May 14

Quite a todo in the village this morning. Looked like entire population turned out for the marathon. Young guys on horses followed each runner in to the finish line with drum accompaniment. Strangely, none of the witnessed finishers looked close to death. Suspect times were a smidge over Olympic record.

Foul bottom in Atuona anchorage was kind to Anthem, but Inspiration Lady got their stern road wrapped under a gabion requiring scuba to cut line, freeing virtual family heirloom, stainless steel Danforth. Didn't even know there was such a thing. Dave on Jackster had to shinny to top of mizzen to reeve a halyard that had come free. With no such difficulties aboard Anthem and after offering aid, skipped out so as to finally get to new location first. Enjoyed a beautiful two hour sail to Resolution Bay on Tahuata (Fire Spirit), where a European named Mendana killed 70 Marquesans when he landed here in 1595. They don't seem to hold a grudge.

Bristol Rose sons, here for previous two days, got tattoos in Polynesian style. Had not, heretofore, the slightest desire for one, but these look quite nice. After reflection, decided to heed apposite description as "a permanent reminder of a temporary feeling" and demur. Besides, I can get one in Papeete.

Jack