Life on the Ocean, Or, Memorials of Captain Wm. Robinson; One of the Pioneers of Primitive Methodism in Fernando Po with an Account of the Manners and Customs of Various Tribes Resident on the West Coast of Africa, the Introduction of Primitive Methodism (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1874. Excerpt: ... dawn of the following day were themsolves engulphed among the fatal breakers, from the dangers of which they had just rescued others. How unsearchable are the mysteries of Providence Capt. Eobinson now took charge of the Severn, and, in all the duties which devolved upon him, he manifested thorough business tact and ability.. In the repairing of his ship, the building of wharves, or in attending on the sick and dying sailors under his care, he proved himself equal to, and ready for, every good word or work. At the friendly gatherings on board neighbouring vessels, which occasionally took place in the evenings, when the duties of the day were over, his genial humour rendered him a most agreeable companionBut as this is a "chapter of accidents," we must hasten to record another providential deliverance from death, which took place not long after the night in the breakers. AN EXPLOSION IN BRASS RIVER. In the month of January, 1857, Capt. Eobinson was dealing somewhat extensively in gunpowder. About the 1st of February he had obtained permission to land about one hundred and fifty barrels of this explosive material on the beach; at the same time retaining in his vessel near two hundred barrels. On the morning of February 5th the clouds hung low and dark about the river, and at noon a most terrific thunder-storm burst over them. The lightning flashed most vividly, and the deafening thunder roared its awful peals continuously. All for a time stood amazed. None but those who have been in a tropical thunderstorm, says Mr. Eobinson, can form an estimate of its dreadful character. About one o'clock a loud peal of thunder was followed by another loud noise like an explosion, and immediately the Severn was so shaken that the hatches flew up. The captain, who was jus...