Our second middle watch started with a beautiful clear starstudded sky, though this watch is not very au fait with them: Tony saw some shooting stars, but little else through the night, and we were all glad to get into bed at 0400, cold and tired. This morning we set the f'ward course and topsail, and the main topsail,it immediately becoming more comfortable down below, with the ship doing what she is designed for - sailing.The crew are now looking weatherbeaten after 11 days at sea, with most of the men ruffianlike with beards in various stages of competetive development. We are always in awe of Dave and Derek who continue to produce copious amounts of great food in the most difficult conditions. This afternoon's 1st dog watch we have hazy sunshine, and doing a comfortable 4 knots at F5, with the East wind making it dry and cold.
Ali WL F'ward Port watch