Doug,

A junk sail will out last a marconi by years and years and not loss
efficiency as does a marconi. Both great for real cruising sails and a
patched junk sail will sail as well as a new sail. The material isn't
nearly as critical or expensive as a marconi. Another nice feature for a
cruiser located somewhere in the far corner of the world.

I agree with you Doug, I like the Marconi better for knocking about or
Racing. I don't, however put down the Junk Sail. It has stood up for
centuries in its present form. I also don't over look the many
modification to the Marconi that seem to be already present in the Junk.
Full battens, longer roaches, making necessary removing back stays; as
with Hunters or Lightnings, removing standing rigging and using a
balanced Sail to prevent weather helm.

I envied Dick Johnson and "Migrant" on their ability to take off and
cruise for extended times without fuss; due largely to that Junk Rig and
Colvin Hull. About that upwind ability; remember the old say;"Cruising
Gentlemen don't sail against the wind." I might even add they buy
"Trawlers" often to go to Windward.

Ole Thom