Reminiscences of Travel in Australia, America, and Egypt

Note

Having made several voyages to Australia, I have often been asked how I managed to relieve the monotony of so long a period on the water. I have never felt this monotony, simply because on each occasion I have set myself something to do.

In Mr. Trevelyan’s “Life of Lord Macaulay” it is stated that when returning from India, that statesman set himself the task of mastering the German language, and accomplished it during the voyage. I did not attempt anything so ambitious, but during my last voyage I occupied the time in writing the following pages; and as they were written under many difficulties, I feel I may confidently rely upon the indulgence of those who may do me the honour of reading them.

R. T.

Gilbertstone, 1883.