The Rey Emmanuel delivered supplies to the San Blas Islands, a group of tiny islands^9
off the coast of Panama. On the return journey, the captain collected outstanding
monies, empty bottles, and gas cylinders. I presumed the trip would be a lengthy
affair.
As the Rey Emmanuel was anchored in the bay, a “lancha” had to be arranged to row
us out to the boat the following morning. According to the captain, he was departing at
9 a.m. sharp. Therefore, not wanting to miss the only boat, a “lancha” was organised
to ferry us across at 6.30 a.m.