Isaac Sharp and Asbjorn Kloster in the Faroe Islands (April – June 1862)

Journal of Isaac Sharp - May 20, 1862

Mikladalur

We left Kunoe (Kunoy) this morning a little before nine, and looked back with interest to its noble amphitheatre of rock -- a fine specimen of Nature's architecture, of which there are many specimens in Faroe. In about an hour we reached Mygledahl (Mikladalur), on the island of Kalsoe (Kalsoy), often unapproachable from the lashing of the waves. The ascent to the little hamlet above was difficult and toilsome; in one part so steep as to require a short step-ladder. On reaching the hospitable dwelling of the chief proprietor, we found many of the people were away from home, engaged in fishing. Hence the importance of retaining our Kunoe (Kunoy) crew; they hesitate, then confer together; again hesitate, and finally agree. About thirty-six persons assembled soon after ten o'clock, and I could thankfully believe our little meeting was mercifully owned by the Divine presence. Taking leave of our new acquaintances, who were very kind to us, we retraced our way to the water’s-edge, and were soon once more in our "little bark."

Gjogv and Funningur

Reaching North Gior (Gjogv) or Osteroe (Eysturoy) early in the afternoon, a meeting was held there at four o'clock, and at six we passed on to Funding (Funningur), arriving there about half past seven. A very cool reception awaited us here. At the house to which we were recommended the husband was out, and his wife was in perplexity as to whether we were to shelter there or no, but asked us to come in. The husband soon followed, to whom Asbjorn Kloster explained our circumstances, and that, traveller-like, we wanted lodgings for the night. "So I see!" was the brief reply. Our quarters for present need having been granted, inquiry was next made as to a place for a meeting, and the best time. To this there was neither response nor sympathy. I remembered that, on landing, we passed by a small warehouse; and, on inquiring after it, we were pleasantly answered by a youth of seventeen (who had been at one of our meetings), and arrangements were soon made with the master of the premises for a meeting on the morrow.