Lewis war diary, August 1917-March 1919 / James Ray Lewis - Page 33
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[Page 33]
somewhat.
When first entered the canal resembles a flattish coastal river with what looks like M mangroves and saltwater scrub on the bank.
Soon we reach and enter the first Miraflores lock.The lock is like a huge concrete box, and the steel gates closing it, weigh many tons. As soon as the steel gates close behind us, the water begins to flow rapidly into the lock by gravitation and in 10 minutes the lock is full and we are raised some 30 feet or so. The gates ahead are opened and electric mules hook on, and tow the ship into the next lock, where the whole process is repeated till we are raised to the level of the main canal, only the 3rd lock known as the Pedro Miguel, is reached by traversing what is known as Miraflores lake for about 2 miles.
All this time enthusiastic americans ran alongside and and threw souvenirs, such as coins in return for coins. Niggers came aboard, and made a profit of 300%selling booklets and postcards to our men.