"EVERY MAN HIS OWN SKIPPER."
[To TIE EDITOR or THE " SPECTATOR.")
SIR,—As a humble member of the modern school of yachtsmen, may I say how delighted I am at the prominence you have given to Mr. Cowper's article," Every Man His Own Skipper "? For as long as I can remember—only two decades, I fear, as opposed to Mr. Cowper's eight—I have sailed single-handed, from a "half-rater " to an eighteen-tonner. If only people would realize the consummate glory of literally being " master of one's fate" paid hands would be at a discount. It is only when absolutely alone that a ship springs into life and allies herself with. one, becomes a thing of moods, whimsically capricious (possibly on account of her gender). I have always felt from the very moment of casting adrift that it is a case of my boat and I contra mundum, or rather contra mare. Then it is that we do battle with Aeolus and Neptunus. So far we have won; but the sea is very patient, and knows perfectly well how to wait for one stricken with " sea-fever."
What Mr. Cowper says about " straight keels" allowing plenty of time is very true for open waters; but for tidal estuaries I prefer a centre-board, although, of course, it means a heavy expenditure of precious energy. I think the greatest danger in long cruises is that of sleep. Sooner or later, nolens volens, one is certain to be gathered into the arms of Morpheua—then it is that the straight-keeled ship proves her worth, but in any case sleep is the weak spot and gives the sea too much chance.—I am, Sir, &c.,
Brasenose College, Oxford. MONTACU WHITTLE.
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