The Truth.......

Neroli
Charles Tongue
Sat 13 Dec 2008 16:30
14:20.80N 59:37.85W
 
The Truth...
 
Well finally you can all become aware of the real story of the voyage across the Atlantic and how I, Henry Tongue the Cabin Boy have been treated. I must say now, that if for any reason I am not able to tell you the whole story, it is because I type this under the cover of darkness whilst the rest of the crew and skipper sleep soundly in their bunks. This is my usual watch which lasts from sunset to sunrise.
 
You are all right to believe that there have been some exceptional culinary master pieces prepared and served upon Neroli all of which have been made by my own fair hands and not one morsel of the luxurious food has passed my lips in fact even left overs have been given to Neptune. As today is my Birthday, I pray that I might be given something more than just gruel which I have become accustomed to, even a piece of bread would be a great improvement.
 
Cabin boys and the monkeys cabin.
 
My living quarters have been a little cramped as you can see from the picture. I have shared my bunk with warps, shackles and blocks in the cockpit locker. My only companion has been the stowaway monkey who I have to say could do with a bath and fails to give any real input into our conversations which are rare due to my long working hours.
 
I must go before I am found out letting you all know what has really gone on. This is my second attempt to tell the truth.  After the first attempt I was lashed to the mast and left there to succumb to the heat of midday. All I ask is that you make sure that the Cabin Boys Union are aware of the atrocities that have taken place upon Neroli. We have 74 miles to go and I know that I will weep at the first sight of land.
 
Henry the Cabin Boy
 
Saturday 13.12.08 16.00 GMT