Diary Melville MillerFrom the diary kept by Melville Miller, on a voyage from London to Adelaide between June 1st and August 20th 1871. City of Adelaide Civic Collection Item Number 1130. Transcription by Adrian Brown, Adelaide.
Wed., 21st JuneLongest day. Distance 165 miles. Ther. 78° in shade, everyone in a state of dissolution, especially me. I do not know how I am to exist in Australia, when the heat is often over 100 degs. We find the bath a great comfort. I have plunge and a shower every forenoon - the water is extremely salt, which, I think, must be very healthful. We have seen another whale today, spotted like a leopard - the tropical species. He was so near we could see the hair on his back, quite bristly like a seals. The sight of flying fish is so common now that we pay little attention to them. Had a meet in Bink's cabin tonight, - present Captain Bruce, Jessie, Sarah and self - had great fun. After breaking up I went on deck with the captain and had a smoke and remained till 1 a. m. enjoying the cool breeze. Thurs. 22nd JuneDistance 128 miles. Ther. in shade 84 degs. "Melting Moments". I awoke about 6 oc. This morning and found myself in a dreadful state of perspiration and sleeping with no clothes, only my nightdress. I am getting quite alarmed even now while I write the perspiration is running down my face. I feel very much the want of thin clothing. I wish I had taken Purves' advice and got some. The Captain is all in white and looks so cool and comfortable. I will know better next time what to provide for the voyage!! Sarah and Jessie feel the heat greatly also, but not so much as I do. We are almost becalmed today, and the slight wind we have is a head one, causing us to tack which makes slow work. We are nevertheless all very happy and have not begun to weary. The Captain, moved with compassion for my sufferings in the heat, has kindly lent me a fawn alpaca coat which I wear without a vest and feel much happier now. This is mother's birthday - long life and happiness to her is our mutual wish.
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