Murray Isl., here its and sent boat away with Mr two Beck & Doctor Drown. Very deep water all round Island, no possible anchorage. 4/50 P.M. All on board again and stood away to the northward. Variable winds and rain squalls during the night. Current running to south, vessel making very little headway. Aug 10 Variable winds and rain squalls. A strong squall from N.E. carried away the leech of the mainsail. Could down & repaired same. As the wind continued light and variable, the engine was used at intervals when vessel would not lay her course; steering for Russell's. 3/45 P.M. Arrived at Hooper Bay and anchored in 20 fms. Total time that Engine was used 5 hrs 15 mins Mr Beck went away collecting till 5/30 P.M. Fine weather during the night. Aug 11 Calm, fine clear weather Bar 30.02 7/40 A.M. Mr Beck & Doctor went ashore collecting for 2 hrs. 9/50 Hove up & proceeded out under engine power. 1/50 set all sail, stopped engine light S.E. breeze, vessel making about 1-2 knots Weather conditions continued during night Aug 12 Breeze freshened up a little before daylight. Steering for south end of Goatel Id. 3/25 Started the engine 5/50 Arrived & anchored in Vularuff (Foussand Ships Bay) in 15 fms. Fine during the night. Vessel hunted out daily as required. Yacht "France" Aug 13 Light S.E. breeze at daylight- freshened up later and continued during day. Mr Beck, Doctor & Hicks away collecting till 4 P.M. Fine evening. Heavy rain at 7 P.m and kept on till 8 P.M. Wind variable. Aug 14 Dull overcast with passing showers Wind variable. Sabbath day observed. Aug 15 1/0 A.M. Started to get vessel ready for sea. 4/30 ... I away & proceeded under engine setting sail as soon as possible 2/15 Stopped engine, wind light & variable 1/0 P.M. set S.E. breeze, steering for C. Prieto. 2/25 P.M. started the engine 2/45 .." Arrived anchored in Turnibula in 8 fms. Strong squalls, heavy rain at times. Vessel laying close to reef in her she swings. Aug 16 Dull, overcast & squally. Bar 30.01. 9 A.M. cleared and wind fell light after 5 A.M. Collectors away at 6/30 P.m. Crew variously employed. All on board by 6 P.m. Fine during the night. Aug 17 Light S.E. breeze, dull & cloudy. 5/40 A.M. Hove up & proceeded under engine towards the engine Lagoon. 6/50 Stopped engine Wind continued light till 12 AM, then moderate S.E. breeze all day till 5 P.m. when a heavy rain squall finished the steady wind. At 5/30 P.M. Down mainsail & jibs and bare to for the night, as we could not make the reef entrance before dark. Vessel drifting to the S.E. with the current. Wind light and variable all night with passing showers Vessel pumped out daily as required.

Yacht "France" Aug 18 Similar weather conditions to last night. 10.45 A.M. Started the engine 3/4 o P.M. Arrived anchored in Trange Lagoon in 18 fms. Collectors landed at once Returned 6.20 P.M. Fine weather & light breeze during night. Aug 19 Light S E breeze at daylight, fine lined up at 8 A.M. continued all day. Collectors away at 6.30 A.M. returned at 6 T.M. George went across to the Island to shoot a beast for salting down. Fine during the night. Aug 20 Moderate E S E breeze at dawn. Bar 30.00 8 AM. Party ashore collecting at 7 A.M. Breeze freshened up at 8 A.M. I kept up all day. All on board by 5/30 P.M. from 10 P.M on, heavy rain & squalls from SE continuing all night. Aug 21 Dull & overcast with light showers. Sabbath day observed. Fine during the night. Aug 22 Dull & overcast. Light E S E breeze 7 A.M. Party left the ship to go camping in the hills. Shortly afterwards it started to rain heavily and continued till noon. The trip to hills was abandoned till the weather clears All on board by 5 P.M. Fine during night. Aug 23 Calm & light airs. Fine clear Bar 30.01 Party left for the hill camp at 6/30 A.M. Only one man & myself remain on board. Jnr Beck & two boys returned at 5/30 P.M. Fine during the night Vessel pumped out daily as required, she makes a lot of water when in a head swell or sea

42 Yacht "France" Aug 31st calm & light variable air till 9 F.M. Moderate E S E wind later. Mr Beck, Hicks & 3 of crew went away with big boat off the coast to collect & also shoot a heart for fresh meat. Doctor Downe collecting along river with small boat. All returned to ship by 6 T.M. Fine weather till midnight. Sept 1 Squally & heavy rain showers from midnight & continued all day. Crew got a boat load of fire wood in afternoon. Sky clearing at sunset but still showery. Sept 2 Light S E breeze fine weather Bay 30.11. 7/40 Stove up & proceeded down channel under engine power. 8/25 Set all sail & stopped engine, passed out of Maringe Lagoon by Main Passage. Beating to best advantage to Eastward till day. 8/30 T.M. A # fresh squall with rain, carried away throat halyards & fore sail, repaired same & set again. Wind fell light & calm, vessel not steering, current setting N.W. Sept 3. Similar weather & conditions to last night. 12/25 P.M. Started engine & set course for Ramos Island. 6/25 Arrived & anchored at Ramos in 6 fms. Moderate E S E wind during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required; making water fast when in a head swell, even when at anchor. 43 Yacht "France" Sept 4 Moderate E S E breeze & considerable confused swell, making vessel roll & pitch. 8/1 A.M. Stove up anchor & shifted ship inshore to a more sheltered position. Local breeze from noon and swell increased, vessel rolling heavily at times. Dr Downe collected in fore-noon. Similar weather conditions continued all night. Sept 5 Fresh E S E to S E wind, vessel rolling. Party landed for collecting at 7 P.M. Crew employed repairing sails. All on board at 4/30 T.M. 5/10 T.M. Stove up & set all sail, steering for the coast of Yapal. Fresh breeze all night. midnight Maringe Lagoon abeam 1/2 miles Sept 6 Breeze continues up to 8/30 A.M. when it fell light and variable, current setting us off shore. 11/30 A.M. Breeze started again from Eastward, ship making about 3 knots. 4/23 Off Gigunabena Islands, started the engine & steered for entrance. 5/40 Arrived & anchored in 4 fms in Rehata Bay, at Suavana. Sept 7 Light S E breeze, dull & cloudy Collecting party landed at 6.30 T.M. Crew filling up the tank from shore. All returned to ship by 6 T.M. Heavy showers in afternoon. Fine during the night. Vessel pumped out as per required.

4 44 Yacht "France" Sept 8 Light breeze & fine weather. Collectors landed on the various Islands in the Bay, using both boats all on board by 5.12 P.M. From 8 T.M till midnight a t lot of lightning & thunder with heavy rain & squally from SE. Sept 9 Variable winds & squally, heavy showers 3/25 A.M. Hove up & proceeded under engine power to an Island about 4 miles down the Bay, anchored 7/10 P.M. collected at three places. 1/5 P.M. Hove up & went on down the Rekata Bay, stopping at Sand Bay to get sea birds Anchored at the most out lying Islands of Bay at 3/23 T.M. Heavy rain & squalls. Collectors away till 3/20 T.M. Weather cleared up at 8 T.M. remained fine during the night. Sept 10 Moderate SE wind & cloudy weather Bar 30.00 collectors landed at 7 A.M. to work at various Islands with both boats. Heavy rain squalls from 10 A.M., continuing all day, All on board by 4 P.M. Passing showers during the night. Sept 11 Light SE breeze in morning, freshened up later, some showers, cloudy sky Sabbath day observed. Sept 12 Variable wind, squally & heavy rain 7/57 A.M. Hove up & proceeded out under engine power 8/30 A.M. set all sail, started engine & set course for both end of Yasabel, continuous rain & moderate E & N winds. 8/52 T.M. started the engine & steered for Vessel pumped out when required (continued) 45 Yacht "France" (continued) Sept 12 Kologilio Passage. 4/20 P.M. Unchored at Bate Id in 15 fms. fine during the night. Sept 13 Moderate SE Breeze, fine or clear. Collectors landed on Bate Id for two hours. 9/0 Hove up & proceeded under engine power through the passage towards Malakebe Id, strong tide rips, reefs not shown as per chart. 10/5 Anchored in 15 fms behind a reef. collectors landed & worked two Islands All on board by 6 T.M fine during the night. Sept 14 Light E SE breeze & fine weather. Hove short at daylight & waited for sunrise to see the reefs. 6/15 A.M. started off with engine & passed out of Kologilio Channel at 6/57, set all sail & stopped engine. Breeze light & vessel making little headway. 9/40 started the engine again & at 10/55 A.M. avived & anchored at Unavon Is (eastern) in 11 fms. collectors landed at once & crew away to get a load of fire wood. All on board by 5/30 P.M. fine during night. Sept 15 Moderate SE breeze & passing showers. sd Bch away to the Islands collecting. In the afternoon In Bch & all crew went to an Island for maloue eggs. 4/5 P.M Hove up & proceeded out under engine power 4/25 P.M. set all sail stopped engine. Light breeze steering for both of New Georgia. Wind fell light after 9 T.M. Sept 16 Weather conditions remain the same, propellor making about 2 1/2 knots. Passed Longdale Is, New Georgia at noon. Wind came ahead in afternoon. Beating across the gulf all night. S.S. Mataram passed at 2 A.M. signalled. Vessel pumped out when required.

46 Yacht "France" Sept 17 Light winds all fore noon. 9/25 A.M. Started the engine & steered for Blackett Strait. 10/30 to 11/6 stopped for Mr Beck to go after sea birds with the small boat. Noon Taced through Blackett Strait, breeze freshened up & keeping engine running, steered for south entrance of reefs. 9/30 P.M. Arrived & anchored in Gigo Slo " "Motaram" came in. Fresh breeze from SE all night. Sept 18 Moderate bresge fine weather. "Motaram" sailed at noon. Showery afternoon. Sabbath day observed. Sept 19 Similar weather to yesterday morning crew employed cleaning paint work inside & but. Line all day & night. Sept 20 Light to moderate SE wind, fine clear. Crew employed painting outside. Line during the night. Sept 21 Light breeze fine, clear weather 6/30 P.M. The mail steamer arrived & sailed at 9 A.M. 9/30 P.M. Hove up & proceeded out under engine, set all sail when through Reef entrance, but kept engine running as the wind was light. Steering for Kulambangra Id. 5/35 T.M. Arrived & anchored in Ariel Cove Line during the night. Sept 22 Light variable airs and calm, some showers. Collectors landed at 6/30 A.M. and took two of the crew to cut a track. Remainder of crew making new jib sheets. All on board by 5 T.M. Line during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required. 47 Yacht "France" 8 A.M. Sept 23 Light airs calm. Line, clear weather Bar 30.01 Mr Beck, Hicks & two crew landed at 9 A.M. to go to the hills. Dr Drowne collecting along the coast. Remainder of crew finishing jib sheets & sewing off new boltfoils, All on board by 5.30 P.M. Line during the night. Sept 24 Light airs calm till 8 A.M. Line clear. Moderate S'ly to S W wind later & cloudy sky Dr Drowne & Hicks went to the hills collecting brew filling the fresh water tank from stream. collectors returned at 3/30 P.M. Line during the night. 9 A.M. Sept 25 Light to moderate Southerly breeze. Line Bar 30.03 Sabbath day observed Sept 26 Light airs and calm. Line, but cloudy over hills. at 8 A.M. Mr Beck & Hicks left the vessel to go camping in the mountains, taking two of the crew to carry their food etc. Dr Drowne away collecting. The two boys Drctor returned at 4/30 P.M. Line during the night. Sept 27 Light S'ly breeze, fine clear. Dr Drowne away collecting along the coast. Crew variously employed. All on board by 4 P.M. Line during night. Sept 28 Light airs calm. Line clear in fore noon. Doctor went away at 4/30 A.M. to the mountains collecting At 9/30 A.M. Hicks returned from the camp for more stores and left again with one of the crew to carry & shift camp in the high land. Very heavy rain started at noon and continued with intervals during the rest of the day Doctor returned at 4 T.M. Passing light showers in the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

48 Yacht "France" Sept 29 Light variable airs, dull cloudy. Dr Drowne landed & collected along the head of the harbour. Crew employed on rigging and oiling the masts. At 3 P.M. the wind set in from the SW with heavy rain squalls; it continued so till 8 T.m., after then the wind fell light and torrential rain fell till midnight. Passing showers till dawn. Sept 30 Balm & light airs, dull overcast. Bar 30.06 Dr Drowne away collecting along the cost. Passing showers. Similar weather during the night. Oct 1 Light variable & SW breeze Bar 29.74 Doctor collected live to ship in the morning. Mr Beck returned from the mountains at noon. Heavy showers all day. Oct 2 balm, cloudy but fine in morning fall both day fetched. SW breeze & passing showers in afternoon. Oct 3 Balm & light airs. Fine clear Bar 29.74 At 8/30 A.M. Doctor Drowne, Frazer and Manuel left the vessel to go camping in the mountains. 1 T.m. Hove up and proceeded out of harbour under engine power; set all sail but did not stop engine as the wind was light from SW. Steering to enter the reef at latitude 3d. 2/55 P.M. Arrived and anchored in Gizo harbour in 11 fms water. Squally from SE with light rain. Passing showers all night. Vessel pumped out daily when required. 49 Yacht "France" Oct 4 cloudy, with passing showers. Sticks away collecting on Gizoset Mr Beck ashore to Buena, Philly for stores. Crew attending boat etc. Heavy rain in the early part of the night. Oct 5 balm, fine clear weather. At 6 A.M. the schooner "Babiana" was towed alongside to get her masts stepped, using our mast head tackle. Sticks away collecting as yesterday Returned at 5 T.M. Crew scrubbed the decks with sand in the morning. Oct 6 Balm fine clear Bar 30.05 8 A.M. Started oiling the decks as soon as the sun was on them. Sticks away collecting as before The S.d. "Kornihara" arrived yesterday afternoon from the South, but no one was on board to join the Expedition. Oct 7 Balm fine clear. Sticks away collecting, returned at 6 T.M. Mr Beck ashore to B.T.Cook in stores & 25 cts of Benzine. Fine during the night. Oct 8 Moderate SE breeze at 9 A.M. at 1/5 S.T.m Hove up & proceeded out with engine running, setting sail as soon as possible Stepped engine for an hour outside reef, but started again as wind fell light. 3/32 T.M. Arrived & anchored in Ariel Cove. Doctor Drowne & the two men had just returned from the mountain, all very wet & tired. Fine during the night. Vessel pumped out daily when required.

50 Yacht "France" Oct 9 Light variable winds all day. Fine. Sabbath day observed. Oct 10 Light airs, fine clear in morning. 7 AM Mr Beck, Hicks & David left the vessel to camp in the hills, two of crew carrying stores. 11 AM to 4 P.M. Heavy rain showers. 5 P.M. Sky clearing, but passing showers all night. Oct 11 Light breeze fine clear Bar 30.03 8 AM. At 2:50 AM the big boat containing George, Manuel & Charlie left the vessel to go over to Gizo. They had sufficient provisions, water & a compass. Heavy rain started at noon and continued throughout the remainder of the day. At 3 P.M. the schooner "Olva" arrived from Gizo with our boat in tow. By her came Mr Hamlin W. Richards to join the expedition. The "Olva" remained alongside all night. Oct 12 Calm, cloudy & dull. "Olva" cast off & left for Gizo at 7 AM. The collectors landed at 8 AM. Crew filled the fresh water tank. All on board by 5 P.M. Oct 13 Balm, fine clear. Bar. 30.06 8 AM. Doctor Browne and Richards & Hamlin went ashore collecting at 8 AM. Rain in the afternoon. Fine during night. Oct 14 Calm, fine clear Bar 30.10 8 AM. The collectors landed at 7.30 AM. Mr Beck, Hicks & David returned from the mountains at 11 AM. All on board by 3.30 P.M. Mr Beck away alone in small boat till dark, vessel pumped out daily as required. 51 Yacht "France" Oct 15 Light N.W. breeze, fine clear. 12 Noon Beek away at 6 PM to shoot around the bay. At 9:30 AM she returned and we have up and went outside the harbour and lay to waiting for sea birds. Used the engine when she saw a flock, tried to get up to them but had no chance till 4 PM. Mr Beck away alone with small boat. At 5:30 P.M. he returned and we started the engine, steered for Nukulangira, 6:30 P.M. Arrived and anchored in Sandfly Harbour in 14 fms. Oct 16 Calm fine clear. Sabbath day observed. Oct 17 Calm fine clear. Bar. 30.08 8 AM. 5:30 AM Mr Beck away to river in small boat. Other collectors landed at 7:45 AM. Crew getting fresh water from stream. 11 AM Have up & went outside into Yella Gulf to hunt for sea birds. Cruising throughout the afternoon, but could not get close to the flocks. At 5:23 P.M. the engine was started and course set for the South end of Yella Lavella. We found at 6:50 PM that it was too dark to see the reefs at entrance of harbour, so stopped engine & stood off on undyed sail all night. Light winds, fine clear all night. Oct 18 Calm and light airs. Fine weather 6:50 AM Started the engine and at 8:30 "..." arrived & anchored in Vaitasoli harbour in 11 fms. All collectors landed at once and returned at 6 T.M. The crew were away to get fresh meat. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

52 Yacht "France" Oct 19 Calm, fine & clear. Bar. 30.17 8 A.M. Mr Beck landed alone at 7 A.M. Crew salting the meat which they brought back yesterday. 9/15 A.M. Heave up anchor & proceeded out under engine power, steering a course towards Ronongo Id. 12/15 P.M. Arrived and anchored at Kumboketa in 7 fms water. collectors landed at once. All on board by 6 P.M. Fine during night. Oct 20 Calm, cloudy & light showers. collectors landed at 7 A.M. and crew got a load of fresh water from a stream close by the ship. All on board by 5/30 P.M. Heavy rain during the night. Oct 21 Calm & light airs. Fine & clear. collectors landed at 7 A.M. Mr Beck did not land to day as he was very sick yesterday and all night. Mr Hamlin did not get back till 8 P.M., having lost his way in the woods after sun set. Oct 22 Calm & light airs. Fine & clear collectors except Mr Beck who is still sick, landed at 7 A.M. Crew variously employed. All on board by 6 P.M. Some heavy showers during the afternoon, fine night. Oct 23 Calm & light variable airs. Fine & clear. A light B.S breeze during afternoon, Sabbath day observed. Fine night. Vessel pumped out daily as required. 53 Yacht "France" Oct 24 Calm, fine & clear. collectors landed at 7 A.M. Crew employed scrapping the jib boom. Got some firewood. All on board by 5/30 P.M. Some showers in afternoon. Fine night. Oct 25 Calm, light airs, fine & clear collectors landed at 7 A.M. Heavy rain showers over the land from 9 A.M. till sun set. The government launch arrived during afternoon & left again at 3 P.M. The collectors returned at 6 P.M., with the exception of Mr Hamlin who lost the track and did not get on board till 8/30 P.M. Oct 26 Light variable breeze, overcast and showers. 6 P.M. Heave up & proceeded along the coast under engine power, steering for Hararo Island. 10/55 A.M. Arrived and anchored in Hararo harbour in 14 fms. collectors landed at once & returned 6 P.M. Squally with light showers till midnight. Oct 27 Fresh squalls and heavy rain from S.E. in early morning. Bar. 30.04 8 A.M. collectors landed at 7 A.M and returned at 6 P.M. Fine during the night. Oct 28 Overcast and heavy rain till noon collectors landed at 1 P.M. Crew getting firewood. All on board by 6 P.M. Light showers during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

54 Yacht "France" Oct 29 Light SE breeze; cloudy sky. 6.40 A.M. Arose up and proceeded out under engine, set sail when outside, but was not just keeping full on her course. 17.45 Hauled down sails. 12.47 Arrived and anchored in Gizu harbour. 9.30 T.M. The "Inataram" arrived. Oct 30 Light breeze and fine weather. Boats engaged in going to and from the steamer with mails etc. The "Inataram" left at 5.30 for Laiji. A very heavy squall struck us at 8 T.M., carried away the mawning and vessel dragged her anchor. Let go the star I and she bought up close inshore in 8 fms. Oct 31 Light breeze and fine weather. Arose up the anchors and shifted de vessel out to her original place. crew variously employed about the decks. Heavy rain in the afternoon and squally after sunset. Nov 1st Overcast and cloudy sky. The "Inataram" arrived at daylight and sailed again at 11 A.M. Heavy rain showers in afternoon and night. Nov 2nd Light SE breeze Fine weather. All hands employed getting stores on board. Fine during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required. 55 Yacht "France" Nov 3 Light airs and calm. Fine weather 11/15 A.M. Arose up & proceeded out, set all sail at 11/30 stopped the engine. Variable winds and passing showers. The Taulson came along side in his launch in the afternoon and borrowed a tin of Petrol. 3.33 T.M. Started up the engine and steered for Dononga Id. 6.20 T.M. Arrived and anchored at Kumbokota on the northside of Fijaru Id. in 16 fms. Bottom very uneven, 21 fms aft. Nov 4 calm and fine all night. 7/5 A.M. Arose up and proceeded out under engine power. Steering along the coast of Navavo. 8.50 A.M. Set all sail and stopped the engine. 11/17 A.M. Started the engine again and at 11/25 A.M. Arrived and anchored at Baga Id. close to Rinekin Id. 16 fms. Collectors landed at once. All on board by 6 T.M. Squally and very heavy rain till midnight. Nov 5 Calm and light airs. Fine & clear. Collectors landed at 7.30 A.M. crew variously employed about the decks. All returned to the ship by 5.15 M. Fine during the night. Nov 6 Light S E breeze, fine & clear. Sabbath day observed. Fine during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

56 Yacht “France” Nov 7 Light E’ly breeze fine cloudy Bar 29.98 8 A.M. Collectors landed at 7.15 A.M. returned at 11.30 from Store up and proceeded under engine power towards Villa Lavelle Isd. 12/45 Arrived and anchored at Nyanga in 12 fms. Mr Beck and boat landed at once. All on board by 6.7 P.M. Fine during the night. Nov 8 Dull, overcast and light rain Bar. 29.95 2 P.M. Collectors landed in afternoon. All on board by 6.7 P.M. Nov 9 Light variable air, cloudy but fine. Mr Richards Hicks left in the small boat to go up the river and camp. Mr Beck, Doctor & David collecting local district, returned at 6.7 P.M., except David who got lost and got on board at 8 P.M. Fine during the night. Mr Hamlin laid up with a sore foot, Nov 10 Similar weather conditions to yesterday. Doctor landed for collecting at 7 A.M. Mr Beck & Hamlin on board. brew employed repairing sails All on board by 6.7 P.M. Nov 11 Light airs and calm. Overcast or cloudy sky. Mr Beck & Doctor landed at 6.30 A.M. brew employed repairing sails & awnings. All on board by 6.7 P.M. Mr Hamlin still laid up with sore foot. Nov 12 Light airs, dull or cloudy but fine Bar 29.99 8 A.M. Mr Beck landed for collecting at 6.30 A.M. Doctor skinning birds from yesterday. Very heavy rain started at 9 A.M. and continued without intermission till 5 P.M. Mr Beck returned at 1 P.M. Fine night. Vessel pumped out daily as required. 57 Yacht “France” Nov 13 Calm and light airs in early A.M. Light S’ly winds and fine weather all day. Sabbath day observed. Nov 14 Light to moderate S’ly winds and fine, clear weather. Collectors landed for a few hours at head of bay. 12/10 P.M. Store up and proceeded out under engine power, passed through the passage between Tuvuville Id and main land. Strong tides here and much reef which is not shown on chart. Steering a course along the coast, which is much different from chart. 3/45 P.M. Arrived at Mundu Mundu and anchored in 15 fms. Mr B landed. Fine and calm during the night. Nov 15 Calm, fine clear in morning, showers in afternoon. Collectors landed at 7 A.M. crew employed repairing awnings and various jobs. All on board by 6.7 P.M. Fine night. Nov 16 Dull and overcast. Variable breeze. Doctor, Hamlin and Hicks landed for collecting at 7 A.M. Mr Beck & Richards remained on board skinning birds. Heavy rain started at 10 A.M. and increased to deluge in afternoon. The plantation near the anchorage became flooded and also the river ran so strong that the current at the ship was more than three knots, much debris coming out on the harbour. gave vessel 15 fms more chain. Collectors returned at 5.7 P.M., all very wet. Intermittent showers during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

58 Yacht "France" Nov 17 Light variable airs and calm. Fine. 9/30 A.M. Crew getting ready for departure 6/18 """" Heave up T and proceeded out under engine power. At 7/25 A.M. a light breeze off the land, set all sail and stopped the engine. 9/0 Started engine again and steered for Worumburi Bay, we went in and cruised round but could not find less than 20 fms to anchor in, so headed out again and at 9/55 stopped the engine and with all sail set steered for Choiseul Island, wind light & variable. Very hot all afternoon and vessel making very little headway. A light Easterly breeze all night. Nov 18 Calm and light airs, smooth sea. 6/30 A.M. Started the engine and ran till 10/40 "" when we stopped and Mr Rich went away in small boat after sea birds. 11/4 A.M. Mr B returned and started engine again, steering for both ends of Choiseul. 13 1/2 P.M. Anchored and anchored at Noli Island, Choiseul, in 9 fms. Collectors landed at once and returned at 6 P.M. Fine during the night. Nov 19 Calm and variable airs in fore noon. Collectors landed at 6.30 A.M. The weather & moderate S'ly breeze in afternoon and moderate sea and swell coming in over reef, All on board by 4 P.M. Fine during night, vessel rolling. Nov 20 Dull and cloudy weather, light var breeze The swell has increased since yesterday Vessel rolling heavily at times 1 P.M. Heave up and shifted into more (cont) Vessel pumped out daily as required. 59 Yacht "France" (continued) Nov 20 sheltered position behind Noli Island. Anchored in 8 fms and vessel lying quietly. Heavy showers from midnight Nov 21 Dull, overcast and passing heavy showers. Bar 8 A.M. 29.95 Collectors landed at 6.30 a.m., with exception of Richards, who has a sore leg. All on board by 6 P.M. Showers during the night. Nov 22 Moderate S E breeze, cloudy sky. Collectors landed at 7 A.M. Richards & Hicks remained on board. Got the small boat on deck for caulking and painting All on board by 6 P.M. Fine all night. Nov 23 Light breeze and calms. Fine & clear. Collectors landed at 4 P.M. Richards & Hicks on board. Crew variously employed. All on board by 6 P.M. Showers at night. Nov 24 Moderate W'ly breeze all fore noon, falling light in afternoon. "Thanksgiving day" so no collecting done. Crew given the day off. A fresh S E breeze with very heavy rain and much lightning from 8 P.M to 10. Nov 25 Calm and light airs. 7.30 A.M. Heave up T and proceeded along the coast under engine power, keeping close in. 9.50 A.M. Arrived and anchored in Choiseul Bay in 11 fms. Collectors, except Richards, landed at once. All returned on board by 6 P.M. Fine night. Nov 26 Moderate S W wind, fine clear Collectors landed in his boat to go to head of river. All returned by 6 P.M. Fine during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

60 Yacht "Lance" Nov 27. Moderate SW breeze, fine clear. Sabbath day observed. Nov 28 SW breeze all day. Fine cloudy afternoon. Collectors landed at 6.30 A.M. Two went up the river - two in from plantation. Richards remains on board, legs not better yet. Filled up the fresh water tank from case tanks with crew all day job. Collectors returned 5:30 P.M. Fine night. Nov 29 Moderate SW breeze fine clear. 8/12 M. Heave up anchor and proceeded down Bay to Kidman Isd and anchored again for till 11 A.M. Collectors ashore on Island Reef. On their return, heave up & proceeded out under engine power. Strong tide rips in Bourganville Straits, breeze moderate to fresh from SW. 4/15 stuffed engine. 5/15 to 5/25 P.M. Using engine intermittently, trying to make the Cima Atoll to get anchorage for the night. Engine giving too much trouble to be sure of entering the reef, so abandoned the attempt and put out into the Straits and lay off and on under sail all night. Tides and tide rips very strong, making position keeping a difficulty. Some showers. Nov 30 by Cyprus Bridge Island bearing West 5 miles at daylight, steered for it, with SS W breeze. Stuck the engine when close in and found we could run it for a short time. The circulating pump is out of order. 11 A.M. Arrived and anchored in passage between Fauro Isd and Fauro Isd (both Bay) in 5 fathoms. The tides run very strongly. Collectors landed at noon except Richards & Hicks who are overhauling the pump. All on board by 6 P.M. Fine during the night. Vessel pumped out daily as required. 61 Yacht "Lance" Dec 1 Moderate S'ly breeze, fine clear. Collectors landed at 6.30 A.M. except Richards, who variously employed about decks. All on board by 6 P.M. Fine night. Dec 2 Moderate SW breeze, fine cloudy. 8/15 Heave up & and proceeded through passage under engine power, and round Earth Cape. 10/25 A.M. Unmolested anchored in Sinacora Bay in 24 fathoms water. Collectors landed at noon. All on board by 6 P.M. Dec 3 Light S'ly & SW breeze fine clear. Collectors landed at 6.30 A.M. Painted the big boat inside and out. All on board by 5.30 P.M. Dec 4 Light variable breeze in fore noon. S W 'ly in afternoon, fine clear We all went ashore and dined with Mr Dinnock. Sabbath day observed. Dec 5 calm ride and clear weather. 8/15. Heave up & and proceeded out under engine power. 8/25 stuffed the engine and set all sail. 8 A.M. Found that the current was taking us to the northward so started the engine again and with wind from the S S E, steered for Irom or Treasury Isd. Wind steady all the afternoon and at sunset we were close in to the Island at Taluho Pt, 7.46 P.M. Too dark to go any closer in to the harbour, so in 15 fathoms between Stirling & Iroms Is. Fine night. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

Yacht "France" Dec 6 Light SE breeze, fine clear Bar 30.05 Mr Beck landed at 4/2 A.M. after collecting later. Painted the big boat 2nd coat. All on board by 6 P.M. Fine night. Dec 7 Light to moderate ESE wind, fine clear. Collectors landed at 7 A.M. Mr Beck remains on board. Got fresh water from river. Collectors returned at 4 P.M. 4/25 P.M. Hove up & proceeded through passage between Islands under engine power. Set all sail and stopped engine at 9/25 P.M. A light Eastly breeze, vessel making about 2 knots. Dec 8 Similar weather conditions continue all night and at day light found the vessel had been set to the Westward. Steering for the Shortland group all morning at 1 P.M. we arrived and anchored at a small unnamed island and sand- cay which lies West 11 miles of Malakuma Pt, Shortland Islands, in 17 fms water. Mr Beck & Richards landed at once. All on board by 6 P.M. A fine night. Dec 9 Light S'ly breeze, fine clear. Hove up & at 5/25 A.M. proceeded under engine power towards two small unnamed islands about 4 miles to the Eastward. (This group we name the Whitney Islands, see bird tables). Arrived and anchored at 9/25 A.M. in 18 fms. Mr Beck & Richards landed at once, crew attending with big boat. 1 P.M. Hove up & proceeded to an outlying island of the Shortland group, at which we arrived & anchored at 3 P.M. in 15 fms. Mr Beck & Richards landed at once & returned at 6 P.M. Vessel pumped out daily as required. Yacht "France" Dec 10 Light S'W breeze, fine clear. Collectors landed at the various islands at 6.30 A.M. All on board for dinner and away again in afternoon till sun set. A fine night. Dec 11 Light S'W breeze, fine but cloudy. 4/25 Hove up & proceeded under engine power along the coast of Shortland Island. Set all sail to help, wind only light all morning. 12/35 P.M. Arrived and anchored in Taissi harbour in 17 fms. Mr Tataram came in at 4 P.M. with the mails. A fine night. Dec 12 Light variable wind, dull and overcast, Showers during fore noon, but fine later. Both ships boats attending at port office and mail steamer all day. She sailed at 6 P.M. Dec 13 Calm and fine weather. Mr Richards & Hamlin landed for collecting at 7 A.M. Doctor skimming and painting birds. Mr Beck at 13:30 P.M. store entering cargo from Sydney. Collectors returned at 5 P.M. Dec 14 Calm, fine and clear. Doctor, Richards & Hamlin landed for collecting at 7 A.M. Mr Beck at store. Painted the vessel round outside. Collectors returned at 3/20 P.M. The Government Officer visited the ship in the afternoon. Dec 15 Calm, dull overcast sky. Bar 30.02 8 A.M. Doctor, Hamlin, Richards & Hicks landed at 7 A.M. Mr Beck away with small boat collecting. All on board by 6 P.M. Vessel pumped out daily as required.

64 Yacht "France" Dec 16 calm and fine clear weather. Dr Browne, Richards & Hamlin landed at head of the harbour, a bad place so the hunters reported on return. Filled up with fresh water in the afternoon, also stores from Sydney. All on board by sun down. A fine night. Dec 17 Overcast and still, light showers. Father Schenk boarded as passenger. 8/40 A.M. Home up & proceeded out under engine power, steering a course towards the south end of Bougainville. Heavy rain showers and variable wind. Keeping close in along the coast. At 6/55 P.M. we decided to anchor for the night as we were passing inside the Reefs, so stood in to the shore and let go in 17 fms. A heavy swell sets in to the shore. A fine night. Dec 18 Home up & at 6/30 P.M. and proceeded along the coast with engine. Fine clear weather, but no wind to sail. At 12/20 P.M. we arrived and anchored at Kieta opposite the Government wharf. The doctor boarded at once and cleared the vessel, delivered the mails. A very heavy rain shower in the afternoon. Light rain at night. Dec 19 calm, fine and clear in fore noon, heavy rain showers in afternoon with a sharp squall from over the land. George I started making a new awning. Collectors awaiting a permit to carry fire arms from Rabaul. A fine night. Vessel pumped out daily as required. 65 Yacht "France" Dec 20 calm and light variable airs, fine. collectors still waiting permit. On this day, after a conference of all the party and myself, it was decided to proceeded to Rabaul - to have the vessel put on the slip and get her caulked and repaired. Showers in late afternoon & lightning. Dec 21 calm, fine and clear in fore noon. George employed on awning. The Government District Officer visited the ship in the afternoon. No permit arrived yet, so no collecting. A light shower in afternoon. Dec 22 Dull, overcast and threatening rain. At 9 A.M. showers started and increased later to a heavy down pour which continued, with intervals during the remainder of the day. The permit arrived in the afternoon and Mr Beck and the rest of party went ashore to see the D.C. about landing a party to go inland. Dec 23 calm, fine and clear in morning. Showers in afternoon. collectors ashore getting stores etc for their stay in Bougainville. Inbuilt the mainmast. George making new awning. Fine during the night. Dec 24 calm, fine & clear all day. A light shower in late afternoon. The "Marsina" arrived at 6.30 P.M. and sailed again for Sydney with the mail at 11.50 P.M. Some heavy showers during the night. Vessel pumped out when required.

66 "Yacht "France" Dec 25 Christmas Day. Calm and light variable airs in afternoon. In work this day. The Port Doctor visited the ship in afternoon, inspected the crew and granted health bill also brought the sailing permit which he alloted to crew, 3 white, which include myself. A fine night. Dec 26 Get ready for departure at daylight. Mr. Eason, a planter from Orova came on board and we leave up at 9/25 AM and proceeded out under engine power and at 11/25 AM anchored in Orova Bay in 14 fms. Dr. Moore, Hamlin & Richards then landed with all their stores and also Mr Eason, they are going camping and collecting in the mountains. 2/30 PM Leave up anchor and proceeded through the reefs under engine and sail power. Very heavy rain at times and visibility poor. At 7.45 P.M. we were off Cape St George, distant about 3 miles, the engine was stuffed and, with light breeze, we steered along the coast to the N.W. Breeze fell away at times and vessel not steering. Dec 27 Breeze picked up after mid-night and some heavy showers. At 5 AM. The "Marwana" passed to port, bound SE; we signalled our name. Wind fell light at 9 AM. and so started the engine at 9/35 and steer for the north end of Bougainville. Wind came away from NW and freshened up, stuffed engine at 11/6 PM. Beating to windward to best advantage. In outer jib reefed mainsail at 5 P.M. (continued) vessel pumped out when required 67 "Yacht "France" Dec 27 (continued) A sharp squall at 10 P.M. carried away the inner jib, the fore sail was also split while trying to reef it. Rushed her along under mainsail & head sails Dec 28 till daylight, we bent the best fore sail and set it, also the mainsail (full). Beating to best advantage towards the north end of Buka. A rough sea, making vessel roll & pitch. Making a lot of water and pump kept going almost all the time. The north end of Buka was abeam at 4 P.M. Wind NW fresh and dry squalls. In outer jib and reefed fore sail and mainsail at midnight. Dec 29 Wind and sea remain as last night. Beating to windward in a rough and humpy sea. Starboard fore topsail basketoy carried away in a squall. Repaired as best we could. Wind continued strong all night. Dec 30 Dull, overcast and equally. Beating to windward against a rough sea and fresh NW wind. The S.S. "Marwana" passed at noon, while we were off the north coast of Buka. Wind falling light in afternoon, so shook out reefs and continued lock lock. Dec 31 Calm and variable light airs all morning. Vessel not steering. Noon Position by observation Lat 3°58'S / 154°46'E We found that a strong current had been setting us to the N.E. Light breeze started at noon, steering to north. Vessel pumped out as required, she is making a lot of water.

68 1928 Yacht "France" Jan 1st cloudy and passing showers, with moderate breeze in fore-noon. Increasing to fresh breeze and squally in afternoon. from Position Lat 3°51'S, long 154°27'E. wind very variable and strong squalls in night, necessitating frequent shortening of sail. Beating to SW all the time. Jan 2 Dull, overcast and rain, wind variable in direction and force. from Position 3°17'S, 154°47'E, a strong NNE current had set us to this position. Sighted the Uganis (Goodman Is) at 1 P.M. and also Table Isl later. Beating to the SW against variable winds and heavy rain showers. Jan 3 Similar weather conditions continue. In Beck away in small boat shooting sea birds all morning. from Position 3°38'S, 154°43'E, the island (Goodman) in sight all day. Light SW breeze but no rain to day. Jan 4 Balm and light variable Southerly to SW by airs, fine and clear. In Beck away with small boat shooting birds. from Position 3°11'S, 154°59'E Jan 5 In Beck away again in late afternoon. Weather conditions remain as yesterday. from Position 3°4'S, 155°18'E In Beck away after sea birds during the day. Jan 6 Balm and light airs, a light northerly breeze started in the fore-noon. from Position Lat 3°18'S, long 154°55'E Goodman Isl of the Uganis group was a beam as 6 P.M. / 20m distant: the light northerly continued all night. Vessel pumped out daily as required. 69 Yacht "France" Jan 7 Light, but steady, northerly breeze. a moderate NE swell makes the vessel roll a lot. Steering south for New Id. from Position 3°56½, 154°51'E Jan 8 Wind freshened up at midnight and by 2 P.M. was blowing strong, reefed mainsail and outer jib. At daylight Buka Isl lat SE and bearing to the northward. Wind falling light. Started the engine at 8 A.M. and ran it till 12/30 P.M. Steering for the south of New Ireland. Breeze fell away again, so started the engine at Jan 9 2/30 A.M. and steered for Cape St George. at daylight at 6 A.M. Breeze started again at sunrise from SW and rapidly increased to gale force. close reefed fore sail and main sail and stood to the SW. Vessel plunging and labouring in a rough cross sea. Making a lot of water in this weather. At noon we were 20 miles south of C. St George. Shook out the reefs at noon, weather looking much better, but had to take them in again at 4 P.M. Steering in towards the coast of New Britain the wind easing up after 6 P.M. Jan 10 1 A.M. tacked ship to northward. The wind increased again at sunrise and ship driving into head sea. C. St George in sight, weather low at dawn, so we are making little headway. At noon the cape was to windward of us, which gave us fairly smooth water, the wind falling light all afternoon and finally ceased. Started the engine at 5/30 P.M. and steered for Lanisso Bay and anchored at 7 P.M. in Lavina Bay in 14 fms. A fine night, some strong puffs over the land. Vessel pumped out daily, or hourly as required

70 Yacht "France" Jan 11 A fine clear morning, the breeze coming over the hills shows a N.W wind on the other side of the Island. At 9 AM Mr Beck took the big boat and the crew to the other side of the bay. Got some fire wood and fresh water during the day. Fresh N.W wind and strong puff over the land. All on board by 5 P.M. A fine night. Jan 12 Fine, cloudy weather. Wind N.W early morning, but shifted to S.E and south during the forenoon. Mr Beck away to the other side of the bay with big boat in forenoon and again in afternoon, returned at 5 P.M., when we have up and proceeded out in a heavy rain squall from over the land. Set all sail at 8 P.M. and start engine. Wind very variable all night, both in direction and force. Vessel being carried to the S.E with the current. Jan 13 Similar weather conditions to above, started the engine at 6 A.M. and steered for the land. Kept close in along the shore and round the bays to avoid the current. At 4/5 P.M we arrived and anchored in Port Lulphus, a Cove in Damasco Bay, in 23 fms. Mr Beck landed for collecting. Very heavy rain at our dawn, but fine later. Jan 14 7 A.M. Have up & proceeded along the coast close in for 15 miles, then steered across St Georges Channel for C. Hapel, with all sail set. Engine gave trouble when nearing the tide and we were forced to anchor close in shore. A very bad T'age, strong tide rips Vessel pumped out daily as required 71 Yacht "France" Jan 15 Have up at 6 A.M. and with engine running fairly well, proceeded towards Planchette Bay. Rain while entering. 10 AM arrived and anchored in Harbour, off the Pier in 7 fms. Continuous rain all day. No one from shore came near the vessel all day. Quarantine flag flying all day. Drizzling rain all night, no wind. Jan 16 Rain cleared off after sunrise. Put all the sails up to dry. 9:30 A.M. Doctor & Customs Officer, boarded and after inspection granted pratique. At 2 P.M we unbent all sail and put them below. Afterwards gave the crew half day off. Regulation lights exhibited at sunset to sunrise. Jan 17 A fine cloudy morning, light breeze Wind from N.W and fresh in afternoon. Mr Beck & myself went to dock yard in morning and inspected a slip-way on the far side of the bay in afternoon. Manuel Peki A.B. went to hospital in evening to have his ankle attended to. Jan 18 Calm and fine weather. Went to dock yard again to try to make arrangements to haul vessel afloat. Landed big boat at the yard in afternoon to have her repaired. Fine during the night. Jan 19 Calm and fine in early morning, N.W breeze later. Crew variously employed. George making new awning. Judge A.B. back up. Waiting for appointment to engage slip for lifting the vessel. Pump sent ashore on Jan 18 to be repaired.

Yacht "France" Jan 20 calm & light variable air . fine weather . crew employed getting some of the iron deck fittings off , to send ashore for repairs on deckwork . George finishing the wining . Amazed A.B. did not return on board after going ashore last night . Sim Manuel returned from hospital to be treated on board . Jan 21 calm & light air . fine clear weather . Longer returned to vessel during the night . Various jobs being done about the deck by crew . no further information as to the slipping of the vessel for repairs . The crew were all granted liberty for the week end , except Manuel who remained on board . Jan 22 calm & fine & clear . Very hot . Light var air in Sabbath day observed . afternoon . Jan 23 calm , fine & clear in morning . S.S. "Promina" arrived at daylight from Sydney . Crew variously employed , George working on the sails . No arrangements made this day for hauling up the vessel . Fine during the night . Jan 24 calm , fine & clear in early morning . moderate N.W. breeze in afternoon . but the owners of the ship on the far side of the harbour this morning ; they will not allow their ship to be used for the "France" as they consider her to be too heavy . This afternoon , after an interview with Mr. C.J. Handly , a cable was sent to Samasi , Paphua , to find if accommodation would be available by February 4th . The pump is on shore for repairs . Yacht "France" Jan 25 calm fine & clear in early morning . N.W. breeze in afternoon . Charles Simas A.B. did not work all day and so forfeits one days pay . We received orders to shift the ship to an site 200 yards away from our present position as the harbour master considers we are in the fairway to the main wharf . A stern riding light was exhibited all night . Jan 26 calm , fine & clear in early morning moderate N.W. breeze later . 6/53-11/57 shifted the vessel with the aid of P.S.'s launched to the position as stated yesterday . This morning it was decided to pay off and send to their port of engagement , certain members of the crew who requested that it should be done . Their names will be entered in this log book at the time of their leaving the ship . Jan 27 similar weather conditions continue Various jobs done about the decks done by the crew to day . Some repair work came back from engine shop . Fine night . Jan 28 calm , fine & clear in morning and afternoon . Bent the jobs and mousail to day . At 9 P.M. on this day I was removed to hospital and underwent an operation for a fracture . I came out and returned on board on February 6th at 11 A.M. During this time the vessel remained at her anchorage in charge of Mr. Dick . Various work was done by the crew . vessel pumped out when required .

Yacht "France" Feb 7 calm, light airs, fine & clear in morning, passing showers in afternoon 9 AM. Took all the crew over to see Doctor and obtain clearance. Philip Telizattus, age 20 years, was engaged this day as a member of the crew, under the following conditions; he is to receive £3 per month or joining and will continue on that rate while Sticks remains as Engineer. On his taking over from Sticks he will be increased to £8 per month, with an additional rise when he can prepare bird skins satisfactorily. Should he leave the vessel at any port by his own request he will have to pay his passage money from his wages. 5/30 P.M. The customs boarding officer came and cleared the ship. Mrs Beck left at this port today. 5/40 PM. Arose up and proceeded out under engine power, setting all sails when outside. 9/1 PM Cape Gazelle calm, stopped engine and with light land breeze steered a mid-channel course between New Britain and New Ireland. Feb 8 Light N.W. breeze in early morning, falling light later. 4/30 AM started the engine 6/25 PM Arose and anchored in a small bay about 3 miles north of Cape Archway. Big boat ashore for fresh water & wood. 9/45 PM Arose up, proceeded 6/20 PM stopped engine Steering to pass about 2 miles off Cape Oxford (New Britain) Vessel pumped out when required. Yacht "France" Feb 9 Wind fell light in early morning. Started the engine at 4/30 AM. Position Latitude S. 3°28' Long 152° 9½' Breeze came away from N.W. light at 5/45 PM, so stopped the engine Feb 10 calm at sunrise, so started the engine at 6/30 AM and ran till 11/45 when it started to give trouble and Sticks repairing it. from Position Latitude 6° 53' S. Long 151° 41½' 5/07 PM The engine fixed and running again 6/30 Wind came ahead, so stopped engine Light variable wind to midnight. Feb 11 Moderate N.W. breeze from midnight to 4 AM. Variable and rain showers at sunrise, started the engine at 6/10 AM. The breeze now became more steady, from N.W., so started the engine at 9 AM. Vessel making about 3½ knots. from Position 7° 43½' S, 151° 40 E. Breeze fell light and variable again at 3/30 PM, so started the engine again and ran it till 7/45 PM. N.¼W to N.W. by light breeze till midnight. Feb 12 Breeze freshened up after 9 to midnight and some strong squalls from N.W. with lightning and rain. Had to drop the mainsail in the heaviest of them. 4 AM Chased Governor Ed (Marshall Bennett Group) on the port bow. 5/30-6/15 PM Ran the engine so that we could pass to windward of the Island. Fresh N.W. wind all day, with one interval of variable breeze for half an hour. Sighted Normanby Isd at sunset. Wind fell light at midnight giving just steerage way. Vessel pumped out when required.

76 Yacht "France" Feb 13 Started the engine at daylight and set a course for Hull Isl. Engine giving trouble now & then. Moderate N.W. breeze all day. 6/13 P.M. Anchored at Carry Isl in Lortuecue Strait in 15 fms, thick rain. Squally from midnight. Feb 14 At 2 A.M. gave her 13 fms more chain. 6/25 P.M. Weve up & proceeded through Lortuecue Strait and then steered along the coast for Samari. 10/30 Arrived Sanol anchored off the wharf. The doctor & customs officer boarded and granted pratique. Dr Beck & myself then went on shore to see about the slip. At 2 1/2 P.M. we love up & proceeded over to Handley's Slip at which place we arrived & anchored at 2 1/45. We immediately started landing all the gear from the hold, unbent the sails etc and took them to a shed alongside the slip. Fine during the night. Feb 15 Continued landing ships gear and also ballast from fore hold with the assistance of 6 shore labour. Cleared up the hold in afternoon. Sticks at work taking down the engine. A vessel was taken up on the slip this afternoon and we must wait till she comes off. Feb 16 The crew scuttled the ship round outside and afterwards did the paintwork inside Vessel pumped out daily as required.

78 Yacht "France" Feb 23 Slated vessel on to the slip again at 4/30 A.M. and started to heave her up, all hands from ship assisting. Lock out the shaft 3/30 P.M. Ship high and dry once more. Feb 24 Waiting for a shaft to come back from Taman

Yacht Feb 23 Slated use again at To leave her ship assist 3/30 P.M. Ship more. Feb 24 Waiting for from Dama

78 Yacht Feb 23 Slated use again at To leave her ship assist 3/30 P.M. Ship more. Feb 24 Waiting for from Damar

80 ROlLO HOWARD BECK PLANADA, MERCED COUNTY CALIFORNIA December 5 1937 Dear Doctor Murphy; Some years ago I entertained the thought that I might shortly write a few notes on happenings during a collecting trip to the South Seas. Some years have passed and the notes are no farther advanced. Seeing in the Annual Report of the Museum recently that you were engaged in work on Petrels and Oceans I thought it likely you would derive more profit from the log of the schooner France in the next few years than I would therefore I take pleasure in mailing to you the Captains log during the time I was aboard When I finally got this fig orchard to bearing a decidedly better grade of figs than it has so far yielded I may really turn the old time thought into action and might ask for the loan of the logbook for a brief period. Sincerely, R.H Beck "A larger proportion of high grade figs" might be a better way of expressing my yearly desires. Mrs Beck joins in sending best wishes to yourself and family.

Rollo Howard Beck, Esq. Planada Merced County, California Dear Mr. Beck: It was very pleasant to receive this morning your note dated December 5 and the two log books of the 'France' which arrived by express a few minutes later. These are sure to be very interesting and I shall go through them with a fine toothed comb before I complete my manuscript on the petrels and albatrosses. The latter work is well under way though there is still a great deal to do. Let me know whenever you would like to see the books again and I shall forward them promptly. Only recently I returned from a voyage along the little- known Pacific coast of Colombia. I really learned a great deal, but for unending discomfort and the constant threat of disaster, it was probably the peer of some of your worst days at sea! I expected to have a 90-foot diesel cruiser, but she broke down and I had to make a voyage of more than a thousand miles against unceasing headwinds in a 38-foot gasoline launch. The ports were far apart, the charts poor, and the weather hor- rible, but we came through alive and with a fine lot of data. I'll send you a report on it in due course. Between us, you and I have now pretty well cleaned up the coast of South America. With best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and Mrs. Beck, in which Mrs. Murphy would want to be included, I am Yours sincerely, RCM:RC

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