18 June 1859

18th. This morning was very fine but a dead calm prevails. Not the lightest waft of a breeze is felt to disturb the glassy surface of the mighty Atlantic. Towards sunset there was a gentle breeze but very light. During this calm we have not seen a sail or anything to keep our company. We are all alone on this Great Bason of waters bounded only by the lowering skirts of the distant horizon.

Booth, Thomas. Papers, 1857 - 1859. Auckland War Memorial Museum Library. MS 2002/56.