1 October 1871

We passed the Equator on Sunday 1^st of October, and were threatened with a visit of Neptune, at which Dunny was much concerned, lest he should be tarred and feathered;- however, the day, or something else, got us off free. The atmosphere is so humid, that it is positively an exertion to eat; and sleep is interrupted by violent perspirations. The sea is calm and [gap — reason: unclear] no wind of consequence.