I passed a much better night and got up at half past six; was gratified
to learn from the Mate who is not usually encouraging, that we had been
making way in the night; pointed out a vessel passing us on the east.
The Captain is making his 132nd passage across the Atlantic, say 62
voyages; been at sea 45 years, 35 in the American trade. A very, very
cold, though sunny day. A score of petrels flying about. A day of
business amongst the steerage passengers exchanging provisions. Much
warmer on deck after dinner. Had some conversation in French with one of
the sailors who is a Frenchman from Bordeaux. Been upon deck and greatly
pleased with the numerous petrels chirping on all sides of the ship.
Find the seamen are only engaged at New York to Liverpool and back,
their wages paid during that time; this is the same even with the cook.
The Captain every Saturday night sends a glass of whiskey to all the
cabin passengers.