Discomforts of Long Voyage.
p. 13 · Read in the full issue
“Frangipani’S” Record.
From Our Own Correspondent.
Rarotonga, March 25.
THE “Frangipani,” a specially designed big-game fishing launch for Mr. Zane Grey, arrived at Rarotonga on March 12 after an uncomfortable voyage from Auckland.
The motor-launch set out on March 2 laden with 7 tons of petrol to face the first stage of the journey—1,636 miles of open sea. The cabin and most of the accommodation were given up to provide space for the fuel, as such craft usually are not designed to carry cargo. To the discomfort of the re stricted accommodation was added the danger from fire, and the five members of the crew resolved not to strike a match throughout the whole of the jour ney, thereby foregoing cooked meals, hot drinks, and smokes.
Consequently when the launch reached Rarotonga Captain Pyper and his men were in a weary condition from the effects of oil fumes and loss of sleep, and parched for a cup of tea. Perfect weather conditions were experienced as far as Rarotonga. It was considered daring to bring a launch into these waters during the hurricane season.
The “Frangipani” sailed for Papeete on March 13, arriving on March 20. Be tween Auckland and Rarotonga the launch averaged a speed of 6.8 knots.
Prince William Tugi, Consort of Queen Salote, of Tonga. Prince Tugi, who is at present on a visit to Sydney, is also Premier of the famous little Kingdom.