A Travel Adventure"

Table of Contents
I. Where should we go on holiday?
II. A call from the travel agent
III. The adventure continues
IV. From Seattle to Ft. Lauderdale
V. The Room and Rules
VI. Half Moon Cay
VII. Dinner with the Captain
VIII. How to travel the ocean?
IX. Roseau, Dominica Gardens
X. Parrots and Small Animals Sanctuary
XI. A Dangerous Conclusion

Sandra: I would like to be gone at least 2 weeks,

but not more than three weeks.
Travel agent: How about a trip to Alaska?
Sandra: No, I've been there; I'd like to go
somewhere tropical.
Travel agent: Perhaps a trip to Hawaii?
Donita: No, I just went there for a wedding last
month.
Travel agent: Maybe you would like a trip to Bermuda?
You could take a ship from Florida.
Sandra: Yes! I've always wanted to go there.
Donita: That sounds good to me; cruises are a lot
of fun.
Travel agent: All right, let me check on the computer
about what is available. (She looks at the
computer screen while typing). Hmm. This
doesn't look good.
Sandra: What do you mean?
Travel agent: There is a cruise ship available for
the time you want, but... (She stops
talking and continues typing).
Sandra: But what is the problem?
Travel agent: I can't find a flight from Portland,
which is the closest airport for you. Oh,
Sorry. The computer screen shows that
someone just took the last reservation
for that cruise.
Donita: There must be something else available. It
doesn't have to be Bermuda.
Sandra: I agree. We just want to get away somewhere
warm. This winter has been so long and cold.

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Travel agent: I'll keep looking. How many days can
you be gone?
Donita: I have the family trucking and ranching
business to manage, so I need to be back
in two weeks.
Sandra: I teach English at the college
and am a visiting professor. I could be
gone for 15 days. Then I need to prepare
for giving a lecture in Japan.
Travel agent: I'm still looking for trips for you; I
have good news and bad news.
Donita: Give us the good news first! (Everyone
laughs.)
Travel agent: The good news is that I found you a
wonderful cruise TO ARUBA. The bad news is
that I can't find a flight. At this time
of year, everyone wants to travel. If you
wait another week...
Sandra: What if we drive to another airport?
Travel agent: The next closest airport would be in
Seattle. (Looks at computer screen). Yes, I
can get you a flight from there.
Donita: (To Sandra.) Let's do that. We can drive
there and leave the car in long term parking.
It shouldn't cost too much.
Travel agent: There is one more problem.
Sandra: What else?
Agent: I can't get you back to the same airport.
You would fly into Portland on the return trip.
Donita: So I guess we couldn't drive to Seattle.
What about taking the train?
Sandra: It would take too long. Why don't we rent a
car, and then return it at the airport?
Donita: There are so many obstacles; maybe we
aren't supposed to go on this trip.
Sandra: But I think we can solve all of them; let's
go for it!
Donita: Only if you are willing to do the driving.
(Laughs.)
Sandra: I don't mind driving; how far is it?
Donita: It's about 250 miles from here.
Sandra: (Groans.) Oh well, it will be an adventure
for us. Maybe we will leave early in the
morning stop a few times to sight-see.
Travel agent: Well, there is another problem….
Sandra and Donita: No, now what?
Agent: The flight leaves at 7:00 a.m.
You would have to be there one hour before, so

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 it means you would be driving in the middle
of the night.
Sandra: I don't want to drive that far in the dark.
What about a later flight?
Agent: It isn't a non-stop flight and you would
miss the other connections.
Donita: O.K. Let's do this: find us a hotel with
shuttle service to the airport. We will go to
Seattle the day before, get a good night's rest
and be at the airport in plenty of time.
Sandra: Good idea!
Agent: That would mean you get to Florida the day
BEFORE the ship leaves. Do you want me to
make a hotel reservation in Florida, also?
Both: Yes!
Donita: So, as I understand all of this: We need to
rent a car on Thursday, drive to Seattle, stay
over-night, fly to Florida, stay over-night
again, then board the ship on Saturday, right?
Agent: Correct. Then when you return, you might
want to stay overnight again as the best flight
for you would leave the next morning.
Sandra: What time would we get to Portland?
Agent: There is a time change of three hours, so
you would get there around 3 in the afternoon.
Donita: That would be a great time to get home! I
can ask my grandson to pick us up at the
airport.
It's only an hour and a half drive from there.
Sandra: That would be great! Make the reservations
for us.
Travel agent: Hi, this is your travel agent, Jan.
Sandra: Hi, Jan. Is there another problem?
Jan: No, everything looks great; I just need some
information from you.
Sandra: That's a relief; I thought sure something
had to be cancelled! What information do you
need?
Jan: I need your passport numbers, emergency
telephone contacts, what type of stateroom you
prefer, and what hour seating you want.
Sandra: I don't know Donita's passport number, but
I can give you mine when I come to the office
to get our documents. Write us down for the
late dinner seating. Then we won't have to rush
back to the ship if we are in port. My emergency
contact number will be my daughter, Jenny. Her
number is 530-1862.

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Jan: What about the stateroom? I can reserve one in
the middle of the ship on the 3rd or 5th deck.
There is a price difference.
Sandra: Let us have the least expensive one. I
know we won't be in our room very much, as there
is so much to do onboard.
Jan: You're right, and most of the rooms are about
the same size. When I travel, I like to get a
room as far below deck as possible because you
don't feel the ship moving quite as much.
Sandra: That's a good idea. I don't get sea-sick,
but I think Donita does. She plans on taking
motion sickness medication with her.
Jan: That reminds me. Any medicine you take with
you needs to be in the original container. Don't
pack it in your suitcase, just in case it is
delayed or lost.
Sandra: Thanks for telling me that; I'll pass on
that information to Donita. Is there anything
else we should know?
Jan: Well, I thought you might like to know a
little about the dress code on the ship. During
the day, you can wear comfortable clothes, but
you need to dress-up for dinner. There are 3
formal nights, 3 semi-formal nights and the rest
are dressy-casual.
Sandra: Hmm. I might have to go shopping for
another formal dress. What is meant by
dressy-casual?
Jan: It just means to dress in good taste, no
bathing suits or short shorts in the dining
room. Skirts or pant suits for the woman. The
men need to wear slacks and shirts. I'll give
you more details when you stop for the
tickets.
Sandra: What if there are people who don't want to
dress-up? What do they do?
Jan: There is another dining room where food is
served cafeteria style. It is close to the
swimming pool, so guests have to wear a cover-up
over their suits to eat inside. There is also a
self-service kiosk next to the pool with tacos,
pizza, and salad. It's a very popular place for
families. Kids don't like dressing-up for dinner
and sometimes parents don't want to either.
Sandra: It sounds like the staff has thought of
something to please everyone.
Jan: I agree. There's even a suggestion box onboard

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 to improve or add services. I like the idea that
kids have their own club and planned activities.
Sandra: I'm really looking forward to this trip.
It's like taking all of the conveniences of home
with you while exploring different countries.
Jan: I couldn't agree more. There's a library,
jewelry store, gift shop, tobacco and liquor
store, beauty salon, physical fitness center,
nightclubs with dancing, laundry rooms, and so
many planned activities.
Sandra: Planned activities?
Jan: Yes, there's a cruise director who will
announce the activities for the day or week.
There is everything from golf, to tennis, and
shuffleboard to lots of inside games, too.
Sandra: I wish we were leaving tomorrow
instead of in two weeks! We'll be in the office
in the afternoon for our appointment at 2 for
more information.

Sandra: Excuse me; I've reserved a car for today.

Here is my driver's license and credit card.
Clerk: Oh yes, I've been expecting you. Will you
both be driving the car?
Sandra: No, I'll be the only driver.
Clerk: And do you need insurance in case of an
accident?
Sandra: No, my insurance policy will cover any
damage to the car.
Clerk: (He makes notes on the paper.) Please sign
here.
Sandra: I'd like to inspect the car before I sign
anything.
Clerk: The car is in perfect condition.
Donita: Just sign the paper so we can get going.
There will be a lot of traffic soon.
Sandra: No, it's important to check the condition
of the car. I don't want to get charged for any
damage that wasn't my fault.
They go outside to inspect the car.
Clerk: Hmmm. I didn't notice this dent when the
car was returned. And here's a scratch.
Donita: It's a good thing you asked to check it
over.
Sandra: If you will circle the drawing of damage
spots on your paper, I will be glad to sign it.
Clerk: Of course. Here's the paper and the keys.
When will you be returning it?

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Sandra: I made arrangements to return it to the car
rental at the Seattle airport. Do you have
that information? (She signs the paper.)
Clerk: No, I don't. I'll have to ask my boss about
it. She isn't here yet.
Donita: (Groans.) Another problem! Do you think fate
is trying to keep us from going on this trip?
Sandra: Who else could I talk to about this?
We have a long drive ahead of us and need to
leave soon to avoid all the traffic.
Clerk: Maybe I can find something in your
reservation paperwork. (Looks through file
folder.) Here it is. You are going to leave
the car at our airport office.
Sandra: Yes! We had better get going. Do you have
any maps?
Clerk: Not at this office. You would have to drive
to the downtown office in Salem to get one.
Donita: Let's stop at triple A on the way. They
have a lot of maps for members. (They go outside
and get in the car.)
Sandra: I could hardly keep from laughing when he
said we would have to drive 20 miles out of our
way to get a map!
Donita: I know! But now the adventure can begin.
Sandra: Maybe we should “cross our fingers” for
good luck? (She laughs.)
Donita: And our arms and legs, too?
Sandra: I don't think I can drive like that!
Eight hours later, they have arrived in Seattle
and returned the car. It has been raining hard
and both women are very tired. An airport shuttle
takes them to the hotel. They make arrangements
for a 'wake-up” call and transportation to the
airport. They have to be at the airport two
hours before the flight leaves.
Donita: I'm tempted to just sleep in my clothes,
since we have to be up at 4:00a.m.
Sandra: That's a good idea, and then we don't have
to unpack anything.
Donita: What if the hotel clerk forgets to call us?
Sandra: (Sleepily.) It's all computerized through
the phone. The computer won't forget. Night.
Donita: O.K. I'll try to relax until tomorrow.
Goodnight.

Officer: You ladies were very smart to board the ship

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 at this time. (He looks at their papers).
Donita: Were there a lot of people here before us?
Officer: Yes, we started boarding at 11:00 and 12:00
people have already been through the line. I
don't know why people think they need to be here so
early. The ship doesn't leave until 5:00 p.m. Your
luggage will be delivered to the stateroom by that
time.
Sandra: Maybe they are just excited to get on this
beautiful ship. Do you know anything about it?
Officer: Yes, The Maasdam is a beauty! You'll get
more details onboard, but she is like a floating
city. Here are your documents, just follow the
ropes to the next agent.
Donita: There sure are a lot of agents.
Sandra: Maybe people have tried to sneak on the
ships without paying?
Donita: Like a stowaway? I guess that's possible.
Their might be lots of places to hide on such a
huge ship. They continue to show their
identification to 3 more agents, then step on the
ramp leading to the ship. A uniformed officer
greets them and asks a guide to show them to the
cabin.
The guide tells them their room is in a very
convenient location. It is in the middle of the
ship; near the elevators, the door to the outside
deck and not too far from the laundry room. He
slides the key card into the lock to demonstrate
how they will open the door, then hands them each
one.
Dom: Everyday there will be announcements through
the television and on the loud speaker. You
will also receive a daily paper of the events
that will be planned while we are in port or
at sea. Do you have any questions?
Sandra: Yes, Dom. Where are you from?
Dom: I'm from the Philippines.
Donita: How many rooms do you have to clean?
Dom: I take care of 11 rooms everyday.
Donita: That seems like a big job!
Dom: It is, but I have all day to do it. The
biggest problem is getting into the rooms when I'm
supposed to clean. Some people like to sleep late,
others like to take an afternoon nap.
Sandra: Your English is so good; how did you learn to
speak it?
Dom: Thank you, I studied a lot in school. We have

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 to take a test in my country before we can get a
position working on the ship. It's a good job!
(An announcement comes over the speaker telling
passengers there will be a lifeboat drill in one
hour.)
Dom: Let me show you where your jackets are. (He
goes to the closet). Don't put them on until you are
on deck. It is too crowded in the halls.
Sandra: Where do we go for the drill?
Dom: There will be another announcement telling you
the place. I have to leave now, goodbye.
Both: Goodbye. Thank you.

Learning About The Ship

The women listen to the instructions from the speaker, and then
walk down the hall to the first door on the left, which leads to
the deck. They are surprised to see so many children and adults
passengers. Everyone is standing in small groups as the crew helps
them put on the jackets. A staff member looks at Donita and Sandra
and directs them to their group.

Staff: You are in cabin 621, so you need to go there.

(Points to group.)
Donita: How did you know what cabin we are in?
Staff: There is a code on each life jacket that tells
your room number and the assigned life boat. (He
blows a whistle.) May I have your attention, please.
(Everyone quiets down.) The captain has requested
that we have this drill for everyone's safety. It is
also required by maritime law. Does anyone still
need help with their jacket?
Passenger: Yes, I can't figure out where all these straps
go! (Two staff members go to help him.)
Staff: I am going to demonstrate the correct way to
put your life jacket on. If you are traveling with
children, or someone who needs help, put their on
first. (He demonstrates putting the jacket on with
straps going between the legs.) Any questions so far?
Sandra: What are these two “straws” on either side?
Staff: Good question! Your jacket is equipped with
inflation and light devices. When you pull the cords,
your jacket will inflate. If you want to inflate it
more, just blow into the straws.
Donita: Is this jacket any different than the ones
used in small boats?
Staff: That's a good question! Yes, this one is
designed to turn people who are unconscious in the

8
 water from the face-down position to an upright and
slightly backward position. The jacket helps the
person stay in that position for a long time
Sandra: What about the children's jackets?
Staff: They are the same except for the size. The
adult size jacket is for people who weigh more than
90 lbs and the child size is for anyone weighing less
than 90lbs. (Points to lifeboat). This is your
assigned boat. The same number is on your life
jacket. That's the all clear signal. Now you can
return the life jackets to your cabins.
Everyone walks back to their rooms. An announcement
comes on over the speakers.
Captain: This is your Captain speaking. Welcome aboard
everybody! Tonight will be casual dress for dinner.
There will be a sail away party on the Lido deck in
fifteen minutes. Be sure to bring your camera. We
will be at sea until 8:00 tomorrow morning when we
arrive at our first stop, Half Moon Cay, in the
Bahamas. There will be Tenders leaving every 15
minutes to take passengers to shore. Further
announcements will be given by the activity director.
Dave: Thank you. If I may have your attention
everyone, I would like to tell you about some of the
activities. The Reggae band will be playing calypso
music poolside at the sail away party. After dinner
tonight, our fantastic dancers will be performing for
you in the theater. Tomorrow, anyone who does not
wish to go ashore will find plenty of activities to
do onboard. Be sure to read the daily program
delivered to your room every morning, enjoy your
evening!
Donita: Our luggage has been delivered; I'm going to
unpack.
Sandra: Why don't we do that later? Let's get our
cameras and go up to the Lido deck. I want to enjoy
the calypso music!
Donita: Good idea. We don't want to miss any of the
fun!
Sandra: I'd like to find time to explore the ship from
top to bottom. The ship is just like a small city.
(They lock the door and walk toward the elevators.
They meet one of the officers who introduces himself
Manager: Good evening, ladies. I'm the hotel manager,
Firmin van Walle.
Donita: Hotel?
Firmin: Yes, the Maasdam is a floating hotel. There

9
 are rooms for 1800 people. How is your room?
Sandra: The room is very nice, especially the huge
window to look at the ocean. How did you become
manager of such a huge ship?
Firmin: It's a long story; are you sure you want to
hear about it?

Hotel Manager Firmin van Walle

I was born and raised in Antwerp, (world Capital of Diamonds)

Flanders, Belgium. I'm celebrating 28 years in the cruise industry.
I started as a cook apprentice in 1961 in restaurant Pere
Mouillard, Brussels. I continued to go through some of the best
restaurants and hotels in Belgium, France, Germany and the Middle
East. It as when I was working in Germany when I met a lot of hotel
staff who had been working at sea. I was curious and signed on my
first vessel in San Francisco in 1979. I went from working in
Provisions, Dining Room, Bars, Purser, Controller, Food and
Beverages and ended up being Hotel Manager.

Sandra: Have you been to many countries?

Firmin: I've been on several ships sailing Europe, the
Baltic and Mediterranean, New England-Canada, the
Far East Mexico, Alaska, and the Caribbean.
Donita: What do you like about working on ships?
Firmin: I like the challenge, the camaraderie, and the
team work.
Sandra: Are you able to go home very often?
Firmin: Yes, (he laughs). I'll be going home soon and
my wife already has a “honey-do list waiting for me!
Donita: Where do you live?
Firmin: My wife, Fernanda, four grown children and 4
grandchildren live in Ichtegem. It's a small country
village in Flanders, Belgium.
Sandra: It must be difficult to be away from your
family.
Firmin: We are very fortunate on this ship; there are
many computers for the staff and crew to use
everyday. And my family loves the gifts I bring home
from all the different ports.
Donita: You sound like you really like your work.
Firmin: As I tell other people, you don't spend 28
years on a ship if you don't love it!
During the night, the ocean waves became very rough. They pitched the ship high and low.
Fortunately, Sandra and Donita slept through the turbulence. Other passengers were not as
lucky. Almost half of the people on board were seasick. The on-board doctor and nurses were
kept busy through the night giving out medicine.
Sandra: Wake up! You have to look at this. Look at the

10
 size of those waves!
Donita: Wow! Those are incredible; we better take our
motion sickness medicine before breakfast.
Sandra: I want to go up on the top deck. Hurry up and
get dressed!

The women get dressed and take the elevator to the top deck. There are very few people
watching the waves. A few attendants are serving coffee.

Donita: I wonder where everyone is; what time is it?

Sandra: (Looking at watch.) it's 7:00 a.m. We better
have breakfast and get ready to go ashore.
Donita: Breakfast? I don't think I want to eat
anything. Let's eat when we get on shore.
Captain: (Over the loud speaker system). This is your
captain speaking. I regret to inform you that
we will not be stopping in Half Moon Cay. The
waves are to rough for the Tenders to safely
take passengers to the island. I know this is a
big disappointment for you, back it is my
responsibility to keep everyone safe. Now here
is your activity director.
Dave: I think I heard everyone onboard groan in
disappointment. However, there will be a
newspaper delivered to your rooms in about 30
minutes listing all the fun activities to do
today. There will also be a lecture on Half
Moon Cay at 8:30.
Sandra: That is disappointing, but the captain knows
what is best for us.
Donita: I'm going back to the room and lie down.
Come down after you eat.
Sandra: Sorry you don't feel well. Take your medicine
and I'll see you soon.

After breakfast, Sandra returns to the room and finds Donita asleep. She quietly leaves the
room again and goes to the lecture.

Lecturer: Good morning, everyone. It's too bad you had

to miss going ashore, but I'm going to give you a
little history and other information about Half
Moon Cay. First of all, does anyone know who owns
it?
Passenger: Holland America?
Lecturer: You are absolutely right! Holland America
Line bought it in January 1997 and built the
private 45-acre Half Moon Cay resort. Now,
any ideas where they got the name?

11
Passenger: Is the island shaped like a half moon?
Lecturer: That is a great guess, but it's wrong.
(Everyone laughs.) Actually, you are partially
correct; the beach is a perfect crescent. But
the name also comes from the antique ship, Henry
Hudson's “Half Moon”.
Passenger: Did the island have another name before it
was bought?
Lecturer: Yes, it was called Little San Salvador
because it covers just 3 ¼ miles.
Passenger: Who were the first people to find the island?
Lecturer: Good question. It was the early Spanish
explorers who referred to the Bahamas as
“bajar mar” meaning shallow sea. The islands are
in fact the peaks of a long steep undersea mountain
chain. When the sea levels receded, a limestone
foundation remained which formed the foundation of
the islands.
Passenger: What about the inhabitants? Where did they
come from?
Lecturer: The Lukku-cairi people were the first to
settle in the Bahamas. They migrated from South
America. They are related to Arawak people, and
erroneously known as “Indians” ever since Columbus
gave them that name.
Passenger: I read something about the lost city of
Atlantis might be in this area. Do you know
anything about the rumor?
Lecturer: Well, many people have suggested possible
sites for Atlantis. The Bahamian theory points to
the flat stones off the coast of Bimini. These
Stretch for half a mile and some scientists claim
they might have been an ancient road of Atlantis.
They are too perfectly placed to have been put
there by an act of nature.
Passenger: Did any other country ever claim the Bahamas?
Lecturer: Yes, several countries have claimed the
Bahamas since Columbus. Missionaries established
the first European settlement in 1647. But
strangely, about 30 years later everyone had left.
The Bahamas were abandoned for approximately two
years.
Passengers: What happened?
Lecturer: The main theory is that people left because
of a great sickness. We know it wasn't because of
a lack of food; the tropical climate made food
grow in abundance.
Passenger: Was it the plague?

12
Lecturer: No, that is doubtful as the plague occurred
in Europe in the 1300's. But Remember sailors and
pirates were constant visitors to these islands.
They may have carried measles, smallpox or some
other contagious disease.
Passenger: What other countries claimed the Bahamas?
Lecturer: I'm going to give you a timeline to follow.
(Points to board.) Please look at these dates.
When I have finished talking, I'll answer any of
your questions.

1706 Pirates rule

1717 Bahamas British Crown Colony

1776 Americans occupy Bahamas

1782 Spaniards occupy Bahamas

1783 Spain returns Bahamas to Britain-Treaty of Paris

1804 Turks and Caicos Islands become part of Bahamas

1835 Slavery ends in Bahamas

1930 Sir Lynden Pindling is born (Bahamian leader)

1940 Duke of Windsor is governor of islands

1941 Unarmed us freighter “Mariana” is torpedoed and

sunk by U-boat east of Nassau

1950 Britain allows the US to build a Bahamas military

test range and tracking station.

1955 Freeport free trade zone. Off-shore banking tour

Sandra: Tonight is formal dress. We have to wear
cocktail dresses or formals. Captain Draper will
give a champagne toast party before dinner.
Donita: I'd like to take a class or play some
games. What is there to do today?
Sandra: Here's the paper, if you want to “check it
out.”
Donita: O.K. There's a cooking demonstration,
bingo games, a port and shopping talk, movie, and
another lecture. Tonight the dancers are
presenting a show at 8:30. What do you want to

13
 do?
Sandra: I'd like to do it all!
Donita: (Laughing.) We can try! I would like to
make a hair appointment in the beauty shop for
tonight.
Sandra: We should do that first; a lot of the
women will have the same idea.
Donita: (Still reading.) This is interesting: The
nautical term of the day is “Scuttlebutt”
Sandra: What does that mean?
Donita: The cask of drinking water on ships was
called a” scuttlebutt” and since sailors
exchanged gossip when they gathered at the
scuttlebutt for a drink of water, it became U.S.
Navy slang for rumors or gossip. A butt was the
wooden cask which held liquids, and to scuttle is
to drill a hole for tapping a cask.
Sandra: Anything else of interest?
Donita: Yes, there's going to be a 5K walk around
the deck to raise money for the Cancer
foundation. Each participant will receive a
wristband and a t-shirt. More detail will be
delivered to the staterooms.
Sandra: I'd like to do that! It would be amazing
to find a cure for cancer.
Donita: I hope we see it in our life-time. Are you
ready to go?
Sandra: Yes. I have my purse, key, sun-tan lotion
and schedule.

The women make appointments in the beauty shop, go to the library, sit by the pool and read
until it is time to attend a lecture about the next port; the ship will visit, St. Thomas,
U.S.Virgin Islands.

Lecturer: Good morning, everyone! Today, I would

like to tell you some interesting facts about
St Thomas. I will be happy to take questions
from you at any time. (Points to map.) In 1593,
Sir Francis Drake stopped at St. Thomas and St.
John on his way to attack the Spanish at San
Juan. Can anyone suggest a reason he wanted to
stop there?
Passenger: To get more provisions?
Lecturer: That is certainly a very good reason. Food
grew in abundance in the islands and water from
inland streams was very clean. Sailors were
beginning to understand the relationship between
eating citrus fruits to avoid scurvy.

14
Passenger: Is that the disease when the teeth could
fall out?
Lecturer: Well, the symptoms are gum swelling,
bleeding and loose teeth. There can also be
internal bleeding, fractures, and weight loss. It
is a fatal disease.
Passenger: Isn't it fortunate that people don't get
that disease anymore?
Lecturer: Actually, it still exists. Babies who are
fed only cow's milk during the first year of life
are at great risk. Elderly people who eat toast
and tea are also at risk. Then there are also
disadvantaged people who can not afford to buy
foods high in vitamin C.
Passenger: Just one more question, please, when was
this discovered? I mean, is this an ancient
disease?
Lecturer: That's a very good question. As far as
medical records show, scurvy was first described
in 1541 by a Dutch physician. He thought it was
an infectious disease. Before then, a French
explorer learned of a cure from Native Americans
in Canada to cure the disease by boiling water
with needles from Pine trees.
Passengers: And it worked?
Lecturer: Yes, it did. Another interesting thing I
want to tell you, and then we'll get back to the
lecture...
Passenger: But this is VERY interesting!
Lecturer: Good I'm glad you think so! There were two
other physicians who were credited with saving
the lives of sailors by giving them oranges or
lemon. It took 41 years before they were able to
convince the British Navy to give the Sailors
oranges to prevent scurvy. Finally, the British
used lime juice instead, which is why the sailors
became known as “limeys.”
Passengers: (Laughing.) Oh, that's why... I often
wondered about the name. 41 years?
Lecturer: Now, ladies and gentlemen. Let's get back
to discussing St. Thomas. It is believed that
Arawak, also known as Taino and Ciboney tribes
settled in the Caribbean. And who knows what
important event happened in 1492?
Passengers: (Together.) Columbus discovered America!
Lecturer: In the same year, Columbus “discovered”
the Caribbean. Thinking He had landed on the
Asian coast, he named the islands “Las Indias”.

15
 And what did he name the people?
Passengers: Indians!
Lecturer: Right! During his second voyage, Columbus
named the islands, “Las once Mil Virgins” or “The
11,000 Virgins” in honor of St. Ursula and her
11,000 martyred Virgins.
Passenger: So that's why we call all these islands,
“The Virgin Islands?”
Lecturer: That's right. Now to continue:
In 1665 Danish King Frederik III claimed St.
Thomas, but two years later, the Danes abandon
the island discouraged by hurricanes and disease.
By 1681, the island was flourishing again.
Passenger: What would make them go back again?
Lecturer: It was probably an order by the king. He
owned the land and wanted people living there. He
couldn't collect taxes if no Danes were living on
the island.
Passenger: The town of Charlotte Amalie was founded
by the Danes from the profits of the sugar trade.
At one time there were over 170 sugar
plantations. But, the focus changed to one of
trade. In 1722 it became a free port, meaning all
goods were exempt from duties and regulations.
Passenger: Where did the name, Charlotte Amalie come
from?
Lecturer: It was re-named after Charlotte Amelia to
honor the bride of King Christian V of Denmark.
It is the capital and the largest of the U.S.
Virgin Islands. St. Thomas (along with most of
the Caribbean islands) was ruled by French, Dutch
and English Countries. Meanwhile, the United
States also had its' eye on The Virgin Islands.
Does anyone have an idea why it would be of
interest to the U.S.
Passenger: military reasons?
Lecturer: Exactly! The U.S. government had already
considered the strategic Caribbean military base.
But it took 50 more years to purchase the Virgin
Islands.
Passenger: Why such a long time? Especially if the
government wanted a military base.
Lecturer: Did anyone see the movie, “Seward's
Folly?” (Several people say they had seen it).
For those of you who did not see the movie, it
was about Secretary of State William Henry
Seward's purchase of Alaska. It was not a popular
move in congress.

16
Passenger: I know Alaska cost around $7 million; how
much did the islands cost?
Lecturer: The proposed contract for $7.5 million was
approved in Denmark, but the U.S. Senate refused
to authorize it. A few years later, in 1900,
another offer was made for $5 million. This time,
Denmark refused the offer.
Passenger: It doesn't make good business sense to
offer less!
Lecturer: You're right! When WWI began in 1914,
Congress worried that Denmark might lose control
of the islands. So as the expression goes, they
went “back to the drawing board”. The Danes
raised the price to $25 million in gold.
Passengers: Incredible! Wow!
Lecturer: The sale finally took place in 1917. The
final price represents one of America's most
expensive land purchase ever. But now the
government realizes that neither Alaska nor the
Virgin Islands was “folly”. Alaska became a huge
resource for oil, hunting, fishing, and tourism.
The Virgin Islands provide employment and fun for
many people.
Passenger: The Virgin Islands were certainly a great
investment!
Lecturer: Yes, they are often referred to as
“American Paradise.” Since my time is almost
over, I'm going to give you a handout of some
more dates about the islands. I know you all want
to change into formal clothes for tonight's
dinner. You will be meeting the captain then.
Passengers: (They clap hands and say, “Thank you, that
was very informative”).
Sandra and Donita have gone to their staterooms. Tonight they will wear long formal dresses
for an elegant cocktail party and dinner.

Sandra is wearing a blue chiffon dress with a matching jacket. The dress has small iridescent
crystals sewn in a floral pattern. Donita is wearing a beige flowered chiffon dress with shades
of pink flowers. They have arrived at the captain's party.
Captain: Good evening everyone! I am your host,
Captain Henk Draper. Please take a glass from the
waiter's trays, and raise it high while We share
a toast to this wonderful trip. (The passengers
raise their glasses). “May your voyage this week
be as happy and free as the dancing waves on the
deep, blue sea”.
Passengers: (Several responses.) Thank you. To the
voyage.
Captain: Now with your permission, I'd like to tell

17
 you a little about myself. Do you have any
questions?
Passenger: Yes, where were you born?
Captain: I was born in the beautiful Dutch city of
Haarlem, but raised in the More northern city of
Groningen.
Passenger: Do you still live there?
Captain: No, my wife Cassie and our two sons
Maarten and Bart and I moved to America just a
few years ago.
Passenger: What made you decide to become a captain?
Captain: When I was a young boy, my father, who was
a Radio Officer, would tell me stories of his
trips between Holland, the Far East and West
Africa. I made the decision then to pursue a
career at sea like my father.
Passenger: What kind of training did you have?
Captain: I went to the Dutch Nautical Academy. Then
I worked on cargo ships and oil tankers until I
worked my way through the ranks to Chief Officer.
Passenger: When did you start working for Holland
America?
Captain: After I got my Master's license, I was
hired as Second Officer on the ms Ryndam.
Passenger: And when did you become captain?
Captain: Not very long ago. In February 2004, I
made my first voyage as Captain on the ms
Volendam.
Passenger: What do you like to do in your free time?
Captain: I just like being at home with my family
in the Pacific Northwest.
Passenger: Could you tell us a little about the ship?
Captain: Of course; It's my favorite subject! What
would you like to know?
Passenger: When was it built and how big is it?
Captain: It was built in Monfalcone, Italy and
first entered service in 1993. It's 720 feet
long.
Passenger: How many people can it carry?
Captain: It usually carries 1,266 guests and a crew
of 602.
Passenger: I'm impressed with all the beautiful
copies of art!
Captain: Those aren't copies; the Maasdam has a $2
million collection of art and artifacts onboard.
(Passengers gasp in amazement.)
Passenger: But, don't you worry about theft?
Captain: No, I don't worry about anything being

18
 stolen.
Passenger: It's an amazing collection!
Captain: Yes, it is. It's really become a
trademark of the company fleet. It has used
treasures from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries
that show how the Dutch explored worldwide...
Passenger: But I noticed you also have artwork from
other countries, too.
Captain: Yes, in fact, next to the swimming pool is
a bronze sculpture of Five leaping dolphins by a
British artist, Susanna Holt. You might have
noticed the collection of Japanese, Chinese and
Indian artifacts in the glass cases.
Donita: This boat seems to have everything!
Captain: I'm going to give you a little nautical
lesson; a boat can be carried on a ship, but a
ship cannot be carried on a boat. The two are not
the same.
Donita: Oh, thank you; I'll try to remember that.
But at my age, I might have to be reminded a few
times.
Passengers: Me, too! I wondered what the difference
was.
Sandra: How long will this ship be used? I mean,
is there a certain length of time before the
company decides to “scrap it?”
Captain: That's a very good question, but I don't
know the answer. (Passengers laughing.) I'll try
to find an answer for you; or you could go to the
ship's library and use the computer to research
your question.
Sandra: Good idea; I'll do that!
Passenger: Library? I didn't know there was a
library on board.
Donita: Yes, this ship has everything!
Captain: Now ladies and gentlemen, that is the
dinner bell signaling it is time for us to go
into the dining room.

During dinner at their assigned table, Donita and Sandra learn that two of the table-mates
have been on the ship before. In fact, Larry and Suzanne have taken seven previous trips!
They are celebrating their anniversary on this trip and have ordered a cake for the eight of
them to share. As they have been to the next port, everyone has lots of questions to ask.

Donita: Tell us about Roseau. Is there a lot to do

in Dominica?
Suzanne: It's famous for its Mome Trois Piton
tropical rainforest, rivers and waterfalls.

19
 There's also a place called Boiling Lake which it
really does!
Donita: How does it boil?
Suzanne: It's fed by volcanic origins and other
small fumaroles.
Larry: It's also one of the best dive sites in
the world. Then there are several park reserves
on the island.
Suzanne: I liked the whale watching; it was
breath-taking to see those magnificent creatures!
Larry: We really loved seeing the crater lakes,
waterfalls and... be sure you see the Emerald
Pool!
Suzanne: There is so much lush greenery around it,
the reflection makes the water look like a shiny
emerald.
Sandra: What was your favorite thing you did
there?
Larry: I liked the tram ride. For 90 minutes we
were 300 feet above the Breakfast River Gorge and
the forest canopy. We could see the waterfalls
and some of the birds.
Suzanne: The colors of those birds; just fantastic!
Our guide told us there were 172 species of birds
including a few endangered species of parrots.
Larry: The only thing I didn't like was the cost.
It was $119 dollars each for us to take the tram.
Donita: But think of the wonderful memories you
have; you can't put a price on that!
Suzanne: That's what I told him, too!
Larry: I agree, but everything on the island cost
more than I anticipated. There sure weren't any
bargains.
Suzanne: Larry's right. We had this idea that
people would live simply and cheaply there. The
tourist trade is really great for their economy!
Larry: Especially, when you consider that ships
are bringing thousands of people to the islands
every day! Our guide said there are about 20
ships that dock daily.
Donita: Tell us some more about the island.
Larry: All right. If you enjoy Botanical Gardens,
Dominica has Jaco and Sisserou parrots living
there. You can also take a hike to the top of
Trafalgar Falls, and smell wonderful ginger
plants and orchids.
Sandra: That sounds like something I would like to
see!

20
Larry: Let me warn you, though, you have to pay
$49 to get there.
Suzanne: Oh, Larry!
Larry: What? I'm just telling them they have to
pay for the bus that takes them there. They can't
walk to the gardens. You can only hike after
paying the driver.
Donita: I glad you told us about the cost of both
those places. That's a lot of money!
Suzanne: He's right. This time we are just going to
walk around the town.
Larry: And maybe do a little shopping.
Suzanne: But, Larry, that will cost money!
(Laughing.)
Larry: I know, I know. But we should buy a few
tourist type gifts for people back home.
The next morning, the women decide there will only be time for one activity on the island.
They discuss which event will be the least expensive and the most interesting. Finally, they
settle on taking a guided tour. Their guide meets them at the dock. She is holding a sign with
their last names printed on it.
Winsome: Good morning, ladies. I am very happy to meet
you. First, I want to give you a bottle of water as
it will get very hot today.
Sandra: Thank you, that's a very thoughtful idea!
What is your name?
Winsome: Oh, I'm sorry; I should have introduced
myself; my name is Winsome.
Donita: That's a beautiful name. I don't think I've
heard it before.
Winsome: I have to thank my father for it; he lived in
Jamaica for several years and named me after his
favorite teacher.
Sandra: What a nice story! I'm a teacher…..
Donita: (Interrupts.) Do you think any of your students
will name their daughter after you? (Laughs.)
Sandra: I wonder!
Winsome: What names should I call you ladies?
Both: We are Sandra and Donita.
Winsome: Very good; now ladies if you will be so good
as to get in my taxi, we will start the tour.
Sandra: I'm very interested in the history of the
island.
Donita: (Groans.) Not me; I'm more interested in seeing
the birds and flowers.
Sandra: I guess it's because I'm a teacher who loves
to travel and learn about everyone's culture.
Winsome: I will be happy to tell you about the history
of Roseau and then we will go to the beautiful

21
 Botanical Garden. Then both of you will be happy,
right? (She begins driving.)
Both: (Laughing.) Good idea!
Winsome: Do you ladies know the island of Dominica is
around 26 million years old?
Both: Really!
Winsome: Yes, but my history teacher said it is the
youngest island in the Caribbean. We are very lucky
because the older islands are not as pretty as
Dominica. I will tell you what my teacher taught us
about the first people to live here, but there will
be no test! (Laughs.)
Both: Thank you! (They also laugh.)
Winsome: Do you ladies know the origin of the name
Dominica?
Sandra: I think so. Doesn't it mean Sunday?
Winsome: Exactly! In 1493, Christopher Columbus sighted
the island on a Sunday, so that is what he named it.
Now for some more history:
More than 5,000 years ago, tribes migrated into the
Caribbean, maybe from the Orinoco basin. Then some
3,000 years later, Arawaks followed.
Donita: Are there some kind of records about the first
people living here?
Winsome: Not exactly; the only evidence about the first
people is from relics that were found. But we do know
more about the later people; the Arawaks. We know
that they were not warriors, but a peaceful people
who organized into communities. Sometime around 1000
AD, other Carib tribes sailed north to settle on
other islands. Any questions, so far?
Sandra: Yes, but I remember reading that early
European explorers were shocked to find cannibalistic
Caribs. Is that true?
Winsome: Historians believe that this was a story made
up by the sailors to justify the genocide that was
done in the area.
Donita: How horrible!
Winsome: Another suggestion was that early colonists
told this story to keep other explorers away from
trying to take over the islands. Anyway, fleets
avoided the Eastern Caribbean until the mid- 17th
century, just in case the story was true.
Sandra: So, what country decided to be “brave” and
explore the Caribbean?
Winsome: My teacher would be so proud of me for
remembering all these dates! (Big laugh.) In 1627, the
British Earl of Carlisle was given the rights to

22
 Dominica. Then in 1635, the French government claimed
Dominica and sent missionaries to the island. This
was a big mistake.
Donita: Why do you say that?
Winsome: The Carib people put up a big fight. They did
not want the soldiers or the missionaries telling
them how to live. The Caribs made it very difficult
for the French to get a “stronghold”; settlers did
not want to stay.
Sandra: How long did that last?
Winsome: It was another 100 years before the French
settled on Dominic. The population had dwindled
because of fighting and disease. The French lost
interest in living here.
Donita: And no other country tried to take over?
Winsome: The English came to the islands in 1761. Then
the Treaty of Paris was signed in 1783, giving the
British control. It wasn't until November 3, 1978
that there was full independence. By the 20th
century, there was a plan to divide the Caribbean
region among several nations.
Donita: What did that mean?
Winsome: In 1865, Dominica was a British Crown colony.
By 1967 Dominica became semi-independent. We had a
female prime minister in 1980. But the former prime
minister did not like losing the election. So there
was some trouble.
Sandra: What happened?
Winsome: There were two coup attempts and Patrick John
the former minister was accused of starting them. He
was acquitted, but a few years later was found
guilty.
Donita: Did he go to jail?
Winsome: He was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Now
ladies we have arrived at the Botanical Garden. Feel
free to stroll around for as long as you like. I will
look for you in an hour to find out if you want to
stay longer or leave. Goodbye until then.
Sandra: Goodbye. Donita, let's get one of those flyers
over there to find out about the park. (They pick one
up and read.)
Donita: It says here “The gardens cover nearly 1/3 of
the land in the inner city. In the last few years, it
has suffered damage due to severe tropical weather.”
Sandra: What a shame!
Donita: It seems to be a top priority to restore it.
It says here, “The government has undertaken a
serious effort to make the gardens a place of beauty

23
 once more for both the visitors and residents.”
Sandra: It's so beautiful now; can you imagine it
looking better than this?
Guide: Good morning, ladies.
Both: Good morning.
Guide: I am here to answer any questions you might
have about the gardens.
Donita: How big is this place and how long has it been
here?
Guide: There are 40 acres and was started in 1890 by
the British Crown Government. The original purpose
was to have a supply of seeds of various crops for
the farmers.
Sandra: Forty acres! I don't think one hour will be
long enough for us to see it all.
Guide: You had only planned to see the garden for one
hour?
Donita: Our driver, Winsome said she would meet us in
one hour.
Guide: I know Winsome and I think she just wanted to
give you some private time to look around; then she
will probably join you and explain more about the
plants, parrots and small animals.
Donita: I'm very interested in seeing the parrots. I
read that some of them are on the endangered species
list.
Guide: Yes, that is very true; I'll show them to you
as we get closer to the parrot research center.
Sandra: Everything grows so lush; is there a lot of
rainfall in this area?
Guide: Yes, the gardens receive about 85 inches a
year; which is perfect for a wide variety of plants.
At one time this was all sugarcane fields.
Donita: Why did the owner stop growing sugarcane?
Guide: William Davies was the owner of the estate and
wasn't having a lot of luck with his cane. I think
he was very happy when the Government offered to buy
his land.
Sandra: This is so lovely; I'm sure this is a very
popular place for tourists and visitors.
Guide: It's also a very popular place for botanists
Almost from the beginning, The Gardens was associated
with botanists from Kew Botanical who collected
plants from all over the world. About six years after
the plantings were begun, a portion of the land was
given to the Catholic Church to start the first
secondary school on the island.
Donita: Do you know if any famous people have been

24
 here?
Guide: (Laughing.) Oh, my yes! Her Majesty Queen
Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip have been here twice
– once in 1966 and again in 1985. There have also
been famous cricket teams playing here.
Donita: Cricket? But where could they play in this
garden?
Guide: The Gardens didn't always look like this. I'll
show you where the cricket field was. It was so
famous, players came from India, New Zealand, the
U.K. and Guyana.
Look here's Winsome!
Winsome: Hello, everyone. Have you been enjoying the
tour?
Sandra: Yes, it's been wonderful; we have really
learned a lot.
Guide: Winsome, I'm going to let you take over now
while I go answer other people's questions. Goodbye,
Ladies. Have a pleasant day.

(They all say goodbye and continue walking.)

Winsome: Perhaps you have been told about the two

sections of The Gardens?
Both: No.
Winsome: The Gardens is divided mostly into two
sections, the ornamental and the exotic plants
section. Then the second section is the economic
plants section, often called, “the back.”
Donita: Does “economic plants” mean they are cheap to
grow?
Winsome: Maybe, for some of the plants, but more
exactly these are plants that produce an edible crop.
The crops there are citrus, coffee, nutmeg, ackee,
tomatoes, lettuce, cabbage and radish.
Sandra: I remember eating ackee in Jamaica, a very a
delicious fruit! I wish we could buy it in the U.S.
Winsome: Yes, it is a delicious fruit when it is ripe,
but it is poisonous when it is not ripe. It is
illegal to export it for that reason.
Donita: I'm surprised that some of the same vegetables
I have in my garden were grown here!:
Winsome: All of these crops were grown for
experimentation purposes by the botanists; they were
testing these vegetables under climate and soil
conditions. Most of the economic section is no longer
used…
Sandra: I see by the signs that these are “medicinal

25
 plants?”
Winsome: I think this is a fascinating part of the
garden! (Points to plant.) My mother made tea from
the Orange leaf to stop vomiting; and the Guava leaf
to treat diarrhea. Over there, is the Periwinkle,
used in a tea for diabetes. Modern drug companies use
it to lower blood sugar in diabetics, in the
treatment of leukemia and as tranquilizers.
Donita: Why don't more people know about these natural
cures?
Winsome: It's strange, but herb medicines are looked
upon by drug companies with skepticism.
Unfortunately, many of the herb remedies are untested
scientifically. My mother got her knowledge from her
mother as did each generation before them. So we know
what plants are safe to use.
Sandra: Maybe drug manufacturers don't want people to
know there is something cheaper to use than
prescribed medicine?
Winsome: Perhaps……Did you know that many medicines come
from plants? For example, salcilin, the base for
aspirin comes from the Willow bark. Digitalis, which
is used for regulating heart beat, comes from
Foxglove, and quinine used to treat Malaria comes
from Cinchona bark.
Donita: I read about the Native Americans using some
of those plants. Medical Research could really learn
a lot by coming to The Gardens!
Winsome, Donita and Sandra continue walking through the park until they approach a fenced
in area. The sign states, “Parrot Conservation and Research Centre Botanical Gardens.”
Donita: This is what I really wanted to see!
(Continues reading.) “Dedicated to preserving
Dominica's Wildlife.”
Sandra: She is a real bird lover. You should see
all the birdhouses and birdbaths Donita has in
her yard!
Winsome: Let's go inside then. (They enter through
the gate.) Here you will find many beautiful and
interesting birds. Donita, if you name a bird
you might be able to find it here.
Donita: The Mountain Dove?
Winsome: Yes, it is here.
Donita: I'm sure you don't have Chicken Hawks in
this beautiful place.
Winsome: Yes, it is here, also. Look over there.
(She points to a bird sitting in tree.)
Sandra: Why are some of the birds caged while
others are flying about?

26
Winsome: Good question! In the Gardens, you will
see the Sisserou Parrot, caged because this is
not its' natural habitat. By the way, this is
the national bird.
Donita: This is truly a Bird Watchers paradise!
Sandra: Can you recommend any books about the
birds here?
Winsome: Yes, there is a very good one by James
Durand and Jim Baptiste, “Dominica's Birds”.
Donita: What's the most unusual bird you have
seen?
Winsome: That's a difficult question…. hmm.
There's the Sikye, who some people call the
Bananquit. Then there's the Green-throated
Carib, and the Carib Grackel, Or maybe the
Black-whiskered Vireo… There are just too many
to choose the most unusual.
Sandra: So do these birds actually stay here all
year? None of them migrate?
Winsome: Oh, yes, some of them do migrate. In
fact, some of these birds originally came from
America.
Donita: Like which ones?
Winsome: There's the American Kestrel, the
Warbler, Barn Owl, the Sandpiper and others from
the migratory species. Even the Robin is not a
Caribbean native.
Sandra: Maybe once they got here, they didn't
want to leave. (Laughing)
Donita: I can understand that! The aroma of the
flowers, the perfect weather… What a wonderful
place to live! It is going to be difficult to
leave here and go back home.
Winsome: It is a beautiful place, but like
anywhere else, Dominica has had its' problems,
too. A hurricane came through here in 1979 and
in eight hours this beautiful garden and the
surrounding area were destroyed.
Sandra: How terrible! I'm very curious: how large
is the population? And how big is the island?
Winsome: Roseau has a little over 14,000 people.
Dominica is 30 miles long and Sixteen miles
wide. Since you are a teacher, you might like to
know that it is built on the ancient Kalinago
Indian village of Sairi. It is the oldest and
most important settlement on the island. (They
continue strolling through the Garden.)
Donita: I'd like to know more about the village.

27
Sandra: Me, too.
Winsome: I am happy to tell you more about it, but
first do you have any questions about this
section of the Garden?
Donita: Are there any wild animals here?
Winsome: (Laughing.) I don't think you would like
to meet the wild animals that our famous on our
island!
Sandra: Why do you say that?
Donita: Are they dangerous?
Winsome: There are twelve species of bats, the
wild pig, the Agouti and the Opossum. And yes,
some of them can be dangerous.
Sandra: What is an agouti?
Winsome: It's a large rodent, about the size of a
rodent with stripes. Both the agouti and the
opossum are all over the island and are hunted
during the open season.
Donita: I read in the ship's newspaper that the
pigs were brought here by the Spanish.
Winsome: That's true; in our history we learned
that the French called the Spanish, “Buccaneers”
which means the method they used for cooking the
pork. It was meant to be an insult.
Sandra: Why?
Winsome: The Spanish tried to take over the French
lands by killing all of the pigs. Since the
animals were a big part of the economy, they
thought this would make the French people leave.
Donita: What happened?
Winsome: The Spanish drove them from their land
and a new plan developed.
Donita: A new plan?
Winsome: The people on the island were not
soldiers, but they were excellent swimmers and
sailors.

Whenever a Spanish ship was spotted close to the island, the men would go out there at night
and board the ship while most of the crew slept. (They continue walking around the animal
area.)

Sandra: This is very interesting; I don't know

anything about this part of history.
Winsome: At first, the men would just steal what
they needed, but later they decided to start
stealing any Spanish ships that came close to
the island. Then they became proud of calling
themselves, “Buccaneers.”

28
Donita: I think I would like to learn more about
the pirates in this area.
Sandra: There's a library onboard the ship; we
can look up some more history when we go back.
Donita: Good idea!
Winsome: Now I didn't forget about your interest
in the Kalinago Village. It has a Confusing
history; you might like to read more when you
get back to the ship.
Sandra: Confusing?
Winsome: Yes, about 100 years before the Spanish
came here, the Tainos and the Cribs were
fighting. The Caribs wanted women from other
villages for wives. Then the Europeans came and
fought to get the land. Then when Columbus
arrived, he called the people, “Indians.”
Kalinago is the Carib word for the people.
Sandra: I understand why you say it is confusing.
I would like to read about the history.
Donita: I think we should go back into town now.
I'd like to see the fort and maybe do some
shopping.

They get into the cab. Winsome drives them to the north-west coast where they tour Fort
Shirley, named after the Governor of Dominica in 1774. The buildings were in continuous use
as a hospital in the 1920's and then as an agricultural center until it was closed down. Then
the ladies return to the ship.

Sandra: That was a fantastic experience; I really

learned a lot from Winsome.
Donita: Let's get some lunch, and then go to the
library. I'd like to read about the Pirates and
more about Dominca.
Sandra: We don't want to eat too much; this
afternoon there's a Filipino Tea at 3:00. I'm
really looking forward to trying food from
another country.
Donita: I agree; I'll just have a salad for now.

After lunch, they go to the library.

Sandra: (Reading from book.) Donita, listen to

this: “To this day, the Kalinago people fight
against what they regard as a misconception
about their ancestors. The film “Pirates of the
Caribbean” was criticized by the National
Garifun Council for portraying the Carib people
as cannibals.”

29
Donita: Well in this article by Wikipedia it
says, “Instances of Cannibalism were noted as a
feature of a war ritual.”
Sandra: What does that mean?
Donita: It says that cannibalism was part of a
religious ceremony.
Sandra: In my book it states, “Cannibalism was
only practiced when a Carib defeated his enemy.
It was believed he could take on the bravery of
that person.”
Donita: Here's another article: “The idea of
cannibalism was a lie. It was used as an excuse
to enslave or kill the native people.” Isn't
that what the driver told us?
Sandra: Yes, she did. Look at the time! We better
go change our clothes and go to the Filipino tea.
They hurry to their room, change clothes and go to the formal dining room. There the waiters
are dressed in traditional Filipino clothing. The scent of the beautiful flowers on the tables fills
the room. The women sit down at a table for four. A waiter approaches. He holds a tray of
various teas and invites them to choose one.
Donita: (To the waiter.) I'd like to try a
traditional tea; what do you suggest?
Waiter: (Points to teas.) This one is a sweet
tea, this one is black, here is a ginger, and
here is a green.
Donita: Thank you; I'll have the black tea. (The
waiter and his assistant pour hot water into the
tea pot, swirl the water around then pour it out
into a small bucket.. More hot water is then
poured over the loose tea, strained and poured
into individual pots.)
Sandra: I'll have the same. (Another waiter
appears with a colorful array of small
sandwiches and desserts.)
Donita: This one and that one, please. (Pointing
to her selection.)
Sandra: They look beautiful; can you tell me what
this is?
Waiter: This is Bibinka. This one is Cassava
Cake. This is Pastillas de Leche. You might like
to try this one, Pinpig Plovoron. And this is an
invitation for both of you. (He hands an
envelope to Sandra.)
Sandra: Thank you. (Opens the invitation.) “You
are invited to the Fiipino Crew Show in
the Theater. There will be singing, comedy and
dancing by the crew at 11:15 p.m.”
Donita: 11:15! That sounds like fun, but I don't

30
 know if I can stay awake that late. (Laughing.)
I better take a short nap.
Sandra: Good idea!

The women go back to their staterooms to relax before they need to get ready for
dinner.Donita is very tired and stretches out on the bed. Sandra starts reading the daily
newspaper.

Sandra: I'm going to read a little more about

Dominica.
Donita: Maybe we should start reading about
Curacao as that's the next island we'll see.
Sandra: Maybe, but listen to this… (Reading.)
These people are believed to have left the
rainforests in South American to settle in the
Caribbean. Women spoke one language, Maipurean
while the men spoke another. It is thought that
the reason for this was that all the women had
been captured from another tribe.”
Donita: But wouldn't they have learned each
other's language at some time?
Sandra: According to this article, they might
have happened, but women still preferred to
speak to other women in Maipurean and to the men
in Carib. It became known as the language of
women.
Donita: (Sleepily.) I wonder if the children
became bi-lingual.
Sandra: Go to sleep; I'll wake you up in time for
dinner and the show. Don't forget It's formal
tonight.

After dinner the women join other passengers in watching the show. Two of the dancers
explain the meaning of La Jota Moncadena (Castanet Dance). Then they watch the
“Pandanggo sa Ilaw (Candlelight Dance). Two women dance wearing crowns of lighted candles
on their heads. The audience seems to collectively hold its' breath until the girls finish dancing
and extinguish the lights.

Next the dancers demonstrate a traditional Planting Rice Dance, “Magtatanim and finally the
Bamboo Dance (Tinikling). The audience jumps to their feet cheering and applauding for the
fantastic entertainment.

The next morning, the women get up early, get dressed and have breakfast. They are excited
about going onshore. While waiting for the ship to dock, Donita is reading the daily newspaper
outloud.

Donita: This is rather funny! “In 1499 Spanish

explorer Alonso de Ojeda claimed Curacao for

31
 Queen Isabella. Many of the explorers were from
Valencia, Spain and decided to grow the famous
oranges from that region. However, they did not
grow well on the island and had a bitter taste.
In disgust, some of the growers let the oranges
ferment, but didn't want to waste the food. So,
they discovered by accident the fermented
oranges mad a good liqueur!
Sandra: That is ironic! I know a Margarita would
not be the same without Curacao! Let's go out on
deck and watch the ship dock.
The women go topside where they are joined by a couple from Holland, Pieter and Mari.

Pieter: Willemstad reminds me a lot of Holland.

Mari: Except for the pastel colored buildings,
right?
Donita: Are the houses anything like this in
Holland?
Mari: The architecture is very similar, but
most people don't have porches, shutters or the
verandas.
Pieter: The weather is not this warm so most
people don't sit around too much. They like to
be outside hiking or riding bikes.
Sandra: Look, they're throwing the lines toward
the dock... that man is tying the ropes to the
back of the trucks... now the trucks are driving
across the pier. So that's how they tie up the
ship!
Pieter: Mari and I were here three years ago and
really enjoyed seeing the floating market, and
the museums. You might want to go just west of
the floating bridge to the Ortabanda district.
Mari: In the 17th century it was a place of
quarantine for lepers. In the center of the
square, is a statue of Pedro Luis Brion, one of
Curacao's most beloved historical figures.
Donita: What did he do?
Pieter: He lead the islanders in a fight against
the British in the 19th century. Then he went to
join the Venezuelan freedom fighters.
Mari: It's very easy to get lost in the area,
but the maze-like design was done on purpose. It
was thought to be an easy way to stop invaders
who would find it easier to pillage along neatly
aligned streets.
Sandra: A very smart plan!
Mari: Some people say Curacao is a “cross”

32
 between South America and the Caribbean Sea.
Donita: Why is that?
Mari: There seems to be more than 40 different
cultures that are represented here.
Sandra: What languages are spoken?
Pieter: Dutch, English and French.
Donita: Are we ready to go ashore?
All: Yes, let's go!

Willemstad, Curacao

They all say goodbye after agreeing to get together later on the ship. Donita and Sandra cross
the floating bridge, then pay for a guided tour of the area. They visit the oldest Jewish Temple
in the America, see the floating market lines de Ruyterkade, where small boats arrive daily
laden with fresh produce and fish. The driver takes them through the Scharloo and Pietermaai
Districts where mansions which date from the 1700's have been restored. Then they go to the
Kura Hulanda Hotel and Museum. They soberly look at the exhibits of African slave trade. A
guide gives them a leaflet to read. Then they go back to the ship.

While waiting for Pieter and Mari, Sandra and Donita read the information from the museum:

C1000 BC Caiquetios communities on Cauracao

1AD Arawak tribes reach Curacao. Caiquetios people

vanished.

1514 Spaniards name the Lesser Antiles Islas

Inutiles useless islands

1515 European colonists kidnap indigenous Americans

for slavery

1516 Colonization begins on Curacao

1634 Aruba and Curacao are Dutch possessions

1636 Dutch forces expelled from St. Maarten, move to

Aruba and claim land.

1648 ABC islands unite as Curacao

1805 British control ABC islands during Napoleonic

Wars

1815 Dutch regain control

1824 Gold is discovered on Aruba

33
1828 Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, St. Eustatius,
St. Maarten, and Dutch Guiana unite as Dutch
West Indies

1863 Slaaves emancipated

1922 Islands become overseas region of Netherlands

1924 Oil is discovered

1948 Dutch islands are renamed Netherlands Antilles,

Guiana becomes Suriname
Sandra: I'm glad we got these flyers; now I
understand the history a little better.
Donita: It does make the history much clearer.
Here come Pieter and Mari.
Sandra: Hello! Where did you two go onshore?
Mari: We went to Fort Amsterdam. It was
thought-provoking to see something that was
built in 1635 to protect the town. The old
raparts now house the government offices.
Pieter: Tell them about the cannonball. (They sit
down at the table.)
Mari: Can you believe it? There's an old
cannonball embedded in the chapel wall that was
never removed.
Pieter: Supposedly it has purposely left there as
a reminder of Captain Bligh's 26-day siege. The
story is that he was aiming for the buildings on
the far right, but missed!
Donita: What an embarrassment that must have
been!
Mari: I'm sure it was; maybe he needed glasses.
Pieter: After that, we walked below the
Governor's Palace, and saw the Fort Church
Museum It had a small display of religious
artifacts.
Sandra: Did you go anywhere else?
Pieter: Yes, we saw the Synagogue Mikve Israil
Emanuel. Can you believe it was Built in 1734?
It is an elegant building and very well cared
for... The Mahogany just shines from being
polished all these years. And there are four
huge candelabras!
Mari: Nest to it is the Rabbi's House which has
been turned into a museum. It was lovely. I was
curious about the sand on the floor, so had to
ask a guide.

34
Donita: How strange!
Mari: That's what I thought. The guide
explained the traditional sand floor was to
maintain an air of humility. He also said the
300 year old Mikvah was a bath used for
ceremonial cleansing.
Sandra: We took a ride through the old Jewish
quarter. The houses were very impressive.
Pieter: Did you see the one that looks like a
wedding cake? It's the most photographed house
in the world.
Donita: Wow! I thought maybe the White House was
the most photographed.
Pieter: The next time we come, I would like to go
to the Underwater Park and the Seaquarium Beach.
Mari: (Laughing.) The next time? So you are
already planning the next trip?
Pieter: Absolutely! We just can't see everything
in one day.
Mari: I'm so glad to hear that; I didn't even
have time for shopping, so the next time... I
want to go to a jewelry store.
Pieter: (As first dinner bell sounds.) Saved by
the bell! It's time to get changed dinner.
Sandra: Yes, we have the second seating also.
We'll see you later. Goodbye.
During the night, the ship has sailed on to Oranjestad, Aruba. Because it is Palm Sunday in a
predominately Catholic country, almost all businesses are shut down. But the women have
reserved a ride on a jet boat that will be available. They get on the boat and are soon
“treated” to fast spins with lots of water drenching them. Everyone is laughing at the fun.
Soon the pilot announces they will be coming close to a ship that was sunk off shore. It is
named the California. He informs everyone that it is not the USS California that received a
distress call from the Titanic. This boat was a fruit boat that sank.
Donita: That ride was so much fun, but I am
soaked! Let's go back to the ship to change
clothes.
Sandra: Maybe by the time we get there, the sun
will have dried our clothes.
Donita: That's true. Let's find out if one of the
museums is open. I really like visiting one in
every country. (They continue walking down the
pier.)
Sandra: It is fun and we can learn so much about
the people and their history. Look! Isn't that a
museum? (Pointing to a small brick building.)
Let's go inside. My clothes are dry enough.
(They go inside.)
Donita: (Reading a sign.) “Archaeological digs
seem to indicate humans reached Aruba about 4,

35
 500 years ago. Only a a few shards of pottery
and fossilized implements are relics that have
been found in the Arikok National Park.” (They
walk through the museum while looking in the
glass cases.)
Sandra: “The name, Aruba, could have come from
the Spanish phrase Alonso de Ojeda spoke to
Queen Isabella. In 1499 after claiming the area
for her, he stated, “oro hubo.” (Gold was
there.)
Donita: There is some disagreement as to the
origin of the island name. This sign states,
“The island name is thought to have derived from
the Arawak word oibubai (guide) instead. When
the people greeted Ojeda, he thought they were
talking about gold deposits.”
Sandra: Look at this sign! We are in an authentic
18-th century Aruban house. It is built from
caliche, a rather crusty, but hard calcium-based
substance found on the south-east side of the
island.
Guide: Good afternoon, ladies. May I answer any
questions you have?
Donita: Thank you, this is very educational.
Sandra: I really enjoy learning about history.
Guide: Then you might also enjoy seeing the
Mumismatic Museum It isn't far from here. (She
points to the building nearby.)
Donita: (As they walk to the museum.) I don't
want to stay very long; I'm getting cold and
hungry.
Sandra: O.K. We'll make this a quick stop. (They
enter the building.)

Inside the museum, the women see a collection of coins and paper money from over 400
countries. The yotins were once used as local currency. However, metal was so scarce, coins
were often cut into triangular pieces using a guillotine. The women return to the ship, change
clothes and go to the dining room.

Donita: There are Pieter and Mari; let's go sit

with them.
Mari: Hi, Did you have fun in Aruba?
Sandra: We did; but I wish we could have been
there longer.
Pieter: Why didn't you?
Donita: We got soaked and cold!
Mari: Did you have time to see the museums?
Sandra: Yes, but there wasn't a lot open today

36
 because of Palm Sunday.
Pieter: But did you see the windmill?
Donita: No, we didn't.
Pieter: It was built and used in Holland over 200
years ago. Then someone got the idea of taking
it apart, piece by piece. They put numbers on
each part so they could easily get it back
together. They shipped it to Aruba in 1960.
Mari: I wonder whose idea it was to go to all
that expense; wouldn't it have been Cheaper just
to build a new one here?
Sandra: But maybe the person wanted to have an
authentic piece of Holland here.
Pieter: I think so,too. Remember there are a lot
of Dutch people who left their homeland to move
so far away. This was like taking a little bit
of home with them.
Donita: What did you do today?
Mari: We rented a car and went to Bushiribana.
It's a small village on the coast. Look here's
the map. (Pointing to area.) We went across
Frenchman's Pass, the valley where Napoleon's
troops fought against the Arawaks. Then we saw
Seroe Plat, where there are abandoned gold
mines.
Pieter: Gold was discovered there in 1824. It was
said that that more than 3 millions pounds was
taken from the mines.
Donita: That's incredible! I wonder who got rich
from it?
Pieter: I wonder, too. By the way, I heard yet
another tale about how Aruba might have got its'
name.
Sandra: We sure have heard a lot of possibilities
today; what's your story?
Pieter: It seems that in the 1400's and 1500's
men traveled all over the Caribbean looking for
treasure. One of the islands where gold was
found was named “Oro Ruba” which means “red
gold.” Now doesn't that sound a lot like
“Aruba?”
Donita: Yes, it does. I can understand how that
name might have become Aruba. But then, again,
all of the stories make sense about the origin
of the name.
Sandra: (With a big sigh.) I wish we were given
more time to explore. I enjoyed seeing all of
the islands. I definitely want to go back.

37
Donita: I do, too. Can you imagine how many
hundreds of islands there are? There are
probably some that will never have a human
footprint!
Pieter: True, true. Well, ladies, we are going to
our room to start packing. It's sad to think the
trip is almost over.
Sandra: Goodbye; we'll see you for dinner.
(Everyone leaves.)

The women go back to their rooms. They take some clothes to the laundry room, then begin
to pack. After changing into formal clothes, they go to the dining room, Pictures are taken,
addresses exchanged. The mood is one of sadness. There have been many friendships begun
onboard. There is one last night of entertainment by the professional singers and dancers. The
women sleep very soundly after their busy day.

Donita: Good morning! (Looking at ships

newspaper.)
Sandra: Good morning;
Donita: We need to make the most of our day
today! It's the last time someone will cook all
the meals for me and treat me like a Queen.
(Laughing.)
Sandra: Let me grab a quick shower and I'm ready
to do everything onboard!

The women have breakfast, listen to a lecture, play cards with Pieter and Mari, shop, use the
computer, go to the beauty shop, and buy a few more gifts. They attend the last party on
deck listening to the band and eating dinner.

Donita: Look at that beautiful moon!

Sandra: It's perfect for our last night at sea.
Pieter: What is your debarkation time?
Sandra: We don't get off the ship until 11:00.
And you?
Mari: We get off at 9:00. Our flight home is at
12:00
Donita: Our flight schedule isn't very
convenient, so we are going to stay overnight.
Sandra: I'm really happy that we are staying
over; it won't be quite as depressing to end
the vacation right away. We're going to explore
Florida a little before leaving tomorrow.
Pieter: That sounds like a good idea.
Donita: What about you? Do you have to fly back
to Holland today?
Mari: No, we're going to fly to Canada to visit
some friends for a week. We lived there some

38
 years ago and traveled around in an old trailer
together.
Pieter: That's what I call our “Bohemian” period
of life. We were actors in Canada, struggling to
make a living.
Donita: We need to get back for the cooking
contest in Portland
Mari: That sounds like fun! How did you decide
to participate?
Sandra: We filled out the application and sent it
in 6 months ago. Then just before leaving on
this trip, we received letters saying we were
both accepted.
Mari: What are you going to cook?
Donita: I'm going to make a beef dish.
Sandra: I'm going to make a dessert.
Pieter: I hope you will let us know how you did
in the contest. What is the prize?
Donita: First place is $50,000 and a new car.
Second place is $25,000 and third place is
$10,000.
Pieter: I'd like to win any of those! Do you
think there will be some resentment or jealousy
if one of you wins?
Donita: We decided six months ago that any prize
money is going to go into a travel account for
both of us. That way we can both enjoy another
trip.
Mari: What a wonderful idea! Do you have any
idea where you want to go next?
Sandra: Yes. I have a cousin in Scotland who is
having some difficulty. It's very strange, but
his sheep have been disappearing, one by one.
He's asked If I could come help him.
Donita: She's very good at solving mysteries!
Mari: You've solved mysteries before?
Donita: She's too modest to tell you, but the
police department calls her when they have a
puzzling crime.
Pieter: I'd like to hear about some of those;
perhaps you should write a book!
Sandra: Perhaps. I don't want to appear rude, but
I think I am ready to get some sleep. (Gets up
from table.) Goodnight. Have a good flight!
Mari: Thank you; it's been very nice meeting
both of you.

As the women walk away, Sandra hears Pieter say, “She solves crimes!”

39
Mari: Shhh! She might hear you. Don't panic.
Pieter: But what if she finds out... She's
turning around.
Mari: Just smile and wave.

The women go back to their staterooms. Sandra sits on her bed in deep thought.

Donita: You're a quiet one.

Sandra: Did you hear Pieter as we were leaving?
He seemed very concerned after you said I help
the police department. And there's something
about his hair... I think he wears a toupee and
I think he wears make-up.
Donita: Really? I didn't notice anything
unusual... ( She packs a few more things.)
Sandra: I think I'll take a walk to the ship's
library and use the computer. I haven't read a
newspaper in ten days.
Donita: Do you want me to come with you?
Sandra: No, thanks, I just want to do some
research. I'll take a key with me. (She walks
into to the empty library and opens a computer,
searching for international news reports.) I
wonder... could it be? (She leans close to the
screen for a betterl.) I think it is him! (She
jumps at the sound of someone behind her.)
Pieter: I was afraid you might be here.
Sandra: Oh, Pieter, you startled me! I was just
looking at my emails.
Pieter: And reading the international news?
Stand up quietly and come with me.
Mari: Pieter, what are you going to do?
Pieter: I'm going to see how well Sandra can
swim.
Mari: No, you can't!
Pieter: Be smart, Mari. We can't have her
telling anyone she recognized us. Do you want
to go to prison again?
Sandra: I won't stand up; so you'll have to
carry me! (Angrily she pushes at the Computer,
which topples to the floor. At the loud crash,
three crew members run into the library.)
Crew: What's going on here? Did someone have
an accident?
Sandra: I'd like to see the captain immediately.
This man was going to throw me overboard!
Pieter: But she's lying; why would I do that?
(Nervously backs away.)

40
Mari: Pieter, it's all over. We don't have a
chance. Just give up.
Pieter: Be quiet! It's her word against ours.
Crew: Sir, if you will come with me.
Sandra: Not exactly... I'd like to show the
captain this article on the computer.
Crew: (Looking at the article.) This is very
serious. (Gestures to other crew members.) One
of you go get the captain. All of you sit down.

Mari begins weeping. Pieter sits with his head in his hands. In a few minutes, the captain
appears.

Captain: What is happening here?

Sandra: Captain, I think you should read this
article. (Pointing to the computer.)
Captain: “Jewel thieves continue to plague
Europe. In a recent London interview Inspector
Boyd was quoted as saying, “The thieves' method
seems very similar to thefts that took place in
Canada when I lived there three years ago. A
tourist taking pictures across from the jewelry
store was able to get a clear picture of the
couple. Although thousands of pictures were
distributed, the couple was never found.”

The captain looked at the couple in amazement.

Captain: I believe this couple looks enough like

the picture to detain them.
Crew Member: Captain, they also threatened to throw
this woman overboard.
Captain: Lock them in the brig. I'll contact the
authorities to come onboard tomorrow. (The
couple is taken out as he talks to Sandra.)
How did you happen to discover this
information?
Sandra: There were several things that concerned
me. One, Pieter seemed to be wearing a toupee
that didn't match his natural hair. Two, they
had both been actors in Canada where the
robberies began. Actors can use makeup and wigs
to change their appearances very quickly. And
just after they moved to Scotland, there was a
rash of jewel thefts in Europe.
Captain: It's a good thing you were suspicious
enough to check the computer. In just a few
hours, we would be in the United States and

41
 they would be free to rob again.
Sandra: Thank you, now I'm going to my room to
sleep. I can't wait to get home for some peace
and quiet in my little town. Nothing exciting
ever happens there. And then there's the
cooking contest next week...

What Sandra doesn't know yet, is that the postman has delivered a letter to her home that will
led to a trail of intrigue with the disappearance of a cooking contestant and a judge.

There was absolutely no doubt that Henry Orpington liked politics. He talked about politics all
the time. All the members of his family were pleased, therefore, when Henry was adopted as
the prospective parliamentary candidate for the constituency in which they were living. One
year later the date of the general election was announced by the Prime Minister. Throughout
the election campaign Henry's wife and his two teenage daughters worked night and day for
him and he finally won a seat in the House of Commons by a very large majority. Every day of
the campaign was a challenge, but there was one day in particular that Henry would never
forget. That was the day he thought he was going to be blown up by a bomb.
On a Friday morning at the beginning of the campaign, the phone rang in the Orpingtons'
house at six-thirty in the morning. Henry got out of bed and ran down the stairs. He wondered
who could possibly be ringing at that early hour in the morning.

Henry Hello.
Man's voice Is that Mr. Henry Orpington, the
parliamentary candidate?
Henry Yes, speaking.
Man's voice Oh, good morning. I want to warn you about
a bomb....
Henry A bomb? Where? Hello! We've been cut off.
Operator! Operator! Operator!
was no good. The line had gone dead. As calmly as he could Henry went upstairs to tell his
wife the alarming news. They decided to get dressed at once and take the two girls to their
aunt's house. Henry informed the police but asked them to keep the news from the press. At
half past eight Henry was in conference with his election agent, Andrew Higgins, at party
headquarters.

Andrew If you want my opinion, I suggest you cancel all your

engagements for today and wait until the police
get to the bottom of the matter.
Henry Certainly not! I'm not going to let myself be scared by
some stupid crank.
Andrew What did the man sound like? Did you recognize his voice?
Henry No, I was half asleep. His voice wasn't familiar but he
sounded quite pleasant. He didn't seem to be threatening
me.
Andrew That makes the whole business even more sinister.
Look here, Henry, one day won't make all that much
difference. I'll tell people that you've lost your voice
or something.
Henry No, I'm going to carry on as usual. Think of the

42
 advantage it would give my opponents if I were out of the
campaign even for one day.
Andrew If you say so. But I'd like to make it clear that I'm
dead against it.
Henry Orpington's first engagement that day was an open-air meeting on a large housing
estate at ten o'clock. As most of the men were out at work, his audience consisted mainly of
women and young children. Andrew Higgins kept a close watch on the platform from which
Henry was making his speech, while several plainclothes policemen mingled inconspicuously
with the crowd.
There was very little reaction to Henry's speech, except from one or two hecklers at the back
who kept on asking what Henry's party intended to do about the rising price of fruit and
vegetables. After the speech he shook hands with some of the women. One of them lifted up a
baby for him to kiss, but the sight of Henry's beard must have frightened it because it began
to scream its head off.

At eleven o'clock he paid a brief visit to a public house on the estate. Henry couldn't offer to
buy anyone a drink because he knew very well that his opponents would consider that to be
bribery. So he let one of his supporters buy him a drink instead.

At lunch time he went to his sister's house to see his wife and daughters. They had spent the
morning addressing envelopes for the leaflets he was sending out. His sister, Vera, thoroughly
disapproved of his involvement in politics.

Vera Now I hope you can see the danger of getting mixed up
in politics, Henry. You and the family will probably all
be blown up.
Henry Don't exaggerate, Vera. I'm sure it's just a hoax.
Vera I only hope you're right. What other meetings have you
got today?
Henry I shall be calling at houses in Midhampton this
afternoon, and then there's a big meeting tonight in the
field behind Thompson's farm.
Vera There you are, then. No doubt one of those stupid
farmers has got a pile of bombs hidden in a haystack.
Henry Oh, Vera, really!

There was a large crowd in the field when Henry arrived at eight o'clock for what was perhaps
the biggest meeting of the whole campaign. His constituency was largely a farming community
and the most important local issue concerned the subsidies that the new government would be
paying to the farmers. After a hard day's work, hundreds of farmers and farm labourers had
come to the field to hear what Henry had to say.

Henry Ladies and gentlemen, I appreciate the anxiety you must

all feel about this question of subsidies. I too have
been a farmer and I know the difficulties you are
experiencing, and so ...
Heckler ... and so you've decided to become an M.P. and get rich!
Henry No, my friend. I want to give the farmers a voice in the
House of Commons.

43
Heckler I don't believe a word of it!
Henry You've got a strong voice, I'll admit. But London's two
hundred miles away and I don't think your voice will carry
that far. That's why I want to speak on your behalf.
"Do you like tomatoes?" shouted one of the tractor drivers. Henry hesitated for a moment and
then replied: "Yes, I like them very much."

"Well, we can't sell them at a profit," said the tractor driver, "because the imported ones are
too cheap. So rather than let them go to waste, you can have them!"

It was then that Henry noticed that the tractors were loaded with boxes of tomatoes, which
the farmers started to throw at him. Unfortunately for Henry, two of them hit him full in the
face. He realized that he had to say something quickly to win the crowd over to his side.
"Thank you for your generous gift, but I really prefer them in sandwiches. And now let's get on
with the meeting."

The crowd started to cheer and Henry managed to finish his speech without further
interruptions. In the meantime the police had made a thorough search of Henry's house and
assured him that there were no hidden bombs. He went back to his sister's house to collect his
family.

Vera I've got some supper ready. I'm sure you must be
starving.
Henry You shouldn't have bothered. We can all go back home
now. The police have searched the house thoroughly and
they found nothing at all.
Vera Well, at least stay and eat the nice salad I've made.
Henry All right, Vera. Just so long as there are no
tomatoes in it!

After supper, Henry and his family went home. Later that evening the phone rang.

Henry Hello.
Man's voice Oh, Mr. Orpington. I've been trying to reach
you all day. This is Paul Harris. I called you this
morning.
Henry You did indeed! I think you owe me an explanation.
Harris Yes, I do. When I phoned you this morning I was cut
off. It was a bad line or something.
Henry Well, what about the bomb?
Harris The bomb? What on earth do you mean?
Henry That's what I'd like to know. You said, "I want to
warn you about a bomb."
Harris Oh, dear! I'm afraid there's been a
misunderstanding. I didn't have time to finish
my sentence. You see, I'm a farmer and I overheard
some of the other farmers planning to break up your
meeting.

44
Henry I still fail to see what all this has got to do
with a bomb.
Harris Well, if we hadn't been cut off I was going to
warn you about a bombardment of tomatoes!
Erika Weiss had corresponded with Peter Jarvis for nearly three years, but they only met for
the first time last month at London airport. Erika had come from Germany to work for a year
in her firm's London office. When she first arrived, she went to stay at a hostel, but she wasn't
happy there.
She decided to look for a flat of her own, but as she didn't know her way around London, and
couldn't understand the advertisements for flats in the newspapers, she went to see Peter and
to ask his advice.

Erika I must find a flat of my own. I don't like living in the

hostel, Peter. There's no privacy, the food is horrible
and I have to be in by eleven o'clock.
Peter How can I help?
Erika I can't understand the advertisements.
Peter Well, let's have a look at one.
Erika This one, for example. Whatever does it mean?
Peter Let me see. "Charm s/c furn gdn flt, dbl bedim, lge lnge,
kit, bth, cent htg, £20 pw."
Erika Now please translate it for me.
Peter That's no good for you.
Erika It may not be, but I want to know what it means.
Peter It means, "A charming self-contained furnished garden
flat with a double bedroom, large lounge, kitchen and
bathroom, with central heating, at twenty pounds a week.
Erika Yes. I see. That's too big and too expensive for me. How
am I going to find what I want?
Peter Tomorrow's Saturday and we've both got the day off. I
suggest we spend the whole day looking for a flat. If we're
lucky, we might find something for you to move into next
week. All right?
Erika That sounds lovely. I hope I can find a flat as nice as
yours.
Peter That won't be easy.
Erika You mean this wasn't the first flat you looked at?
Peter You must be joking! I've only been here for two months.
You should have seen the terrible flat I had before. And
it was hard enough to get that. Finding a flat in London
is very difficult. To start with you've got to buy the
first edition of one of the London newspapers, and after
you've read the accomodation advertisements you've got to
run to the nearest telephone so that you are the first
person to ring up.
Erika But what if it says, "ring after six."?
Peter Oh, you mustn't take any notice of that. I've missed lots
of flats by taking that too seriously. You must ring up

45
 at once and keep your fingers crossed that there's
someone at home to answer the phone. If the owner answers,
you mustn't sound too eager.
Erika What do you mean?
Peter You've got to give him, or her, the impression that you
don't really mind if you get the flat or not. You must
sound as if you've got dozens of other flats to consider.
Erika But there aren't dozens of other flats.
Peter Of course not. But if you sound too eager the owner will
think you're having difficulty in finding a flat, and
then hell think there's something wrong with you.
Erika I suppose you're right.
Peter Of course I am. It's like a game. You pretend you don't
really want a flat at all, and the owner pretends he
doesn't really want to let his flat. He says, "It's
ten pounds a week you know," as if he doesn't think you
have enough money, so you say you didn't realize there
was no private bath and you're not interested after all.
When you've collected a list of addresses to visit, you
set off. You get to the street where the first flat is
and pass the most beautiful houses you've ever seen.
This is perfect, you think. A flat in a house like
this for only ten pounds a week! And then, as you
get nearer to the number you're looking for, you notice
that the character of the street is changing. The
houses are dirty, the doors are unpainted, windows
are broken. And of course the house you're looking for
is the worst of all. You want to turn round and go home,
but the owner is already at the door. He takes you
up to see the flat, and although you can see what's
there for yourself he points to everything in the
room. "There's the bed," he says, "and there's the
table." In the end you tell him that you've got
another flat to look at and that you'll let him know.
After seeing a lot of places like this you begin to
think you'll never find a reasonable flat. I even
thought about going to a hostel like yours.
Erika Oh, no! If other hostels are like mine you
wouldn't have liked it at all. This sounds terrible,
Peter. Are you sure you still want to help me tomorrow?
Peter Yes, of course I do. I just want you to know what it's
going to be like.
Erika I'm getting a pretty good ideal Tell me how you got the
terrible flat you had before this one.
Peter I got it through an agency. I paid a small fee to the
agency and they gave me three addresses. I went to the
first address and a charming grey-haired lady opened
the door. She showed me a self-contained flat on the

46
 ground floor. It was nicely decorated, clean and cheap.
I told her I'd take it and paid her a month's rent
in advance.
Erika But I thought you didn't like it. It sounds fine.
Peter Wait a minute.
Erika Sorry. Go on.
Peter I moved in on a Sunday night. I was woken up the next
morning at half past seven.
Erika What woke you up?
Peter Road drills and bulldozers! There was one little thing
the landlady hadn't told me: they were going to build a
motorway right outside my window!
My name is Henry Robinson and I'm a student teacher. A very important part of the training
course is "teaching practice"; that's when a student teacher goes to a school and teaches for
several weeks. This can be a frightening experience, so I was very glad that I was able to do
my teaching practice in a school just outside Edinburgh, four hundred miles from my home in
London. My college supervisor came to the school once a week to see how I was getting on,
but apart from him no one else knew how well or how badly I was doing
On my first morning the headmaster called me into his study.

Headmaster Now don't forget, Robinson; if there's any boy you

can't manage just come and see me.
Henry Thank you very much, sL. As a matter of fact,
there was just...
Headmaster Come to my study any time you have a problem
you want to talk about.
Henry Yes sir, I will. If I could ...
Headmaster I well remember when I did my first teaching
Practice.
Henry I wonder if I...
Headmaster Now in those days, mind you, life was much harder.
Henry Excuse me, sir, but...
Headmaster And as for the pay — but I'm talking too much. I'm
sorry. Did you want to ask me a question?
Henry Yes, sir.
Headmaster Well, look, I'm rather busy at the moment, and I
expect you want to get started. Come and see me
again tomorrow morning. Good luck!
Henry Thank you very much, sir.

I think the headmaster was afraid I was going to ask him whether I could just watch for the
first week and start the actual teaching the following week. If so, he was quite right. I was
feeling very nervous as I walked to the classroom.

I was introduced to my class of thirty boys by their classroom teacher. "Right, lads, now listen
to me," he said. "I don't want any trouble while the student teacher is taking you. Is that
clear?" The boys nodded. They all looked very innocent, but I could remember the way we had
treated student teachers when I was at school. As the teacher left the room he drew me to
one side. " Watch out for the Welsh boy," he whispered. "Philip Jones. Back row, red hair."

That first lesson was a disaster. The boys behaved very badly and refused to listen to what I

47
was saying. They talked incessantly and threw things at each other while I was trying to write
on the blackboard. To my surprise the only boy who sat and listened politely was Jones.
Occasionally he even told the other boys to be quiet. When the bell rang for break, he came
up to me. "Break lasts for fifteen minutes, sir," he said.

In the staff room one of the teachers came up to me and asked me how Jones had behaved.
"Oh," I said, "he was all right. It was the other..." But I wasn't able to finish my sentence.
Teacher Didn't he throw things at you?
Henry No, he didn't.
Teacher Didn't he pretend to be ill?
Henry No
Teacher I bet he put his tongue out at you, didn't he?
Henry No, not once.
Teacher But surely he was rude in some way?
Henry No, he wasn't rude at all.
Teacher Did he fall down on the floor and pretend that
someone had hit him?
Henry No, he didn't.
Teacher Perhaps he isn't feeling well.
Henry He looked perfectly well to me.
Teacher Are you absolutely sure he didn't do anything?
Henry Yes, quite sure.
Teacher Extraordinary! You've performed a miracle!

The rest of the day was as bad as the first lesson, though for one brief moment I thought I
had them under control. Suddenly they all stopped talking and there was complete silence. I
was delighted, until I turned round and saw the headmaster watching us through the window.

As I was walking back to the staff room after the last lesson, I heard footsteps behind me. It
was Jones.

Jones I'm glad I caught you, sir.

Henry Oh, why?
Jones I wanted to thank you for the lessons.
Henry That's very kind of you, Jones.
Jones Not at all sir. It's nice to have you as our
teacher.
Henry Are you pulling my leg?
Jones No, sir.
Henry I don't believe you.
Jones It's true, sir. Really it is.
Henry There's something that's been puzzling me,
Jones.
Jones What's that, sir?
Henry Why is it that you have behaved so well when all
the other teachers think you're the worst boy in
the class?
Jones Oh, that's easy, sir. You see, I'm Welsh, you're
English, and we're both in Scotland.

48
Henry No, Jones, I don't see at all. Please explain.
Jones Well, sir, it's what my father says.
Henry Go on.
Jones He says that we foreigners must stick together,
sir.
Paul Williams is a policeman and he is very happy in his job. He thinks it's useful and
interesting. He has been a policeman for ten years and now he's a sergeant, but he often
thinks of his first two years in the force and laughs at some of the things that happened to
him.
For the first two years of his career a policeman is "on probation"; in other words, his superior
officers watch his progress closely to see whether he's going to be a suitable police officer.
After his first nine months in the force, Paul was thinking of giving up. He just couldn't get
used to the hours he had to work: early turn from six till two, late turn from two till ten, or,
worst of all, night shift from ten till six. But the work was sometimes exciting. The most
exciting day of Paul's two years of probation was a hot day in the middle of May. At one forty-
five in the afternoon Paul was sitting round a table with his colleagues, waiting for his orders.

Sergeant Hawkins gave Paul his orders last because the men were dealt with in alphabetical
order. "Hawkeye", as the men called him, was a grandfather and treated all the
youngpolicemen as boys.

Sgt. Hawkins I think I'll give you a change, Williams.

Paul Thank you, sergeant.
Sgt. Hawkins As you probably know, there have been a lot
of petty thefts from houses in Faversham Street
over the last few months.
Paul That's the street where I was born.
Sgt. Hawkins Is it? Good. Well, you're to keep an eye on the
street this afternoon and report by phone if
you see anything suspicious. Understand?
Paul Yes, sergeant.

Paul was told to wear civilian clothes so that he would not be noticed. He decided to watch
from the gardens opposite Faversham Street so that he could walk about without attracting
attention.

At the end of each hour he phoned the police station to report to Sergeant Hawkins. At the
end of four hours he had eaten six ice-creams, smoked twenty cigarettes, and walked round
the park about fifty times. He was beginning to get very bored. At six o'clock he was relieved
by another police officer so that he could go and get something to eat.

It was nearly half past eight before anything happened. It was beginning to get dark and he
could just see three rather suspicious looking men talking near some bushes at the far end of
the park. Paul decided to wait and see what happened next. A few minutes later one of the
men walked quietly from the bushes towards the road. Still Paul waited. The man looked
around, opened the front gate of number 21 Faversham Street and walked round to the back
of the house. Paul decided it was time to do something. Using a short cut that he'd known as a
boy, he got to the back of the house just in time to see the man trying to climb through the
windows. This is it, thought Paul. He saw himself being "congratulated by the chief constable
and even being praised by old Hawkeye. He stepped forward.

49
Paul May I ask what you are doing?
Man Go away, you fool.
Paul I'm a police officer.
Man Good luck to you!
Paul And here is my identification.
Man Look, I'm afraid there's been a mistake.
Paul You were about to break into this house.
Man I can explain.
Paul I'm going to arrest you ...
Man No, listen. Let me explain.
Paul ... and take you to the police station.
Man We're ...
Paul You are not obliged to say anything unless ...
Man ... doing this ...
Paul ... you wish to do so but ...
Man ... because we have to.
Paul ... what you do say will be written down ...
Man We're trying to ...
Paul ... and given in evidence against you.
Man But we're not real burglars!
Paul I'm not satisfied with your explanation.
Man You haven't given me a chance to explain.
Paul You were about to break into this house. I'm going to
arrest
Man Oh, for goodness' sake! Don't go through all
that again. I'll come along with you and explain to
someone at the police station.

Paul had a feeling that he'd seen the man somewhere before. Perhaps he was a well-known
criminal! But at that moment the other two men appeared. When Paul saw that they came to
speak to him so willingly, he began to think he had made a mistake. Imagine Paul's surprise
when they explained that they were television actors and that the man Paul had arrested was
a well-known television director. They were using the house to rehearse a scene for a new TV
series. Paul didn't know what to say.

1st actor Don't worry about it. You were only doing your job.
Paul I really am terribly sorry.
Director Nevermind. We were only rehearsing.
1st actor Hey, what's that man doing over there?
2nd actor He's nothing to do with our series!

Paul and the others ran towards a man who was trying to open a window in one of the houses.
After a brief struggle they overpowered him. Paul telephoned the police station and five
minutes later Sergeant Hawkins arrived in a police car. He congratulated Paul warmly on his
first arrest.

Sgt. Hawkins We'll make a policeman of you

yet, Williams.

50
Paul Thank you, sergeant.
Sgt. Hawkins By the way, have you got a TV set?
Paul Yes, sergeant. Why?
Sgt. Hawkins Well, if you switch on at 8.30 tomorrow
you can watch the weekly detective serial.
Paul Why, sergeant?
Sgt. Hawkins Oh, I just thought you might like to see
these friends of yours again.
Paul You recognized them?
Sgt. Hawkins They don't call me Hawkeye for nothing,
you know! But don't worry. I can keep a secret.
I'll see that you get all the credit.
The Pelham-Smiths are no longer as rich as they once were. At one time they owned a large
house in London, an estate in Scotland and Pelham Manor, a seventeenth-century house
standing in sixty acres of its own grounds near Gloucester. Now only Pelham Manor remains in
the family. The present owner, Sir John Pelham-Smith, inherited Pelham Manor on the death
of his father five years ago. Sir John was immediately faced with a bill for death duties which
he was unable to pay. He did not want to sell Pelham Manor, so he made an arrangement with
the government to pay the bill over a number of years. Now he and his family live in one wing
of the Manor and the rest of the house is open to the public. Sir John hopes to be able to pay
the death duties from the entrance fees. Large old houses like Pelham Manor are known as
stately homes, especially when their owners find it necessary to open them to the public.
Being a stately home owner is not easy, but Sir John thinks it is worth the effort to keep
Pelham Manor in the family.
One day Sir John thought he had found the answer to some of his difficulties, but things didn't
quite turn out as he expected. That morning, as always, he got up at six o'clock to make his
daily tour of the house and grounds. Everything seemed to be in order. Then, after breakfast,
he talked to the estate manager, Cedric Hoskins, who was an old friend of the family. Cedric
looked glum. "The accounts for this quarter don't look at all good," he said. "We may have to
raise the entrance fee." "But that will only discourage people from coming. Few enough come
as it is," said Sir John. "But personally I'm very hopeful about this American contract. If it
comes off, well be all right."

"Well, that depends on how things go this afternoon," Cedric reminded him. "The agent for
Americo-British Tours, a Mr. Schulman, is coming with a party of American tourists and he has
promised to let us know by tonight whether or not he wants to sign the contract."

The American tourists, fifty of them, were coming that afternoon for a trial visit. If it was a
success, Americo-British Tours would sign a contract guaranteeing to bring large numbers of
American visitors to Pelham Manor each week. This would give Sir John a steady income, but
first he had to impress Mr. Schulman and his party. The gates opened at ten o'clock. Sir John
took parties round himself and knew the history of each room by heart. At half past ten he
started the first tour with thirty schoolchildren and their teachers. By the time they reached
the art gallery, the children were beginning to look bored.

Sir John This is an unusual painting of one of the Pelham-

Smith family in the eighteenth century. If you look
closely at the bottom righthand corner you can just see
a small picture of the artist's wife and child. And next
to that.

51
Boy Please, sir, can I ask a question?
Teacher Be quiet, Brian. Wait until the lecture is over.
Sir John That's all right. I'll try to answer his question.
Boy Were the Pelham-Smiths ever short of money?
Sir John Yes, indeed they were. The family fortunes varied
a great deal. But why do you ask?
Boy It's that picture over there in the corner.
Sir John Oh, yes! 'The lady with dog". One of my favourite
paintings.
Boy Was she a Pelham-Smith?
Sir John Oh, yes. That's Lady Laura Pelham-Smith.
Boy Well, her husband can't have had much money. She
hasn't got any clothes on!
Sir John wasn't sure whether this question was entirely innocent, but it would make an
interesting anecdote to add to his repertoire.

After lunch Sir John called the entire staff into his study: the cook, the gardener, the security
guard and the odd-job man. They were not much good at their jobs, but at least they put up
with the poor wages that he was obliged to pay them.
Sir John Now I've called you in here this afternoon because
a party of American tourists is coming at two o'clock. A lot
depends on this visit. If they like the place, we shall have
more visits. And that'll be good for business.

Gardener Are they all millionaires, then?

Sir John I wish they were. And by the way, do try not to shout
at anyone who walks on the lawn. The people you
shouted at last week were very annoyed.
Gardener Well, they walked all over the grass just after
I'd cut it.
Sir John Yes, but politeness is always good for business. As for
you, George, you're to keep your eyes open when there
are people here. So don't go to sleep, will you?
Guard No, sir.
Sir John Are you all prepared for the fifty teas, Cook?
Cook Oh, yes, Sir John.
Sir John Splendid. Well, remember, it will be good for all of us
if things go well this afternoon. Thank you.

Sir John couldn't help smiling to himself as they walked out. They were a strange-looking
crowd, but they were all very loyal. He wondered what sort of impression they would make on
the American tourists.

Sir John changed into his best suit and walked down to the gate to meet Mr. Schulman. The
coach had just arrived. Sir John crossed his fingers as he led the group to the entrance hall.

Sir John Ladies and gentlemen, may I take this opportunity to

welcome you all to Pelham Manor.
It is an honour -

52
Cook Sir John!
Sir John Not now, Cook. I'm busy. As I was saying, it is an
honour for me to show you round. Many people who
come here for the -
Cook The John is ready, Sir tea. No, no, the Sir is -
Sir John Go away, Cook! As I was saying, people who come here
for the first time often tell me -
Cook Do you think they'll all want tea in their sugar?
Oh, dear, I mean -
Sir John Excuse me a minute, please, ladies and gentlemen.

Sir John took Cook's arm and led her out of the hall. He knew what was the matter with her.
She kept a bottle of gin in a cupboard and often had a glass or two when she was feeling
nervous. He took her to the kitchen and made her sit down. Then he went back to his visitors
in the hall.

Nothing seemed to go right that afternoon. The gardener drove the lawn mower too fast round
a corner and knocked down one of the guests as he was walking to the chapel. The security
guard almost arrested another for picking flowers when he had quite innocently bent down to
pick up his handkerchief. And tea, needless to say, was a disaster. Cook had drunk so much
gin by four o'clock that the odd-job man had to prepare it for her. Unfortunately he was in
such a hurry that he didn't boil the water for the tea, and the sandwiches he made were about
two inches thick. The tour ended in the shop where souvenirs were on sale. Mr. Schulman
came up to Sir John while the tourists were choosing postcards to send to their friends.

Mr. Schulman Very interesting tour, Sir John. Thank you so

much for taking us round yourself.
Sir John I must apologize for all the things that went
wrong. I suppose there's little chance of your
signing the contract now?
Mr. Schulman I'm afraid not. But it's not your fault, Sir John.
It's your staff. They're just not good " enough.
Sir John I know what you mean.
Mr. Schulman Well, thank you once again, Sir John. Goodbye
and good luck. Oh, I almost forgot: one of my party,
a Mr. Milsom would like to talk to you. I don't know
what it's about.

Sir John shook hands sadly with Mr. Schulman. Mr. Milsom he remembered, was the man who
had almost been arrested for dropping his handkerchief.

Mr. Milsom Say, Sir John, where did you find your staff?
Sir John Oh, yes, I really must apologize.
Mr. Milsom Apologize?
Sir John Yes, apologize.
Mr. Milsom Don't look so miserable. They're perfect!
Sir John Perfect? I don't understand.
Mr. Milsom Look, do you want to make some money?

53
Sir John Of course I do.
Mr. Milsom Well, sign here then.

Later that evening Sir John told his wife that Mr. Milsom, a film director, would be making a
film at the Manor, using the staff as actors. And the film, a highly successful comedy called
Panic at Pelham Manor, made Sir John Pelham-Smith a very rich man indeed.
When Major John Hewson retired from the army at the age of fifty, he soon found himself at a
loose end. He had grown used to army discipline and he found civilian life dull and boring. For
the first few months he was quite happy in the house that he and his wife had bought on his
retirement, but he soon began to wish he had something to do. His wife, Mary, also pointed
out that his pension wasn't sufficient for them to live on and that they needed some extra
money. Unfortunately the Major had no qualifications, but he did know a lot about motor cars.
And so three months later he opened his own school of motoring. He called it the Al School of
Driving. At first the Major thought he would never get more than one or two clients, but
everything changed on the day that the first of his pupils passed the driving test.
As usual, the Major rose early, ate his breakfast and was in his office at exactly eight o'clock.
The Major was always punctual. People in the houses opposite the school checked their
watches when he arrived; they knew that the moment he entered his office it was eight
o'clock precisely. The Major's first job each morning was to go into the garage next door and
check the car for oil, water and air. He returned to the office at eight fifteen. He looked at his
diary and sadly noted that he had no appointments until midday. Nevertheless, he opened the
office at nine o'clock as usual. Then he sat down at his desk, lit his pipe and opened the
morning newspaper. He knew from many mornings spent in this way that if he read the paper
very slowly he would finish it at half past eleven — just in time to get ready for his first client.
But he was still reading the front page when the door opened and a middle-aged woman
walked in. Mrs. Carruthers had read the advertisement for the A1 School in the local paper
and had come for the free trial lesson. The Major offered one hour's free tuition to anyone;
during this time he could judge whether a full course of twenty-five lessons was necessary or
whether a short refresher course would be sufficient.

Mrs. Carruthers I do so like the name of your school. Al sounds

encouraging, and as it's run by a colonel I know
I shall be in safe hands.
Major Thank you for the promotion, madam but I am
actually a major.
Mrs. Carruthers Oh dear, I'm so sorry. Now is that higher or lower
than a colonel? I can never remember.
Major Lower. But don't let's worry about that. I think I
can fit you in for your free trial lesson now. But
first I have to see your provisional driving
licence. Thank you. Yes, that seems to be in
order. Tell me, have you ever taken the driving
test?
Mrs. Carruthers Well, yes, I'm what you might call an old hand.
Major You'll have to be more precise than that, I'm
afraid. Have you taken it once? Twice?
Mrs. Carruthers No, my dear captain, a few more times than that.
Major Major, madam, if you don't mind.
Mrs. Carruthers Yes, of course. I'm so sorry. I knew a captain
once in the army. Or was it the navy?

54
Major Perhaps you could just tell me how many times
you have taken the test.
Mrs. Carruthers Let me see. There was the time I had a little
accident at a pedestrian crossing. And then there
was the time I had a bit of bad luck with the
gears.
I also remember...
Major I don't want to hurry you, Mrs. Carruthers, but
I'd like to start at ten o'clock.
Mrs. Carruthers Yes, of course. Well, let's make a nice round
number, shall we?
Major Yes, why not?
Mrs. Carruthers Put down thirty then, Brigadier.
The Major took Mrs. Carruthers out in his car for the trial lesson. She broke almost every rule
in the Highway Code and the Major was very glad that his car was fitted with dual control.
When they were safely back in the office he told her she would have to take the full course
-partly because she obviously needed it and partly because it was good for business. Mrs.
Carruthers agreed to come for a lesson at ten o'clock every Tuesday for the next six months.
The Major was not sorry to see her go, particularly as his next pupil was a young man who
was learning quickly. He had had only three lessons and already he was driving quite well. At
one o'clock the Major went home to lunch.
Mary How was business this morning, dear?
Major Let's just say it had its ups and downs.
Mary I see. Haven't you got a pupil taking the test today?
Major Yes, Miss Chalmers is taking it this afternoon. She's a.
first-rate driver. I'm sure she'll pass.
Mary Do you mean that very glamorous girl with the long
fair hair?
Major I don't know what colour her hair is. All I know is that
she's a very capable driver.
Mary I don't believe you, John.
Major I can assure you she's an excellent driver.
Mary I'm not talking about her driving. I mean I'm sure you've
noticed the colour of her hair.
Major Well, maybe it is fair. Anyway, I must hurry now and see
that the car's in order.

When the time came for the driving test the Major always asked his pupils to arrive at least
half an hour early so that he could go over any points that needed attention. Lucy Chalmers
arrived at the school at a quarter to two.

Lucy Good afternoon, Major. Have you got your fingers crossed?
Major There's no need to do that for you, my dear. I'm sure
you'll pass.
Lucy I'm very nervous.
Major That's only natural. By the way, if I may ask, what's
happened to all your long fair hair?
Lucy Oh, I'm wearing a short wig today. I thought it would
look more businesslike.

55
Major That's a good idea. Now let me give you a final test on
the Highway Code.
The Major and Lucy drove in silence to the centre where she was to be tested and sat in the
waiting room. The chief examiner arrived and asked to see Lucy's driving licence; then he
made her sign a declaration that she was, in fact, Miss Lucy Chalmers. The Major shook hands
with Lucy and wished her luck; then she and the examiner left the room to go to the car. The
Major watched the first part of the test from the window of the waiting room. As the car drove
smoothly away he took out his pipe and sat down to wait for their return.
Lucy passed. The Major was delighted at her success. Lucy promised to tell all her friends and
relations what a good instructor he was.

The Major's last lesson of the day was a difficult one. Mr. Green was a terrible driver, but
unfortunately he didn't realize it. Whenever the Major tried to point out a mistake, Mr. Green
told him that he knew very well what to do.

Mr. Green You worry too much, Major. Look, I'm driving in a
straight line.
Major Yes, you're driving in a straight line, but you are
supposed to drive on the left-hand side of the road, not
in the middle. It's just as well there's not much
traffic about.
Mr. Green There we are. It's easy really. I expect you have to
teach a lot of bad drivers, don't you?
Major Yes, Mr. Green, I do. Now I think we'll increase speed
a bit and go into second gear, please.

With Mr. Green safely out of the car, the Major felt that he had had enough for one day. He
put the car away and went into the office. He decided to ring Mary and tell her of Lucy's
success. Mary was very pleased. "I'm corning home now," said the Major. "I'm tired. It's been
a very busy day. Good-bye, dear." But just as he put the telephone down three middle-aged
ladies walked into the office. They must be Lucy's friends, thought the Major. She said she
would tell her friends what a good instructor I am.

Major Good afternoon, ladies.

1st woman Good afternoon, Major. We want to enrol.
Major Are you friends of Lucy's?
2nd woman Yes, that's right.
3rd woman Do you call her Lucy already? That's quick.
Major Well, you know what Lucy's like. She's very friendly.
1st woman We ought to know. We've known her for thirty years.
Major Thirty years? But ...
2nd woman Now then, Major, we all want to enrol for the six-month
course. We're all as bad as Lucy — none of us can pass
that wretched test.
Major Just a minute, ladies, let's get one thing straight.
You are all friends of Lucy Chalmers, aren't you?
3rd woman Oh, no, Major. We're all friends of Lucy Carruthers!

56
 Vocabulary
travel agent a professional trip planner

tropical a hot, humid climate

cruise ship passenger ship for leisure

vacation period of time for rest or recreation

obstacles something in the way

trucking carrying freight on trucks

ranching working on a ranch

flight flying through the air

reservation an arrangement made beforehand

lecture speech made before an audience

passport document issued by government to prove
citizenship of owner

emergency an unexpected event that must be

handled immediately

stateroom a furnished cabin on a ship or train

cancelled stopped an event from happening

(past tense verb)

documents official papers as a record of events

or arrangements

reserve to set aside for future use

container an object used to hold something

difference state of being unlike something or

someone else

medication treatment for illness

formal correct in behavior, ceremony or dress

57
document formal piece of information that
provides a record reserve to set
aside for future use

expecting wait for, look forward to

insurance a measure of protection against an

undesirable event
inspect to examine something carefully

dent make a depression by hitting

fate a final result or outcome decided ahead

of time

cross fingers a gesture used to hope for good luck

reserve save for later, order in advance

Provisions supplies or other items necessary for a

trip

Purser a ship's officer who is responsible for

handling money

Controller an officer responsible for organizing

finances for the ship

apprentice someone being trained by a professional in

an art or trade
assigned to give someone a task or duty to complete

tenders small boat used to transport people from a

ship to shore

steward a person who attends to people on an

aircraft or ship

events an important happening or incident

announcements public statement giving information or

news

drill a repeated exercise or training

instructions spoken or written statement of something

that must be done

58
code information system of letters, numbers or
symbols

demonstrate explain, show or describe how something

works

inflation/inflate act of expanding something with air

unconscious unable to see, hear, or sense what is

happening, usually due to an accident or
illness
boarded to get onto a vehicle as a
passenger

stop-over a brief stop on a journey

“stretch their legs” to go for a walk after sitting

for a long time
shock something surprising and
upsetting

identification proof that someone is who he or

she claims to be

customs government agency that prevents

illegal imports

stateroom a sleeping room on a ship

agents a representative, providing a

service

stowaway someone who hides on a ship

without paying

ramp a surface that allows a person or

object to move from one level to another
turbulence a state of confusion or unrest in weather
or behavior

seasick feeling ill due to the motion of the boat

settlement a place that is recently populated, colony

disappoint to fail somebody by a deed or action

groan a sound made from pain or disappointment

59
crescent an arc shaped like part of the moon

erroneously an incorrect thought or action, mistake

missionaries someone sent to another country for

religious purpose

contagious passing a disease from one person to another

incredible something difficult to believe

abundance a large amount of something

toast raising a glass to honor someone or

something

demonstration to show how to do something by example

lecture educational speech before an audience

appointment an arrangement to meet somebody

scuttlebutt drinking cask on ship; gossip

cask a container for liquids

gossip conversation about personal details

about someone's life, not necessarily true.

participant someone who takes part in an activity

provisions supplying or providing something often

for a trip

symptoms indication of illness or sign of

something else; something undesirable

disadvantaged in a worse position than someone else

strategic done for a reason; also for military

planning

folly thoughtless act or deed

profits income; also an advantage over something

60
authorize to give somebody permission to perform
an act

Expressions

“back to the drawing board” to go back to the

beginning or the planning stage
of a failed project; to start
over again.

“Seward's folly” name given to the purchase

of Alaska by the U.S. Secretary
of State, William Seward. It was
considered by many to be a bad
decision.

“check it out” investigate or find out

about something
thoughtful a kind deed or action

introduce to present someone or oneself by name

origin the beginning of something

evidence proof of the existence of something

cannibalistic act of eating human flesh

genocide systematic killing of all people from a

national, ethnic or religious group

stronghold place that can be easily defended

dwindled to decrease little by little; get smaller

coup sudden overthrow of government

priority the state of having great importance

lush producing vigorous rich growth

cricket popular sport played in Europe

medicinal having to do with medicine

skepticism a doubting attitude; unbeliever

conservation protection of a valued resource

61
habitat natural condition where animal or
plants live

migratory moving to another region every year

species biological classification

Buccaneers a pirate

continuous without stopping

portray depict something or someone; often by

actor

ritual established formal behavior such as

in religion

traditional long established behavior or pattern

collectively together to form a group

ferment to stir up; create enzyme as in wine

or beer

siege military; take by force, completely

surrounded

quarantine isolation because of contagious

disease

lepers persons affected with leprosy

humility modest or respectful

fossils preserve remains of plant or animal

inside a rock; something old

implements useful equipment or tool

derived get or come from something

authentic the real thing, not fake

crusty to be coated with something

numismatic pertaining to money

62
incredible unbelievable

debarkation disembarkation, going ashore,

leaving a plane, landing

bohemian unconventional lifestyle

toupee false hair piece

solves find an answer to puzzle

brig jail on ship

intrigue something of great interest

Comprehension questions

1. Why does Sandra want to go on a vacation?

2. Does she want to go to Alaska?

3. Why doesn't Donita want to go to Hawaii?

4. How many days can the women go on vacation?

5. Who is helping them plan the trip?

6. Name some of the problems the agent has.

Cloze activity

Use the vocabulary words to complete the sentences

1. The __________ had difficulty planning their trip.

2. They had to be at the airport at nine o'clock for the

__________.

3. The cold weather made them want a __________ vacation.

4. Another name for a passenger ship is a __________.

5. When there are problems to solve, the agent had

__________ to overcome.

6. The __________ company owned fifty trucks.

63
 7. My boss will give me a two week __________ this year.

8. John has cows, chickens, and sheep. He has been

__________ many years.

9. It is necessary to make a __________ at that famous

restaurant.

10. The professor gave a very interesting __________ in front

of the large audience.
Comprehension questions

1. Why is Sandra worried when Jan calls her?

2. Why does Jan need their passport numbers?

3. Does Sandra want an expensive stateroom? Why or why not?

. What is sea-sickness?

5. Why should medicine be in the original container?

6. Explain formal, semi-formal and casual clothing.

7. What stores or services are on the ship?

8. Is there anything for children to do on the ship?

9. Who is in charge of the activities?

10. What kinds of activities are onboard?

Cloze activity

Use the vocabulary words to complete the following sentences

1. When meeting the queen, one must use __________

behavior.

2. The flowers were in a beautiful, brass

__________.

3. The seal on the government __________ made the

papers official.

4. Her sudden pain on the right side created an

__________ situation.

64
 5. His quiet reasoning made a huge __________ in
settling the argument.

6. Did you remember to __________ theater tickets

for tomorrow?

7. I hope she remembered to pack __________ for

sea-sickness.

8. It was disappointing when the captain __________

the trip because of bad weather.

9. You can't get on the ship without a __________

showing where you were born.

10. I was surprised at the size of the __________ on

the ship.
Comprehension questions

1. What are the travel documents?

2. Why do the women need to rent a car?

3. Who will do all the driving?

4. Why doesn't Sandra buy insurance?

5. Why does she want to inspect the car?

6. How long did it take to drive to Seattle?

7. Why does Donita want to sleep in her clothes?

8. Will the hotel clerk call them in the morning?

Cloze Activity

Use the vocabulary words to complete the sentences

1. Jean is __________ a birthday present in the mail.

2. When the stone hit my car, it made a small __________.

3. My train ticket, passport and hotel reservations are

important __________.

4. I need to pay my car and house __________ every month

65
 5. “I __________ the right to question him later,” said
the attorney.

6. Jill thinks it was __________ when she married a man

from her hometown, after moving 2,000 miles away!

7. “I'm not sure this name is spelled correctly. Would

you please __________ it?

8. John thinks he can just __________ for luck instead

of studying for the test.
Comprehensive Questions

1. What does a “stop-over” mean?

2. Why are the women shocked when they go to baggage claim?

3. Why does the customs officer tell the women they are very
smart?
. What time can people board the ship?

5. What do you think the agent means when he says the ship is
a “floating city?”

6. Why do think someone would want to be a stow-away?

7. Do people respect someone in a uniform more than someone

wearing other clothes? Why or Why not?

Cloze Activity

Use the vocabulary words to fill in the blanks

1. He pushed the wheelchair up the __________ onto the ship.

2. We talked to the customs __________ before boarding.

3. All items made in another country have to go through

__________.

4. Jena was in __________ when she couldn't find her passport.

5. We had a short __________ before the flight to Florida.

6. When the ship sailed at 5:00, 1800 people had __________.

66
 7. After such a long flight from Canada, it was good to
__________.

8. We had to show __________ getting on and off the ship.

9. He had no money to pay for the trip, so he was a

__________.

10. Our sleeping accomodation on the ship was in a very nice

Comprehensive Questions

1. Who is waiting in Donita and Sandra's room?

Why is he there?

2. What is a steward's job?

3. What does everyone have to do for the lifeboat drill?

4. What are two items on the life jackets for safety?

5. How is an unconscious person safe in the water?

6. Are all the life jackets the same?

7. Who is Firmin van Walle?

8. What were some of the jobs he had in the last 28 years?

9. Firmin has been on several ships sailing to what places?

Name six of them.

10. What do you think a “honey-do” list is?

Cloze Activity

Use the vocabulary words to fill in the blanks.

1. I will need to pack many __________ for our long trip.

2. The children used strange letters for their secret

__________.

3. The famous chef will now __________ how to make Tiramisu.

4. We just need to follow his __________ to make this

dessert.

5. Our teacher said the spelling test would be easy if we

67
 __________ every day.

6. The accident victim was __________, but breathing

strongly.

7. We need to __________ all the balloons for the birthday

party.

8. Firmin was an __________ chef while he studied in Paris.

9. We waited anxiously for an __________ of the baby's birth.

10. The __________ cleaned our room, gave us fresh towels and
answered all the questions.

11. Dom's boss __________ him eleven rooms to clean.

12. The ship could not dock close to shore, so we had to take
a ___________.

13. I'll go see the ship's __________ when I need to cash a

check.

14. His job as __________ was to keep financial records for

the ship.

15. Attending a wedding on the ship was an exciting __________.

Comprehensive Questions

1. Why do the women want to take medicine before

breakfast?

2. Why can't the Tenders take passengers to the

island?

3. How was Half Moon Cay named?

4. Did the island have another name? What was it?

5. What is the meaning of “baja mar?”

6. Why do you think the island was deserted for two

years?

7. Who started the first European settlement?

8. Why would pirates and sailors visit the islands?

9. Name some countries that claimed the Bahamas.

68
10. When did slavery end in the islands?

11. Who were the first people to settle in the

Bahamas?

12. Why did Columbus call them “Indians?”

Cloze Activity

Use the vocabulary words to fill in the blanks.

1. The good soil, rain and sun produced an __________

of food.

2. The motion of the boat made me feel __________.

3. His story of winning $50,000 was __________.

4. When the concert was cancelled, we were very

__________.

5. When we heard John __________ we knew he was hurt.

6. The moon has a beautiful __________ shape tonight.

7. The church sent four __________ to the small

island.

8. If Sue has measles, she is very __________.

9. America's first permanent __________ was Jamestown.

10. When he __________ mixed the chemicals, there was a

small explosion.

11. High winds and rough water created __________ for

the fishermen.
Comprehensive Questions

1. Why do the women have to wear cocktail dresses or

formals?

2. What do you think is the meaning of “nautical?”

3. Why does Sandra want to go on the 5K walk?

69
. What are some of the symptoms of scurvy?

5. Can people still get this “ancient” disease?

6. How is scurvy prevented?

7. Why are British sailors called “limeys?”

8. Why did Columbus name the Arawak people “Indians?”

9. Where did Columbus get the name for the islands?

10. Name some interesting facts about Charlotte Amelie.

Cloze Activity

Use the vocabulary words to fill in the blanks.

1. I have an __________ with the dentist at 1:00 p.m.

2. Did you hear the __________ about Steve going to jail?

3. The sailors often gathered around the __________ to

talk.

4. I was a __________ in the Walk For Cancer.

5. We took a lot of __________ for the camping trip!

6. Jane's fever and chills were __________ of getting the

“flu”.

7. My son was very __________ when he lost his wallet on

vacation.

8. Buying the island was done for a __________ military

reason.

9. Getting married to a woman he met last week was great

__________!

10. The crops were abundant and we sold them at a_________

70
Comprehensive Questions

1. How did Captain Draper decide on his career?

2. What kind of training did he have?

3. When and where was the ms. Maasdam built?

. How many people can be on the ship?

5. Why do you think the captain is not worried about

theft of the artifacts?

6. Why do Suzanne and Larry know a lot about Roseau?

7. How does the lake water get hot enough to boil?

8. How many species of birds are on the island?

9. Is it cheap to go on vacation on Dominica?

10. Name three things a tourist could do on the island.

Cloze Activity

Use the vocabulary words to fill in the blanks.

1. The beads on her formal were __________ in the candle

light.

2. The ballerina had __________ movements in her dance.

3. She wants to __________ the idea of becoming a chef

next year.

4. The fantastic music played by the students greatly

__________ us.

5. The Egyptian __________ were found in The Valley of the

Kings.

6. Hallmark Card Company has a famous __________.

7. By following the stream uphill, we found the __________

of it.

8. Be careful! The natural hot springs are fed by

__________ next to them.

71
 9. The lovely __________ ring matched her sparkling green
eyes.

10. We took the __________ to the top of a Swiss mountain.

11. A __________ of green covered the forest floor.

12. Did you know that Eagles are on the __________ species
list.
Comprehensive Questions

1. How did the women recognize the driver?

2. What is the driver's name?

3. How was Dominica name? What does it mean?

4. Why doesn't Winsome believe the story of cannibalism?

5. What countries claimed Dominica?

6. Who was Patrick John?

7. Why was he put in prison?

8. What was the original purpose of creating the Garden?

9. What is the meaning of “economic “plants?

10. Name a few medicinal plants.

11. Give your opinion: Why do you thin drug companies look at
herb medicines with skepticism.

Cloze Activity

Use the vocabulary words to fill in the blanks.

1. My neighbor was very __________ to bring me soup when I

was ill.

2. His story of seeing a purple UFO filled us with

__________!

3. Her garden was filled with beautiful __________

flowers.

72
 4. Getting good grades was a top __________ to Jennifer.

5. After buying a new car, my savings account had

__________ a lot.

6. The horror movie showed __________ eating of the dead

bodies.

7. His research efforts finally showed the __________ of a

cure for the disease.

8. The patient's chart showed all the __________ care he

received.

9. The pirates used __________ so there were no survivors

on the island.

10. Jim, I would like to __________ you to our new neighbor.

11. The __________ of the sparkling stream was high in the

snowy mountain.

12. The fort provided a __________ against the invaders.

13. The military __________ caught the citizens by surprise.

14. We love sports and saw a __________ game while in Europe.

Comprehensive Questions

1. Why do parrots on Dominica need to be in a sanctuary?

2. Name an unusual bird in the Garden.

3. Do any of the birds migrate to other places? Name one or

two.
4. What happened to the Garden in 1979?

5. What is an Agouti?

6. What is the difference between a buccaneer and a

privateer?

7. Why do you think captured women spoke Maipurean to other

women and to the men in Carib?

8. Why did lepers have to be quarantined?

9. What is the most photographed building on Curacao?

73
10. Why is there sand on the floor in the Jewish museum?

Cloze Activity

Use the vocabulary words to fill in the blanks.

1. We waited three weeks for the homemade wine to

__________.

2. The natural __________ for kangaroos is in Australia.

3. When my cousins all came down with the measles, my aunt

put them in __________.

4. Birds and fish are not in the same __________.

5. __________ were not the same as privateers.

6. He won the marathon because of __________ training.

7. The actor was able to __________ Abraham Lincoln

perfectly.

8. Organized religions usually have __________ ceremonies

for weddings.

9. It is important to have a __________ area to protect the

Bald Eagle.

10. The teachers agreed __________ on the new contract.

11. Many of the birds in Aruba are __________ flying to

Florida in the winter.

12. Captain Bligh laid __________ to the town of Aruba.

13. Giving up her doll to her sick sister was an act of

great __________.

14. Father Damien worked tirelessly among the __________

with the disease.

15. She continued the __________ of wearing her mother's

wedding dress.

74
Comprehensive Questions

1. Why is it difficult to shop in Aruba on Palm Sunday?

2. The most photographed house in the world is in Aruba.

Why is it so popular?

3. What is the fallacy about the U.S.S California that

is sunk off the Aruba shore?
. What is one possible origin of the name "Aruba?"

5. Discuss the history of the windmill.

6. How did Frenchmen's pass get its name?

7. What is meant by a "Bohemian" lifestyle?

8. Name a few things that make Sandra suspicious about

Pieter.

9. Do you know what kind of authority a captain has at sea?

10. Have you traveled on a cruise ship?

Discuss several forms of travel. Where would you like
to travel if you had unlimited funds?

Cloze Activity

Use the vocabulary words to fill in the blanks.

1. The mystery novel was full of exciting __________.

2. The detective has to __________ the mystery of the stolen

jewels.

3. Jon travels from state to state in his trailer; he has

a __________ lifestyle.

4. It is certainly __________ that she won the lottery twice!

5. My neglected tools were __________ with rust.

6. I __________ a lot of pleasure from listening to

classical music.

7. Paleontology is the study of life in prehistoric times

by using __________ evidence.

75
 8. The captain ordered the drunken sailor to the __________.

9. John's brown __________ did not match his natural hair.

10. What time are we leaving the ship? __________ is

at 9:00 am.

11. The ancient money in the __________ museum was

fascinating!

12. I don't believe that coin is a fake; it looks

__________ to me.

13. My garden tools are very useful __________ for planting

flowers and pulling weeds.

Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. It has been a very long, cold winter.

She wants to go somewhere warm.

2. No, she has been there already.

3. She went there for a wedding last month.

4. They can be gone for two weeks (14 days)

5. A travel agent is helping them plan the trip.

6. They can't find a flight from the nearest city

(Portland).
The flight is very early in the morning (7:00 a.m.).
They have to drive 250 miles.

Answers
(Cloze activity)

1. travel agent

2. flight

3. tropical

4. cruise ship

76
 5. obstacles

6. trucking

7. vacation

8. ranching

9. reservation

10. lecture
Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. She thinks there could be another problem. She is

worried that they won't go on a trip.

2. The ship will be going to different countries. A

passport is required to prove citizenship.

3. No, she doesn't. The women don't plan on being in it

very much.
4. Sea-sickness is when the motion of the ship makes a
person feel dizzy or ill.

5. In an emergency, a doctor can read what a person is

taking. It is also proof of a medical reason for
taking the drug.

6. Formal clothes mean long dresses for women, tuxedos

for men. Semi-formal means women can wear short
dresses, while men can wear suits. Casual clothes
mean that men and women can wear pants or shorts.

7. There is a library, a jewelry store, a gift shop, a

beauty salon, a physical fitness center, a tobacco
and liquor store, laundry rooms and several night
clubs with dancing.

8. Children have their own activity director who plans

lots of things for them to do.

9. There is a cruise director who plans all the

activities.

10. There is golf, tennis, shuffleboard, and lots of

inside games, too.

77
Answers
(Cloze activity)

1. formal

2. container

3. documents

4. emergency

5. difference

6. reserve

7. medication

8. cancelled

9. passport

10. stateroom
Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. The documents are the airline tickets, hotel reservations

and tickets for the ship.

2. They will be departing and arriving at different airports

on their return home.

3. Sandra will do all the driving.

. She has insurance with another company.

5. She will be charged for any future damage to the car.

6. Sandra wants the clerk to make a record of any damage the

last driver did before the women rented the car.

7. Donita is worried about getting up at 4:00 a.m. She thinks

it would be quicker to sleep in her travel clothes.

8. The clerk will not have to call them. A computer will make
the phone ring in the morning.

Answers
(Cloze activity)

78
 1. expecting

2. dent

3. documents

4. insurance

5. reserve

6. fate

7. inspect

8. cross his fingers

Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. A stop-over is a short delay on a trip, usually in an

airport.

2. There is a huge pile of suitcases that are unclaimed.

3. More than 1200 people tried to get on the ship earlier.

The women waited until 2:00 to board
. They can board the ship anytime from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00
p.m.

5. (Answers can vary) There are lots of stores and

activities. There is a movie theater. The ship has
some of the same things you can find in a city.

6. They might want to go to another country to work or just

travel somewhere.

7. (Answers should be individual opinions.)

Answers
(Cloze activity)

1. ramp

2. agent

3. customs

4. shock

79
 5. stop-over

6. boarded

7. stretch legs

8. identification

9. stowaway

10. stateroom
Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. Dom, the room steward is waiting to give them information

and answer their questions.

2. A steward is responsible for keeping the room clean,

bringing towels and turning down the blankets each night.
He keeps the room stocked with shampoo, tissue, and toilet
paper.

3. Everyone has to go out on deck, put on their life jackets,

and stand by their assigned boat.
4. The two items are light devices and inflation straws.

5. The jacket is made to turn an unconscious person from face

down to an upright and slightly backward position.

6. They are the same except for the size. The child size is
for anyone weighing less than 90 lbs.; the adult size is
for anyone over 90 lbs.

7. He is the hotel manager.

8. He has been an apprentice cook, a Purser, and a Controller.

He worked in Provisions, dining room, bars, food and
beverages.

9. Firmin has been on ships to Europe, the Baltic,

Mediterranean, Canada, the Far East, Mexico, Alaska and
the Caribbean.

10. This is a list of jobs a wife has for her husband. The
name is from her asking, “Honey will you do...?”

Answers

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(Cloze activity)

1. provisions

2. code

3. demonstrate

4. instructions

5. drill

6. unconscious

7. inflate

8. apprentice

9. announcement

10. steward

11. assigned

12. tender

13. purser

14. controller

15. event
Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. The medicine will prevent sickness from the motion

of the boat.

2. The rough water could sink the boats

3. It was named for Henry Hudson's ship. The beach is

also the same shape.
4. Yes. The island was named Little San Salvador.

5. It means shallow sea.

6. (Answers may vary) A lot of sickness. Slavery.

7. Missionaries started a European settlement in 1647.

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 8. (Possible answers) They needed food, fresh water,
get slaves.

9. Spain, Britain, United States.

10. It ended in 1835.

11. The Lukku-cari people.

12. He thought the ship had traveled to the West Indies.

Answers
(Cloze activity)

1. abundance

2. seasick

3. incredible

4. disappointed

5. groan

6. crescent

7. missionaries

8. contagious

9. settlement

10. erroneously

11. turbulence
Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. Formal dress is required in the dining room. Captain

Draper will give a champagne toast party before dinner.

2. The word means anything about sailors or ships.

3. She will raise money for cancer research.

4. Some of the symptoms are gum swelling, bleeding and
loose teeth. There can also be internal bleeding,

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 fractures and weight loss.

5. Yes, they can. They need to eat foods high in vitamin

C to prevent it.

6. People need to eat oranges, limes or lemons.

7. The British navy gave sailors limes to prevent scurvy.

8. He thought he had landed on the Asian coast.

9. He named the islands in honor of 11,000 martyred

Virgins. (from the Catholic religion).

10. It was named after Charlotte Amelia, the bride of King

Christian V of Denmark. It is the capital and the
largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Answers
(Cloze activity)

1. appointment

2. gossip

3. scuttlebutt

4. participant

5. provisions

6. symptoms

7. disadvantaged

8. strategic

9. folly

10. profit
Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. He listened to the stories his father told about many

countries.

2. He went to the Dutch Nautical Academy. He worked on

cargo ships and oil tankers.

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 3. The ship was built in Monflcone, Italy and was finished
in 1993.
4. It can carry 1266 guests and a crew of 602.

5. There are probably cameras and alarms near the art work.

6. They have been there before.

7. There is an inactive underground volcano.

8. There are 172 different species of birds.

9. No, it is not cheap.

10. A tourist could go hiking, go to the Botanical Gardens,

and go shopping.

Answers
(Cloze activity)

1. iridescent

2. elegant

3. pursue

4. impressed

5. artifacts

6. trademark

7. origin

8. fumarole

9. emerald

10. tram

11. canopy

12. endangered species

Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. She had a sign with their names on it.

84
 2. Her name is Winsome.

3. Christopher Columbus sighted the island on Sunday.

Dominica means "Sunday."
. She thinks it was an excuse the sailors used to justify
genocide.

5. Britain and France claimed Dominica.

6. He was a Prime Minister who was defeated when he ran for

office a second time.

7. He was angry at being defeated in the election and tried

to start a coup.

8. The garden was originally started to provide seeds for

the farmers.

9. Economic plants are those that are edible.

10. Some of the medicinal plants are: Orange leaf, Guava

leaf and Periwinkle.

11. Opinions will vary.

Answers
(Cloze activity)

1. thoughtful

2. skepticism

3. lush

4. priority

5. dwindled

6. cannibalistic

7. evidence

8. medicinal

9. genocide

10. introduce

85
11. origin

12. stronghold

13. coup

14. cricket
Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. Some of the parrots are endangered. There are very few

left in the world.

2. The Sikye, and the Bananquit.

3. Yes, the Sandpiper, Barn Owl, and Kestrel came from

America.
4. A huge hurricane destroyed the Garden and surrounding
area.

5. It is similar to a large rabbit, from the rodent

species.

6. A privateer is paid by a country to rob other ships.

A buccaneer is not.

7. Maybe they were more comfortable speaking in their

native language. Or they could have wanted to
discuss something private.

8. Leprosy was a contagious disease; now it is treatable.

9. The house that looks like a wedding cake.

10. It is an act of humility to walk on sand.

Answers
(Cloze activity)

1. ferment

2. habitat

3. quarantine

4. species

86
 5. Buccaneers

6. continuous

7. portray

8. ritual

9. conservation

10. collectively

11. migratory

12. siege

13. humility

14. lepers

15. tradition
Answers
(Comprehension questions)

1. Aruba is a predominately Catholic country that observes

religious holidays. Most businesses close on those days.

2. It was built as a wedding present for the bride and

resembles a wedding cake.
. Many people are under the false impression that it was
the same ship that received a distress call from the
Titanic, but the boat sunk off the shore of Aruba is
a fruit boat with the same name: the U.S.S. California.

4. One story is that the name came from the Spanish phrase,
"oro hubo."

5. It was built and used in Holland, then dismantled and

shipped to Aruba.

6. Napoleon tried to take over the island in that valley.

7. A Bohemian lifestyle means very few rules are followed

and a person often travels from town to town. Sometimes
the children do not attend school.

8. He seems to be wearing make-up and a toupee.

87
 9. A captain is the law on his ship. He can marry couples,
and have individuals arrested.

10. Open discussion of where people would like to travel.

Answers will vary.

Answers
(Cloze activity)

1. intrigue

2. solve

3. bohemian

4. incredible

5. crusty

6. derive

7. fossil

8. brig

9. toupee

10. debarkation

11. numismatic

12. authentic

13. implements

88