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UNDER SEA WITH
HELMET AND CAMERA

UNDER SEA PHOTOGRAPHER }

BINDER SEA WITH
HELMET AND CAMERA

Experiences of an Amateur

By
A. FELIX DU PONT

With Illustrations from Photographs

taken by the Author Le |
AS |
Wes peea
RCo L &
NEW YORK

DODD, MEAD & COMPANY
1940

CopyYRIGHT, 1940
By DODD, MEAD AND COMPANY, Inc.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
NO PART OF THIS BOOK MAY BE REPRODUCED IN ANY FORM
WITHOUT PERMISSION IN WRITING FROM THE PUBLISHER

PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
BY THE VAIL-BALLOU PRESS, INC., BINGHAMTON, N. Y.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

To my daughters, Lydia Chichester du Pont and
Alice du Pont Mills, who first showed me the bottom
of the sea.

To Mrs. Howard F. Callaway for many suggestions
in the preparation of these pages.

To Richard C. du Pont for keenly relating his ex-
periences.

To John Dick for getting the best out of photo-
graphs that were taken with no intention of publi a-
tion.

To E. R. Fenimore Johnson, who kindly made the
frontispiece for this book.

[ vii]

INTRODUCTION

A new and fascinating pursuit has developed in recent years which
lovers of nature, especially aquatic life, are only beginning to appreciate.
This is amateur submarine diving. Some interesting motion pictures and
books devoted to submarine research or adventure have appeared during
the past decade, but the equipment, technique and danger described as
seemingly necessary to this pursuit must have discouraged the majority
of people who have a desire to feel the thrill of wandering on the sea
bottom. It appears that the authors of these books have recounted their
activities and accomplishments primarily for the edification and enter-
tainment of people who enjoy descriptions of unusual and dangerous
experiences. The matter of encouraging others to enjoy a similar pursuit
was not part of their purpose. The writer, since boyhood, has had a deep
interest in this subject. He has pursued his investigations in an amateurish
manner but with thrilling results. A narrative of these experiences, with
a description of the equipment and technique employed, would seem to
have a place in undersea literature, hence this book. ‘The most interesting
subjects represented by the illustrations are reproduced from sixteen-
millimetre motion pictures; the result is necessarily poor, although the
pictures when projected in motion are satisfactory. Furthermore, when
the photographs were being taken, there was no thought that they would
be published in a book. The considerate reader will perhaps bear these
points in mind when criticizing the illustrations.

The opportunity to begin submarine diving came to this author
through a fortunate and unlooked for circumstance. Books that had been
published describing undersea photography had escaped his attention, but

[ix J

INTRODUCTION

he had heard enough about the subject to know that he was not a pioneer
in the field, though he may be among the first of the amateurs. Here
let it be recorded, therefore, that the man who made the first photo-
eraphs of fishes in their natural habitat did so in the year 1913, and
his name is J. E. Williamson. He it was who conceived and designed
the wonderful apparatus which he called the photosphere.*

My expeditions under the sea, at least the only ones meriting descrip-
tion, were made in the Bahamas; the out islands as those are called that
lie nearest Nassau. Cruising in these waters is so full of interest and new
sensations that my activities were not confined to submarine photogra-
phy. Companions were with me for whose enjoyment I felt responsible,
consequently we spent much time in going from place to place, fishing,
bathing, and walking on strange and beautiful beaches. I have, therefore,
described these cruises in narrative, bringing in each diving expedition
as it occurred.

* 20 Years Under the Sea. Williamson (Hale, Castleman and Flint).

[x]

te ee ee ee ee

CONTENTS UN bet

PART I
UNDER SEA

CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE

First Visit TO THE BAHAMAS .
ANDROS .

ExuMa

Aw UnsuccessFuL EFFoRT
CRUISE OF 1938 .

CRUISE OF 1939 .

SUPERSTITION

PART II
EQUIPMENT

EQuIPMENT

““Turee MEN IN a Boar”
DANGERS AND PRECAUTIONS
BARRACUDA AND SHARKS

SomE New Ipeas .

[xi]

218)
“(Ou
a2
. 80
184

ILLUSTRATIONS

Under sea photographer

‘Sometimes the girl-friends were allowed to go with us .

Cloud effects in the Bahamas .
Missionary boat and Andros natives
First diving experience .

The Andros mail

Yacht Aquila

Captain Billsborough

Flamingo nests .

First photographs

Motor-sailer Buckaroo .

Gorgonias and sponge at twelve foot depth .

Grunts and sergeant-major fish
An interesting group of diverse objects .
“Shrubbery” bending before the “wind” .

Yellow grunts in sea-gardens :

Interesting formations at fifteen foot depth .

Coral formations

Joe O’Neil secures specimens
Shells found on the beach .
An example of nature’s artistry

Sea fantasy .

[ xi |]

Frontispiece

PAGE

Facing 4
(7 8

Following 20

ce

Facing 30

(79

Following 34

Facing 35

(4

Following 42

ILLUSTRATIONS

A banded butterfly fish.

Spade fishes .

Spade fish "
Basket starfish and other species
Cruise of 1939, ship’s company
Diving equipment

Cameras and cases for submarine photography

[ xiv J

PAGE

Following 42
« 42
Facing 43
48
49
« 58
59

PART I

UNDER SEA

ae.
Se ee heaters

CHAPTER I

CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE

WuEen I was fourteen years old, and for some years thereafter, my play-
mates and I passed the long summer vacations entirely free to follow
whatever diversions we could originate. We lived in the country. Auto-
mobiles, movies, radios had not been invented. Not more than two fami-
lies that we knew owned graphophones. The invention of pneumatic
tires had made bicycling a pleasure. The fact is not generally known that
in those days a bicycle was not a salable article if it weighed more than
twenty-two pounds. If this statement does not seem important the reader
should ascertain the weight of the bicycle now being used by the average
boy of sixteen years or over. We made journeys on bicycles of eighty to
ninety miles in a day. Lengthy arguments were entered into regarding
the weight of various makes of bicycles, the tread, gear and tires. Reduc-
tion of weight was more important than anything else. A boy owning a
bicycle encumbered with mud-guards was a “sissy.” Bicycles were
equipped with tool-cases. We would carry our tools in our pockets and
discard the case to get rid of its weight. Today, a boy on an average bicycle
is as badly handicapped as one of us would have been if he had been carry-
ing a knapsack weighing twenty pounds.

The business of some of our fathers was manufacturing. We lived near
mills that inspired interest in mechanics and chemistry. Our amusements
were, therefore, wholesome and constructive. We built boats and water-
wheels, made gunpowder and fired it in cannons of our own construction.
For sport we took the bicycle rides, played tennis, went canoeing and

eae

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

swimming. Some of our summers were spent on the New Jersey coast.
We formed, with some boys we met there, a sort of “club,” at least it had
sufficient organization for us to procure uniform caps (or perhaps our
mothers did this for us). The chief accomplishment of the club was mak-
ing a collection of specimens of life along the shore of a small inlet from
the sea. We dried our small fishes and preserved more bulky ones in
alcohol. The conditions at this inlet must have been unusual, for we ob-
tained many sea horses, pipe fish and star fish. All other kinds of fish died
very soon after being placed in bowls or buckets, but these lived for a long
time. We luckily obtained the sea horses at spawning time and witnessed
the young emerging from the pocket in which the parent carries them.
They were so small that I mounted some on microscope slides. This
pastime gave to me a lasting interest in life beneath the surface of the sea,
fresh water ponds and streams.

At home, swimming took precedence over all other summer amuse-
ments. Our “swimming hole” was in thesBrandywine Creek among the
gunpowder mills which lined its banks for two miles. At the place we had
chosen, a sycamore tree, its roots undermined by the stream, had started
to fall into the water but had apparently changed its mind just before it
was too late. It leaned over the stream at an angle which made walking on
its trunk an easy matter. We built a platform for diving where the height
above the water was about ten feet and made a rope-ladder to get back to
the platform. Sometimes the “girl-friends” were allowed to go with us.
Diving, swimming under water, collecting stones from the bottom became
matters of great interest and competition. One of the boys made a pair of
glasses to aid his vision when beneath the surface. Then we became in-
terested in devising a means for breathing and so initiated ourselves into
the elementary problems of submarine diving. The first and most obvious
experiment was to place a short section of garden hose in the mouth, then
submerge, and breathe in and out through the hose. We found that when

C4

SOMETIMES THE GIRL-FRIENDS WERE ALLOWED TO GO WITH US

na

CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE

the head was submerged but one foot beneath the surface the lungs seemed
to collapse, air was expelled through the hose, and inhalation was a feat of
utmost muscular exertion. Then too, even if this feat of breathing could
be accomplished, the hose would always contain used air. Only a few feet
of hose would contain all of the air exhaled, so that no fresh air would be
admitted. We tried holding the hose in one side of the mouth, inhaling
only through it and exhaling from the other side, using the tongue as a
check-valve. This was too complicated, and after gulping water a few
times we abandoned the experiment.

A few rough figures will show why air at atmospheric pressure cannot
be drawn from the surface by a person under water. A cubic foot of water
weighs sixty-two pounds. An area one foot wide encircling a man’s chest
contains approximately three square feet. If he is submerged one foot, he
is subjected to a pressure 3 x 62 pounds, or 186 pounds distributed around
his chest, not to mention an equal or greater pressure around his abdomen,
forcing all of the organs in that region upwards against the lungs. If our
friend descends into the water to a depth of thirty feet, which gives no
discomfort to a properly equipped amateur diver, the pressure around the
chest is increased to 3 x 30 x 62 pounds, or 5580 pounds, and the ab-
dominal pressure in like proportion.

We boys were familiar with the elements of physics and knew some-
thing from hearsay and books about submarine diving as used for construc-
tion and salvage; consequently, our next experiment was to make a con-
traption whereby air at the same pressure as that of the water could be
inhaled and exhaled. A large iron bucket was procured and inverted, and
sufficient scrap iron was tied to the bale to sink it in spite of the air im-
prisoned within. A short rubber tube was equipped with a float at one
end so that it would hold that end above the surface of the water. We took
our apparatus to the swimming hole and let the bucket down into the
water. Then I, with the rubber tube in my mouth, let the other end float

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UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

on the surface of the water inside the bucket. While I held the bucket
alongside my head, my companions on the platform in the tree lowered it
slowly and I went with it until my feet rested on the bottom. Air from
the bucket was drawn into the lungs and passed back into the bucket. This
air was at the same pressure as the water and there was no difficulty in
breathing, except that the air became foul after a very few breaths. Our
next improvement was to use two buckets, shift the tube from one to the
other, send a signal for the used bucket to be hoisted up, filled with fresh
air, and sent down again. This was rather complicated, the water was sel-
dom clear enough to see through at all, it was not as much fun as we had
anticipated; consequently, the diversion came to an end. Had we lived
where there was clear, still, salt water we surely would have evolved a real
diving apparatus.

[6]

CHAPTER II

FIRST VISIT TO THE BAHAMAS

In the spring of 1935 (only forty years after the experiments described
in the last chapter) my two daughters, Lydia and Alice, were spending
some weeks in Nassau. They decided to give their father a new kind of
vacation and sent word that they had chartered a boat and we would cruise
among the out-islands. This was a command in obedience to which I made
my first visit to the Bahamas.

On my arrival, we proceeded at once to our boat which was lying at a
dock at the market-place. It was native-built, about thirty feet overall
and eight feet beam. Sloop-rigged, it had a fair amount of sail and was
equipped with a twenty horsepower motor. The main cabin had the usual
accommodations in a small boat, consisting of two lower and two upper
berths, a gas stove and toilet. It was of shallow draft with centerboard
which occupied valuable space and caused considerable inconvenience.
A hatch on the fore-deck gave access to space below sufficient for two
bunks which were used by the Captain and his assistant. A small cockpit
aft and a dinghy which was towed, completed the main characteristics
of this little vessel, which we found admirably suited to the purposes for
which it was used. It had been given the attractive name of Spindrift. The
two men who navigated and provided for us were experienced natives
and seemed capable and anxious to please. Indeed we found them so.

I had arrived in the forenoon and we were anxious to start on our cruise
at once. All that was needed was an extra supply of fuel which our Captain
had not taken on because he had not understood that we intended to stay

ay

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

away from Nassau during the entire time for which the boat was chartered.
Here we were disappointed. The town was giving a formal welcome to
the Duke and Duchess of Kent; a holiday had been declared, and a British
Colonial holiday is taken very seriously. Every commercial building 1s
is closed and barred, including shops, even drugstores and filling stations.
If your car runs out of gas, you leave it on the street until the next day.
There is nothing to be done unless some kind motorist pushes you home.
So we embarked after lunch and sailed to Paradise Beach to have a swim.
In the evening we enjoyed the wandering minstrels on the street, negroes,
who in groups of three or four, sang with guitar accompaniment. I heard
for the first time songs which became familiar on subsequent visits. ‘The
most popular one—Mama don’t want no rice, no peas, no coconut oil—
has a lilt to it that is catching and I found myself whistling or humming
it for days.

The type of songs, however, is quite different from those that we are
accustomed to hearing sung by the colored people in the United States.
They are evidently composed for the amusement of tourists who land in
Nassau from the cruise boats and stay for a few hours. None of these
songs has a religious theme. On each subsequent visit, I noticed that the
charm of these street singers decreased. A progressive degeneration was
apparent in the quality of the songs. They are ribald and sometimes even
express obscene sentiments, which are not natural to the negro, and suggest
inspiration from the white man. The matter is giving concern to those who
are responsible for law and order in their attractive little town.

Next morning we got under way with plenty of fuel and other sup-
plies. Not until then did we consult with the Captain regarding our desti-
nation. The character of the various out-islands was unknown to all of us.
After hearing about the beauty of Eleuthera, we laid our course N.E. x E.
after we had cleared Nassau light on the Western end of Hog Island. We
had been on this course for about half an hour when Lydia spoke of a

C8 J

CTS IN THE BAHAMAS

7)

FFE

CLOUD E

MISSIONARY BOAT AND ANDROS NATIVES

FIRST VISIT TO THE BAHAMAS

nesting place of flamingoes which she had heard was situated on Andros.
We discussed Andros with our Captain and changed our course to W. x S.
After passing Clifton Point, we bore S.W. for twenty miles. This course
crosses ’ongue of the Ocean, an area about thirty miles wide and extend-
ing southeastward for a distance of 120 miles. The soundings marked on
the chart are surprising: 800, 939, 1000, 1409, 1600 fathoms; and the area
is surrounded by shoals and reefs which drop off abruptly to these great
depths. What a strange appearance it would present if the water was
drained off!

The island of Andros is the largest of the Bahama group. Its length is
104 miles; its greatest breadth forty miles, the same size as my native State
of Delaware. It is divided near its middle by three waterways known as
North Bight, Middle Bight, and South Bight. A line of coral reefs guards
the entire length of the Eastern shore, which is high land. The Western
shore is marshy, and shallow water extends far out to sea. Vessels cannot
approach this shore. The population of the island is 6900 and they all live
on the Eastern shore. There are no roads. The inhabitants communicate
with one another and with Nassau by boat. Because of the coral reefs, a
sharp lookout has to be maintained in approaching any part of the Western
shore. We found that the shallow draft of Spindrift was an advantage in
crossing these reefs, for most of the “coral heads” plainly visible in these
crystal-clear waters were below our depth. It was impossible for me to
yudge whether these obstacles were deep down or dangerously near the
surface, but our experienced navigators ran boldly over some dangerous
looking heads and skirted others. This clear water is a fascinating charac-
teristic of the Bahamas. Its constant and beautiful changes caused by wind,
sun, and cloud can be fully appreciated only by those who cruise among
the islands in small boats. Unbelievable shades of blue, green and copper
combine with clouds, white beaches, and tropical vegetation with effects
that neither pen nor brush can describe. Inside the reefs we bore southward

Revd

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

and did some trolling. I had done little southern fishing and always
expected each catch to be something new. A Mutton fish and a Jew fish
rewarded our first efforts, so I was not disappointed.

We anchored in the late afternoon off Coakley Town. The shore did
not look inviting for bathing so we enjoyed a swim by diving overboard.
Nearby, also at anchor, was a fine schooner. She looked like a yacht but,
though well kept, showed by absence of cushions, awnings and other
luxuries that she went forth on serious occasions and not at the whim of
the owner. We wondered why such an important looking vessel was
anchored off the tiny village.

Our arrival had been seen by the villagers, and presently we saw some
small boats putting off. They were the most dilapidated looking craft I
ever saw. The one which first approached us contained three negroes, a
man and two women. The sail was made of scraps of material sewed to-
gether, grain sacks and burlap. One of the women was steering, the other
bailing steadily to keep afloat, and the man was standing before the mast
holding a live chicken. He said, “Captain, yo’ don’t want no chicken, no
eggs”. There were offerings from other boats, mostly specimens of coral
or shells. The question was always put in the negative. This is an odd
example of a characteristic of the African that I have often noticed. He
avoids disagreeing or being disagreed with.

We went ashore while the meal was being prepared, finding this con-
venient for our crew. A group of children was awaiting us and followed,
exhibiting much curiosity. No doubt a visit of white persons to their
village is an event. About a dozen houses were visible. There were more,
we observed later, concealed in the bush. We made our way towards a
church, crudely constructed, not unlike the negro meeting houses one
finds through the South Atlantic States. I went inside and was followed
by one of the children, a girl older than the rest. The interior was a surprise.
Its appearance of order and cleanliness and its decorations, though rather

[10]

FIRST VISIT TO THE BAHAMAS

pitiful in quality, gave unmistakable evidence that here was an humble
representative of the historic Church whose people were properly trained,
and proud of their heritage. I said, “Is this the Roman Catholic Church?”
The young girl, with a slight inclination toward the altar, said, ‘“No, sir,
this is the Church of England. The Roman Catholic Church is on the other
side of the village.” “Does your minister live here?” “No, sir, the priest
lives in Nassau and comes here once a month, but we have a Catechist who
lives here. He teaches school and reads the services when the priest is not
here.” “Does the Bishop ever visit you?” “Oh, yes, sir, he comes once a
year for confirmation.” “Does the Roman Catholic Priest come often?”
“Bout same as ours. He got a mighty fine boat; she lay out there by yours.
They have a Catechist too.” This girl was as merry and noisy as the rest
of the children until she entered the church, whereupon she assumed a
quiet dignity. She exhibited training and education which though it did
not entirely rid her of the negro dialect, renewed my respect for British
institutions and for the Missionary organization of the Church of England.

An Anglican priest at Nassau gave me the following additional informa-
tion. One priest is required at times to visit all the churches on Andros,
Bimini, and the Berry Islands, thirteen in all, and each separated from the
other by water. Fr. Brooks at present has that duty and a sailing boat, New
Dorothy, is at his disposal. More often the care of these churches is divided
between two priests. Rectories have been provided at the principal settle-
ments, and at most of the others there are small cabins for the use of these
ministers. The churches are supported by the people themselves and by
subscriptions collected by “The Nassau Association” of England and
Canada.

The Anglican and the Roman churches apparently do a good job on
the Islands. Speaking only of the negro element (there are white people
on some of the islands), other Christian sects exist, but I think that none of
these has an energetic supervision by white people.

Dr]

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

We proceeded to the inland extremity of the village. The children con-
tinued with us and struck up a sort of marching song. My daughters sensed
a chance for additional entertainment and asked them if they liked to
dance. They said something about a “fire dance,” indicating that they
made quite a ceremonial of dancing. Lydia asked them if they would dance
for us should we come ashore again after supper. The older girl spoke up
immediately, ““No, Miss, we couldn’t dance for you ’cause this is Lent.”
Later I was sorry that we missed this fire dance because I learned that it
has a most interesting character. The negroes on Andros have lived there
for many generations and have had little contact with the outside world.
It has been concluded by travelers studying the island from an ethnologi-
cal standpoint that this dance is undoubtedly a relic of their African fore-
bears.

We proceeded up a short flight of steps to some higher ground and
found a small area where some of the soil was cultivated. It was pathetic.
Some corn was scattered about, no attempt having been made to plant in
rows. Some vegetables appeared here and there, but all that we could see
would hardly feed one family. The soil, what there was of it, looked fertile
but very shallow and the coral-rock formation of the island protruded
through it in many places. Beyond this cultivated area, we came upon an
impenetrable thicket and could go no farther. There were no trees over
twelve feet high, and very few of those. I believe that the greater portion
of the island is covered with this growth, although the Southern end of it
contains some timber. Exploration of the island by aerial photography
might be interesting. Large plantations on the island have been referred
to by early writers.

When we returned to the stairway, we had an encounter which left an
unpleasant impression. A white man was waiting there with the evident
intention of entering into conversation with us, so we stopped. His man-
ner and speech showed unmistakable signs of culture. He said that he had

[12]

FONG XH ONTAIG LSYA

THE ANDROS MAIL

FIRST VISIT TO THE BAHAMAS

lived in the village for twenty years. He gave us interesting information
about the island and questioned us about our visit. He told us that he had
had a fine house but that it was destroyed by a hurricane a few years ago.
He had built a sort of shanty on the foundations of the original house, and
pointed to where it stood about fifty yards away. When we left him, he
walked toward his home and his family came out to greet him, all black
as coal.

After this experience, we returned to the waterfront and rowed out to
our anchorage. A good meal had been prepared for us, including some of
the fish we had caught during the day. We discussed our experiences and —
our plans for next day; then Alice produced her portable graphophone.
The moon was nearly full, the air balmy. The charm of the islands was
working on me swiftly. It seemed unbelievable that only four days ago
I had been working at a desk.

Next morning we got under way after breakfast in search of a suitable
“sea garden.” Lydia had procured a diving apparatus, the use of which
she had planned to make the outstanding attraction of the cruise. During
her stay in Nassau that winter and the previous one she had made some
friends who used diving helmets, and had made several descents. Now she
owned her personal equipment and was proud of being the one to give
me my first experience. We arrived at a point on the outside of the coral
reefs. Our Captain, letting our little yacht drift for a while, took the
dinghy and searched the coral formations with a water glass. He soon
selected a suitable place, returned to Spindrift, moved her over to the place
he had chosen, and cast anchor.

Our diving equipment was made ready. This consisted of a helmet, a
hand-operated air pump, and about fifty feet of rubber hose. The helmet
was of copper and went over the head, resting on the shoulders. It con-
tained two windows of flat glass, separated by a small frame located ex-
actly in front. A line tied to a piece of scrap iron was now dropped over

Par3e|

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

side and secured to a cleat. Following directions, I swung myself over-
board and grasped the line, supporting myself chin-deep in the water.
The pump was set in motion and the helmet lowered over my head. Let-
ting myself down about two feet, I stopped for a short time. The air was
admitted through a nipple in the side of the helmet and escaped at the
bottom, around the shoulders. I let myself down slowly now. The increas-
ing pressure made itself felt by stoppage in the ears. The discomfort was
cured by yawning.

When my feet were on the bottom I looked around me. This first ex-
perience was thrilling. Objects which I had looked down upon perpen-
dicularly from the surface now stretched before me as on land, but what
a marvelous difference! A shimmering light of a pale blue tinge pervaded
all. Every object that met the eye was unfamiliar but beautiful. At first I
noticed only the larger objects, coral heads, huge sponges, red and yellow
sea fans. Then I began to discern the fishes. They were small but seemed to
be of infinite variety, and their coloring was superb. They swam in and
out through grasses and arches of coral, appearing and disappearing. I
moved from place to place in order to get a better view of any grouping
that attracted me. The shimmering light was caused by the sun’s rays
being deflected by the ripples on the surface. I turned back reluctantly to
my point of descent, and ascended hand over hand quite slowly, as di-
rected.

I thought over this experience, and wondered why I had not observed
details more closely. In later descents the same failing has been noted. It
probably is caused by unfamiliarity with the surroundings, nervousness
about the air supply, and fear of unconsciously coming in contact with
some harmful animal or plant. Lydia took her turn, but Alice could not
be induced to try it. Some people have an attack of claustrophobia when
the helmet is placed over their heads. These should never try diving; they
will get nothing out of it themselves and add nothing to the enjoyment

[14]

FIRST VISIT TO THE BAHAMAS

of their companions.

We stowed our equipment, weighed anchor, and proceeded southward
inside the reefs.

In the afternoon we stopped at some point off Big Wood Cay where
there is a natural curiosity that is worth visiting. A well, uncovered at low
tide, 1s situated off shore about one hundred yards. It is about ten feet in
diameter and a large volume of salt water flows from it when the tide is
receding. A short distance inland there is a pond which is said to be con-
nected by a subterranean tunnel with the well. We visited this pond and
looked down upon a school of Angel fish. Although the water was not
very clear, we procured the diving apparatus and explored the pond, hop-
ing to find this outlet. But we were not successful, and returning to the
well, explored its interior. I was letting myself down by a rope, touching
the wall with my toes and feeling for a foothold. Presently I felt a ledge
of rock and was able to turn around and sit on it. The depth was about
fifteen feet. A multitude of small fish of many varieties were swimming
about. Their bright colors against the dark rock gave a beautiful effect.
The wall was more rugged at this depth but as we had not sounded the
well beforehand, I went no deeper. It appealed to me as an interesting and
adventurous place for exploration. The rocks were over-hanging and for-
bidding. Artificial light would be required to explore to any extent. I re-
solved to visit this place again if possible.

When we had finished this exploration our Captain took us to a place
where Bone fish can be caught. Bone fish come in over broad flats which
are bare at low water. Small shell fish come to the surface of the ground
when the tide goes out. When it comes in, the Bone fish come with it to
feed on these shell fish which have not yet gone far enough into the ground
to protect themselves. The time and place to catch Bone fish, therefore,
is on the young flood tide coming over flats on which there are plenty of
shell fish. We were not well equipped; one heavy rod and two hand lines.

P15]

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

Alice caught one small Bone fish. Soon we were overtaken by darkness
and abandoned our efforts.

Next morning, after a swim and breakfast, we turned Northward, hav-
ing learned to our disappointment that it would take two more days to
go to the nesting place of the flamingoes, which is near the Southern ex-
tremity of the island and several miles inland. Our destination was Mastic
Cay, a good anchorage and a point well situated for taking off next morn-
ing on the run to Nassau. The distance was not great; we took plenty of
time fishing and spearing crawfish when we found likely places. The lat-
ter is good fun, by the way, and requires practice and natural agility. Ac-
cording to conditions, it is done from a small boat or walking in water
about waist deep. The hunter is provided with a water glass and a grains or
spear with two or three barbed points. The crawfish, which are larger than
the average lobsters found in Northern waters, differ essentially from those
in the absence of claws. They are not quite as tender as lobsters but make
very good eating. They can be seen by searching the bottom and the sides
of coral formations with the glass. A sharp eye is required, for usually only
the “whiskers” are seen protruding from some refuge into which the craw-
fish can retire backwards with great speed. The spear must be brought as
close to him as possible without scaring him and this must be done with
a steady, slow motion, bearing in mind that the arm must have enough re-
maining forward motion to accomplish the final thrust. This, of course,
must be made with the utmost speed and accuracy. Often a piece of over-
hanging coral will shield the crawfish from the fatal thrust. His disappear-
ance is permanent and the forked spear is bent so that it has to be straight-
ened before the hunting can be continued. Moreover, the eye must be
trained to allow for refraction. A thrust does not come near the quarry
until one has learned to make this allowance. We were not very success-
ful with our attempts at this sport, and realizing that the contemplated

[16]

FIRST VISIT TO THE BAHAMAS

crawfish picnic which we were looking forward to was likely to be a disap-
pointment if we did not change our tactics, we turned the quest over to
our crew, who procured a bucketful in a surprisingly short time.
_ Before sundown, we arrived at Mastic Cay and anchored off a sandy
beach, a delightful place for bathing and walking on the shore. We brought
cooking utensils from the yacht, cut firewood, and our crew prepared for
us a meal of conch chowder, broiled crawfish, bacon, bread, coffee, and
young coconuts. I consider conchs a real delicacy. They can be eaten raw
or cooked in various ways, but they do not appear on the hotel menus in
Nassau. Young coconuts were a new experience to me. The meat is of a
jelly-like consistency, entirely different from that of the matured ones
shipped North. They are very palatable. As we ate, a schooner was sighted,
coming towards us. It made a beautiful picture in the sunset. When it
came near enough to observe in detail, the lack of recent paint and the dis-
colored sails covered with patchwork indicated a lowly place in maritime
society. Yet it had a stately bearing which gave it a look of importance.
Sailing vessels, like people, have character which can be recognized by the
discerning eye in spite of their clothing. We were told that this vessel was
the Andros mail. In Nassau, I procured a photograph of her from Mr.
Armbrister to whom I am indebted for the accompanying illustration.
When our unusual and enjoyable repast was finished “All was well with
the world.” We stretched ourselves on the sand. The mate spun yarns
to us about experiences with Mr. J. E. Williamson, by whom he had been
employed in the making of undersea moving picture plays. The full moon
rose over the cays with that tropical brilliance which works a magic spell
on all persons having a spark of sentiment, be they saints or sinners. Alice
started her portable graphophone, and the record Blue Moon was meta-
morphosed from the silly night club number that it is to a soul lifting and
glorious composition. Now, after five years, when I hear that song pre-

real

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

cious memories are stirred within me.

Next morning we had an uneventful run to Nassau, and this altogether
delightful experience was ended. I resolved to make another cruise during |
the next year for the particular purpose of having more diving experiences
and, if possible, to make photographs of the sea gardens.

[18 J

CHAPTER III

ANDROS

Wen the spring of 1936 arrived I had sent a small cruising power yacht,
Aquila, to Florida through the Inland Waterway. This boat, in charge of
Captain Malcolm Billsborough, was built according to my general ideas,
and had been used during the past five years only for summer cruising and
sword fishing in Northern waters. From Miami, she proceeded to Nassau
where she awaited my arrival. This little yacht was fairly well adapted to
island cruising, although on account of her light construction hardly safe
to take across the Gulf Stream. She is forty-nine feet overall, eleven feet
six inches beam, and three feet six inches draft. In addition to the usual
four berths in the main cabin, there is a small cabin forward with two
berths. Aft of the main cabin is a galley. A watertight bulkhead separates
the above described part of the ship from the engine room, which also
serves as crew’s quarters. I had some ideas of speed when this little cruiser
was built under my instructions, and powered her with a medium speed
gasoline motor rated at 180 horsepower. The motor never seemed to yield
the power claimed for it and as regards speed, the little yacht was a dis-
appointment. Her fuel consumption was very great.

However, Captain Billsborough can make up for many deficiencies in
a yacht if he is willing to take her. A born seaman, steady and reliable, he
had in his younger days a desire to broaden his knowledge by shipping on
many different kinds of craft. His first experience, as a boy, was with the
New Jersey oyster fleets in Delaware Bay, and on some sailing yachts.
After 1902, he became second mate of a steam driven lumber barge, and

[19 J

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from that time his record of service shows that he was second mate, first
mate, and Master, consecutively, of several fisheries boats working out of
New Jersey ports. He was employed by my brothers and me for the season
of 1908 on a jointly owned motor yacht of seventy-five feet length and
fourteen feet beam. We were very proud of this boat, for she was among
the first of the motor yachts to be turned out under the radical changes in
design that naval architects had begun to apply to that type of vessel. Our
new Captain was just as proud of the boat as we were but did not let us
know it. Captain Billsborough, a young man of thirty-two years, won our
respect at once because of his knowledge and self-confidence, along with
his courteous and unassuming manner. After the season was over, he be-
came first mate on U.S. Lightship Five Fathom Bank, which post he held
for three years. T. Coleman du Pont, knowing the Captain’s ability, gave
him the position of Master on his steam yacht Tech, a position he held until
the end of December, 1930, including leave during the first World War to
take the position of third mate on an oil tanker carrying fuel overseas to
the Allies. He had eighteen pleasant years with a delightful family who
were interested in water fowl shooting, and racing speed boats. He came
back to me after twenty-four years and here we find him, Master of a frail
“summer” cruiser which had no right to be on the opposite side of the
Gulf Stream from that on which she was built.

Aquila served me well in my second cruise among the Islands. I had a
party of five. We left Nassau early in April with Captain Billsborough, a
cook, and a native guide. I resolved not to disappoint Lydia, therefore
made our first objective the flamingo nesting-place on Andros. We passed
out of Nassau Harbor eastward, rounded East Point, and headed for South
Bight, Andros, S.W. x S.%S, a distance of fifty-two miles. The run took
about five hours; we did a little trolling, and even at cruising speed caught
several small Spanish Mackerel. At South Bight there is a settlement named
Golding Cay. An official known as the Commissioner lives here. We

[20 ]

CAPTAIN

BILLSBOROUGH

oY

LL LLBEAN

SLSUN OONTINVIA

FIRST PHOTOGRAPHS

(Enlarged from 16 11.11. motion picture.)

el

: ti
ay)

ANDROS

visited him and he kindly furnished a guide to go with us to Grassy Creek.
This guide was an elderly negro with a pleasing manner. We proceeded
southward along the coast for about twenty-three miles, arriving at last
off Grassy Creek. We were fortunate in having a boat of light draft, for
the water between the reefs and the shore at this part of the Island is very
shallow. Our arrival at this anchorage was after sundown, too late for any
excursions on land. We amused ourselves watching and talking with the
natives who came out to sell us some of their wares, chiefly coral and
shells. The new moon and perfect weather, which seldom fails in April,
added greatly to our enjoyment and to the comfort of all hands, for Aquila
had no regular accommodations for the two extra men.

Next morning Lydia and I went ashore with our local guide to see the
flamingoes. We set out through a tiny settlement, and thence across track-
less country. At times we were crossing stretches of bare ground, coral
rather, which is the foundation of all of these islands. This is dark gray in
color and while smooth in some places, in others is so rough that it is dif-
ficult to walk upon, even when wearing rubber-soled shoes. It looks like
lava and I have not been able to obtain a satisfactory explanation of its
shape and quality. My own observation brings me to the conclusion that
sand from coral has arisen above the water (though I don’t know why it
should) and has been baked into a hard mass by the action of the sun, then
the rain has gradually disintegrated portions which for some reason were
softer than others. This leaves a surface of sharp ridges and points similar
to nothing I have ever seen. Any extended walking on this material would
soon tear up the soles of rubber shoes. It can be broken with a hammer, ex-
posing coral sand within the hard exterior. We were amazed to see our
guide walk with bare feet over this formation and apparently without
even picking his steps.

We passed through beautiful tropical growths and eventually arrived
at the shore of a lake, the breadth of which was a half mile. Hitching our

Laie’

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

cameras and lunch boxes high on our bodies we waded across this lake,
which had a hard sandy bottom and was not over three feet deep. This
obstacle only added to our enjoyment of an unusual journey on foot. Our
walk was perhaps four miles when we arrived at the flamingo nests. We
were disappointed to find that the birds were not there. Our guide said we
were too early. He expected them but could not predict their arrival more
closely than a week and this was one of their late years. However, the last
year’s nests were interesting to see—hundreds of them. They are built of
sand, cylindrical, and rising about one foot from the ground. But one egg
is laid by each bird on the flat top of the cylinder. The mother squats on
the egg with her feet on the ground. After taking some photographs and
eating lunch we returned to the shore, having enjoyed a most delightful
expedition.

In the morning we headed North to Middle Bight and found an anchor-
age outside the reefs where the bottom looked satisfactory for my first
attempt at submarine photography. I had prepared for this by having made
a case of sheet brass put together by solder. It is designed to fit my camera
snugly and is equipped with a window covered with plain glass situated
so that the exposure can be made through it. A detailed description of the
camera-case and its use is given in the second part of this book.

All was ready, now, for my first descent with the camera. Although the
sun was shining brightly, I opened the diaphragm wide. I had no data to go
on, and thought perhaps the sun’s rays filtering through the water might
not act on sensitized film as quickly as in the air. I decided that the error of
overexposure was sure to bring some visible results, whereas underex-
posure might produce nothing. This first attempt excited me so much
that I photographed the first sea grasses which I saw with a few small fish
among them. It has occurred to me since, that a fairly satisfactory method
of determining the exposure to be used under water would be to point an

[22]

ANDROS

exposure meter diagonally downward from the surface through a water
glass.

On the second descent, I felt more calm and looked about me for in-
teresting objects. The yacht had been moved over to where the depth was
thirty feet. This was a new experience. The pump had to be worked much
faster. I had to clear the pressure from my ears several times on the way
down, and felt very lonely and insecure. But by a coral head about twenty
feet distant a Grouper of considerable size (four or five pounds) was sus-
pended, motionless. He allowed me to approach within focal distance and
my precious thirty feet of film was used on this subject alone. As I turned
back I happened to look upward, and in front of me, six feet above my
head was a Barracuda, also motionless. I walked beneath this sinister form
thinking, “I don’t bother you, don’t you bother me.”

After this excursion was finished Lydia made a descent, her first in
thirty feet of water. She fared well and enjoyed it, but not for long. She
also saw the Barracuda. I have not since that experience descended to so
great a depth. It produces a feeling of awe. I seemed to be walking through
a forbidden land, feeling very helpless, and far from my native element.
The surroundings appeared sinister, and I imagined that lurking foes were
watching me from their hiding places.

After lunch we went ashore, carrying the diving equipment in the
dinghy. We located the well which we had visited on our previous cruise,
and I decided to explore it to the bottom. This well is smooth and cylindri-
cal for about ten feet of its depth; then it becomes irregular and much
larger. Overhanging rocks cast deep shadows and the place has a forbid-
ding appearance. Reaching the bottom at twenty feet, I found a tunnel
which evidently connects with the inland lake. Poised in this tunnel there
was a large fish, probably a Jew fish. He must have found it a convenient
place for feeding. All of the small fish coming out of the lake had to pass

E23 J :

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

close by him.

Lydia and I had been enjoying these experiences so greatly that we had
to force ourselves to think about the other members of our party who were
not entering into the scientific part of our cruise and were becoming some-
what bored; so we decided to return to Nassau for a couple of days before
going in another direction. We had dismissed our Andros guide with re-
luctance. He was a fine type of old negro, courteous and willing, with a
fund of information. On one occasion Lydia asked him if he wanted to
go down in the diving helmet. He said, ““No, Ma’am! I don’t go down
among dem! Dat’s deir home!”

We made a start at daybreak next morning and arrived in Nassau before
noon. Aquila was refuelled and reprovisioned, while our party enjoyed
for two days the recreational features that the little town has to offer.

ea

CHAPTER IV

EXUMA

My two cruises out of Nassau had been Westward to Andros. Exuma lies
Eastward and I contemplated with great interest this new experience. Even
the appearance of this land on the chart is fascinating. It is extremely nar-
row, in most places only a few hundred yards wide, but its length is ninety-
five miles. It is composed of more than one hundred islands, all of them
small and some of them tiny. The approaches to the leeward or Western
side are shallow and rocky, but with inviting harbors, suitable, however,
only for small craft. Our course was set from Porgee light, Nassau, S.E.
to Highborne Cay—thirty-one miles. Leaving Nassau at noon, we sighted
land before three o’clock. The crossing was most pleasing. Aquila was
headed into a slight chop, not heavy enough to wet the deck, and the sun-
light danced on wavelets which splashed on either side of the hull with a
sound that to me is more delightful than anything I know, except fine
music. Highborne Cay was easily distinguishable by its height and its
proximity to Lowborne Cay, the two standing out prominently from the
shoreline which extended as far as the eye could reach. As we drew near
the reef, coral heads began to show, and our guide had to direct Capt.
Billsborough with great care. Presently we found ourselves entering the
most beautiful little cove I had ever seen. Ahead of us was a broad beach
of white sand, behind which the land was so low that we could see water be-
yond it, and another small island; beyond this the open sea. At the Northern
end of the beach the land arose out of green shrubbery to a height of per-
haps thirty feet. As we looked at the crest we were astonished and thrilled

[25 al

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

to see great clouds of spray rising high above it. No time was lost in going
ashore to enjoy this wonderful spot. Our first thought was to go to the
top of the ridge and look at the sea on the other side. Climbing upon the
same rough formation encountered at Andros, we looked down upon
great waves dashing against a precipitous shore and rising in spray which
drenched us time and again. Behind us, on looking back from this turmoil
appeared the peaceful blue water of the cove where Aquila rode at anchor
without the slightest motion. Truly the contrast was wonderful! Descend-
ing to the beach we found a variety of delicate shells, among which were
the nautilus and a kind of large sea-urchin. This beach was a fine place to
bathe from, the hard clean sand extending far out with a very even and
gradual increase in depth. After enjoying a swim, we returned to Aquila
for the evening meal. We went ashore again in the evening, some of us
hunting for crawfish along the rough shore at the end of the beach.

The full moon produced an effect more wonderful than any I had ever
seen. The cove was so sheltered by the high land from whatever breeze
was stirring that there was not a ripple on its surface. The water was so
clear that the eye could not distinguish where air and water met. Both the
yacht and the dinghy being rowed along the shore seemed suspended in
air. The solitude added to the marvelous attraction of this place.

The forenoon of the first day was devoted to photography on shore,
shell collecting, and bathing. In the afternoon, before the turn of the tide,
a place was selected for submarine diving and we found the most beautiful
sea gardens we had yet visited. These gardens were profuse in sea-fans of
two colors—red and yellow. I found on subsequent trips that the yellow
fan is much rarer than the red. The contrast, too, in color of sponge, grasses,
coral and sand was richer than at the places we visited at Andros. The
photographs, due to inexperience, were not so good as others made on sub-
sequent cruises. I had not yet learned what diaphragm to use under water.
Now, I find that a one point larger opening than used on land under the

[26 |

EXUMA

same light conditions for ordinary film and two points for color film is
satisfactory. One of the difficulties which should be remembered is that
with motion pictures the result of mistakes cannot be seen until the films
have been processed, which is likely to be some two or three weeks after
returning home.

An example of unpleasant results from submerging too quickly was
demonstrated by my nephew Edmond, a member of the party, on his
first experience. After his helmet was under water he let the line slide
through his hands and reached bottom, twenty feet below, in about six
seconds, instead of letting himself down slowly. The sudden pressure on
the ears affected the passages so that they could not be opened by yawn-
ing; he experienced sharp pains while on the bottom, and for that reason
returned to the surface almost immediately, and suffered a severe head-
ache during the remainder of the day.

The return trip to Nassau, after another beautiful moonlight night at
our anchorage, was made next day.

The four members of my party stayed in Nassau a few days longer and
Capt. Billsborough, our cook, and I made the crossing to Miami in Aquila.
This trip deserves mention for the benefit of adventurous amateur yachts-
men. We started at noon, intending to anchor at Gun Key, get a few
hours’ sleep, then leave for Miami at two in the morning, in order to arrive
at about nine. We carried out this plan to the point of departing from Gun
Key. When we attempted to start the motor, ignition trouble developed,
the location and correction of which consumed four hours, and we were
not under way until six. A brisk Northeast breeze had been blowing all
night, and when we emerged into the Gulf Stream we found ourselves
subjected to a much heavier sea than I had ever expected to negotiate with
Aquila. The waves were very high, some of them were breaking at the
crest. They were coming upon our starboard beam, and great care and
watchfulness had to be observed to head into these seas when they looked

Paral

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

dangerous. A feeling of mistrust in our ignition system caused us serious ap-
prehension, for Aquila had no sails, nor did we have any material with
which to construct a sea-anchor. Had the engine failed we would have
been in a dangerous predicament. We were really lucky in having had to
make repairs at Gun Key, for the delay caused us to enter the Gulf Stream
by daylight. Had it been dark, we could not have seen which were the
dangerous waves and we would not have been able to take them head on.
However, all went well and we made port without mishap. The shallow
draft and light construction of Aquila caused her to ride the waves like a
cork, and for that reason the seas did not break over her. We passed a
freight-steamer bound North and by comparison had a fine demonstration
of what we were passing through. She was taking clear water over her
bows which was pouring off her sides as far aft as her mid-ship section.

This experience taught us that I had outgrown Aquila and would re-
quire a more seaworthy yacht if I intended to continue to go off-shore.

A few weeks after my return home the films were returned from Roch-
ester. The results were encouraging. The focus was good but they were
for the most part over-exposed. A short piece of color film showed promise
but the subjects could have been better chosen. I resolved to take the same
kind of vacation during the following year and determined to add to my
equipment, if possible, a camera and case for still pictures.

[28]

CHAPTER V

AN UNSUCCESSFUL EFFORT

In the autumn of 1936, Capt. Billsborough called my attention to an offer
of the motor-sailer Buckaroo for sale. We proceeded at once to Boston,
looked her over, and had a trial trip, using both sail and motor-power al-
ternately. She seemed to suit my purposes admirably except for accom-
modations below, which were possible to improve. Her dimensions were:
length overall, fifty-two feet, beam fourteen feet, draft five feet. She
carried six tons of ballast. The height of her mast was fifty-six feet from
waterline. She was equipped for swordfishing with harpoon, a sport which
I prefer to any I have experienced. We brought this boat to Wilmington
and our satisfaction with her qualities increased as we sailed her down the
coast. She was of heavy construction and very seaworthy. We made radi-
cal changes below decks. Capt. Billsborough and I had a most interesting
problem in reconstruction of the accommodations. The sleeping arrange-
ments were changed so that the owner’s party could be six instead of five,
a better appointed galley was built, occupying half the space of the
former one, and a little coal stove was installed which heats the whole
boat and dries it out. This has proved a great additional comfort, for
Buckaroo has often been used in cold weather. The crew’s quarters were
greatly improved, and much waste space was found for storage. Last but
not least, a place was found for a neat little bar which is my pride.

When these changes were completed, we proceeded to Miami by a
series of short cruises, both off-shore and through the inland waterway.
At Miami, we decided to increase the sail area, and changed her from
sloop to ketch rig by stepping a mizzen-mast in her, the height of which

[29]

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

was thirty-five feet from waterline. We were pleased with her appearance
and performance after this transformation.

When spring came (1937), we took Buckaroo to Nassau. My son
Richard, his wife, and her sister made this party but they had not “signed
on” for the contemplated cruise to the out-islands. In addition to the mo-
tion picture equipment, a little French camera to take still pictures had
been borrowed. A case for submarine work was made for it. Much dif-
ficulty in the design of a case is avoided if the camera used is made, as this
one was, to control the motions of exposure and changing film in one.

We encountered the first inclement weather thus far experienced in the
Bahamas, and I had to confine myself to some work in the lee of Rose
Island, which is part of Nassau. The still camera had been procured and
a case constructed in such a hurry that I had no chance to try it out before
leaving home. Good subjects for photography were found and the film
was used up, but I had no confidence in the results of my efforts. A small
amount of motion picture film was exposed until the driving-belt in the
camera broke and a new one could not be procured. After a few days, I
returned to Florida, leaving Buckaroo for Richard to use, and went home
ereatly disappointed, a year having been wasted as far as photography was
concerned. This loss was particularly impressed upon me when I found
that the still pictures showed nothing. The above details may not be in-
teresting but they are given to show how easily an expedition of this kind
may result in failure by not testing equipment nor carrying spare parts.

An incident occurred one evening in Nassau that left me with a bright
recollection of the trip, however. I had an English Austin car, open tour-
ing model, “vintage” of 1929 which I had given to Richard. He received
it from the boat on Thursday, but the next day being Good Friday, he
found it impossible to obtain a license for it. With some difficulty, he
located one of the officials who had authority over the granting of licenses.
This gentleman informed Richard that the bureau would not be open un-

[ 30 ]

MOTOR-SAILER Buckaroo

AN UNSUCCESSFUL EFFORT

til the following Monday. He gave Richard verbal permission, however,
to operate the car until that time without a license. On Friday evening a
party of four, Richard, his wife, his sister-in-law and I drove into the town
and parked near the Prince George hotel where we dined. When we
came out, one of those colored policemen, whose splendid uniforms have
made Nassau famous, was standing guard over the car. He addressed us:
“Excuse me, but could yo’ tell me who is de owner of dis car?” Richard
stepped forward and admitted ownership. The policeman said, “Well, I
want to show you dat you is breaking de law in two ways. Come heah,”
and leading Richard to the front of the Austin, he said “Dis car is pahked
beyond de pahkin’ line. Look heah,” and pointing a flashlight on the pave-
ment, “Heah is de pahkin’ line.” ‘The flashlight was so nearly gone that
it failed to make a light on the pavement. “I knows de pahkin’ line is hahd
to see but heah it is, and yo’ front wheels is beyond it; and now look heah—
I look at de front of de car an’ I find no numbah. An’ look heah, I look at
de rear of de car an’ I find no numbah.”

Richard said, “Well, I can push it back of the line,” and did so. Then—
“T went to the Government House to get a license but the office was
closed. However, I found Mr. Morley and he gave me permission to drive
the car without number plates until Monday.”

“Well, den,” said the policeman, “if de Government has given yo’ per-
mission, I shall withdraw de complaint. Goodnight, sah.”
After my departure and while Richard and his friends were enjoying
Buckaroo, he had two experiences that are instructive. He was on the
bottom near an old wreck which was in such a state of disintegration that
most of it consisted of steel plates, angle iron and I-beams lying on the
bottom. Fish of many varieties assemble around objects of this kind, and
he was hunting with a “harpoon gun” that he had devised. This consists
of a miniature harpoon placed in a brass tube with a flat length of rubber
at the rear end which is stretched like a small boy’s “bean shooter” to

[31]

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

project the harpoon. He had some success with it.

As he was about to step on a steel plate, he noticed something peculiar
projecting from underneath it. It was a head, and seen directly in front,
he said it made him think of a poodle. He went back to the yacht and pre-
pared a fish-hook and bait in a hurry, tying the line directly to the hook.
From the dinghy, with the water glass he could see the object, and let
the bait down in front of it. The creature emerged from beneath the steel
plate and was hooked. Richard pulled it part way out of water but it
twisted itself around the line, which it finally bit through and escaped. All
hands had a good view of the fish, a green Moray, which they estimated to
be at least six feet long. These denizens of the deep are shaped like an eel,
their color is green, and they have large jaws full of several rows of irregular
and sharp teeth. They are said to be venomous, but I have not as yet found
an authoritative statement that the bite is fatal.

Before hearing of this adventure, it was my custom to dive clothed only
in bathing trunks and sneakers. Now I use long trousers and shirt. It would
not be a foolish precaution to cover the body with heavy material such as
canvas, and to have the trousers tied to the shoes so that the ankles would
be effectively protected.

Richard’s other experience was one that demonstrates the importance
of bearing in mind the physical laws under which the diver works. The
helmet is the only equipment he carries. The weights which keep him on
the bottom are attached to the helmet. If the diver wants to rise quickly to
the surface he can throw the helmet off his head, whereupon he is as free
as any swimmer. Richard was on the bottom, thirty feet down. He de-
cided he would try, as a matter of experience, coming up without the
helmet. Instinctively he took a deep breath just as any ordinary swimmer
would do before diving or swimming under water. But he was forgetful
of the fact that the air he had in his lungs was under pressure of thirteen
pounds to the square inch. As he rose to the surface the pressure of the

[32]

AN UNSUCCESSFUL EFFORT

water decreased and the volume of air in his lungs increased proportion-
ately. It caused severe pain which did not abate for several hours. He
should, of course, have allowed air to escape from his mouth in small
quantities as he ascended. Among the professional deep-sea divers terrible
accidents have happened through lack of control of pressure caused by
breakage of machinery, hose, joints, etc. It is a dangerous business (pro-
fessional diving) and cannot be expected to be pursued without accident.
Richard’s little incident, however, shows that the diving helmet, even at
moderate depths, is no plaything, and its use should be carefully guarded
by constant thought and by provision for every safety precaution. We have
learned since this incident that it is unwise to take the helmet off under any
circumstances while on the bottom.

My disappointment over the results of the photographic work was in a
measure balanced by a most enjoyable cruise home. After Buckaroo had
returned to Miami, I collected some kindred spirits, and four of us, in ad-
dition to the yacht’s regular crew, made a “non-stop” run to New Castle,
Delaware. A large portion of the total distance was made under sail only
and the time spent on the cruise was six days.

Under favorable sailing conditions the motor was not used. Buckaroo’s
sailing performance was surprisingly satisfactory. She made six knots at
times. We found an interesting sport, while in the Gulf Stream, was prac-
tising marksmanship on flying fish. When they emerge from the water the
flight is steady as a clay pigeon. When the shooter scores a miss, the ex-
tent of his error can be seen on the water. Some may condemn this sport
as useless slaughter. I am not partial to the destruction of animal life for
no purpose; however, in this case my conscience is lulled by the knowledge
that the destiny of the flying fish is to become food for larger fish. By
shooting them we merely hasten their destiny. They are extremely palata-
ble, too, and I wished we could have devised some means of retrieving
them.

i 33a

CHAPTER VI

CRUISE OF 1938

Tue spring of 1938 found me again at Nassau with guests who were in-
terested in whatever might be forthcoming, to whom the Bahamas were
new, and cruising in a small boat a great pleasure, notwithstanding lack of
comfort.

We made a party of four: my wife (Ann), Mr. and Mrs. Arthur F.
Shettle (Emily and Arthur), and myself. This time a new, modern still
camera with a well designed case of cast bronze had been procured. The
old reliable case for the motion picture camera was still on the job.

Instead of doing something new we sailed directly for Highborne Cay,
Exuma, for two reasons. It is the most attractive and astonishing place to
new-comers in the Bahamas that I have as yet visited, and experience had
assured me of finding colorful and interesting subjects for under-water
and surface photography.

For three days we lay there enjoying the bathing, bottom-fishing,
weather and moonlight, and solitude—as well as the photographic work.
The locations we had chosen for diving were subject to strong currents
and it was necessary to select a time shortly before slack water for our
diving. The tide would always be running fairly fast before I finished. In
some cases this gave to my still-pictures an additional interest, for they
show the vegetation bending as shrubbery does on land in a high wind.
Emily had her first experience under a diving helmet, which she enjoyed
immensely.

As the current increased in swiftness at this location, it became difficult

[ 34]

GORGONIAS AND SPONGE AT TWELVE FOOT DEPTH

GRUNTS AND SERGEANT-MAJOR FISH

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CRUISE OF 1938

to keep one’s footing (professional divers have heavy lead soles to their
shoes), and often I found it necessary to wrap my legs around a piece of
coral in order to hold my position with both hands free to manipulate the
camera.

I was fortunate in making color motion pictures. The sea gardens were
unusually striking in their variety and the fish plentiful. The color, though
not as accurately reproduced as in the atmosphere, adds enormously to the
effect of the pictures.

We became increasingly interested in the wonders of marine life so lav-
ishly strewn under the sea and along the shore. On one occasion some of
us in the dinghy, looking for specimens through the water glass, came to
a mound of coral, the top of which projected above the surface at low tide.
Within its irregular cavities we spied a crawfish larger than had been seen
by any of us, including Malone, our native guide. For hours we tried every
device we could think of to get this monster out, but without success. We
could not determine his size, but one leg which had been pulled off by the
grains measured more than thirty-six inches.

We were all ashore, searching the beach for shells, when hearing a call,
I saw Ann and Emily leaning over a pool and thrusting sticks into the
water. Joining them, I found that the surface, about two-thirds of it, was
covered with an unpleasant looking grayish scum. My first reaction was
that this was some foul decomposition product from garbage or offal, such
as might form in a cess-pool, and the first impulse was to call the investi-
gators away. Then I remembered that we were on a desert island, and
there was no possibility of such an accumulation. The substance was some-
what like parchment. It was firm enough to be pulled off the surface of
the water in large pieces. There was no unpleasant odor attached to it.
There did not appear to be any living things in the pool. This was a dis-
covery for which we had no explanation, and it caused much interest and
discussion.

[35

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

Joe O’Neil, our cook, is an exceptionally good swimmer and diver. He
could dive overboard and uproot sea fans and specimens of coral with
ereat dexterity. Many were of unusual beauty and well worth taking
home. Clinging to the roots of these specimens we often found unusual
and interesting forms of life, brittle starfish and strange looking worms.
The brittle starfish has truly remarkable characteristics. The variety we
found was small; many were not larger than a half dollar. On being
handled, they soon disintegrated. I thought at first that this was because
of their exceeding brittleness, but discovered that they proceed to destroy
themselves, casting off limb after limb until there is nothing left but the
center. The limbs continue to move for some time after they have be-
come separated from the center, or body.

This peculiar characteristic of various types of brittle starfish is referred
to in Animals of the Sea by F. Martin Duncan. He quotes an account by
Professor Forbes as follows:

“The first time I ever took one of these creatures I succeeded in getting
it into the boat entire. Never having seen one before, and quite unconscious
of its suicidal powers, I spread it out on a rowing bench, the better to ad-
mire its form and colours. In attempting to remove it for preservation, to
my horror and disappointment I found only an assemblage of rejected
members. My conservative endeavours were all neutralized by its destruc-
tive exertions, and it is now badly represented in my cabinet by an arm-
less disc and a discless arm. Next time I went to dredge on the same spot,
determined not to be cheated out of a specimen in such a way a second
time, I brought with me a bucket of cold fresh water, to which article star-
fishes have a great antipathy. As I expected, a Luidia came up in the dredge
—a most gorgeous specimen. As it does not generally break up before it is
raised above the surface of the sea, cautiously and anxiously I sank my
bucket to a level with the dredge’s mouth, and proceeded in the most gentle

Eo

CRUISE OF 1938

manner to introduce Luidia to the purer element. Whether the cold air
was too much for him, or the sight of the bucket too terrific, I know not,
but in a moment he proceeded to dissolve his corporation, and at every
mesh of the dredge his fragments were seen escaping. In despair I grasped
at the largest, and brought up the extremity of an arm with its terminating
eye, the spinous eyelid of which opened and closed with something ex-
ceedingly like a wink of derision.”

There are some types, too, of sea-urchins, which I had not previously
seen nor heard of. We found only the shells, most of them damaged. I
have looked for satisfying descriptions of these in various books but with-
out success.

It will be noted in the illustration that the only openings in these shells
are two small holes. The habits and appearance of the animal that lives in
this abode has me interested and guessing. Undoubtedly, at some aquarium
complete information on this subject is available. The interest taken by
all hands in collecting shells, fans, and fish made me recall the days of our
“club” of small boys at the New Jersey resort. What a heaven this place
would be for such a group!

We departed on the morning after our three days’ stay at this beautiful
spot, the members of the party to whom it was new overjoyed with their
experiences, and I more interested than ever and hopeful of having se-
cured a fine collection of photographs. All of the motion pictures were
taken on color film and exceeded expectations. The stills were encourag-
ing. It is well worth while to have a still-picture outfit, for any number of
copies can be made for friends. So far, it has been necessary to make these
reproductions in monochrome. For undersea work, I look forward to the
time, which cannot be far distant, when we will produce all of our photo-
graphs in color.

During the return from Nassau to Miami fair weather prevailed and the

Deel

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

passage was a pleasant one. It was possible for me to take the time to repeat
my previous experience of making the homeward sail by the ocean route.
A friend, Dr. Lalor Burdick, joined me, making a total ship’s company of
five. We enjoyed pleasant sailing for the first three days; then the wind
suddenly shifted to the North. The weather became threatening. We
started the motor, furled sail, and rigged the storm jib to be in readiness
should it be required. The wind continued to blow from the North, and
by ten o’clock we were in a gale, hitting heavy seas, with Cape Hatteras
lighthouse and Diamond Shoal in sight. The lightship was abeam about
midnight and the wind blowing with still greater force. At four in the
morning, we had not progressed more than ten miles from Hatteras and
Buckaroo was making no headway. If we held to our course, it would be a
question of which would last longer, the storm or our fuel supply. The next
port was Norfolk, 115 miles to Chesapeake lightship. We decided to turn
and flee for Morehead City, sixty-nine miles to the bell buoy off Cape
Lookout Shoals. ‘The turn was accomplished nicely, though with anxiety,
and we hoisted our jib. I appreciated Captain Billsborough’s foresight in
having this sail ready for we surely needed it to keep a steady pull forward,
helping to hold the ship stern-on to the waves. It would have been no fun
getting that jib out of the sail locker in the forepeak under the circum-
stances. Our course was S.W. 7W. but the seas were running S.S.W.
When an extra heavy one approached, it was necessary to steer S.S.W. to
avoid broaching. One of us had to keep looking astern, calling to the man
at the wheel for the change of course. Thus, we kept gradually increasing
our distance from shore. When we estimated our position to be directly
off Morehead City, we turned N.W. “%N. We experienced a terrific
rolling for seven hours. After keeping the course for forty-two miles we
got a radio bearing on Cape Lookout Light and took a course N.E. %E.
The necessity of turning for the heaviest seas had taken us nearly seventy
miles off-shore. The correct course would have brought us within ele

[ 38 J

CRUISE OF 1938

miles. We had taken this punishment for seventeen hours before we cast
anchor in Lookout Bight. All effort, all motion, all sound suddenly sub-
sided. The feeling was nearest to perfect peace that I have ever known.
We sat in silence, ate sandwiches, and drank coffee. We had one thought
in common. Buckaroo is a seaworthy little ship; beyond that the mind

ceased to function. Little did we know that there had been cause for great
- worry. “Ignorance is bliss” as we discovered during an overhaul the fol-
lowing winter.

Next day, the wind still blowing a gale from the North, as reported by
the Coast Guard, we decided to avail ourselves of the inland waterway to
Norfolk. And here ends any matter of interest for the remainder of the
cruise.

[391]

CHAPTER VII

CRUISE OF 1939

Buckaroo was ready for another cruise in the Bahamas in March. On her
way to Miami, she was put in dry-dock at Fort Pierce for general over-
hauling. Tests for soundness of her hull revealed indications of dry-rot in
the stem. A new stem had to be put in her and when the forward planking
was taken off, the stem post was found to be a mere shell covering a core
of rotten wood. Captain Billsborough brought a section to me. I shook
hands with him after thinking of the condition Buckaroo was in when we
were hitting those heavy seas described in the last chapter, off Hatteras,
smugly proud of our seaworthy little boat. Previously, I had laughed at
the care that is sometimes taken in purchasing a used boat to ascertain any
indications of dry rot. This is done by drilling small holes in many places
over the entire hull and examining the borings. Had Buckaroo’s planking
started from the stem in that storm, her six tons of ballast would have taken
her down in a few minutes, and our boats, had we been able to launch them,
would not have lived in the sea we were in. I often think of how many ter-
rible things don’t happen.

Our party cleared from Miami at 5:00 p. M. on March 30. Three en-
thusiastic friends accompanied me—Mr. and Mrs. Howard Callaway
(Howard and Fan) of Seaford, Delaware, and Arthur Shettle. Members
of the crew were the same as on the cruise of 1938. We passed Gun Key
at midnight bearing towards Northwest Passage and sighted the light at
8:15 a. M., March 31. It was necessary to proceed slowly because of shoals.
We reached Nassau at 4:00 P. M. where we made the best of our time

[40]

CRUISE OF 1939

bathing, dining and calling on friends.

Next morning, we shopped and took photographs along the market
dock. This to me is always a place of extreme interest. A wharf extending
about two city blocks is occupied by a multitude of small boats from the
out-islands. These are docked stern-to and almost touching one another
for the whole extent of the wharf. Nearly all of them are sloop rig, but a
few schooners are to be seen. Thirty feet is perhaps the length of these
little boats. Often whole families are found living aboard, some with dogs
and even a pig. They are all negroes. Their cargoes consist of dried conchs,
crawfish, potatoes, sponges, firewood, and grasses to make hats with.
There is a good demand for these hats on the part of people landing from
cruise boats. Cooking is done on deck where they have some pieces of iron
to retain a bed of sand. On this, they build a wood fire over which a pot is
swung and pieces of sheet iron are adjusted to act as wind-shields. Some-
times, an iron keg with holes punched in it is used as a fire-box. Below deck,
apparently there are two compartments, one for the cargo and one for
the crew and passengers. I have never asked permission to make an inspec-
tion. The number of people on one tiny boat is astonishing. For example,
four men, two women, an infant, and four children—and they all sleep
below. At a fairly early hour, they may be seen emerging from the com-
panionways like ants from a hole. A young negro, who came from Acklin
Island, told me that the journey required about two weeks. They occa-
sionally went in close to land; then all hands would swim or wade ashore
where they spent hours lying in the sun and drying their clothing. The
owners of these boats usually cannot afford to buy a compass; conse-
quently, they navigate like the mariners of ancient times—by sun, wind,
and stars.

All of my cruises were made in the months of March and April, a time
when steady winds and fair weather prevail. The wind blows with little
variation in direction; therefore, it can be used as a means for finding

al

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

(roughly) the points of the compass. Practically none of the boats navi-
gated by the negroes are equipped with compass. These fair conditions
do not prevail, however, throughout the year. There are at times steady
rains and shifting winds, hurricanes and dead calms. The inter-island
traffic continues, nevertheless. How it is done would make an interesting
study.

I was enlightened on one point which was entirely new to me. This
I will call “tide navigation” and it seems well worth recording. A geodetic
survey of the Bahamas reveals that the islands rise from earth formations
similar to what on land would be called plateaus, the islands representing
peaks on these plateaus. Currents caused by the rise and fall of tides go in
many directions. We, on the Atlantic Coast, are accustomed to thinking
of the tide flowing Westward and ebbing Eastward. The Bahamans, how-
ever, living on their “plateaus,” surrounded by water of great depth, think
of the tide rising, as it does, all around their group of islands almost
simultaneously, and falling in like manner. The result can be visualized
by imagining a table set in a tank so arranged that water can be made to
rise and fall over the top of the table. On the table are placed a number
of bricks and fragments of various sizes, irregularly spaced to represent
roughly the islands in the Bahama group. As the water rises, currents will
flow between the bricks in many directions. ‘These currents will reverse
as the water falls. The native navigators, with generations of experience,
have learned to “ride” these tidal currents when they are becalmed. They
must anchor at times and wait for a favorable current. But often by their
knowledge of conditions, they can take advantage both of the ebb and
flow of the tide to reach their destinations. It is slow traveling at best
but why should they care? They do not know that the pursuit of hap-
piness depends upon going to two or three cocktail parties in an afternoon,
then to a dinner party followed by movies and a dance at a night club.

A departure from Nassau of one of the smaller boats was one of the

[42 ]

AN EXAMPLE OF TURE’S ARTISTRY

SEA FANTASY

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CRUISE OF 1939

most remarkable sights I ever saw. An unusually large number of men
were aboard, all seated around the cockpit—in which was standing a horse!
When the boat came about, the boom had to be lifted over the horse’s
back. They had left the dock at about five o’clock in the afternoon, and
no doubt their destination was at least far enough away to require sailing
all night.

On Sunday, April 2nd, we left Nassau with our course laid for North
Bight, Andros. We had in tow a launch with glass in her bottom to use
for finding more readily objects for photography. We arrived at 4:00 P. M.
and did a little trolling as we neared land. Finally, the water became so
shallow that we struck a couple of times. Just then, I hooked a dolphin
and Captain Billsborough, to prevent me from losing him, kept moving
until he was brought aboard. We found ourselves in a bad place with ebb
tide and did not get into clear water until we had bent a propellor blade.
When we found water enough to anchor in, two boats came out to us
and stood by, the crews silent, as usual, holding their positions by sculling.
One, containing three negroes, looked interesting and we asked them about
Bone fishing. They said they would guide us for five dollars and that the
proper time would be during the next afternoon. I said, “We don’t need
all three of you.” The reply was, ““Yassuh, ’cause we is a company.” From
that time, we called them “Andros Fisheries Limited.”

Next morning, we made a search in the launch for sea gardens. The
glass bottom boat was a great aid, but to our disappointment, nothing of
photographic interest was found. Everything on the bottom seemed
blighted with a brown deposit which must have come from decaying
vegetation in the water flowing out of the Bight from the interior of the
island. After lunch, “Andros Fisheries Limited” appeared, ready to take
us to the Bone fishing flats. As two seemed enough to go fishing, Arthur
and Howard set out in the launch with “Andros Fisheries Limited” in tow.

Fan and I visited the village at Bahrint Point. For this purpose, we used

T 43 J

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

a flat bottom sailing dinghy which I had secured to take the place of a much
heavier boat, and had found to be a valuable improvement. We arrived
on shore by wading the last hundred yards. Here we were immediately
received by the Roman Catholic Church, in the person of a Catechist.
Tt was necessary to visit the church and the school. In the latter building,
the first floor was a school-room; there was a small school-room on the
second floor, and a very small room which was the Post Office as well as
the cubicle for Father Gabrael when he was staying there. With great
respect and showing his admiration, the Catechist pointed to the good
Father’s bed and called attention to its narrowness and hardness. Then,
we must climb a ladder through the roof to see the fine view from this
wonderful two-story building. When we reached terra firma, we found
a group of small children gathered outside, one of whom, aged about
four, was crying vociferously. As we moved towards them, the weeping
one fled from us as fast as she could run. Fan asked one of the older girls
why the little one was so frightened. “Tt’s because de lady have a white
face an’ a red mouf,” she was told. It was quite likely the first time the
child had seen a white woman or any white person except Father Gabrael,
who is probably always heavily sunburned. We departed to the shore
and there found an important-looking negro waiting for us. Our guide
introduced him as “De ’piscopal Catechist.” We had not time to visit
his church and school, to his great disappointment. Rome had scored as
usual by her eternal vigilance.

As we returned to Buckaroo, the sun was setting and the fishing party
was in sight. They arrived with four Bone fish and fully satisfied with
the catch. Fulfillment of the descriptions they had heard of this sport
had not disappointed them. After ascertaining which of the crew repre-

senting “Andros Fisheries Limited” was the treasurer, we completed —

the terms of our contract; they hoisted sail and departed, making a beau-
tiful picture against the glowing sunset.

[44 J

CRUISE OF 1939

We had agreed to leave Andros for a place where we knew by experi-
ence that we would not be disappointed in the photography. We weighed
anchor as quickly as possible in order to pass over the rocky shoals while
there was daylight. We proceeded on a course directly to Lowborne
Cay. Beautiful moonlight added much to this night journey. After cross-
ing Tongue of the Ocean, south of Nassau, we passed over an area of
sandy bottom where the water seemed to be about twenty feet deep.
This place was crowded with Sting-rays; their ugly black shapes could
be clearly seen, by the hundreds, sliding over the bottom. I classify
them among the vermin of the sea. They are as nasty to me as cock-
roaches or bedbugs on land. |

At 2:00 A. M., Highborne Cay was in sight. It was necessary to pro-
ceed slowly, heaving the lead at frequent intervals. In another hour,
we found bottom near enough to cast anchor though we were still quite
distant from land. In the Bahamas, the wind changes direction only
slightly during the spring months; consequently a windward shore re-
mains a windward shore for weeks. The wind blows steadily with little
change in velocity from day to day. A windward shore anchorage is,
therefore, entirely safe even though there is no other land in sight.

We slept late next morning, then worked our way in to our old
anchorage, my third visit to this beautiful spot. At nine o’clock, we put
all of our diving and photographic equipment in the launch. Malone
steered to Saddle Cay, a new place to us. The gardens looked beautiful in
ten feet of water. Fan and Howard had their first experiences under the
helmet, and I made some satisfactory exposures with both motion and
still cameras, at about twelve and fifteen foot depths.

We moved to another place, about twenty feet deep, chose our posi-
tion carefully and more motion pictures were made. On the first descent,
I had found a coral head which made an excellent background with
several varieties of fish near it. After coming back on board to re-wind

[45 J

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

the camera and take a short rest, another descent was made. The coral
head had a totally different appearance which for a moment puzzled me.
The cause of this was a huge (by comparison with the others) fish at
rest, close to the coral head and almost obscuring it. Its shape was like
an Angel fish but its marking and color can best be described by stating
that it was similar to a zebra. When a few feet of film had been exposed,
its mate came along and I manoeuvered into position to get them both.
I had trouble with one of them because he (or she) became curious
and coming to the window of my helmet would not go away for some
time. The front sight had broken off my camera case but I thought
experience would enable me to point correctly. I kept photographing
these fish until the motor had run down, and came back on board exult-
ing over the most interesting picture taken yet. But alas! my aim had
been incorrect—only a few feet show these fish, and at that, they are not
well placed as to position. The larger of the fish must have been about
thirty-four inches in length and twenty-one inches from belly te back.
Upon inquiry at Marine Gardens, Florida, the fish was identified as a
spade fish.

In spite of my disappointment, this adventure is regarded as the most
interesting of any that I have had so far. The various species of fish,
while numerous, were becoming familiar and nothing new was expected,
especially on a second dive in the same place. To come suddenly upon
a magnificent sight that eclipsed all else was a thrill which seemed to me
beyond comparison. Perhaps this might approach it: A man is on an
African hunt with camera and gun. He is near the end of his allotted
time and has had indifferent luck. He walks back to his camp from a
blind where he has been hoping to see some unusual specimens. Return-
ing to the blind after a short absence, he sees in front of him a herd of
giraffe in good photographing position—animals that he had never seen
except in a zoo, and had not expected to meet on this expedition.

[46 ]

CRUISE OF 1939

We returned to Buckaroo for luncheon, then decided to try some
photography in very shallow water; also, to search the bottom for speci-
mens. Some still pictures in color were made and they were quite en-
couraging, but the colors did not seem to compare favorably with those
of the motion pictures. This photography was done in water less than
six feet deep; it was necessary to move in a squatting position in order
to prevent the helmet from rising above the surface.

Specimen collecting brought forth a Basket Starfish which was un-
familiar to us until it was identified in a Natural History. The limbs of
this animal branch out like a shrub and multiply one hundred fold. It
lies on the bottom, branches waving in the tide. Unwary tiny fishes are
attracted within these branches but they never come out. We found this
specimen on a large piece of coral imbedded in the bottom. We had
pulled the mass up because it was attached to a sea-fan. At first, we
thought the Starfish was an unusual piece of vegetation, then we saw
that it was in motion throughout every branch and twig. It became our
most valued specimen because it is rare, and because we were successful
in preserving it by careful sun-drying.

Our day ended with preparations for a picnic. This seemed to have
become an annual observance. The moonlight was beautiful, a mando-
lin and guitar, and the presence of a Nassau negro, who was in charge
of the launch, improved the vocal efforts of all hands. The ceremony
ended with a parade to the ship’s boats, the marching song—Mama don’t
want No corn, no rice, no coconut oil.

I had not understood until after this third visit to our beautiful harbor
that we had not come upon it by chance. True, our guide, Herbert
Malone, had brought us to it, but the rather devious route taken after
we had come near to Highborne Cay had caused me to think that he was
guiding us at random, with the intention of choosing by appearances
above and below water, and by soundings, a suitable anchorage from

haw

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

which to operate. Not at all. Highborne Cay is the location at which
the dramatization of Jules Verne’s novel The Mysterious Island was
photographed under the direction of Mr. J. E. Williamson. Fifty persons
were engaged in this work. The hardships and dangers that they in-
curred, including subjection to a hurricane, have made it a historic spot,
and the story is a most interesting one. Few of us are familiar with that
picture for, as Mr. Williamson tells us, the film when sent to Hollywood
met another “hurricane” in the industry: the birth of the motion picture
with voice, popularly known as “the talkies.” *

On the following morning, we started on our way to Nassau, but
made some manoeuvers first to photograph Buckaroo under full sail.
Having the launch with us from which to photograph was helpful. Ar-
rived at Nassau, we shopped some more, had a swim, then put on the
clothing of civilized people and enjoyed the pleasing and restful hospi-
tality of the Hotel Victoria at dinner.

We departed, bound for Miami at ten o’clock on April 7th, and cast
anchor in Cat Cay harbor in the afternoon. After a swim, a message was
brought to the yacht inviting us ashore to the Club. Here we were pleas-
antly entertained at the most carefully arranged fishing club I had ever
seen. The fishing is confined to trolling for big fish in the Gulf Stream.
The management makes every known effort, scientifically and intui-
tively to provide information beforehand regarding the chances of hav-
ing a good fishing day. Interesting scores regarding the catches of each
club member are put on the bulletin board in the main social room daily
and the names of members who break the record in weight of single fish
are engraved on a plaque placed permanently on the wall. The best troll-
ing begins in the afternoon and lasts until dark. The club members, be-
ing fishermen, are not interested in any other form of outdoor sport,
consequently, there is practically no provision for such. But indoors

* 20 Years Under the Sea. Williamson (Hale, Cushman and Flint).

[ 48 J

BASKET STARFISH AND OTHER SPECIES

RUISE OF 1939, SHIP’S COMPANY

+
4

C

CRUISE OF 1939

everything has been provided for a painless existence. We found mem-
orable proof of this when we arose to go to dinner. Our kind hosts had
succeeded in making us forget the number of Planters Punches with
which they had plied us.

A really fine development has been effected at Cat Cay and in a very
short time. The grounds are well laid out and a large number of cottages
have been built. The architecture, both as to building and landscape,
has been done with excellent taste. We left this delightful place at about
ten o’clock in the morning and arrived at Miami with no other incident
than a rough crossing, including a brief but violent squall.

The 1939 cruise was ended to the regret of all hands for we had
enjoyed ourselves greatly. Surely no vacation, for those who love the sea,
can excel an independent voyage among beautiful islands, with a con-
structive and educational object, above all when by good fortune the
entire ship’s company shares the purpose of the undertaking with en-
thusiasm, good will, and co-operation.

On my part there were feelings of foreboding and sadness upon leav-
ing Nassau. A tie had been broken by the decision of Richard and his
wife to dispose of their beautiful little house, which is situated on a coral
rock, west of the town. When they purchased this house, the charm of
the islands had entered into them so deeply that they were willing to
detach themselves from home ties for such periods of time as would be
necessary to enjoy the life ashore and cruising. Life is seldom like that,
however, especially for young people who have families to raise, a seri-
ous purpose, also relatives and intimate friends at home. Their knowledge
of the people and the islands had helped me greatly, and discussions of
our separate experiences were a source of continual interest. These dis-
cussions have formed a picture in my mind of a side of negro life to
which a separate chapter is devoted. I left Nassau, therefore, with a
feeling that I might never return.

[49 J

CHAPTER VIII

SUPERSTITION

WE in the United States are accustomed to the superstitions of the ne-
eroes who live with us. In all parts of our country, they are the servants
of the white man and have almost daily contact with him. Their habits
and superstitions, handed down by their native African forebears still
exist but are suppressed by this contact for they are ridiculed, and have
become subjects for an endless number of amusing stories.

In the Bahamas the situation is different. Negroes have fallen heir to
the industries for the working of which they were imported by white
masters after the original inhabitants, the Lucayans, had been transported
to Cuba by the Spaniards. These industries became practically unprofit-
able and the white men abandoned them. Consequently, on some of the
islands, there are no white men and the negroes live their own lives al-
most free from interference. Their superstitions are real to them, and
undoubtedly they practice voodoo ceremonies.

I have mentioned the sophistication of the negroes who wander on
the streets of Nassau and the absence of the religious theme in their
songs. And yet even here the spirituals are not entirely extinct. On one
occasion when I stayed overnight at Richard’s house, which is situated
outside the town, some laborers—two men and a woman—were clearing
land on a property across the road. They were singing as they worked.
The words were not distinguishable, but the slow time and the plaintive
melody were unmistakable. They were praying through song to their
God, the Christian God now, but I can imagine the same melodies being

[50]

SUPERSTITION

wafted upward from open hatches in the slave ships of bygone days.

Richard and his wife spoke to a disconsolate looking negro boy, and
found that he had come to Nassau from Acklin, a distant island from
which he had never strayed before. He was willing to work for food
and shelter. His manner was pleasing so they engaged him. His speech
was difficult to understand because he knew few words that he could
use to express the new thoughts caused by his change of environment,
also he stammered. They could not understand him when he gave his
name. The nearest they could come to it was “horse” so they let it go at
that. Horse became entirely devoted.

Richard made a visit to Nassau in the summer to attend to some repairs
to his house which he had left in charge of Horse. He slept in a little
two-room cabin on his property during his stay, Horse occupying the
other room. He was awakened during the night by Horse entering his
room and closing the windows. This conversation followed (I do not
attempt to imitate the stammering.):

“What are you doing, Horse?”

“T’s shettin’ de windows, boss.”

“But it is hot, I don’t want the windows shut.”

“Yessuh, boss, de windows mus’ be shet so de sperrits can’t come in.”

“There are no spirits here, you left them all in Acklin.”

“Yessuh, boss, sperrits 1s heah, dey is ebryweah.”

“Have you seen any?”

“Yessuh, boss, I see um.”

“Can you show me a spirit?”

“No suh, boss, I can’t show yo’ no sperrits, white man can’t see um.”

“What do they look like?”

“Boss, I can’t say how dey look.”

“Try, Horse, try to tell me what they look like.”

“T can’t say it, boss, dey looks—dey looks—jes’-awful.”

rood

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

‘Where do you see them, Horse?”

“T see dem nights when I walk, dey follow.”

“Can you stop them from following?”

“Yessuh, boss, ef yo’ takes a bottle of whiskey and drop some on de
road dey not cross it.”

Richard had to dig this valuable information out of Horse—he did not
like to talk about it. Much against his will, Horse opened the windows
and Richard slept soundly, but when he awoke in the morning, the win-
dows were closed. Horse got a scolding; he was humble but stubborn.
Later in the day, Horse said, “Boss, kin yo’ git me a mesuh?”

“What is that, Horse?”

‘““A mesuh, boss, what has de numbuhs on it.”

“Oh, you mean a foot-rule.”

“Yessuh, boss.”

“What do you want that for?”

“Tt got de numbuh ten on it.”

“What do you want the number ten for?”

“Boss, it like dis, de sperrits can’t cross de numbuh ten an’ I put it on
yo window, den yo’ keep yo’ window open.”

“Tm tired of this, Horse. Tonight you shut your windows and door.
The spirits can’t come in your room, but you keep out of my room.”

“Yessuh, boss.” |

When Richard got up in the morning, he saw a piece of paper part
way under his pillow. It had the number ten on it. Investigating further,
he found two under the sheet—one near the head, the other near the foot
of the bed. He then understood why he had not been molested during
the night.

I had a fishing party at Bimini. We engaged two guides with row-boats
to take us Bone fishing. Mine was a native Bahaman but he had lived for

2 al

SUPERSTITION

a number of years in Hayti. When the time came to stop fishing, we had
quite a long row back to Buckaroo, so I took the occasion to question
this man about voodoo in Hayti. I asked him some leading questions
based on information that Richard, who actually attended a voodoo
ceremony, had given me.

I said, “Ferguson, have you ever gone to a voodoo meeting?”

“Yes sir, many of them.” (Ferguson like many Bahamans spoke cor-
rect English.)

“My son attended one,” I said, “and they were saving a man’s soul
from the devil.”

“Yes sir, they do that,” said Ferguson.

‘“The man sells his soul to the devil, doesn’t he?”’

“Yes sir, he does that when he is a young man, but if he dies before
the devil comes out of him, then his soul belongs to the devil.”

“The devil helps him a lot, doesn’t he?”

“Yes sir, he makes him very smart in his business and he gets rich.
I knew a man who made his living by fishing. He sold his soul and the
devil helped him do anything he wanted. He had a fishing boat, and it
had no motor, no sails, no oars and no rudder. That man just stood in
the middle of the boat and it went wherever he wanted it to go, all he
had to do was just look in that direction and the boat went there.” ‘The
man spoke in such a matter-of-fact way that I believed he thought he
saw what he was recounting.

Dye al

PART II

EQUIPMENT

CHAPTER I

EQUIPMENT

Tuts part of the book is devoted to a description of under-sea equipment
and its use. It is, therefore, a sort of compendium of information based
on the writer’s personal experience. It shows how, with a relatively
moderate outlay, great enjoyment can be had. Anyone who is desirous
of undertaking operations on a more elaborate scale should begin in the
simple manner here described. He will gain experience rapidly and thus
learn to expand without making costly and perhaps dangerous mistakes.
The writer has conversed with some authorities, and has read such books
as he could find on the subject. He acknowledges with thanks informa-
tion received through conversations with, or books by, Commander
Edward Ellsberg, Mr. Fenimore Johnson and Dr. William Beebe.

THe Hetmetr

This is made of copper and is fitted with two windows of flat glass
separated by a narrow strip of copper which when the helmet is in use,
extends vertically from the center of the diver’s forehead to his chin.
It does not obstruct the vision sufficiently to be inconvenient. When in
place, the helmet rests comfortably upon the shoulders. In front and in
back are hung lead weights heavy enough to sink the helmet, which
being filled with air, is quite buoyant. The weights are sufficiently pon-
derous to overcome materially the buoyancy of the human body, thus
permitting the diver to retain a foothold on the bottom. Air is pumped
into the helmet through a hose which is attached to an opening in the

Eo

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

side. It escapes from the bottom, where the helmet rests upon the shoul-
ders. |

Many times the question has been asked why water does not rise in
the helmet, since the bottom is not tightly closed. This is demonstrable
by inverting a tumbler and sinking it in a bucket of water. The water
rises slightly in the tumbler by compressing the air in it. But since there
is no exit for the air the tumbler remains practically free from water.

The visibility from the helmet here described is somewhat restricted
because the diver cannot look on either side of him except by turning
his body. Other designs of helmet are made, but this one has been found
entirely suitable for the purposes under consideration. One faulty type
should be mentioned. Instead of having two flat windows, it is fitted with
a single pane of curved glass. The effect of the curved surface when
under water is to distort objects viewed to an extent which renders the
helmet useless.

Tue Hose

The hose used with the helmet can be the ordinary garden variety,
although one of smaller diameter can be used if provided with proper
fittings. The smaller hose is easier to handle. Fifty feet will give the
diver sufficient radius of activity and the beginner should not use more
until he has gained by experience a full realization of the new conditions
under which he “lives, moves, and has his being.”

THe Pump

This is purchased with the helmet and is a two cylinder design op-
erated by a hand lever. It is screwed securely to a board, and lugs or
cleats should be attached to that part of the boat where the pump is to
be mounted so that it will be held firmly in position. This is an important ~

58a]

LNAINdINOU DNIAIG

AHdVUDOLOHd ANIYVINGAS WOA SASVO ANV ‘SVUAINVO

EQUIPMENT

precaution. The pump is oiled and inspected each time it is used—
another important precaution.

THe Water GLass

This implement, commonly used in clear Southern waters, is not well
known in the North. It is an ordinary bucket in which the bottom has
been replaced by a piece of plate-glass. It is used for observing objects
on the sea-bottom and its usefulness is dependent upon the clearness of
the water. In shallow water, a person wading holds it right side up and
sinks it down a few inches. The glass takes away the reflection from the
surface and enables the user to study objects on the bottom and even to
take photographs by holding a camera in the bucket. For deeper water,
it is used by holding it over the stern of a small boat.

The water glass is used commercially in spearing crawfish and hunting
for conchs. It is invaluable to a diving party for finding suitable locations
from which to start operations. Plate-glass, rather than window glass, is
used in making a water glass because it is a handy article to use on deck
in place of an ordinary bucket, when thin glass is likely to get broken.

Tue Boat

In some places diving can be done by submerging from the shore, but
such places are rare and the diver’s area of activity is small. We will con-
sider a cruising boat as a necessity and while a sail-boat can be used, a
motor boat will be found more satisfactory. The type of boat would
vary in different localities, but the one that will meet average conditions
would be a light draft power cruiser of thirty-five feet length over all,
fairly broad beam, roomy cockpit, and with sleeping accommodations
for four. Instead of the customary small round-bottom dinghy it is best
to use an ordinary bateau which can be towed astern.

sod

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

MiscELLANEOUS IMPLEMENTS

Two anchors should be carried, also some coils of rope of various
sizes. A heavy lead weight of about ten pounds should be provided, to
hang overboard, just touching bottom. This is for the diver to use in
descending and ascending. It is well to have rather more miscellaneous
equipment than is considered necessary for an ordinary cruise, including
some carpenter’s and metal worker’s tools, copper wire, and sheet brass.
Various kinds of fishing tackle should be carried, also a dip-net, a grains,
and a pole for sounding in shallow water. A double-block tackle may
come in handy for when exploring the sea-bottom there is no telling
whether you may or may not discover some heavy object that may be
of sufficient interest to raise to the surface.

I can tell of some sunken treasure that could be retrieved rather easily.
Shortly before the end of prohibition some friends of mine on their way
North from Nassau in a yawl wanted to re-provision at Palm Beach.
Before entering the port, they jettisoned six cases of Scotch whiskey
carefully tied together. When they departed, rough weather prevented
them from recovering this cargo. A year later, one of them flying South
along the coast in his aeroplane, saw the cases still lying on the bottom
of the sea, not far from Lake Worth Inlet. I am sure that this gentleman
would gladly give accurate information regarding the location of the
sunken treasure to any adventurous (amateur) diver who should ap-
proach him.

The diver will need clothing according to conditions. If the water
is warm and he does not intend to stay down for more than fifteen
minutes at a time, nothing is needed but bathing trunks and sneakers,
that is, if he is not in a location where he is likely to rub against sea-life
that may sting. In this event he should at least wear a cotton shirt, duck
trousers, and gloves. Gloves are useful if he is going to collect specimens.

[ 60 |]

EQUIPMENT

Where the water is cold, a suit of woolen underwear is important.
The body becomes chilled quickly and after being on the bottom for
fifteen minutes the diver finds himself shaking when he arrives on deck,
and is reluctant to go down again very soon. People who fear sharks
probably think they would prefer a suit of medieval armor. It would
not help, however, because when the shark found he couldn’t get
through the armor he would probably get mad and bite off the air-hose.

THe CAMERA

Both still and motion pictures can be taken under water. Illustrations
are shown here of my cameras and cases. For the motion picture camera
a very simple case was made of sheet-brass joined at the seams by solder.
Because of electrolytic action caused by contact of the two metals with
salt water, it has been necessary to go over the seams with a soldering
iron each year but it has served my purpose for four seasons. The case
should be tested before use by closing it empty and letting it lie on the
bottom in about ten feet of water for several hours. After raising it, wipe
the water off the outside before opening for inspection.

The camera is placed in the case from the rear, and the lens extends
into the opening which is provided with a window of plain glass. The
starter is opposite an opening which is covered by a piece of sheet rubber.
It can easily be operated by feeling for it through the rubber. There-
fore, It is not necessary to have any moving part to project through the
case. The case described is designed for a camera which has a starter
that is operated by pushing it in a direction parallel to the case. If the
camera to be used has a starter that is operated by pushing it inward,
trouble may arise from the water pressure acting in the same manner as
the finger on the rubber, and starting the camera. It may be necessary
to make a starter similar to the kind described for the still camera. No
provision is made for winding the mainspring or changing diaphragm

[61 J

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

or focus. The operation is as follows:—the camera is wound, diaphragm
set according to judgment of light condition, and focus set at, say ten
feet; then the camera is placed in the case, and the cover, which rests
on a rubber gasket, is screwed down securely.

The diver takes the camera with him, selects his subject, places him-
self at a distance of ten feet, aims the camera by means of sights provided
on the case, and “shoots.” He photographs as he pleases, bearing in mind
that he must stop when the camera has run down.

Most sixteen millimetre cameras will run through about twenty-five
feet of film with one winding. The diver returns to his ship, wipes case
dry, extracts camera, inspects case for leakage, re-winds and replaces
camera, replaces cover, and is ready for a second descent.

It would not be difficult to design and supply a means of re-winding
the camera while under water. This would save time and trouble. But
to have a means of changing focus and diaphragm would be too com-
plicated, for every outside adjustment requires a moving part to project
through the case. Each projection is a possible source of leakage. When
salt water gets into a motion picture camera it might as well be thrown
overboard.

The still camera case shown in the illustration is of better construction
than the one above described. It was more costly because it is made of
cast brass and carefully machined. A Robot camera was chosen for
which this case was made because exposure and moving of film are both
under control of one button. It therefore was necessary to have but one
motion to operate the camera. For this purpose, a rod or plunger was
made to pass through the case, making contact with the button on the
camera. A stuffing box was provided to prevent leakage, and a spring to
bring the plunger back after it has been pressed down upon the button.
The spring should be a fairly strong one for the water pressure pushes
the plunger down. This difficulty occurred on the first still camera case

[ 62 J

EQUIPMENT

that I used. It was necessary to install a stronger spring while on ship-
board, which illustrates the importance of carrying a few metal working
tools and supplies.

No provision was made for winding, changing focus or diaphragm.
Control, therefore, is similar to that of the motion picture machine.

Before closing the subject of equipment, attention is called to two
important items which should be on board:—an adequate emergency kit
for injuries, and a pamphlet describing methods approved by the Red
Cross for treatment of persons rescued from drowning. The manager
of every diving expedition ought to familiarize himself with this first-aid
treatment and he should compel his friends and employees to do likewise.

[ 63 J

CHAPTER II

“THREE MEN IN A BOAT”

Ar Osterville, Cape Cod, a cruising motor boat lay in the harbor. The
men who had chartered it for a month’s use—Eddie, Carol and John—
were enjoying a summer vacation. [hey were equipped with the neces-
sary diving implements described in the preceding chapter. A motion
picture camera had been provided with a case for submarine work. The
crew was busily engaged in making final arrangements for some trial
trips to which they looked forward with intense enthusiasm.

John was testing the pump, Carol stowing some groceries, while Ed-
die, in the bateau, was trying the water glass for the first time. The
results were disappointing because of mud in the water. Even with this
poor beginning, however, he found when using the instrument close to
a wharf that small fish could be seen with a distinctness that surprised him.

All was now in readiness, and the three friends started on their first
adventure. They passed between the jetties, continuing away from the
shore, and sounding from time to time. The water became much clearer
than in the harbor. A place was chosen where the depth was ten feet,
and anchor was cast. Fine weather prevailed with a slight breeze causing
ripples on the water. Through the water glass the bottom, flat and sandy,
could plainly be seen. The pump was placed in position, and the hose,
carefully coiled, connected to pump and helmet.

After the line, with weight tied to it, had been lowered to the bottom
and made fast, Eddie, elected to take the first dive and wearing only his
bathing trunks, jumped overboard and swam to the line. Grasping this,

[ 64 J

“THREE MEN IN A BOAT”

he held his head out of water while the helmet was lowered over it
by Carol, after the hose had first been passed under Eddie’s arm. In the
meantime, John had the pump in motion. When the helmet rested on
Fddie’s shoulders, he lowered his body until he saw the surface of the
water disappear above his windows. Obeying instructions of a friend
from whom the boys had received their information regarding the en-
tire project, Eddie stopped to make sure that he felt no discomfort.
They had been told repeatedly to “take it easy.” All was well, and Eddie
let himself down about two feet and stopped again. Air pressure clogged
his ears, and he yawned to clear them. There was no other discomfort,
and he let himself down until his feet touched bottom. Carol watched
intently, and fed the hose out as needed. There must be no kinks in it.

Eddie, now standing on the bottom, remembered that he expected to
look about him. His windows were fogged, and he recalled what he
had been told to do if this occurred. Inclining his head forward, his lips
touched the water in the bottom of his helmet. This enabled him to take
a mouthful and squirt it on his windows. He could then see the sandy
bottom, and after he had walked a few steps away from the line, he
turned around and could see the bottom of the boat. He then began to
walk carefully away from the point of descent. After progressing about
ten steps he decided to return, knowing that he had nearly reached the
limit of the hose. ‘Turning around he was surprised to find that the boat
had disappeared in a sort of fog, and he did not at once locate his hose
although it passed under his arm. He lost for a moment ‘his sense of di-
rection and had an unexpected feeling of loneliness and helplessness. The
only connection he seemed to have with the world he had become sepa-
rated from was the steady clicking of the pump-valves through which
the air that kept him alive was being fed. Looking upward as high as his
helmet would permit, he spied the hose vanishing into the fog. He re-
traced his steps, using the hose as a guide for no slack appeared in it. This

[65 J

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

was because Carol, perceiving by the bubbles that the diver was return-
ing, was pulling in the hose steadily. When Eddie reached the rope he
began his ascent slowly, as he had been directed. He felt the same
clogging of the ears that had occurred during his descent. This sensa-
tion is now a common experience, for it is felt by all persons who travel
by air and is relieved by the same means.

When Eddie reached the surface, Carol raised the helmet. All aboard,
they took a rest. John was glad because the pumping job, easy at first,
had become hard work before he was through. Eddie described his sen-
sations and discovered that he had forgotten his intention to sit on the
bottom and reach for objects to gain additional experience, for he had
been told that the line of vision is distorted and the object is not where it
appears to be. This matter of forgetfulness will be mentioned farther on.

John thought he had earned next turn and Eddie took the pump will-
ingly for he felt slightly chilled. John had profited by Eddie’s experience,
and when he had walked a few steps, seated himself on the bottom. He
could see plainly a few pebbles within reach but when he tried to pick
them up, he missed them at first by about six inches. On his return to
the boat, John found himself breathing rapidly. He became a bit panicky
and hoisted himself as quickly as possible. His ears were stopped and he
experienced a slight pain. The admonition “take it easy” came to his
mind. When on deck this second descent was discussed, and Eddie ad-
mitted that when the period was nearly over he had decreased the
rapidity of his strokes. The boys learned immediately that an even flow
of air is necessary. It is exceedingly disturbing to have an irregular
supply, and under some circumstances, dangerous.

Carol’s dive was without incident of importance, for he, having
learned much from the experiences of the others, had profited by them.
Excitement had subsided and the crew felt ready for the more difficult
part of their undertaking.

[ 66 J

“THREE MEN IN A BOAT”

Eddie conceived the idea that photographs of one of their number
swimming under water would be interesting. The motion picture camera
was made ready. It was agreed that Carol would take it down and take
his place about twelve feet off the starboard beam. For this purpose it
Was not necessary to have anyone to serve the hose, because the diver
had to walk only a few steps. The required length, about fifteen feet,
was paid out in advance and allowed to hang overboard in a loop. It was
then secured to a stanchion by a serving line to keep the rest from be-
ing accidentally pulled overboard by the diver. Carol slung the camera
over his shoulder, and let himself down into the water while John
manned the pump and Eddie adjusted the helmet. He watched Carol
take his position, then went forward, made a dive, and swam under
water across the field of the camera. He repeated this performance three
times, always trying to remain for as long a time as possible within proper
distance of Carol. When Eddie thought that probably the power in the
camera had been exhausted, he came aboard to be ready to help Carol.
The details of this action had been discussed beforehand and were car-
ried out as planned. When completed and all on board again, the three
friends were delighted. Carol thought he had made a good picture, and
Eddie felt that he was successful in producing enough action, and in
keeping his proper distance.

Afternoon had advanced, and lunch, which had been postponed, was
next in order. Gear was stowed and all made shipshape while John pre-
pared the meal. They were ravenously hungry, so the simple fare of
tomato soup, cold lobster, pilot biscuit and cheese, with a bottle of beer
never tasted better.

After returning to the harbor the boys conversed with some of the
men at the boat yard, their object being to learn as much as possible
about places where suitable conditions could be found for the pursuit
of their engrossing occupation. “The Beacon” was suggested, and they

onal

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

decided to go there next morning.

Good luck attended them, for the day broke clear and calm. They
were off at nine o’clock, early enough to make sure of being in readiness
to start submarine operations when the sun was highest.

After passing out of the harbor, they lay a course S.% E., 40 mile
to Red Nun Buoy No. 2, then E. %4 S. two miles, and within half an
hour reached “The Beacon,” a marker which indicates a rock pile. They
circled this object at slower speed while John, being towed in the bateau,
looked carefully through the water glass for a suitable location. By this
method they selected a place where the depth was about two fathoms
and the formation of rocks and sea weeds indicated the probability of
finding fish.

The “mud hook” was thrown out, and as the boat showed a tendency
to drift, a stern anchor also was used. Carol was elected to do the photo-
graphic work. This time he donned the suit of woolen underwear and
sneakers for he was expecting to be down longer than he had been the
day before, and the bottom looked as though walking would be rough
and treacherous.

On reaching bottom, some shelving rocks appeared to be a likely place
in which to find fish. He, therefore, took a position at the proper dis-
tance. Objects at first not noticed came to his attention in increasing de-
tail as he watched, and he was glad to see that even though he might
not find fish, there was enough of interest and beauty to make a worth-
while picture. Sea weeds were waving in the tide, and the shimmering
light caused by the sun shining through ripples on the surface added to
the motion. Carol sat on the bottom and waited. Presently he saw a num-
ber of small silver fish among the rocks. He watched until a group of
them moved within range, then began to “shoot,” using about ten feet
of film.

He moved to another place not far away and some intuition told him

[ 68 |

“THREE MEN IN A BOAT”

it was a spot that fish liked. He seated himself again and presently caught
sight of a Porgy swimming near the bottom. Here was the best oppor-
tunity he had had so far! A feeling akin to what hunters call “buck
fever” came over him. He thought that if he made the slightest motion
the Porgy would be gone. But the Porgy, entirely unconscious of the
intrusion of a monster from the land, swam hither and yon on his ever-
lasting search for food. He refused to come within range of the camera
so Carol decided to stalk his prey. He was surprised to find that it seemed
not to pay him the slightest attention. Finally he got a “shot” and re-
turned to the boat with a thrill never before experienced in catching a
fish with hook and line.

His helmet raised, Carol was greeted with sarcastic remarks from his
companions. “Did you want to stay down there all day?” “Did we give
John, let’s have a

27 66

you enough air?” “Or maybe you don’t need any.
drink; of course Carol doesn’t want one, he hasn’t been doing anything
but sit on the bottom to keep cool.” This after they noticed that Carol
was shaking with the cold. He was very glad that he had worn the
woolen underclothes, and was glad now to take them off and enjoy the
warm sunshine on the cockpit deck, sheltered from the freshening
breeze.

Lunch was made ready, and the stern anchor taken in to let the boat
ride freely. Carol told his story, and an enthusiastic discussion followed,
each member of the crew making suggestions.

“Let’s get a picture of the man on the bottom taking pictures,” said
Eddie. ‘““How can we do that without another camera?” asked John.
“That’s easy. The man on the bottom can take the empty case and go
through the motions while another one of us gets his picture from the
surface through the water glass.” “Three will not be enough,” said John.
“Tl do the pumping. You can go down, Carol. But how is Eddie going
to handle the bucket and camera, and also paddle the bateau into posi-

[ 69 J

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

tion and keep it there while he does the photographing?” “That’s right,”
said Eddie. “Let’s get Fred Stover. He’s always ready to try something
new.”

This plan seemed feasible, and now, as the breeze had strengthened,
operations for the remainder of the day were brought to an end.

As they weighed anchor, the Wianno Yacht Club race was making
toward Beacon buoy. Here was a chance to use the remainder of their
film on the twenty-one footers as they rounded the buoy and broke out
the spinnakers. The boys found both wind and sun favorable, and tak-
ing an excellent position, Eddie went forward with the camera. As the
boats came toward him, throwing spray from stem to stern, they were
a beautiful sight. The turn made the kind of picture that thrills any
photographer.

Next morning was disappointing. A strong breeze was blowing and
the sky overcast. The three companions decided to drive to Wood’s
Hole and visit the aquarium. They called on the Superintendent and
found him most interested when he learned of their project. They were
given a fund of information about localities where photography would
be likely to yield good results. ‘They also learned where, and at what
depths various species of fish are to be found. The subject became more
interesting the farther they explored it. They took notes and spent much
time observing live specimens in the tanks.

On their way home the boys discussed new ideas that had come to
mind through the information gained. They planned to prepare for a
cruise, to visit systematically the places that they had heard about.

The following day broke fair. Fred Stover had joined the diving crew.
They went to “The Beacon” again. Experience already had made the
crew handy with their gear. Carol wore trousers and shirt over his
woolen underwear, now that he was posing for a picture. Eddie, leaning ~
over the stern of the bateau, found difficulty in holding the water glass

bE 7o

“THREE MEN IN A BOAT”

with one hand while he pointed and operated the camera with the other.
It became evident that to design and construct a special water glass to
hold the camera would be easy and handy.

Our friends had a successful cruise. They had learned much from
their practice trips. They had all been on cruises before, but never with
an object of absorbing interest. It was like a voyage of discovery. Each
place they visited had hidden characteristics. Something unknown was
revealed every time the waters closed over the diver’s head. He was
walking where man had never trod. Each experience increased a desire
to do more, and to bring back tales in specimens and photographs of a
world of mystery that is beginning to yield its treasures to those who
seek.

eae

CHAPTER III

DANGERS AND PRECAUTIONS

Tose who “go down to the sea in ships” have learned from many cen-
turies of experience that a safe return, in so far as man can assure it, de-
pends upon preparing in advance for every possible emergency. The
expression “I found everything shipshape” arises from the tradition of
the sea that a ship must be kept in perfect order. Every implement must
be in place and ready for instant use. Ropes must be properly separated
and coiled. A tangle is unpardonable. All movables on deck must be se-
cured upon the first warning of foul weather. Sailors must learn how
to meet the unexpected, and good sailors spend much of their time when
on watch in visualizing every emergency they can think of, and decid-
ing how they would act.

A sail-boat is off shore and a sudden squall descends. Sail must be taken
in quickly. A tangle in a halyard prevents lowering. The sailor has no
knife in his pocket with which to cut the halyard, and the squall hits the
ship unprepared. Result, some people are lost at sea.

A small motor cruiser operated by the owner and friend, was on her
way to Florida from a Northern port. She did not arrive at her des-
tination, nor was the crew ever heard of again. Fair weather prevailed
during, and for many days after the time required to have completed
the voyage. A coastwise steamer reported sighting some charred frag-
ments that resembled parts of a small boat. Investigation revealed a prob-
able cause of the disaster. The owner, desiring to carry an emergency .
supply of gasoline, had filled a number of one gallon tins and stored

nye

DANGERS AND PRECAUTIONS

them in the bilge. Salt water would almost surely have rusted some of
these until they leaked, and fumes rising from the bilge could have been
ignited by the motor or by a flame in the galley stove. This was the most
likely cause of the disaster.

These true stories, with the probable causes of the disasters, are but
two among countless mishaps that have resulted from lack of foresight
either in planning, inspecting, or allowing a boat to be poorly kept.

If a cruise is contemplated for the purpose of submarine diving, a new
element is introduced which requires forethought and care. We built
a ladder which was used to make ascent and descent more convenient.
When in use it was placed overside and made fast to bulwarks and stan-
chion, extending downward so that four rungs were below the surface.
On one occasion my daughter was coming up from a dive, and a life
line tied around her waist slipped under the ladder and caught. The hel-
met was not above water, therefore it could not be removed. She “‘took
it easy,’ so did the people on deck. Line and hose were paid out until
she could move. Excitement and hurry could have caused at least some
very unpleasant results. The job of freeing the line was left to the man
in charge of it and the man at the pump knew that the best assistance
he could give was to keep the air supply steady.

The use of a life line in moderate depths where the seabottom or
tidal currents present no hazards and the diver has had experience, seems
unnecessary. The hose, when held under the arm, establishes a sufficient
connection with the surface. Signals can be transmitted by a system of
jerks on the hose and it may be used as a support to cling to when
stepping over or climbing upon masses of coral. Should some disaster
occur, however, such as failure of air supply, causing unconsciousness,
a life line tied around the body would enable the persons on board to
pull the diver up and administer emergency treatment for the drowning.
When giving persons with no experience and of doubtful presence of

7 3pl

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

mind a chance to try diving, the life line should be used.

When operating in a strong tidal current, there is danger of being
swept off one’s feet. The body might take a horizontal position, when
the helmet would fill with water. Rescue would then be necessary by
means of the life line.

After a diver has gone down a few times, it becomes evident that the
helmet could be thrown off and he could ascend like any swimmer. He
has no encumbrances, since the weights that hold him down are attached
to the helmet. I advocated this in talks to beginners—“If you don’t like
it, take your helmet off and come up. There’s nothing to stop you.” Re-
cent enlightenment has taught me, however, that to discard the helmet
and swim to the surface is a dangerous thing to do. My information was
obtained from Commander Edward Ellsberg’s Men Under the Sea. This,
by the way, is a most fascinating book for anyone interested in our gen-
eral subject.

The Commander explains the “lung,” an article of emergency equip-
ment now provided in all of our Navy’s submarines. It is, in short, an
implement available to each sailor, making possible his exit from a
foundered “sub,” by enabling him to breathe while he is ascending to
the surface. He takes in oxygen at the same pressure as the surrounding
water and the pressure decreases as he ascends. This is all right if used
properly. But the point I make is that if used improperly the victim has
acted as a person must act if he throws off his helmet and ascends to the
surface. The following information is quoted from Commander Ells-
berg:

“But to see a man, who in practicing with a ‘lung’ had risen through
only sixteen feet of water to the surface, come up apparently all right,
take one or two vigorous strokes in swimming toward a boat, and then

suddenly collapse and die before he could be hauled aboard, was dis- —
C74]

DANGERS AND PRECAUTIONS

concerting, to say the least. After that had happened in our Navy twice,
even to men who had been instructed in the use of ‘lungs,’ a long medical
investigation was carried out, ending with a careful series of experiments
on animals in the Harvard Medical School. This demonstrated con-
clusively the cause and the cure.

“The cause was the natural reaction of a man under water, when he
is frightened, in holding his breath in an involuntary attempt to avoid
swallowing or breathing water. But it turned out that there is no surer
way for a man to kill himself promptly when using a ‘lung’ than to do
this apparently natural thing. For a man rising from the bottom starts
with his lungs full of air at a pressure corresponding to the water pres-

sure on the bottom. As he rises, the water pressure decreases. If he keeps
on breathing naturally as he goes up, the pressure in his lungs keeps
decreasing to correspond, with the excess air escaping continuously from
the ‘lung’ through an automatic exhaust valve.

“If, however, he becomes frightened or hysterical at finding himself
completely immersed in the ocean and perhaps a long way from the sur-
face (a mental condition not unnatural in a person not trained as a diver)
and does what seems indicated as the normal thing, that is, holds his
breath, he practically seals his death warrant. For as he rises further,
probably faster now in his haste to get to the surface, the water pressure
surrounding his chest decreases, but the air pressure in his lungs, with
breathing suspended, does not. The result is that the air trapped in his
lungs expands and in so doing distends the lungs abnormally. It takes a
rise of not over six feet in the water under such circumstances for the
distention of the lungs to cause myriad ruptures in their walls through
which air in considerable quantity is forced directly into the blood in
large bubbles.

“Nothing further happens until about a minute after breathing is re-

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UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

sumed, when reaction is swift. The air bubbles then reach the heart, the
brain, the nervous centers, and death results almost immediately from
air embolism.”

In one of the earlier chapters in this book, the discomfort experienced
by Richard du Pont after ascending from thirty feet without his helmet
is mentioned. Discomfort! I should say so! In view of the above quota-
tion he can be thankful that he is alive and well today.

When amateurs begin diving, they are likely to become very en-
thusiastic and to try out venturesome ideas. One direction for such ex-
pansion is to get two divers on the bottom at the same time. If this is
done there are special precautions to take because the risk of diving is
doubled. No doubling of responsibility should be assumed. Two men
must be stationed at two separate pumps, there must be two hose tenders,
and it is most desirable to have a fifth person in command of all. The
smallest group, including divers, that should attempt this operation is
seven. The pump and hose-tender groups should be as far as possible
from one another to prevent entanglements. Divers should understand
that they must not cross one another’s path either in front or rear. This
is to avoid tangles of hoses or life lines. Double diving is not recom-
mended until those attempting it have learned much more than is given
in this short discussion.

There are certain pathological considerations which should be studied.
The effect of air pressure on the ears has been mentioned. This effect
is more marked as pressure increases. Some people find it difficult to clear
the passages by yawning. Anyone who starts a dive and cannot clear
the passages by the time he has descended three or four feet, should
ascend until he feels no discomfort, then try again. If he cannot relieve
this pressure he had better not dive, for he will have intense pain which

[76 J

DANGERS AND PRECAUTIONS

may result in permanent injury.

Persons who suffer from sinus infection should not dive. The pressure
produces pain, and probably irritation which is harmful.

It is well for those who contemplate diving to have a physical examina-
tion for there are other ailments and defects of the human system which
probably are irritated by subjection to compressed air. Above all, I be-
lieve that submarine diving should not be practiced by persons who do
not have an entirely normal heart condition. Our bodies are created to
function best under average conditions of living, yet they can resist ex-
tremes of temperature, privations and muscular effort to a most amazing
degree—provided the old heart is normal. Perhaps the greatest strain on
the heart is anything that interferes with breathing. The lungs take in
more or less oxygen by frequency of respiration which varies automati-
cally according to the needs of the body. When we run, or do any physi-
cal work, we breathe fast; when we sleep we breathe slowly. We live,
for the most part, surrounded by fresh air and, therefore, when we re-
spire at the rate of forty-four per minute, we feed ourselves with twice
as much oxygen as when we are breathing at twenty-two. The lungs do
their job so long as an excess of fresh air is available. This is not always
the case with the diver. Air is fed to him in measured quantities by a
man pumping. Sometimes he finds himself breathing rapidly and getting
no relief. This is because he is getting just so much air and it is not
enough. The rapidity of his respiration is of no help—each time he fills
his lungs he gets part fresh air and part foul. This causes distress and he
breathes still faster. The involuntary effort puts a strain on the heart to
which it should not be subjected if it is not in perfect condition.

There is great variation in the quantity of air that the diver gets and
requires. If he is at maximum depth the pump must be operated faster
than if he is in shallow water. If he works at dislodging specimens he

ia

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

will need more air on account of his physical exertion. The proper way
to supply air would be always to pump more than required, but this
puts a strain on the man at the pump because he has no way of knowing
how much more than enough he is delivering, and desiring to err on the
safe side, is likely to over exert himself.

Some of us will become so enthusiastic over this diving business that
if we have the means, we will go into it more elaborately and will not be
bothered with this matter of pumping air by hand. A motor driven pump
will be used, and it will furnish an excess of air at the greatest depth. But
I must recommend earnestly that such a pump not be used unless it is of
the very best make and most carefully installed. Everything else should
be placed a step forward in the way of facilities. If we have a motor
driven pump we want a better boat to keep it on, and a thoroughly re-
liable source of power. One improvement will necessitate another, and
our whole outfit will be quite different from that which Eddie, Carol
and John used. Therefore, unless we are going to make a very definite
change in equipment we had better stick to the old “armstrong” pump.

I have mentioned the matter of forgetfulness which comes over a
diver. This is a real danger to be guarded against by the professional
deep-sea divers. It is held to be caused by inhaling too much oxygen,
and getting a sort of “jag.” Divers at great depths have not answered
their calls, and someone has had to go down to them. ‘They have been
found wandering aimlessly and oblivious to signals.

Excess of oxygen can hardly be the cause of the forgetfulness that I
have experienced. It may come from insufficient oxygen, which has a
similar effect upon aviators when they rise to great altitudes. The mind
becomes sluggish, but immediately returns to its normal process when
the flier uses his flask of oxygen.

Another cause of forgetfulness may be the unreality of the experience
under water. The diver is perforce slow in his motions and his vision is

[78 J

DANGERS AND PRECAUTIONS

decreased. His sense of hearing is of no use to him, and his mind is dis-
turbed by the fear that some unthought-of danger may be approaching.
My personal experiences have seemed like wandering in dreamland. Al-
ways a delightful country in dreamland, I am glad to say.

[79 J

CHAPTER IV

BARRACUDA AND SHARKS

My own diving experience has been too limited to justify any authori-
tative discussion of this subject, but I place this danger here, the last on
the list, because it seemed by far the most unlikely to me. Mankind has
a peculiar, and rather unreasonable attitude of mind towards danger.
Despite the obvious danger that confronts millions of us on our concrete
highways, we proceed at high speed, chatting and joking, most of us
entirely free from any thought of the peril we are in. We go around
curves with soft earth on the sides, and pass cross roads with entire faith
in our ability or that of the companion who is driving to control the
ninety horsepower mechanical monster in which we are riding. But if
we are invited to walk through shrubbery in which it is said there may
be rattlesnakes, many of us are restrained by fear. The danger, slight
though it may be, of being struck by a hidden foe has an effect upon
us that upsets our reason.

The idea of walking on the sea bottom, where one is defenseless, and
where hidden foes may approach from behind without warning, there-
fore inspires fear, and may seem to be a most foolhardy courting of
disaster.

The fact is, however, that the diver seldom, if ever, has been attacked
by a Barracuda or a shark. The Barracuda is the most evil-looking fish
that I know. His magnificent streamlined body, the undershot jaw, and
cruel expression mark him as a killer with lightning-like speed. Exag-
gerated stories are told about him. Natives at Nassau have stated with
assurance that he is known to strike humans with such force that he

[ 80 ]

BARRACUDA AND SHARKS

passes through their bodies. In Florida, I was told that a young girl who
‘was bathing dived from a bridge across an inlet. Presently, the water
began to be tinged with blood. She did not rise to the surface, and her
bones were finally dredged from the bottom. She had been attacked by
a school of hungry Barracuda, which had consumed her. Such stories are
evidently founded on imagination.

If humankind were attractive morsels of shark-food, how could the
sharks resist the splendid banquets that are spread before them from New
England to Florida every day of the summer? On the East Coast of
Florida, the bathers during the winter season disport themselves about
as freely as those who crowd our Northern beaches in the summer.
Strong swimmers venture far from the shore into deep water where
both Barracuda and sharks are known to be in search of food, and foolish
yachtsmen jump overboard in the Gulf Stream, yet very seldom has
anyone been killed or injured by either kind of fish. The Florida Keys
are infested by Barracuda. Often when trolling, a hooked fish is torn to
bits by them before he can be brought in. Nevertheless a sunken treasure
search is being conducted at one of the Keys and the divers are using
helmets only—not the professional diver’s outfits—staying down for hours,
and no attacks from shark or Barracuda have been suffered.

Such facts have made me feel little fear of these terrifying denizens of
the deep, at least in the localities where I have conducted my operations.
In the Bahamas, we confined our diving to areas where sea gardens were
found. Sharks probably do not go to these places because the many
varieties of fish are too small to be tempting and more especially because
the coral and sponge formations make convenient places of refuge for
them. I have never seen a shark in the sea gardens, although we have
caught a few small dog-fish from our anchorage nearby, in twenty feet
or so of water.

I asked Dr. William Beebe about the danger to a helmet diver of at-

[81]

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

tack by sharks. He said, “There are three-cornered bricks in New York
City and there are men who throw them. You are about as likely to be
bitten by a shark as you are to be struck by a three-cornered brick while
strolling on Fifth Avenue.” Mr. Fenimore Johnson was a bit more ex-
plicit. He said, “Do not dive if you have an open wound or a fresh
scratch deep enough to have drawn blood on any part of your body.
Sharks and Barracuda can smell an infinitesimal quantity of blood, and
it attracts them toward its source. Sharks are not attracted by a black
object. It is therefore a good precaution to wear black clothing when
under sea.” On learning this, I had a pair of duck trousers dyed black,
and bought a black shirt. With this new uniform, I made my last descent.
I did not sustain a single sharkbite!

Nothing that has been said above is intended to imply that there is
no danger to the diver from sharks. Generally speaking, there is danger
a-plenty. But I have not courted it. My photography has improved with
each experience and there is plenty more to do in the beautiful sea gar-
dens before I will be satisfied. It will be a long time before I expect to
become bored with this peaceful occupation and begin to go down to
greater depths and to put bait around me in order to photograph sharks.

Now for the other side of the picture.

There are many varieties of sharks. Some are harmless. My study of
the natural history of the sea has been superficial. I have not yet learned
to distinguish the varieties of which according to Young and Mazet in
their book Shark! Shark!, there are eighteen principal ones, some of
which are quite harmless. I do not care to meet any of them. And if I
did, it is quite certain that I would not take the time to identify his
species. Incidentally the book above mentioned is full of thrills about
battles with sharks. The question, “Do sharks eat men?” is convincingly
answered in the affirmative, and the chapter is accompanied by some
gruesome authentic photographic illustrations. But the question “Under

[ 82 J

BARRACUDA AND SHARKS

what circumstances will sharks eat men?” will probably never be dis-
posed of satisfactorily. History indicates that surf bathers at the popular
resorts are safe, and yet this statement must be qualified. During one
summer, 1916 if I remember correctly, three bathers were killed at dif-
ferent points on the New Jersey coast between Raritan River and Beach
Haven. These reports are the only ones I recollect having seen in the
press. The attacks, compared with the number of bathers who have en-
joyed the surf along this part of the coast over a period of say twenty
years, would amount to one in many millions, and as a risk should be
considered negligible.

It would seem, however, that an element of danger to bathers exists
in tropical waters. At the U.S. Army posts in the Canal Zone, the bath-
ing beaches are enclosed by fences of wire net to keep sharks out. At the
bathing beaches on the shores of Australia, where sharks have been ob-
served in greater quantities than in any other part of the world, watchers
are employed to give warning to the bathers when sharks are approach-
ing. [These precautions must be based upon experience. In Nassau, visitors
are warned against swimming in the harbor, but the importance of this
warning may be questioned because of the numbers of negroes who row
around the cruise boats begging the passengers to throw coins in the
water for them to retrieve by diving. On the other hand, they may be
safe by reason of the color of their skins.

To conclude this subject, it may be said that there is no danger to
the diver of attack from voracious fishes if he confines his undersea ex-
cursions to sea gardens in twenty feet of water or less, or to places near
shore in Northern latitudes. If he craves danger, he can go to waters
known to be infested by sharks. He can even emulate J. E. Williamson
who entered into combat with a shark while men in his photosphere
worked madly at their cameras.*

* 290 Years Under the Sea. Williamson (Hale, Cushman and Flint).

[ 83 J

CHAPTER V

SOME NEW IDEAS

THERE are variations from the routine of photographing fish in their
natural habitat which would be likely to occur to anyone after he had
made a start with this engrossing pastime. Some of my thoughts which
I have not yet carried out are offered here. Experience and a little knowl-
edge of the work of others, with some imagination mixed in, form a base
for these suggestions.

Fish can be speared occasionally with a grains thrust down from above
water. The trouble with this sport is that the fish are usually at too great
a depth. Naturally, when a man walks on the bottom in the domain of
the fishes, his first impulse is to get some, especially when he finds that
they are so unconcerned that he can almost touch them. Next time he
goes down he takes the grains along, singles out a nice plump yellow
Grunt and gives a poke. The fish shows no concern as the deadly weapon
passes over his back, missing him by about twelve inches. ‘Then the diver,
recognizing that he has not allowed for refraction, aims about twelve
inches below the next fish and thrusts viciously. The fish shows no concern,
only moves as though accidentally, just enough to avoid being hit. Then
the diver understands what is wrong. That “vicious thrust” was really
like a slow motion picture. When the whole body is submerged and
standing on bottom with only three or four pounds of weight, it cannot
back up the thrust of the arm, but moves slightly in the opposite direc-
tion. The arm, too, moves with greatly reduced speed because of the
resistance of water as compared with that of air. The fish moves away

[ 84]

SOME NEW IDEAS

deliberately as a person would from a slow moving object such as the
arm of a derrick.

When Richard du Pont discovered that he could not spear fish on the
bottom, he decided to do something about it at once. He procured a
piece of brass tube and some steel rods. He cut barbed points on the
rods, thus making miniature harpoons, then attached pieces of flat rubber
to the rear end of the tube in such 4 way that the rear end of the har-
poon, which passed through the tube could be held in the rubber and
drawn back in the same manner as the small boy’s sling shot. This
worked admirably, and Richard became quite proficient at “shooting”
fish with his apparatus.

This diversion leads us away from our main interest, and towards a
new sport presently being promoted—the shooting of fish by diving
without any equipment other than goggles, a “gun,” and a weight hang-
ing on the belt to enable the hunter to walk on the bottom so long as
he can hold his breath. Bows and arrows are being offered for submarine
hunting and can be found at some of the leading sporting goods stores,
along with goggles which enable the diver to see clearly.

Whether for fish-shooting or photography, baiting could be studied
to great advantage. The diver could discover how bait, dropped from
above is received by the fish. He might learn the answer to that mystery,
why do fish bite at the turn of the tide? Are they absent at all other
times, or are they just not interested? What remarkable possibilities now
have been opened by submarine photography to research on fish and
their attitude towards hook, bait and line!

When your bait is being removed over and over again without your
being able to feel a bite, who is taking it? The fish you want to catch or
some little fellows with mouths not large enough to take in the hook?
Let your friend do the fishing and you go down and sit by the hook

with a camera and bring back some real evidence.

[85]

UNDER SEA WITH HELMET AND CAMERA

Years ago I was on a cruise among the coastal waterways of Massa-
chusetts and we were at anchor in Hadley harbor, Naushon Island. At
night we hung a shaded electric light overboard and watched small fish
being attracted towards it. Presently three squid made their way through
the lighted area. Their semi-transparent quality and grotesque appearance
would have made a remarkable picture. Apparatus could be constructed
for this purpose using two lights, one of normal candle power, the other
very brilliant such as is used in taking interior motion pictures. When
the object had been attracted by the low power lamp and was in posi-
tion for photographing, the high power lamp could be turned on mo-
mentarily. If arranged as described, this apparatus would not exhaust
the storage batteries on the boat too rapidly. For still pictures the mag-
nesium flash could be used.

The question will naturally arise, if fish are brought to the surface by
artificial light, why bother about taking the camera under water? Why
not photograph them from the surface? The answer is that a photograph
of fish, looking down on their backs is always uninteresting. The most
important and beautiful characteristics are concealed. In fact, it is prac-
tically impossible to identify the species of a fish from a photograph
taken from the surface. But an auxiliary apparatus can be designed for
submerging and exposing the camera in very shallow water, or when
fish are near the surface, without necessitating the photographer going
down. A little ingenuity would easily produce a pneumatic or spring
attachment to the camera case that would permit control of exposure
from the surface. The camera then could be attached to a pole and let
down to the desired depth. Motion of the fish and pointing of the camera
could be watched through a water glass.

Still another direction in which the diving and photographing equip-
ment could be used to advantage, would be exploring the sides below ~
water level of fresh water ponds, especially the rocky ponds of clear

[ 86 J

SOME NEW IDEAS

water such as are found on Cape Cod. At these ponds, probably a boat
would not be needed. The pump could be set up on shore, and the diver
would descend the steep banks step by step. The water in most of these
ponds is clear enough.

These final suggestions have occurred to me since my last diving expedi-
tion. Many other interesting applications of the helmet and camera should
naturally occur to any amateur who uses them. The field is a large one.
There is plenty of room for pioneers. The reward for working in it will
be bountiful.

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