During the past week all the Sisters were very sick, some home-sick, others suffering from chills and fever. All are somewhat better in health and spirits this morning, as we have been informed that the Golden Gate will sail in the afternoon and that a small steamer was in readiness to convey us to her. It began to rain lightly about three o’clock. At half past three we left the hotel.
On reaching the beach, we found we had to go in ferry boats to the small steamer. All the ladies having gone to the far end of the boat, raised the opposite one quite out of the water, so when it came our turn (for we were last) it was impossible to step or for the gentlemen to help us in; even then, the men had to wade through the water and pitch the person into the boat. Poor Sister Frances after getting her feet well wet, had to undergo this trial, so repugnant to her. Sister M. Sebastian tried to get in herself, in order to save others the trouble, but after having her shoes, stockings and skirts well drenched, had to yield and follow suit. The rain continued till we reached the small steamer. We found the steamer quite comfortable. Dear Sister Fidelis was very sick; she sat on the floor and leaned her head against the side of the boat.
Sometime after dark we reached the Golden Gate and had to get to her by means of a small boat. We had to scramble up the rope ladder in the dark – scarcely any assistance was rendered in going on board. In going to bed we perceived we had been stowed away in the hold in two small rooms near the wheels, which threw the water into the port holes, so that we were obliged to keep them closed nearly the whole time and suffer from the closeness of the rooms in a tropical climate. We were very soon almost prostrate. There could not be found in the vessel two more uncomfortable rooms.
