Wednesday 7th May 1879

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Another fine day and not so hot. A meeting was called in the Social Hall to arrange for amusing the passengers in the evening. It was agreed that four nights should be set apart; one for singing and music, another for dancing, a third for charades and a fourth for sundries. Several speeches were made and resolutions passed. The Purser made a speech with a strong American twang about it, to open the subject. A chairman, managers etc., were appointed. I don’t think this will last long – there are too many professionals on board.

In the evening had some charades - the words “Fiji Islands”, actors Mrs Fell, Miss Hamilton (the first is an actress, the other is a Californian lady), Mr Maddrick (an Englishman and a writer it’s said, for some paper) and Mr York an American. Afterwards, Father Neptune came on board and shaved one of the passengers and the assistant Mail Clerk. Two young ladies, the Miss Cousins, also had to go before him – they were let off cheap. Warm night. Finished “Macaulay” – very interesting.

Days run 281 miles. Lat 2.13S & Long 165.56W.

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