seemed hard to realize that was Japan-that rocky snow covered desolate coast. Everyone was on deck most of the day and it was real exciting. I really feel as though our great adventure were beginning. Tomorrow morning early we go through the straits at Hakodate and then it will be straight away for Vladivostok Everyone feels more cheerful than before. We made wonderful time yesterday, 274 miles with one propeller. Wednesday sees us at our 19 days out from Victoria.

Monday, January 13th

Well Honey, I have had a most interesting morning. From the time when I went on deck for my bath until now the last rocky islands are slipping eastward, we have been passing through what must be in summer most entrancing scenery and is even now most picturesque.

We have been passing through the straits between the northern and southern islands of Japan. On one of my maps the straits are called Gruyara on another Sangara. I think the latter includes tile smaller or more Western Strait. I presume that at the narrowest they are to miles wide. We have now slipped out into the Sea of Japan and arejust leaving behind us the last rocky outposts-far in the east rise the main ranges-rising like giant icebergs sheer from the ocean.

Today we made a run Of 288 miles—the best yet on our one leg. If we make the same rate for the rest of our journey we shall reach Vladivostok tomorrow night or early Wednesday morning. Already all preparations are being made for landing... Now I haven't very much in the way of news but I shall indicate in a rough way what my requirements are likely to be. I fear I shall have to ask you to send some things. The easiest way would be to order through Eaton's. I appear to have a plentiful supply of clothes, underwear and sox, also most toilet articles and necessaries of daily life. But there are lots of little things that I believe we will have difficulty in getting so I shall take a slip of paper and try to indicate in a general way what my needs will be.

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