Note 4 — EDITOR’S INTRODUCTION

The Pilgrims originally embarked in two ships at Southampton, 5 August 1620, but because the Speedwell leaked dangerously they put in at Dartmouth for repairs. When they returned to the open sea, they discovered that she still shipped water. Turning to the nearest port, they reluctantly decided to abandon the Speedwell as unseaworthy, and many of the party transferred to the already crowded Mayflower, while a few decided to defer their emigration. The successful voyage from Plymouth began 6 September, with their third departure from the homeland.