The last and most trying task was the masts and fittings. Being uncertian as to how I would repair or jury rig a collapsed alloy mast, I decided to obtain Alaskan or Silka spruce spars and after some months' delay, lugged into the house four 40ft and four 50ft planks and other assorted lenths. The carpets were rolled up and all normal activity was completely disrupted as we built a bench running through the living room, dining room, passage and into a temporary structure to house the excess length. With air-conditioners and two coal heaters we raised the temperature to 80F in a Victorian winter for several weeks. This provided a suitable atmosphere and with the moisture content of the timber at 12-14% we glued and cramped using 200 battens and about 200 bolts.
I spent six months full time on stainless fittings and winches and finally with the help of enthusiastic friends raised the masts and set up all the rigging to the exact length. The sailmaker Jeff Arnall measured up. The masts were lowered carefully and stowed on deck. Storing up commenced, gear was put aboard and transport for the journey of 35 miles was finally solved. New regulations for the moving of such loads caused us some anxiety with the permit being finally obtained only the day before departure.
Our attention during this time had not been soley on the boat as the house after seven years neglect needed a complete facelift. While I renovated a repaired, Jill courageously painted inside and out the large eight-roomed house. At this time, providentially, a couple appeared, who with a family of three have proved good tenants and have occupied the house for two years now without damaging the rather nice one acre garden. In all other respects the transition has been complete; we feel we have never lived ashore, but we miss that lovely old garden with its winding paths through large trees, rhododendrons and azaleas.