The Ordeal of Lifeboat #3 middle of the Atlantic were slim, which meant trying to sail east, to the African coast. The wind was not cooperating, but he did what he could. “Wednesday, April 14th 5:30 a.m. Wind Easterly. Force 5, hoisted sails, made about 20 miles SxE. 10:30 a.m. Mountainous seas again, put out sea anchor again. 3 p.m. Lost sea anchor again, made another. 7:45 to 9:45 p.m. Slight lull in weather. Hoisted sails again, made about five miles SxE.” The early hours of Thursday (Day 4) were even worse. Harrison wrote:
“Thursday, April 15th Another rough night, about the same as usual, weather overcast, cloudy, wind easterly. Force 5 to 7, heavy to mountainous seas. 3 a.m. Boat threatening to broach. Crossed oars to make another sea anchor. Riding O.K. afterward.” A Force 7 wind is defined as a near gale, with winds up to 38 mph that can cause foam from breaking waves to be blown into streaks. Harrison knew they were at great risk of getting sideways in the sea and swamped, so he handled the boat himself throughout the night. With dawn came a drop in the wind. “6:30 a.m. Clear. Breakfast and prayer. Hoisted sails and
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