clinch, one of the ablest seamen on board, was steering the launch, and scott kept the run of the courses; but as long as the craft had three feet of water under her, she was all right. the conversation[8] took place in the cabin, as the explorers called the after part of the steamer, though no such apartment had been built there.
a frame constructed of brass rods, properly braced, extended the entire length of the launch. a stanchion at the bow and another at the stern, with five on each side set in the rail, supported a rod the whole distance around the craft. another extended from the bow to the stern stanchion, directly over the keel, about six inches higher than those at the sides. ten rods led from the central down to the side rods, like the rafters of a house.
over the whole, of this structure above was extended a single piece of painted canvas, serving as a roof, and keeping out both sun and rain. it was laced very taut to the rods, and had slope enough to make the water run off. on the sides were curtains, which could be hauled down tight. the launch had been used by the rajah on the ganges, and when closed in the interior was like "a bug in a rug."
thus closed in, the standing-room was called the cabin. it was surrounded by wide cushioned seats, which made very good beds at night. between these divans was a table where the meals of the explorers were to be served. under the seats were many lockers for all sorts of articles, the bedding, and the arms and ammunition.
just forward of the cabin were the engine and boiler, with bunkers on each side for the coal. in the middle of the craft was abundant space. the[9] forward part of the boat was provided with cushioned divans, where passengers could sit by day or sleep at night; and this space was appropriated to the sailors. in the centre of it was the wheel. next to it was the galley, with a stove large enough to cook for a dozen persons, and all needed utensils.
the ship's company had looked the craft over with great interest, and all of them were well pleased with the arrangements. the launch had been put into the water and fitted up for use the day before. the party from both ships had visited her, and almost wished they were to go to the interior of the country in her.
the blanchita continued on her course up the river. pitts was at work in the galley; and as soon as the launch was made fast off the "go-down," or business building of the town, dinner was served to the seamen, and later to the denizens of the cabin. the afternoon was spent in examining the place, and in obtaining such supplies as were needed; for the boat was to sail on her voyage up the river early the next morning.
with the assistance of achang, a small sampan, a kind of skiff, was purchased; for the bornean declared that it would be needed in the hunting excursions of the party, for much of the country was flooded with water, a foot or two in depth.
