The attention of the public has been directed, on more than one occasion
within the last few years, to voyages of a more or less lengthy
character, undertaken in craft of very small tonnage; and a great deal
has been said and written concerning the foolhardiness of such
undertakings. This, however, is more apparent than real, though much
must necessarily depend, in such voyages, on the adventurer's skill as a
seaman and his nerve and self-possession in critical moments. Almost,
if not quite, as much will also depend upon the design, construction,
and equipment of the craft in which such an adventure is undertaken; but
where all these conditions are favourable, the actual danger may be
reduced in quite a surprising degree.
Such voyages, however, if of any considerable length, are sure to abound
in adventure; and, in selecting one as the groundwork of my story, it
has been my aim to endeavour at once to make it interesting and readable
to those who have a liking for the sea and for nautical adventure, and
to convey a few useful hints (gathered from my own experience)
respecting the design and management of small craft, and of the
precautions which are so absolutely necessary in the navigating of them.
But it must be distinctly understood that, in selecting this subject, I
have had no intention whatever of advocating, or recommending, such
voyages, or of underrating the risks which, under the most favourable
circumstances, they involve; my purpose has simply been to combine a
little information with, I hope, a great deal of interest and amusement;
and if my book serves but to while pleasantly away an idle hour or two
for the general reader, or conveys a scrap of useful information to the
young yachtsman, that purpose will be fully accomplished.
Harry Collingwood.
_October_, 1878.
Volume One, Chapter I.