184 THE REV. J. G. WOOD. 



seem to have made an extraordinary sensation, and judges and 

 senators are continually asking me to explain passages which they 

 could not understand. At last, I was obliged to say that I really 

 could not be expected to answer theological questions generally. 



October 27th. Curious variations of temperature. We got out 

 of the Gulf Stream and were very cold. Then we got into an elbow 

 of the stream and were warm. Now we are in the north-east 

 current and are again cold. The last two days have pulled us up 

 wonderfully, and if there be no fog we ought to sight land by 

 noon to-morrow. ... I have found out the mystery of the dessert. 

 It is all pocketed to be eaten before breakfast next morning. They 

 are always at it, and it is no wonder that half the passengers have 

 artificial teeth. Toast and jam, " candy," apples, oranges, celery, 

 and buttered toast go on all day, accompanied by uncounted quarts 

 of iced water. The consumption of ice is almost incredible, and I 

 almost wonder that they do not pocket the ice, as well as the fruit, 

 biscuits, and " ginger-snaps," <fcc. 



On the 28th, land was duly sighted, after in these 

 days of ocean racing a prolonged passage of nearly 

 eleven days. My father had contrived during the 

 voyage to make great friends with a fellow passenger 

 of influence, who undertook to see him safely through 

 the Custom-house. But when the time came he 

 found that mediation was vain, and that he must 

 patiently await his turn with the other passengers. He 

 employed his time in " taking stock " of the building, 

 and does noir seem to have been greatly struck by what 

 he saw there : 



Oh, that Custom-House ! (he says). Imagine a vast wooden 

 shed, very dark, and smelling like a stable. Truck after truck full 

 of luggage dumped down anywhere, and the passengers left to pick 

 out their scattered property as best they can. If you appeal to an 

 official there is only one answer : " Git all your own things together 

 and then wait till your number is called." One lady had nine 



