Battery redux

Hello all. I think I have solved the battery problem - it appears
that it was my excessive appetite for electrons coupled with my lack
of patience to let the battery recharge. After about ten hours of
charging I have 12.50 VDC open circuit on the battery and holding. I
have installed a switch so that I can turn the current on and off to
the battery from the alternator - I had a feeling that the battery
was draining back through the circuit when the motor was off,
although I have nothing to confirm this.

Thank you to everyone for his/her suggestions and help it is much
appreciated.

Paul Thober

Aboard the Samantha, Beaufort, NC