Log: May 23, 1870

The CHARLES W. MORGAN was sailing on her 8th voyage in the Southern Pacific off the coast of Chile.  On this day the log states, “Started Molasess* First part commences with Modrat weather breeze from the Southerd heading to the Easterd 2 Sails in sight at 4 P.M gamd** with the Mt Wollaston & Mars Middle part Modrate Latter part the same. at Day light made all sail heading to the Easterd at .7 A.M raised a Sperm Whale going quick to the North Manuel Thomas raised the Whale at 7 ½ loard 3 Boats & after him went out sight the Ship & lost run off the Whale. then started for the Ship so ends Masafura [Mas Afuera] 20. M NE.”

Drawing by John F. Leavitt.
MSM accession number 1990.95.2

*This log keeper used this expression frequently. The assumption is that he (or the ship) was having a slow start in the morning.

** For a good description of a “gam”, see the New Bedford Whaling Museum’s site.