Monday 3 [3 January 1898] Finer. Still a good deal of sea, but we
were able to start on our way after breakfast which was a great
consolation. We even sat on deck though the ship rolled too much to
allow of our having up deck chairs. Read Rose's Greek War lent me
by Sir W.S. [Smith]; Life of Nicholson the day before and Corleone
before that. Grey afternoon, rather boring, felt restless and in want of
exercise. Before dinner began to make friends with the Lamonts who
are very nice. After dinner talked to the Ls and played piquet with Mr
Northcote. Then came down the Captain very conversational and
cheery and we talked till nearly 11; he telling yarns of the most
amazing sort.