Recto: The SAMPSON is badly damaged by a storm, and only 11 ships of the fleet of 26 that left Barbados arrive back in England, the rest being lost. The men aboard the SAMPSON are all pressed at Gravesend. Verso: Barlow is accused of killing a seaman by striking him, and avoids a trial by paying £50 to the widow. His youngest child dies, leaving two surviving out of six. Barlow ships on the SEPTER, bound for Surat.

Page 267 and 268 of Edward Barlow's journal.

Page 267 (recto): A fleet of 26 ships leaves Barbados for home. The SAMPSON sustains great damage in a hurricane and is driven by the wind and the sea. They encounter wreckage - broken parts of decorated cabins - which proves to be from the MEDENA which was lost. The bad weather continues and only 11 ships of the fleet arrive back in England. At Gravesend all the men on the SAMPSON are pressed.

Page 268 (verso): A seaman's widow accuses Barlow of causing his death. Barlow admits striking him to discipline him, but does not believe this killed him, and thinks it is a conspiracy to get money. He pays £50 to avoid a trial and punishment by branding. While at home Barlow's youngest child dies, leaving two surviving children out of six. Barlow and his shipmates have to wait seven months for their pay. Barlow ships in the SEPTER, bound for Surat.

Record Details

Item reference: JOD/4/267-268
Catalogue Section: Manuscript volumes acquired singly by the Museum
Level: ITEM
Extent: 1 page
Date made: 1694-1695
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London