July 25th, midnight
Mr. Wilkins , the mate , was standing almost directly under the mainmast at about 4.30 this afternoon , when Railton , who was aloft , let slip a block , which descended on the mate 's head , striking it with fearful force and killing him instantly . He was an honest , kindly man , to judge from the little I have seen of him , and , as Captain Holding assures me , an excellent navigator . Poor Railton was dreadfully upset by the effects of his clumsiness ; although I dislike the man , I have not the heart to blame him when I see the contrition upon his face . `` July 25th , midnight . -- We buried Wilkins to-day . Captain Holding read the burial service , and was much affected , for Wilkins was a great friend of his ; we then lowered the body into the sea . I spent the evening with the Concanens , the captain being on deck and too depressed to receive consolation .