Then the jack was arranged to act upon the machinery in the middle of
the iron cross-bar, in such a way that one of its strong cogwheels bit
firmly into the ribs, so that when it was wound up, it caused the bar
to revolve rapidly, of course turning with it the paddles fixed at
either end, which consequently struck the water so as to propel the
boat.
Although this contrivance left much to be desired in the way of
improvement, still when Fritz and I wound up the machinery, and went
off on a trial trip across the bay, we splashed along at such a famous
rate, that the shores rang with the cheers and clapping of the whole
family, delighted to behold what they considered my brilliant success.
Everyone wanted to go on board, and take a cruise, but as it was
getting late, I could not consent. A trip next day, however, was
promised to Cape Disappointment and the little settlement of Prospect
Hill.
This proposal satisfied everybody. The evening was spent in preparing
the dresses, arms and food which would be required, and we retired
early to rest.
Intending to be out all day, the house was left in good order, and we
departed on our expedition, provided, among other things, with spades
and mattocks, for I wished to get young cocoanut trees and shrubs of
different kinds, that, on our way back, we might land on Whale Island,
and begin our plantation there.
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