Once upon a time a sailor went on a voyage. It was an unusual voyage because it took place aboard a barge. That was because he didn’t have a ship. He went by himself because he couldn’t find other sailors who wouldn’t swear. (The last time he had gone on a trip, all the other sailors swore and were filled with scorn, and he didn’t like that.)

When he started out, even though the winds were harsh and the food was meager fare (just coarse bread, full of starch), he did not lose heart. He had used the most modern planning methods of the day to chart his course, and he took a sword along in case he encountered enemies.

After awhile, due to the force of the winds, he had to go ashore. He landed on a small island. He had some trouble there, because he got a thorn in his shoe, and also almost got stuck in a marsh. Fortunately, he was able to find something to use for a flare, and got rescued, which was a good thing, because food was scarce on the island, and there were wild animals, too.

When he got home, his wife was a source of great encouragement to him because she had made him some chocolate squares!

The End