Setting Sail
May 20, 1901-
The Tilikum is ready and is lying in the harbour. The ship was inspected by many with the general opinion that the voyage would be a total disaster and they would never make it beyond Cape Flattery. Perhaps if they were lucky they could swim to shore.May 21, 1901
- 6:00 am. The Tilikum sets sail from Oak Bay Harbour. The 25-lb. anchor is pulled up and they're off with a light easterly breeze.Poor Mr. Luxton, the first gale out at sea hit on May 27th. As it was Luxton's first trip to sea he was not feeling very well. They anchored in a small bay near the Cape Beal Lighthouse. In the cabin there was a small bunk and one seat. The space between the bunk and seat was 10 inches. And that is where they slept. Tonight Luxton had the bunk and Voss was on the seat (actually it was just the top of the locker).The seat was 14 inches wide and you had to keep awfully still unless you wanted to roll off.
May 28th - Dodges Cove
(5 miles north of Cape Beal)After dropping anchor at this Indian village they soon saw the Indian canoes approaching. The Indians were hoping for whiskey but were disappointed to learn there was no liquor aboard the Tilikum. The Indians would try to get you to sell them liquor, drink it, then report you to authorities who would then take your boat, lock you up, fine you and split the fine with the Indians who reported you.
That afternoon gentleman came alongside in a canoe and introduced himself as McKenzie, the storekeeper of the village. He was a good old Scot and invited Voss and Luxton to stay a few days and he would show them what life was like in this remote area. McKenzie share his good Scotch whiskey and after digging up some fresh clams on the beach proceeded to make the finest clam chowder of Voss's experience. So a great cook, a bachelor and spotless housekeeper. Voss and Luxton stayed and spent time hunting ducks and deer, racing Indian canoes, fishing and generally enjoying themselves. McKenzie was kept busy running his little store selling goods to the Indians. Another day was spent hunting whales with spears in the Indian tradition. Later they ate the whale meat that was cut in strips and fried. Voss remembers it was an excellent steak.
At last Voss said they must leave so on July 6th they set sail once again. They would not see land again for 58 days.
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