Left home quarter past 10 accompanied by my three friends, Mr. Baker,
Mr. John Dean, and Cousin Peter Heywood. Took a walk to the Prince's
Dock[1]; found my berth situated near the foot of the staircase. Thence
we proceeded to Mr. Thornley's office and met with the kindest
attention. Received several letters of introduction and valuable
information; recommended me to take dollars; sent a clerk with me to the
money exchangers and also lent me £150. Just then I saw James Turner
pass by; he got me the money in five minutes. After dinner we drove down
with 784 dollars in a bag sealed up, which I deposited in my
portmanteau. Embarked at 4 o'clock, got into the river and 1/4 before 6
were towed out by a steamer going to Dundalk. The steamer left us at
half-past nine P.M. near the floating lights. Charged £18. 18. 0.; went
to tea 1/4 past 8, found nine passengers. Had a good deal of
conversation with one of them, an American, who seemed to be acquainted
with all the packets. Said he supposed the _Britannia_ cost 40,000
dollars. Called a vessel old after ten years. Another passenger had been
in Egypt and seemed familiar with most parts of America; thought I
should have ample time in two months to see the most interesting parts
of America, including Canada. Recommended a covering during the night to
guard against the mosquitoes. Went to bed about eleven. Slept in drawers
and stockings with a night-shirt in addition, there being rather scanty
narrow bed clothes. The sea placid so as to allow getting comfortably to
bed.