Day One Thousand Ninety Two #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

The Captain got his wish today. Tomas escorted him down to the dock area to visit their former vessel. I wanted to go along but Elijah decided our presence was more necessary here.

I’m looking forward to their return and to what news they will share.

Mei, Mawuli and Sy and Elam went out into the city at Elam’s request to look around. The guards accompanied them as an escort for their protection, not in the least restrictive.

Elijah found a room in the apartment for a set apart place and asked me to join him in a time for intercession. Consequently we missed the return of both parties, and hence did not learn about their news until much later.

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Day Three Hundred Fifty Four #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

I was of the opinion that we depart right away, lest the authorities change their minds and forbid our leaving. Of course, the Captain would not hear of departing until he had a first mate. But Elijah quietly stepped forward with both an idea and a plan.

In talking with Tomas, Elijah had learned a lot about the young man – not only has he studied at this country’s maritime academy, but has also worked on ships in his father’s merchant fleet.

The Captain was familiar with the family shipping firm and expressed his wish to meet the young gentleman.

Elijah went ashore and brought back an amenable Tomas to meet the Captain.  

Our ship now has a new first mate.

Day Three Hundred Thirty Eight #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Fair seas and following breezes accompany our little convoy. The Captain estimates that we have only lost three days in our roundabout passage.

The crew had a happier frame of mind, though the sight of Elijah or myself on deck is cause enough to send them to anyplace we aren’t.

The grain ship, which once trailed us, is now out in front, having found some extra speed. The Captain has signaled them not to go too far in advance.

Elijah has asked the favor of being transferred to the other ship. The Captain briefly weighed his request before deciding in the negative. He does not want to lose the time it would take to grant his wish.

Ultimately Elijah agreed.

Day Three Hundred Thirty Three #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Elijah was granted his wish today. The Captain held back his permission until after the search for the crew on the other ship was completed.

The remains of the other captain and his team were found in a barricaded cabin off the bridge deck, though not the entire crew. The rest must have gotten off. A fact that appeared to be proven when two lifeboats were discovered to be missing from their davits.

Elijah asked me to stay behind while he chose the Purser to accompany him over. They turned up one of the missing lifeboats. It was tucked up out of sight alongside of the grain ship, its occupants mere skeletons.

Elijah wants to collect some locusts for food.