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Sailor's Journal

Istijlál (Majesty), 10 ‘Ilm (Knowledge) 175 B.E. - Thursday, October 25, 2018

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30-Day Blogging Challenge ON HIATUS  (13+) WDC's Longest Running Blog Competition - Hiatus #1786069 by Fivesixer

On October 25, 1616, the Dutch discovered Australia.   Write a journal entry as one of the explorers.

Thank God, we sighted land. I can't remember the last time I was ashore, though I may not want to go ashore here. I don't know what kind of savages we'll encounter, if we encounter any creatures that aren't wild animals. Still, it will be nice to walk on dry land again. The Captain and First Mate haven't said much since the Crow's Nest shouted "Land Ho!" The only one they've talked to is the cook, who probably complained we were running low on salt pork or whatever meat he's been feeding us for last several weeks. I'd like a bit of hen or wild boar, myself. I'd like anything that hasn't been salted and packed in barrels since we set out on this voyage.

I went aft early this morning, and stood on the poop deck. The sun rose clear, there was no red sky, so we don't have to worry about storms today. Afterwards I walked along the port side of the ship, I wanted to get a better view of the approaching land. I couldn't see much. but I did hear birds. They sounded like regular gulls and not albatross, so we're not in for any bad luck when we land. I caught a glimpse of green while I was looking landward, that means fresh water.

This piece of land could indicate this voyage will earn a profit. Not that any of us ordinary sailors will be paid more, still I need to keep my eyes open when we land. There could be something valuable I could slip aboard, and sell when we get back home. Getting off The Eendracht for a few hours will be a good change.