VOYAGE TO THE BAY 5 



the between-decks forward was converted into storerooms and 

 sleeping quarters for the petty officers and the Mounted Police 

 detachment. The upper forecastle was fitted up for the crew 

 and firemen. All the sleeping quarters were arranged so that 

 a small air space separated the sides of the ship from the- 

 berths, and all ironwork was covered with wood. The value of 

 these preparations was appreciated during the ensuing winter, 

 when no frozen moisture was found in any part of the ship so 

 treated, while elsewhere the bare sides had a thick coating of 

 frost. 



All these additions and alterations were made in a month's 

 time, during which the stores and provisions were purchased 

 and delivered on board, together with materials for the stations 

 on shore. 



The preparations being completed, the Neptune hauled out 

 from the dock and anchored in the harbour on the evening of 

 the 22nd of August. 



All hands were busy during the morning of the 23rd of 

 August, in securing the heavy deck-load, consisting of lumber 

 for the stations, which was piled high on the afterdeck, and 

 on both sides of the bridge. Oil barrels and tins completely 

 covered the quarterdeck, while potatoes and other vegetables 

 were stowed in all corners, even the rigging having its load of 

 fresh meat. 



At noon the anchor was lifted, and we steamed out of the 

 harbour of Halifax, not to return until the middle of October 

 of the following year. A favouring breeze helped the ship 

 along, and in the evening we were well on our way eastward 

 along the southern coast of Nova Scotia. The following even- 

 ing the eastern end of Cape Breton was passed, and we stood 



