S.S. ‘America’ 150 hands on board

380 ft. long

52    “ wide

32    “ deep

  1871 San Francisco

Nov. 1st Wednesday

Arose early and after breakfast went out into the city for a short walk： Enjoyed it very much, for the morning was lovely and every-thing seemed so charming. Returned to  "American Exchange" and packed my baggage. At 10 A.M. went on board the S.S. “America”. Went into my berth-room and turned over to Psalm 46. Then asked God to guide and keep me all the way. A Mr. Gunn with whom I stayed a few days called on me, so too Mr. Condit and Mr. Loomis- The signal being given, guns fired, our Ship Slowly moved out to sea. There were many ‘good”byes’, waving of handkerchiefs etc. but I remained below, for from that large crowd ashore, not one familiar face was to be seen, not one turning his eyes on this poor self. A continent lay between me and my native land. Why sh’d I go on deck？ Rather shut my door, and now O God my only hope and strength keep me, and bring me safely to China.