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A few days before the ship
sailed for Newfoundland, the captain allowed his men to go
ashore and buy personal provisions: "clothing for the
fishery... extra food such as eggs, cheese, sardines and ham, and
eau-de-vie." 49
The fishermen received a cash advance on their "third" to
meet their needs and those of their
families. 50
They used part of the money to buy personal items. Some bought
shirts, socks, shoes or a new overcoat. Others purchased
favourite foods to break the monotony of the rations. The
trip into town was a critical moment in the voyage when seamen
who were unhappy and thirsting for freedom saw the door of the
cage open a little.
Tuesday, February 26, 1754
Around 8 a.m., the captain sent half the crew ashore to buy
their provisions. All the men returned between 4 and 5 p.m.
Wednesday, February 27, 1754
Around 8 a.m., the other half of the crew went ashore. They
returned between 5 and 6 p.m., except for the one named Jacques
Philippe, from Saint-Étienne-de-la-Tillaye, who deserted.
The captain declared him a deserter.
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