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III. 1808-1826 We Find the Outset Erratic The first day the wind comes against us so hard a man can't turn toward it & breathe, and we tie up in the lee of a bend since the bulky craft makes no way. Among a dozen of us passengers only Rozier is impatient, counting the hours as money lost. I lie with thee beneath four blankets in the half-open cabin, pleased, listening to twigs skitter across the canvas roof. The 'wind subsides at dusk, & the river changes its shaggy coat for close-lapped triangles that shiver apart & reappear. Among the men I am clairvoyant of weather, the captain's confrere, and best at pushing us free of mud bars. The current is our pilot now that moves us faster in the narrow channels beside shrubbed islands like large animals grazing on bottom weeds. Salt pork & biscuit is our fare, though I volunteer to shoot a fat fresh dinner given half an hour ashore. The captain refuses. Let him unstick us then at the next impasse. Are we alone in leisurelincss? Yes, & doomed I sec to an efficient honeymoon! Still Rozier fumes. In Louisville we'll set up shop and make him rich—he has nothing better to do—while thou & I will study to be Savants of happiness. 17 ...

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