"On both sides my family were sailors; and if any Slocum should be found not so seafaring, he will show at lease an inclination to whittle models of boats and contemplate voyages." Chap. 1, p. 2

"As for myself, the wonderful sea charmed me from the first." Chap. 1, p. 2

"I had taken little advice from any one, for I had a right to my own opinions in matters pertaining to the sea." Chap. 2, pp. 11-12

"The weather was mild on the day of my departure from Gloucester. On the point ahead, as the Spray stood out of the cove, was a lively picture, for the front of a tall factory was a flutter of handkerchiefs and caps." Chap. 2, p. 16

"The fellow was nearly the death of me, talking of ships and voyages, and of the boats he had steered, the last thing in the world I wished to hear." Chap...