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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: A General History and Collection of Voyages and Travels, Volume 11 + Arranged in Systematic Order: Forming a Complete History + of the Origin and Progress of Navigation, Discovery, and + Commerce, by Sea and Land, from the Earliest Ages to the + Present Time + +Author: Robert Kerr + +Release Date: March 16, 2005 [EBook #15376] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK VOYAGES AND TRAVELS, VOLUME 11 *** + + + + +Produced by Robert Connal, Alison Hadwin and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. This file was produced from +images generously made available by the Canadian Institute +for Historical Microreproductions. + + + + + + +</pre> + + <h2>A</h2> + + <h2>GENERAL</h2> + + <h2>HISTORY AND COLLECTION</h2> + + <h2>OF</h2> + + <h1>VOYAGES AND TRAVELS,</h1> + + <h2>ARRANGED IN SYSTEMATIC ORDER:</h2> + + <h2>FORMING A COMPLETE HISTORY OF THE ORIGIN AND PROGRESS</h2> + + <h2>OF NAVIGATION, DISCOVERY, AND COMMERCE,</h2> + + <h2>BY SEA AND LAND,</h2> + + <h2>FROM THE EARLIEST AGES TO THE PRESENT TIME.</h2> + <hr /> + + <h2>BY</h2> + + <h2>ROBERT KERR, F.R.S. & F.A.S. EDIN.</h2> + <hr /> + + <h2>ILLUSTRATED BY MAPS AND CHARTS.</h2> + + <h2>VOL. XI.</h2> + + <h3>WILLIAM BLACKWOOD, EDINBURGH:</h3> + + <h3>AND T. CADELL, LONDON.</h3> + + <h3>MDCCCXXIV.</h3><span class="pagenum"><a name="pageiii" id= + "pageiii"></a>[pg iii]</span> + + <h2>CONTENTS</h2> + + <h2>OF</h2> + + <h2>VOL. XI</h2> + <hr /> + + <h2>PART II. BOOK IV. CONTINUED.</h2> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>CHAP.</p> + + <p>XII.(<i>Continued</i>.)</p> + + <p>Voyage round the World, by Captain George Shelvocke, in + 1719-1722, <a href="#page1">1</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">SECT.</p> + + <p class="i2">V. Voyage from California to Canton in China, + <a href="#page1">1</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">VI. Residence in China, and Voyage thence + to</p> + + <p class="i6">England, <a href="#page11">11</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">VII. Supplement to the foregoing Voyage, + <a href="#page17">17</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">VIII. Appendix to Shelvocke's Voyage round + the</p> + + <p class="i8">World. Containing Observations on the</p> + + <p class="i8">Country and Inhabitants of Peru, by Captain</p> + + <p class="i8">Betagh, <a href="#page20">20</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i6">Introduction, <a href="#page20">20</a></p> + + <p class="i6">§ 1. Particulars of the Capture of the + Mercury</p> + + <p class="i10">by the Spaniards, <a href="#page21">21</a></p> + + <p class="i6">§ 2. Observations made by Betagh in + the</p> + + <p class="i10">North of Peru, <a href="#page23">23</a></p> + + <p class="i6">§ 3. Voyage from Payta to Lima, and + Account</p> + + <p class="i10">of the English Prisoners at that</p> + + <p class="i10">Place, <a href="#page27">27</a></p> + + <p class="i6">§ 4. Description of Lima, and some + Account</p> + + <p class="i10">of the Government of Peru, <a href= + "#page30">30</a></p> + + <p class="i6">§ 5. Some Account of the Mines of Peru + and</p> + + <p class="i10">Chili, <a href="#page37">37</a></p> + + <p class="i6">§ 6. Observations on the Trade of Chili, + <a href="#page47">47</a></p> + + <p class="i6">§ 7. Some Account of the French + Interlopers</p> + + <p class="i10">in Chili, <a href="#page55">55</a></p> + + <p class="i6">§ 8. Return of Betagh to England, <a href= + "#page62">62</a></p><span class="pagenum"><a name="pageiv" + id="pageiv"></a>[pg iv]</span> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>XIII. Voyage round the World, by Commodore Roggewein, in + 1721-1723 <a href="#page65">65</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">Introduction <a href="#page65">65</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">SECT.</p> + + <p class="i2">I. Narrative of the Voyage from Holland to the + Coast of Brazil, <a href="#page71">71</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">II. Arrival in Brazil, with some Account of + that Country, <a href="#page75">75</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">III. Incidents during the Voyage from Brazil to + Juan Fernandez, with a</p> + + <p class="i6">Description of that Island, <a href= + "#page82">82</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">IV. Continuation of the Voyage from Juan + Fernandez till the Shipwreck of</p> + + <p class="i6">the African Galley, <a href= + "#page90">90</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">V. Continuation of the Voyage after the Loss of + the African, to the</p> + + <p class="i4">Arrival of Roggewein at New Britain, <a href= + "#page98">98</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">VI. Description of New Britain, and farther + Continuation of the Voyage</p> + + <p class="i6">till the Arrival of Roggewein at Java, <a href= + "#page107">107</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">VII. Occurrences from their Arrival at the + Island of Java, to the</p> + + <p class="i6">Confiscation of the Ships at Batavia, <a href= + "#page118">118</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">VIII. Description of Batavia and the Island of + Java, with some Account</p> + + <p class="i8">of the Government of the Dutch East-India + Company's Affairs, <a href="#page123">123</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">IX. Description of Ceylon, <a href= + "#page138">138</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">X. Some Account of the Governments of Amboina, + Banda, Macasser, the</p> + + <p class="i4">Moluccas, Mallacca, and the Cape of Good Hope, + <a href="#page143">143</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XI. Account of the Directories of Coromandel, + Surat, Bengal, and</p> + + <p class="i6">Persia, <a href="#page155">155</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XII. Account of the Commanderies of Malabar, + Gallo, Java, and</p> + + <p class="i6">Bantam, <a href="#page159">159</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XIII. Some Account of the Residences of + Cheribon, Siam, and Mockha, <a href="#page170">170</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XIV. Of the Trade of the Dutch in Borneo and + China, <a href="#page174">174</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XV. Of the Dutch Trade with Japan, <a href= + "#page177">177</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XVI. Account of the Colony of the Cape of Good + Hope, <a href="#page182">182</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XVII. Voyage from the Cape of Good Hope to + Holland, with some Account of</p> + + <p class="i8">St Helena, the Island of Ascension, and the + A&#231;ores, <a href="#page192">192</a></p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="pagev" id="pagev"></a>[pg v]</span> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p>XIV. Voyage round the World, by Captain George Anson, in + the Years</p> + + <p class="i4">1740-1744, <a href="#page201">201</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">Preface, <a href="#page201">201</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">Introduction, <a href="#page212">212</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">SECT.</p> + + <p class="i2">I. Of the Equipment of the Squadron, and the + Incidents relating to it,</p> + + <p class="i4">from its first Appointment to its setting Sail + from St Helens, <a href="#page222">222</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">II. The Passage from St Helens to the Island of + Madeira, with a short</p> + + <p class="i6">Account of that Island, and of our Stay there, + <a href="#page232">232</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">III. History of the Spanish Squadron commanded + by Don Joseph</p> + + <p class="i6">Pizarro, <a href="#page236">236</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">IV. Passage from Madeira to St Catharines, + <a href="#page247">247</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">V. Proceedings at St Catharines, and a + Description of that Place, with</p> + + <p class="i4">a short Account of Brazil, <a href= + "#page253">253</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">VI. The Run from St Catharines to Port St + Julian; with some Account of</p> + + <p class="i6">the Port, and of the Country to the South of + the Rio Plata, <a href="#page266">266</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">VII. Departure from the Bay of St Julian, and + Passage from thence to</p> + + <p class="i6">the Straits of Le Maire, <a href= + "#page276">276</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">VIII. Course from the Straits of Le Maire to + Cape Noir, <a href="#page281">281</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">IX. Observations and Directions for + facilitating the Passage of future</p> + + <p class="i6">Navigators round Cape Horn, <a href= + "#page288">288</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">X. Course from Cape Noir to the Island of Juan + Fernandez, <a href="#page299">299</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XI. Arrival of the Centurion at Juan Fernandez, + with a Description of</p> + + <p class="i6">that Island, <a href="#page307">307</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XII. Separate Arrivals of the Gloucester, and + Anna Pink, at Juan</p> + + <p class="i6">Fernandez, and Transactions at that Island + during the</p> + + <p class="i6">Interval, <a href="#page321">321</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XIII. Short Account of what befell the Anna + Pink before she rejoined;</p> + + <p class="i8">with an Account of the Loss of the Wager, and + the putting back of</p> + + <p class="i8">the Severn and Pearl, <a href= + "#page330">330</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XIV. Conclusion of Proceedings at Juan + Fernandez, from the Arrival of</p> + + <p class="i6">the Anna Pink, to our final Departure from + thence, <a href="#page345">345</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XV. Our Cruise, from leaving Juan Fernandez, to + the taking of</p> + + <p class="i6">Payta, <a href= + "#page356">356</a></p><span class="pagenum"><a name="pagevi" + id="pagevi"></a>[pg vi]</span> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XVI. Capture of Payta, and Proceedings at that + Place, <a href="#page373">373</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XVII. Occurrences from our Departure from Payta + to our Arrival</p> + + <p class="i8">at Quibo, <a href="#page386">386</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XVIII. Our Proceedings at Quibo, with an + Account of the Place, <a href="#page393">393</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XIX. From Quibo to the Coast of Mexico, + <a href="#page398">398</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XX. An Account of the Commerce carried on + between the City of Manilla on</p> + + <p class="i6">the Island of Luconia, and the Port of Acapulco + on the Coast of</p> + + <p class="i6">Mexico, <a href="#page405">405</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXI. Our Cruise off the Port of Acapulco for + the Manilla Ship, <a href="#page412">412</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXII. A short Account of Chequetan, and of the + adjacent Coast and</p> + + <p class="i8">Country, <a href="#page418">418</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXIII. Account of Proceedings at Chequetan and + on the adjacent Coast,</p> + + <p class="i8">till our setting sail for Asia, <a href= + "#page425">425</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXIV. The Run from the Coast of Mexico to the + Ladrones or Marian</p> + + <p class="i8">Islands, <a href="#page433">433</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXV. Our Arrival at Tinian, and an Account of + the Island, and of our</p> + + <p class="i6">Proceedings there, till the Centurion drove out + to Sea, <a href="#page442">442</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXVI. Transactions at Tinian after the + Departure of the Centurion, <a href="#page449">449</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXVII. Account of the Proceedings on board the + Centurion when driven out</p> + + <p class="i8">to Sea, <a href="#page457">457</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXVIII. Of our Employment at Tinian, till the + final Departure of the</p> + + <p class="i10">Centurion, and of the Voyage to Macao, + <a href="#page460">460</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXIX. Proceeding at Macao, <a href= + "#page471">471</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXX. From Macao to Cape Espiritu Santo: The + taking of the Manilla</p> + + <p class="i6">Galleon, and returning back again, <a href= + "#page489">489</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXXI. Transactions in the River of Canton, + <a href="#page501">501</a></p> + </div> + + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i2">XXXII. Proceedings at the City of Canton, and + the Return of the</p> + + <p class="i8">Centurion to England, <a href= + "#page514">514</a></p> + </div> + </div> +<i>[Transcriber's note: Some of the footnotes have been renumbered to maintain consistency throughout the book.]</i> + +<span class="pagenum"><a name="page1" id="page1"></a>[pg + 1]</span> + + <h2>A</h2> + + <h2>GENERAL HISTORY</h2> + + <h2>AND</h2> + + <h2>COLLECTION</h2> + + <h2>OF</h2> + + <h1>VOYAGES AND TRAVELS.</h1> + + <h2>PART II. BOOK IV.</h2> + + <h2>(CONTINUED.)</h2> + + <h2>CHAPTER XII</h2><i>Continued</i>. + + <h2>VOYAGE ROUND THE WORLD, BY CAPTAIN GEORGE SHELVOCKE,</h2> + + <h2>IN 1719-1722.</h2> + + <h3>SECTION V.</h3> + + <h4><i>Voyage from California to Canton in China</i>.</h4> + + <p>We fell in with the coast of California on the 11th of August, + and as soon as we were discovered by the natives, they made fires + on the shore as we sailed past. Towards evening, two of them came + off on a bark log, and were with difficulty induced to come on + board. Seeing our negroes standing promiscuously among the + whites, they angrily separated them from us, and would hardly + suffer them to look at us. They then made signs for us to sit + down, after which one of them put himself into strange postures, + talking to us with great vehemence, and seeming to be in a + transport of extacy, running from one to the other of us with + great vehemence, continually singing, speaking, and <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page2" id="page2"></a>[pg 2]</span> running, + till quite out of breath. Night coming on, they were for + departing, when we gave them a knife and an old coat each, with + which they were much pleased, and invited us by signs to go on + shore along with them. On the 13th, we were near Porto Leguro, + whence some of the natives came out to meet us on bark-logs, + while others made fires, as if to welcome us, on the tops of + hills and rocks near the sea, all seemingly rejoiced to see us; + those on shore running up and down to each other, and those on + the bark-logs paddling with all their strength to meet us.</p> + + <p>No sooner was our anchor down than they came off to us in + crowds, some off bark-logs, but most of them swimming, all the + while talking and calling to each other confusedly. In an instant + our ship was full of these swarthy gentry, all quite naked. Among + the rest was their king or chief; who was no way distinguishable + from the rest by any particular ornament, or even by any + deference paid to him by his people, his only ensign of + sovereignty being a round black stick of hard wood, about two + feet and a half long. This being observed by some of our people, + they brought him to me, and concluding that I was the chief of + the ship, he delivered his black sceptre to me in a handsome + manner, which I immediately returned. Notwithstanding his savage + appearance, this man had a good countenance, and there was + something dignified in his manner and behaviour. I soon found a + way to regale them, by setting before them abundance of our + choicest Peruvian conserves, with which they seemed much + gratified. They were accommodated with spoons, mostly silver, all + of which they very honestly returned.</p> + + <p>Having thus commenced friendship with the natives, I sent an + officer ashore to view the watering-place; and, to make him the + more welcome, I sent with him some coarse blue baize and some + sugar, to distribute among the women. On seeing our boat ready to + put off, the king was for accompanying her in his bark-log, but I + persuaded him to go in the boat, with which he seemed to be much + gratified. The remainder of the day was spent with our wild + visitors, who behaved in general very quietly. The officer + returned with an account of having been very civilly received, + and we prepared our casks for being sent ashore next morning. + Although, at first view, the country and inhabitants might + dissuade us from venturing freely among them, I had formerly read + such accounts of these people, that I was under no apprehension + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page3" id="page3"></a>[pg + 3]</span> of being molested in wooding and watering. The + Californians, however, appeared very terrible to our negroes, + insomuch, that one of them, who accompanied the officer on shore, + was afraid to stir from the boat, and held an axe constantly in + his hand, to defend himself in case of being attacked. On the + approach of night, all the Indians swam ashore, leaving us a + clear ship, after the fatigues of the day.</p> + + <p>Next morning, at day-break, our boat went ashore with the + people appointed to cut wood and fill our water-casks; and before + the sun was up, our ship was again filled with our former guests, + who seemed never satisfied with gazing at us and every thing + about the ship. That nothing might be wanting to keep up our + amity, I sent a large boiler on shore, with a good store of flour + and sugar, and a negro cook, who continually boiled + hasty-pudding, to serve the numerous guests on the beach. At + first the natives remained idle spectators of our labours; but at + length, taking compassion to see our few men labouring hard in + rolling great casks of water over the heavy sand in the sultry + heat of the day, they put forth their hands to help them, + encouraged by the particular readiness of their chief to serve + us; for, after seeing Mr Randal take up a log of wood to carry to + the boat, he took up another, and was immediately followed by two + or three hundred of the natives, so that they eased our men + mightily. They also rolled our casks down to the beach, but + always expected a white man to assist them, though quite + satisfied if he only touched the cask with his finger. This eased + our men of a great deal of fatigue, and shortened the time of our + stay at this place. We even found means to make those who used to + stay all day on board, of some use to us; for, when we came to + heel the ship, we crowded them, all over on one side, which, with + other shifts, gave her a deep heel, while we cleaned and paid her + bottom with pitch and tallow.</p> + + <p>The natives seemed every day more and more attached to us. + When our boat went ashore in the morning, there was constantly a + large retinue in waiting on the beach for our people, and + particularly for those whom they guessed to be above the common + rank, by their better dress. By this time, the news of our + arrival had spread through all the neighbouring parts, and some + natives of different tribes from that which dwelt about the bay, + came daily to visit us. Those who came from any distance in the + inland country could not <span class="pagenum"><a name="page4" + id="page4"></a>[pg 4]</span> swim, and were differently painted, + besides some other visible distinctions; but all united amicably + to assist us, and hardly any were idle except the women, who used + to sit in circles on the scorching sand, waiting for their shares + of what was going forwards, which they received without any + quarrelling among themselves about the inequality of + distribution. Having completed our business in five days, we + prepared for our departure on the 18th August, and employed that + morning in making a large distribution of sugar among the women, + and gave a great many knives, old axes, and old iron among the + men, being the most valuable presents we could make them; and, in + return, they gave us bows and arrows, deer-skin bags, live foxes + and squirrels, and the like. That we might impress them with awe + of our superior power, we saluted them with five guns on loosing + our top-sails, which greatly frightened them, and there seemed an + universal damp on their spirits on seeing our sails loosed, as + sorry for our approaching departure. The women were all in tears + when my people were coming off to the ship; and many of the men + remained till we were under sail, and then leapt into the sea + with sorrowful countenances.</p> + + <p>Having made some stay in California, some account of that + country and its inhabitants may be expected; though I believe a + complete discovery of its extent and boundaries would produce few + real advantages, except satisfying the curious. That part of + California which I saw, being the southern extremity of its + western coast, appears mountainous, barren, and sandy, much like + some parts of Peru: yet the soil about Porto Leguro, and most + likely in the other vallies, is a rich black mould, and when + turned up fresh to the sun, appears as if intermingled with + gold-dust. We endeavoured to wash and purify some of this, and + the more this was done, the more it appeared like gold. In order + to be farther satisfied, I brought away some of this earth, but + it was afterwards lost in our confusions in China. However this + may be, California probably abounds in metals of all sorts, + though the natives had no ornaments or utensils of any metal, + which is not to be wondered at, as they are perfectly ignorant of + all arts.</p> + + <p>The country has plenty of wood, but the trees are very small, + hardly better than bushes. But woods, which are an ornament to + most other countries, serve only to make this appear the more + desolate; for locusts swarm here in such <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page5" id="page5"></a>[pg 5]</span> numbers, + that they do not leave a green leaf on the trees. In the day, + these destructive insects are continually on the wing in clouds, + and are extremely troublesome by flying in, one's face. In shape + and size they greatly resemble our green grasshoppers, but are of + a yellow colour. Immediately after we cast anchor, they came off + in such numbers, that the sea around the ship was covered with + their dead bodies. By their incessant ravages, the whole country + round Porto Leguro was stripped totally naked, notwithstanding + the warmth of the climate and the richness of the soil. Believing + that the natives are only visited with this plague at this season + of the year, I gave them a large quantity of calavances, and + shewed them how they were sown. The harbour of Porto Leguro is + about two leagues to the N.E. of Cape St Lucas, being a good and + safe port, and very convenient for privateers when cruizing for + the Manilla ship. The watering-place is on the north side of the + bay or harbour, being a small river which there flows into the + sea, and may easily be known by the appearance of a great + quantity of green canes growing in it, which always retain their + verdure, not being touched by the locusts, as these canes + probably contain, something noxious to that voracious insect.</p> + + <p>The men of this country are tall, straight, and well set, + having large limbs, with coarse black hair, hardly reaching to + their shoulders. The women are of much smaller size, having much + longer hair than the men, with which some of them almost cover + their faces. Some of both sexes have good countenances; but all + are much darker-complexioned than any of the other Indians I saw + in the South Seas, being a very deep copper-colour. The men go + quite naked, wearing only a few trifles by way of ornament, such + as a band or wreath of red and white silk-grass round their + heads, adorned on each side with a tuft of hawk's feathers. + Others have pieces of mother-of-pearl and small shells fastened + among their hair, and tied round their necks; and some had large + necklaces of six or seven strings, composed of small red and + black berries. Some are scarified all over their bodies; others + use paint, some smearing their faces and breasts with black, + while others were painted black down to the navel, and from + thence to the feet with red.</p> + + <p>The women wear a thick fringe or petticoat of silk-grass, + reaching from their middle to their heels, and have a deer-skin + carelessly thrown over their shoulders. Some of the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page6" id="page6"></a>[pg 6]</span> better + sort have a cloak of the skin of some large bird, instead of the + bear-skins. Though the appearance of the Californians is + exceedingly savage, yet, from what I could observe of their + behaviour to each other, and their deportment towards us, they + seem to possess all imaginable humanity. All the time we were + there, and constantly among many hundreds of them, there was + nothing to be seen but the most agreeable harmony, and most + affectionate behaviour to each other. When any of us gave any + thing eatable to one person, he always divided it among all who + were around him, reserving the smallest share to himself. They + seldom walked singly, but mostly in pairs, hand in hand. They + seemed of meek and gentle dispositions, having no appearance of + cruelty in their countenances or behaviour, yet seemed haughty + towards their women. They lead a careless life, having every + thing in common, and seemed to desire nothing beyond the + necessaries of life. They never once offered to pilfer or steal + any of our tools or other utensils; and such was their honesty, + that my men having forgotten their axes one day on shore, while + cutting wood, which was noticed by one of the natives, he told it + to the king, who sent into the wood for the axes, and restored + them with much apparent satisfaction.</p> + + <p>Their language is guttural and harsh, and they talk a great + deal, but I could never understand a single word they spoke. + Their dwellings were very mean, being scarcely sufficient to + shelter them. Their diet is, I believe, mostly fish, which they + frequently eat raw, but they sometimes bake it in the sand. They + seldom want abundance of this food, as the men go out to sea on + their bark-logs, and are very expert harponiers. Their harpoons + are made of hard wood, and with these they strike the largest + albicores, and bring them ashore on their bark-logs, which they + row with double paddles. This seemed strange to us, who had often + experienced the strength of these fish; for frequently when we + had hold of one of these with very large hooks, made fast to + eight-strand twine, we had to bring the ship to, to bring them + in, and it was then as much as eight or ten men could do; so that + one would expect, when an Indian had struck one of these fish, + from his light float, it would easily run away with the man and + the bark-log; but they have some sleight in their way of + management, by which the strength <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page7" id="page7"></a>[pg 7]</span> and struggling of these fish + are all in vain. There are hardly any birds to be seen in this + country except a few pelicans.</p> + + <p>When the Californians want to drink, they wade into the river, + up to their middles, where they take up the water in their hands, + or stoop down and suck it with their mouths. Their time is + occupied between hunting, fishing, eating, and sleeping; and + having abundant exercise, and rather a spare diet, their lives + are ordinarily prolonged to considerable age, many of both sexes + appearing to be very old, by their faces being much wrinkled, and + their hair very grey. Their bows are about six feet long, with + strings made of deer's sinews, but their arrows seemed too long + for their bows; and considering that they have no adequate tools, + these articles must require much time in making. The shafts of + their arrows consist of a hollow cane, for two-thirds of their + length, the other third, or head, being of a heavy kind of wood, + edged with flint, or sometimes agate, and the edges notched like + a saw, with a very sharp point. They made no display of their + arms to us, and we seldom saw any in their hands, though they + have need of some arms to defend themselves from wild beasts, as + I saw some men who had been severely hurt in that way, + particularly one old man, who had his thigh almost torn in pieces + by a tiger or lion, and though, healed, it was frightfully + scarred. The women commonly go into the woods with bows and + arrows in search of game, while the men are chiefly occupied in + fishing. I can say nothing respecting their government, except + that it did not seem any way strict or rigorous. When the king + appeared in public, he was usually attended by many couples, or + men walking hand in hand, two and two together. On the first + morning of our arrival, he was seen in this manner coming out of + a wood, and noticing one of my officers cutting down a tree, whom + he judged to be better than ordinary, by having silver lace on + his waistcoat, be shewed both his authority and civility at the + same time, by ordering one of his attendants to take the axe and + work in his stead.</p> + + <p>One day while we were there, a prodigious flat fish was seen + basking in the sun on the surface of the water near the shore, on + which twelve Indians swam off and surrounded him. Finding himself + disturbed, the fish dived, and they after him, but he escaped + from them at this time. He appeared again in about an hour, when + sixteen or seventeen Indians swam off and encompassed him; and, + by continually <span class="pagenum"><a name="page8" id= + "page8"></a>[pg 8]</span> tormenting him, drove, him insensibly + ashore. On grounding, the force with which he struck the ground + with his fins is not to be expressed, neither can I describe the + agility with which the Indians strove to dispatch him, lest the + surf should set him again afloat, which they at length + accomplished with the help of a dagger lent them by Mr Randal. + They then cut him into pieces, which were distributed among all + who stood by. This fish, though of the flat kind, was very thick, + and had a large hideous mouth, being fourteen or fifteen feet + broad, but not quite so much in length.</p> + + <p>On the 18th August, 1721, we set sail from Porto Leguro, bound + for Canton in China, as a likely place for meeting with some + English ships, in which we might procure a passage home. + Considering the length of the voyage before us, our ship was in a + very bad condition, as her sails and rigging were so old and + rotten, that if any accident had befallen our masts or sails, we + had been reduced to extreme distress and danger, having no change + either of sails or ropes; but ours being a case of necessity, we + had to run all hazards, and to endeavour, by the utmost + attention, to guard against deficiencies which could not be + supplied. Having already overcome many difficulties, seemingly + insurmountable in prospect, we were full of hope to get over + these also, and the pleasing expectation of revisiting our native + shores gave us spirits to encounter this tedious navigation in so + weak and comfortless a condition. We were now so weakly manned, + that we could scarcely have been able to navigate our vessel + without the assistance of the negroes, not amounting now to + thirty whites, so much had our crew been reduced by untoward + accidents.</p> + + <p>We discovered an island on the 21st, 110 leagues W.S.W. from + Cape St Lucas,<a id="footnotetag1" name= + "footnotetag1"></a><a href="#footnote1"><sup>1</sup></a> but as + the wind blew fresh, I could not get nearer than two leagues, and + did not think proper to lose time in laying-to in the night. It + seemed seven or eight leagues in circumference, having a large + bay on its S.W. side, in the middle of which was a high rock. My + people named this Shelvocke's island. From hence we shelved, down + to the latitude of 13° N. but were stopped two or three + days by westerly winds, which we did not expect in this sea, + especially as being now five or six hundred leagues from the + land. The trade-wind again returning, we kept <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page9" id="page9"></a>[pg 9]</span> in the + parallel of 13° N. except when we judged that we were + near the shoals of St Bartholomew, and then haled a degree more + to the north, and so continued for sixty or seventy leagues. A + fortnight after leaving California, my people, who had hitherto + enjoyed uninterrupted health, began to be afflicted with + sickness, particularly affecting their stomachs, owing doubtless + to the great quantities of sweetmeats they were continually + devouring, and also to oar common food, chiefly composed of + puddings made of coarse flour and sweetmeats, mixed up with + sea-water, together with jerked beef, most of which was destroyed + by ants, cockroaches, and other vermin. We could not afford to + boil the kettle once in the whole passage with fresh water, so + that the crew became reduced to a very melancholy state by scurvy + and other distempers. The sickness increased upon us every day, + so that we once buried two in one day, the armourer and + carpenter's, mate, besides whom the carpenter, gunner, and + several others died, together with some of our best negroes.</p> + + <p>The greatest part of my remaining people were disabled, and + our ship very leaky; and to add to our misfortunes, one of our + pumps split and became useless. Under these unhappy + circumstances, we pushed forwards with favourable gales till + within 80 leagues of Guam, one of the Ladrones, when we + encountered dismal weather and tempestuous winds, veering round + the compass. This was the more frightful, as we were unable to + help ourselves, not above six or seven, being able for duty, + though necessity obliged even those who were extremely low and + weak to lend what help they could. In the boisterous sea raised + by these gales, our ship so laboured that the knee of her head, + and her whole beak-head, became loose, so that the boltsprit + fetched away and played with every motion of the ship, and so + continued all the rest of the time we were at sea. For some time + our main-mast stood without larboard shrouds, till we could unlay + our best cable to make more, having knotted and spliced the old + shrouds till our labour was in vain. In the midst of these + difficulties, I was taken very ill, and had little expectations + of living much longer, till the gout gave me some painful hopes + of recovery.</p> + + <p>In the beginning of October, we made the island of Guam, 100 + leagues short of the account given by Rogers, who makes + 105° of longitude between Cape St Lucas and Guam, while + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page10" id="page10"></a>[pg + 10]</span> we made not quite 100°.<a id="footnotetag2" + name="footnotetag2"></a><a href="#footnote2"><sup>2</sup></a> We + passed through between Guam and Serpana, and saw several flying + proas, but none came near us that day. We had heavy and squally + weather, which obliged me to keep the deck in the rain, by which + I caught a cold, which threw me into a worse condition than + before, in which I continued all the time I was in China. Guam + seemed very green and of moderate height, and the sight of land + was so pleasant after our long run, that we would gladly have + stopped to procure some refreshments, but durst not venture in, + though on the point of perishing, lest the inhabitants should + take advantage of our weakness. From Guam I shaped our course for + the island of Formosa, to which we had a long and melancholy + voyage, as our sickness daily increased; so that, on the 3d + November, when we got sight of that island, both ship and company + were almost entirely worn out. Next day we doubled the south Cape + of Formosa, passing within a league of the rocks of + <i>Vele-Rete</i>, where we were sensible of a very strong + current. As we passed in sight, the inhabitants of Formosa made + continual fires on the coast, as inviting us to land; but we were + so weak that we did not deem it prudent to venture into any of + their harbours.</p> + + <p>We directed our course from Formosa for the neighbouring coast + of China, and found ourselves on the 6th at the mouth of the + river <i>Loma</i>,<a id="footnotetag3" name= + "footnotetag3"></a><a href="#footnote3"><sup>3</sup></a> in + twelve fathoms water, but the weather was so hazy that we could + not ascertain where we were. Seeing abundance of fishing boats, + we tried every method we could think of to induce some of the + fishermen to come on board to pilot us to Macao, but found this + impracticable, as we could not understand each other. We were + therefore obliged to keep the land close on board, and to anchor + every evening. This was a prodigious fatigue to our men, who were + so universally ill that we could hardly find any one able to + steer the ship. We were bewildered in a mist during four days, + and much surprised by seeing a great many islands, omitted in our + charts, on some of which we saw large fortifications. This made + us believe that the current had carried us beyond our port, and + occasioned much dejection of spirits; for, though the sea was + covered <span class="pagenum"><a name="page11" id= + "page11"></a>[pg 11]</span> with fishing boats, we could get no + one to set us right, or to give us any directions we could + understand.</p> + + <p>Towards evening of the 10th, as we were passing through a very + narrow channel between two islands, a fisherman who was near, and + observed by our manner of working that we were afraid to venture + through, waved with his cap for us to bring to till he came to + us. When he came, he seemed to understand that we enquired for + Macao, and made signs that he would carry us there, if we gave + him as many pieces of silver as he counted little fish from his + basket, which amounted to forty. We accordingly counted out forty + dollars into a hat, and gave them to him, on which he came into + our ship, and took her in charge, carrying us through the narrow + channel, and brought us to anchor at sun-set. We weighed next + morning, and kept the coast of China close on board. By noon we + were abreast of Pulo Lantoon, whence we could see two English + ships under sail, passing the island of Macao on their way from + the river of Canton. They kept on their way, taking no notice of + us, which struck a damp into our spirits, fearing we should miss + a passage for England this season. In the afternoon of next day, + we anchored in the road of Macao, near the entrance of Canton + river, which we never should have found out by any of our + charts.</p> + + <p>I was much amazed at the incorrectness with which these coasts + are laid down, to the eastwards of Pulo Lantoon; as there runs a + cluster of islands for upwards of twenty leagues in that + direction, which are not in the least noticed by any of our + hydrographers, nor have I ever met with any navigator who knew + any thing about them. The coast of China, within these islands, + is rocky, mountainous, and barren; but, owing to my heavy + sickness, I was unable to make any useful observations.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote1" name="footnote1"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag1">(return)</a> + + <p>Probably La Nablada, in lat. 18° 55' N. long. + 180° 48' E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote2" name="footnote2"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag2">(return)</a> + + <p>Rogers is however nearer the truth, the difference of + longitude being 106° 42' between these two + places.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote3" name="footnote3"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag3">(return)</a> + + <p>This name is so corrupted as to be unintelligible.E</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION VI.</h3> + + <h4><i>Residence in China, and Voyage thence to England.</i></h4> + + <p>As Macao is the place where ships always stop for a pilot to + carry them up the river of Canton, I sent an officer with my + compliments to the governor, and with orders to bring off a + pilot; but hearing nothing of him till next morning, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page12" id="page12"></a>[pg 12]</span> I was + under very great apprehensions. Next morning, a great number of + the people belonging to the Success came off to our ship, and + acquainted me that Clipperton had left me designedly. About noon + this day, the 12th November, 1721, a pilot came off to us, when + we immediately weighed anchor, and immediately entered Canton + river, being assured that there still were some European ships at + Wampoo, about ten miles short of Canton. We were four days in + plying up to the road between the tower bars, where we anchored; + and, finding the Bonetta and Hastings, two English ships, I sent + an officer to request their instructions how to conduct ourselves + in this port, and to acquaint us with its customs. They answered, + that the Cadogan and Francis, two English European ships, were + lying at Wampoo, and advised me to send up to the English factors + at Canton, to acquaint them with our arrival, and the reasons + which obliged us to come here. This I accordingly did next day, + borrowing one of their flags to hoist as our boat, without which + we had met with much trouble from the <i>Hoppo-men</i>, or + custom-house officers. I sent letters to the captains of the + English ships, signifying the necessity which forced me to this + country, and requesting their succour and protection; assuring + them that I acted under his majesty's commission, which also I + sent, for their perusal. Next morning, being the 17th, I weighed + and worked up to Wampoo, where, besides the two English ships, I + found three belonging to France, one Ostender, and a small ship + from Manilla.</p> + + <p>I was here in hopes of all my troubles being at an end, and + that I should have full leisure for rest and refreshment after my + many and great fatigues; but I soon found these expectations ill + grounded, and after all my perils, that I was fallen into others + least to be endured, as proceeding from false brethren. A most + unlucky accident happened the very evening that we anchored at + Wampoo, which gave birth to all the troubles I encountered in + India; though, in respect to me, both unforeseen and unavoidable, + and purely the effects of that eagerness in the ship's company to + get out of this part of the world at any rate. Had there been any + government among the English settled here, to have supported my + authority, this unlucky business had never happened; and, as it + was, could only be imputed to nothing but the want of such an + establishment. One of my men, named David Griffith, being in a + hurry to remove his effects <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page13" id="page13"></a>[pg 13]</span> into the Bonetta's boat, + in which he was chased by a <i>Hoppo</i> or custom-house boat; + and being a little in liquor, and fearing to lose his silver, + fired a musket and killed the Hoppo-man or custom-house officer. + Early next morning, the dead body was laid at the door of the + English factory, where Chinese officers lay in wait to seize the + first Englishman that should come out. A supercargo belonging to + the Bonetta happened to be the first; he was immediately seized + and carried off, and afterwards led in chains about the suburbs + of Canton. All that could be said or done by the most + considerable Chinese merchants who were in correspondence with + the English, was of no avail. In the mean time, my man, who had + slain the Chinese officer, and another, were put in irons aboard + the Francis, which was <i>chopped</i>, or seized, till the guilty + man was delivered up. He was then carried to Canton in chains, + and the supercargo was released.</p> + + <p>I had not been here many days, when I was deserted by all my + officers and men, who were continually employed in removing their + effects from my ship to some of the European ships, without my + knowledge, I being then confined to bed. My officers were using + all their efforts to engage the gentlemen belonging to the + company in their interest, and had only left my son and a few + negroes to look after the ship, and to defend my effects, which + were on the brink of falling into the bottomless pit of Chinese + avarice; besides, they and the ship's company had so many ways of + disposing of every thing they could lay their hands on, that I + found it impossible to oblige them to do what I thought justice + to our owners: They all soon recovered from their illness, and + they all became their own masters. There were no magistrates for + me to appeal to on shore, who would aid me so far as to compel + them to remain in my ship; and the officers commanding the + English ships could not afford me the help they might have been + inclined to give, lest the supercargoes might represent their + conduct to the East India Company. And these last, who + superintend the English trade at this port, seemed even inclined + to have refused me a passage in one of their ships, and even + treated me as one enemy would treat another in a neutral port; + looking on me in that light for presuming to come within the + limits of the Company, without considering the necessity by which + I had been compelled to take that step.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page14" id="page14"></a>[pg 14]</span> + + <p>When Captains Hill and Newsham came to visit me, they were + astonished at the ruinous condition of my ship, and could + scarcely think it possible for her to have made so long a + passage. The rottenness of her cordage, and the raggedness of her + sails, filled them with surprise and pity for my condition. When + I had given them a short history of the voyage, and requested + they would receive my officers and company, with their effects, + they at once said, That they saw plainly my ship was in no + condition to be carried any farther, and they were willing to + receive us all as soon as we pleased, on payment of our passage. + But the supercargoes were displeased that I had not applied to + them, as they are the chief men here, though only passengers when + aboard; so that I was quite neglected, and the English captains + were ordered to fall down with their ships five or six miles + below where I lay. I was thus left destitute in the company of + five foreign ships; yet their officers, seeing me deserted by my + countrymen, kindly offered me their services, and assisted me as + much as they could, and without them I know not what might have + been my fate, as I was under perpetual apprehensions that the + Chinese would have seized my ship.</p> + + <p>After the murder of the custom-house officer seemed to have + been quite forgotten, a magistrate, called a <i>Little + Mandarin</i>, committed the following outrageous action:At the + beginning of the troubles, occasioned by that murder, he had + received orders to apprehend all the English he could find, which + he neglected till all was over. He then one day, while passing + the European factories, ordered his attendants to seize on all + the English he could see in the adjoining shops, and took hold of + nine or ten, French as well as English, whom he carried, with + halters about their necks, to the palace of the <i>Chantock</i>, + or viceroy. Application was then made to the <i>Hoppo</i>, or + chief customer, who represented matters to the viceroy in favour + of the injured Europeans; on which the mandarin was sent for, and + being unable to vindicate himself was degraded from his post, + subjected to the bamboo, a severe punishment, and rendered + incapable of acting again as a magistrate; the Europeans being + immediately liberated. It appears to me, however, that the + English are tyrannized over by the Chinese, and exposed to the + caprices of every magistrate, wherefore I was the more urgent to + be on board one of the European ships. I had now discovered my + error in addressing the captains, and now sent a letter to the + supercargoes, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page15" id= + "page15"></a>[pg 15]</span> demanding a passage for myself, my + officers, and ship's company, which I was sensible they could not + refuse: but their compliance was clogged with a charge to the + captains not to receive any thing belonging to us, unless + consigned to the company in England.</p> + + <p>The hoppo now made a demand upon me for anchorage in the + river, amounting to no less than 6000 <i>tahel</i>, and, to + quicken the payment, annexed a penalty to this extortion of 500 + <i>tahel</i> for every day the payment was delayed. There were no + means to avoid this gross imposition; and though a day + necessarily elapsed before I could send up the money, I had to + add the penalty of that day, so that he received 6500 + <i>tahel</i>, or L. 2166:13:4 sterling;<a id="footnotetag4" name= + "footnotetag4"></a><a href="#footnote4"><sup>1</sup></a> being + about six times as much as was paid for the Cadogan, the largest + English ship there at the time, and which measured a third larger + than mine. I soon after sold my ship for 2000 tahel, or L. 666, + 13<i>s.</i> 4<i>d.</i> sterling, which money was consigned to the + India Company, along with all the rest of my effects, and I + prevailed on most of my officers and men to take their passage in + the English homeward-bound ships.</p> + + <p>Considering my short stay in China, and my bad health, I + cannot be expected to give any tolerable account of this place + from my own observation, and to copy others would be inconsistent + with the purpose of this narrative, so that I shall only observe, + that the English, at this time, had no settled factory at Canton, + being only permitted to hire large houses, called <i>hongs</i>, + with convenient warehouses adjoining, for receiving their goods + previous to their shipment. For these they pay rent to the + proprietors, and either hire the same or others, as they think + proper, next time they have occasion for the accommodation.</p> + + <p>Notwithstanding my utmost diligence, the business I was + engaged in kept me in a continual hurry till the ships were ready + to depart, which was in December, 1721: At which time, heartily + tired of the country, and the ill usage I had met with, I sailed + in the Cadogan, Captain John Hall, in company with the Francis, + Captain Newsham; and as the latter ship sailed much better than + the Cadogan, she left us immediately after getting out to sea. + Finding his ship very tender, or crank, Captain Hill put in at + Batavia, to get her into better trim. We continued here about ten + days; but <span class="pagenum"><a name="page16" id= + "page16"></a>[pg 16]</span> I can say little about that place, + being all the time unable to stand on my legs, and was only twice + out in a coach to take the air, two or three miles out of the + city, in which little excursion I saw a great variety of + beautiful prospects of fine country seats and gardens, and, + indeed, every thing around shewed the greatest industry. The + buildings in the city are generally very handsome, and laid out + in very regular streets, having canals running through most of + them, with trees planted on each side, so that Batavia may justly + be called a fine city: But the sight is the only sense that is + gratified here, for the canals smell very offensively when the + tide is low, and breed vast swarms of muskitoes, which are more + troublesome here than in any place I was ever in.</p> + + <p>A great part of the inhabitants of Batavia are Chinese, who + are remarkable for wearing there their ancient dress, having + their hair rolled up in such a manner that there is little + difference in that respect between the men and women. Ever since + the revolution in China, which brought that country under the + Tartar yoke, the Tartarian dress has been imposed upon the whole + kingdom, which was not effected without great bloodshed: For many + of the Chinese were so superstitiously attached to their ancient + modes, that they unaccountably chose rather to lose their lives + than their hair; as the Tartar fashion is to shave the head, + except a long lock on the crown, which they plait in the same + manner we do. The Dutch, taking advantage of this superstitious + attachment of the Chinese to their hair, exact from all the men + who live under their protection, a poll-tax of a dollar a month + for the liberty of wearing their hair, which produces a very + considerable revenue.</p> + + <p>Hearing at Batavia that there were several pirates in these + seas, Captain Hill joined the Dutch homeward-bound fleet in + Bantam bay, and the Dutch commodore promised to assist Captain + Hill in wooding and watering at <i>Mew</i> island, the water at + Batavia being very bad. We fell in with the Francis in the + Straits of Sunda, though we imagined that ship had been far + a-head. The Dutch made this a pretence for leaving us before we + got to Mew island, and Captain Newsham also deserted us, so that + we were left alone. We continued six or seven days at Mew island, + during which time several boats came to us from Prince's island, + and brought us turtle, cocoa-nuts, pine-apples, and other fruits. + From Mew island we had a very pleasant voyage to and <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page17" id="page17"></a>[pg 17]</span> about + the Cape of Good Hope. By the good management of Captain Hill, + although the Francis and the Dutch ships had the start of us + seven days, by deserting us in the Straits of Sunda, we yet got + to the cape seven days before the Francis, though she sailed + considerably better than we. By comparing notes with the officers + of the Francis, we found that she had suffered a good deal of bad + weather off the south of Africa, while we, by keeping about ten + leagues nearer shore, continually enjoyed pleasant weather and a + fair wind, till we anchored in Table Bay, which we did towards + the end of March, 1722.</p> + + <p>We here found Governor Boon and others, bound for England in + the London Indiaman. We had a pleasant voyage from the cape to St + Helena, and thence to England, arriving off the Land's-end + towards the close of July. On coming into the British channel we + had brisk gales from the west, with thick foggy weather. In the + evening of the 30th July we anchored under Dungeness, and that + same night some of the supercargoes and passengers, among whom I + was one, hired a small vessel to carry us to Dover, where we + arrived the next morning early. The same day we proceeded for + London, and arrived there on the 1st August, 1722. Thus ended a + long, fatiguing, and unfortunate voyage, of <i>three years, seven + months, and eleven days</i>, in which I had sailed considerably + more than round the circumference of the globe, and had undergone + a great variety of troubles and hardships by sea and land.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote4" name="footnote4"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag4">(return)</a> + + <p>At these proportions, the Chinese <i>tahel</i> is exactly + 6<i>s.</i> 8<i>d.</i> sterling.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION VII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Supplement to the foregoing Voyage.</i></h4> + + <p>In the Collection of Harris, besides interweaving several + controversial matters respecting this voyage, from an account of + it by one Betagh, who was captain of marines in the Speedwell, a + long series of remarks on the conduct of Shelvocke by that + person, are appended. Neither of these appear to possess + sufficient interest, at this distance of time, almost a century, + to justify their insertion in our collection, where they would + have very uselessly occupied a considerable space. Captain Betagh + appears to have been actuated by violent animosity against + Captain Shelvocke, whose actions he traduced and misrepresented + with the utmost malignity, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page18" + id="page18"></a>[pg 18]</span> the innocent cause of his having + suffered captivity among the Spaniards in South America, of which + some account will be found in the subsequent section. Of all + these charges, we have only deemed it expedient to insert the + following statement of the circumstances connected with the + capture of the Conception, as related by Betagh, which Harris, I. + 230, characterizes as "a very extraordinary piece of recent + history, and seemingly supported by evidence;" but at this + distance of time we have no means of ascertaining to which side + the truth belongs.<i>Ed.</i></p> + + <p>"This being the great crisis of the voyage, I shall be more + particular in relating the affair of this last prize. This ship + was named the Conception, Don <i>Stephen de Recova</i> + commander,<a id="footnotetag5" name="footnotetag5"></a><a href= + "#footnote5"><sup>1</sup></a> bound from Calao to Panama, having + on board several persons of distinction, particularly the Conde + de la Rosa, who had been some time governor of Pisco, and was now + going to Spain, laden with flour, sugar, marmalade, <i>et + cetera</i>. Now, be it known to all men, that the <i>et + cetera</i> was 108,630 pieces of eight, or Spanish dollars: And + Shelvocke little thought, when he took this prize, or compiled + his book, that I, of all men, should have the exact state of this + affair. He often said that he would give the gentlemen owners a + fair account; and I have often promised to prove that he did say + so. We have now both made our words good, and I have not only an + authentic account, but I will also declare how I got it.</p> + + <p>"When I was carried prisoner to Lima, I had sufficient leisure + to reflect on my misfortunes, and how likely I was to be ruined + and the owners cheated; wherefore, to prepare them to defend + their just rights, I wrote to one of them the substance of what + had occurred to me; how Shelvocke had mismanaged; how arbitrarily + he had acted in defiance of their articles, and what were his + private intentions in the latter part of the voyage. As soon as I + came to London, which was in October, 1721, I confirmed the + report of my letter with several new circumstances; for all which + performance of my duty, it is, as I suppose, that my name has met + with so much reproach in Captain Shelvocke's book. But, besides + my advices, the gentlemen owners had many proofs from prisoners + and other people. Eleven months after me, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page19" id="page19"></a>[pg 19]</span> being + August, 1722, Shelvocke himself arrived, and immediately waited + on the gentlemen in the lump for all his transactions; not owning + any thing of this prize, which he had unlawfully shared, with + every thing else, among twenty-three of his men. Instead of + compromising the matter, the gentlemen read him a letter, secured + him, and had him the same day confined in <i>Wood-street + Compter</i>. A few days after, his pupil, Stewart, arrived at + Dover, and was seized by the honest warden of the castle, + according to directions, securing also his book of accounts, and + brought it along with the prisoner to the owners, from whom I had + the book, and copied from it the following statement of the + dividends:</p> + + <table summary="" align="center"> + <tr> + <td align="center">Names.</td> + + <td align="center">Quality</td> + + <td align="center">Number</td> + + <td align="center">Dollars</td> + + <td align="center">Eng.</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="center"></td> + + <td align="center"></td> + + <td align="center">of</td> + + <td align="center"></td> + + <td align="center">Money.</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="center"></td> + + <td align="center"></td> + + <td align="center">Shares</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">George Shelvocke</td> + + <td align="left">Captain</td> + + <td align="center">6</td> + + <td align="right">14,325</td> + + <td align="right">2642 10 0</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Samuel Rundal</td> + + <td align="left">Lieutenant</td> + + <td align="center">2-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">John Rainer</td> + + <td align="left">Cap. Marines</td> + + <td align="center">2-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Blowfield Coldsea</td> + + <td align="left">Master</td> + + <td align="center">2-1/2</td> + + <td align="right">4718</td> + + <td align="right">1100 17 4</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Nicholas Adams</td> + + <td align="left">Surgeon</td> + + <td align="center">2-1/2</td> + + <td></td> + + <td align="right">each</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Mathew Stewart</td> + + <td align="left">First mate</td> + + <td align="center">2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Monsieur La Porte</td> + + <td align="left">Second mate</td> + + <td align="center">2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">George Henshall</td> + + <td align="left">Boatswain</td> + + <td align="center">2</td> + + <td align="right">3775</td> + + <td align="right">880 16 8</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Robert Davenport</td> + + <td align="left">Carpenter</td> + + <td align="center">2</td> + + <td></td> + + <td align="right">each</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">William Clark</td> + + <td align="left">Gunner</td> + + <td align="center">2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">James Daniel</td> + + <td align="left">Midshipman</td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">David Griffith</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Christopher Hawkins</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Oliver Lefevre</td> + + <td align="left">Sail-maker</td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">John Doydge</td> + + <td align="left">Surgeon's mate</td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">William Morgan</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + + <td align="right">2850</td> + + <td align="right">660 0 0</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">John Popplestone</td> + + <td align="left">Armourer</td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + + <td></td> + + <td align="right">each</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">James Moyett</td> + + <td align="left">Cooper</td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">John Pearson</td> + + <td align="left">Carpenter's mate</td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Geo. Shelvocke, jun.</td> + + <td align="left"></td> + + <td align="center">1-1/2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">William Clement</td> + + <td align="left">Able seaman</td> + + <td align="center">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">John Norris</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">James Moulville</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">George Gill</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Peter Fero</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">1</td> + + <td align="right">1887-1/4</td> + + <td align="right">440 7 2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">John Smith</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">1</td> + + <td></td> + + <td align="right">each</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Edward Alcocke</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">John Theobald</td> + + <td align="left">Barber</td> + + <td align="center">1</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">William Burrows</td> + + <td align="left">Old seaman</td> + + <td align="center">3/4</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Daniel M'Donald</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">3/4</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Richard Croft</td> + + <td align="left">Ditto</td> + + <td align="center">3/4</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">John Robbins</td> + + <td align="left">Grommet, or boy</td> + + <td align="center">1/2</td> + + <td align="right">943-1/4</td> + + <td align="right">220 4 2</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">Benedict Harry</td> + + <td align="left">Cook</td> + + <td align="center">1/2</td> + + <td></td> + + <td align="right">each</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left"></td> + + <td align="left"></td> + + <td align="center"></td> + + <td align="right"></td> + + <td align="right"></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td align="left">33 persons in all</td> + + <td align="left"></td> + + <td align="center">52-1/4</td> + + <td align="right">98,604-2/3</td> + + <td align="right">23,007 15 6</td> + </tr> + </table><span class="pagenum"><a name="page20" id= + "page20"></a>[pg 20]</span> + + <p>"The reader will perceive that the sum total of this dividend + falls short of what I said the capture amounted to; but, in order + to set that matter right, there is a secret article of 627 + quadruples of gold, which Shelvocke graciously shared among + private friends, each quadruple, or double doubloon; being worth + sixteen dollars each, or L. 3:14:8 sterling, at 4<i>s.</i> + 8<i>d.</i> the dollar. The value of these is 10,032 dollars, + which, added to the sum of the foregoing account, make + 108,636-3/4 dollars, or L. 25,348:11:6 sterling in all. Which + large sum of money Shelvocke had the prodigious modesty to + conceal, under the mysterious <i>et cetera</i>. Stewart's book + mentions the double doubloons, but says not a word as to how they + were distributed, so that we may imagine they were sunk between + the two Shelvockes and Stewart: For, as Stewart was agent, + cashier, and paymaster, it was an easy matter to hide a bag of + gold from the public, and to divide it afterwards in a committee + of two or three."<i>Betagh.</i></p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote5" name="footnote5"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag5">(return)</a> + + <p>Shelvocke who certainly ought to have known best, names the + ship the Conception de Recova, and her commander Don Joseph + Desorio.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION VIII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Appendix to Shelvocke's Voyage round the World. Containing + Observations on the Country and Inhabitants of Peru, by Captain + Betagh.</i><a id="footnotetag6" name="footnotetag6"></a><a href= + "#footnote6"><sup>1</sup></a></h4> + + <h4>INTRODUCTION.</h4> + + <p>This article may rather seem misplaced, as here inserted among + the circumnavigations; but, both as having arisen out of the + voyage of Shelvocke, and because arranged in this manner by + Harris, it has been deemed proper and necessary to preserve it in + this place, where it may be in a great measure considered as a + supplement to the preceding voyage. In the opinion of Harris, + "The time that Betagh lived among the Spaniards in Peru, and the + manner in which he was treated by them, gave him an opportunity + of acquainting himself with their manners and customs, and with + the nature and maxims of their government, such as no Englishman + had possessed; and the lively manner in which he tells his story, + gives it much beauty and spirit." We have already seen, in the + narrative of Shelvocke, the <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page21" id="page21"></a>[pg 21]</span> occasion of Betagh + separating from his commander, along with Hately and a complement + of men in the Mercury, on which occasion Shelvocke alleged that + they purposely separated from him, in consequence of taking a + prize containing 150,000 dollars. In the following narrative, + Betagh tells his own story very differently, and we do not + presume to determine between them. The separation of Shelvocke + originally from his own superior officer, Clipperton, is not + without suspicion; and Hately and Betagh may have learnt from + their commander, to endeavour to promote their own individual + interests, at the expense of their duty, already weakened by bad + example.<i>Ed.</i></p> + + <h4>§ 1. <i>Particulars of the Capture of the Mercury by the + Spaniards</i>.</h4> + + <p>It was in the beginning of the year 1720, about the middle of + March, when Captain Shelvocke sent Hately and the rest of us to + seek our fortunes in the lighter called the Mercury. He then went + in the Speedwell to plunder the village of Payta, where we might + easily have joined him, had he been pleased to have imparted his + design to us. We had not cruized long off Cape Blanco, when we + took a small bark, having a good quantity of flour and chocolate. + There were also on board an elderly lady, and a thin old friar, + whom we detained two or three days; and, after taking out what + could be of use to us, we discharged the bark and them. Soon + after this we took the Pink, which Shelvocke calls the rich + prize. Her people had no suspicion of our being an enemy, and + held on their way till they saw the Mercury standing towards + them, and then began to suspect us; on which, about noon, they + clapt their helm hard a-weather, and crowded all sail before the + wind; and, being in ballast, this was her best sailing, yet + proved also the greatest advantage they could have given us; for, + had she held her wind, our flat-bottomed vessel could never have + got up with theirs. About ten o'clock at night, with the + assistance of hard rowing, we got up within shot of the chase, + and made her bring to, when pretty near the shore. On boarding + the prize, in which were about seventy persons, thirty of whom + were negroes, Hately left me and Pressick in the Mercury, with + other four, where we continued two or three days, till + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page22" id="page22"></a>[pg + 22]</span> a heavy rain spoiled all our bread and other dry + provisions. We then went on board the prize, sending three men to + take charge of the Mercury.</p> + + <p>After this, we stood off and on in the height of Cape Blanco + for seven or eight days, expecting to meet with the Speedwell; + and at that place we sent ashore the Spanish Captain, a padre or + priest, and some gentlemen passengers. At last we espied a sail + plying to windward; and, having no doubt that she was either the + Speedwell or the Success, we stood towards her, while she also + edged down towards us. About ten in the morning we were near + enough to make her out to be a ship of war, but neither of these + we wished for. The master of our prize had before informed us, + that he had fallen in with the <i>Brilliante</i>, which was + cruizing for our privateers, and we had till now entirely + disregarded his information. Upon this, Hately advised with me + what we ought to do in this emergency, when we agreed to + endeavour to take advantage of the information given us by the + Spaniards; considering, as the Brilliante had spoken so very + lately with the Pink, that there might not be many questions + asked now. Accordingly, Hately and I dressed ourselves like + Spaniards, and hoisted Spanish colours, confined all our + prisoners in the great cabin, and allowed none but Indians and + negroes to appear on the deck, that the Pink might have the same + appearance as before. We had probably succeeded in this + contrivance, but for the obstinacy of John Sprake, one of our + men, whom we could not persuade to keep off the deck. As the + Brilliante came up, she fired a gun to leeward, on which we + lowered our topsail, going under easy sail till we got alongside. + The first question asked was, If we had seen the English + privateer? We answered, No. The next question was, How we had got + no farther on our way to Lima? To which we answered, By reason of + the currents. To two or three other questions, we answered + satisfactorily in Spanish, and they were getting their tacks + aboard in order to leave us, when Sprake and two or three more of + our men appeared on the main deck. A Frenchman aboard the + Brilliante, who was on the mast-head, seeing their long trowsers, + called out, <i>Par Dieu, Monsieur, ils sont Anglois</i>, By + Heaven, Sir, they are English: Upon which they immediately fired + a broad-side into us with round and partridge shot, by one of + which Hately was slightly wounded in the leg.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page23" id="page23"></a>[pg 23]</span> + + <p>As soon as we struck our flag, the enemy sent for all the + English on board their ships, and ordered two of their own + officers into our prize. The Brilliante then bore down on the + Mercury, into which she fired at least twenty-five shot, which + bored her sides through and through: Yet such was the + construction of that extraordinary vessel, that, though quite + full of water, there was not weight enough to sink her, and our + three men who were in her remained unhurt. Don Pedro Midrando, + the Spanish commander, ordered these three men into his own ship, + in which he intended to sail for Payta. As for me, he gave + directions that I should be sent forty miles up the country, to a + place called <i>Piura</i>, and was so kind as to leave Mr + Pressick the surgeon, and my serjeant Cobbs, to bear me company. + Mr Hately and the rest of our men were ordered to Lima by land, a + journey of four hundred miles.<a id="footnotetag7" name= + "footnotetag7"></a><a href="#footnote7"><sup>2</sup></a> Hately + had the misfortune to be doubly under the displeasure of the + Spaniards: First, for returning into these seas after having been + long their prisoner, and being well used among them: And, second, + for having stripped the Portuguese captain at Cape Frio of a good + quantity of moidores, which were now found upon him. Don Pedro + proposed to have this business searched to the bottom, and the + guilty severely punished, without exposing the innocent to any + danger.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote6" name="footnote6"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag6">(return)</a> + + <p>Harris, I. 240.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote7" name="footnote7"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag7">(return)</a> + + <p>Lima is above six hundred miles from Cape Blanco, and Piura + is about seventy-five miles from the same place. Betagh gives + no account of the place where he landed; but forty miles + northwards from Piura would only carry him to the north side of + the bay of Payta; and, as he makes no mention of passing any + river, he was probably landed on the south side of the river + Amatape or Chira.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h4>§ 2. <i>Observations made by Betagh in the North of + Peru.</i></h4> + + <p>Leaving Mr Hately for the present, I proceed to the + observations I made on the road, as the admiral was so good as + send me up into the country, till his return from Payta. As the + weather in this part of the world is much too hot to admit of any + labour in the middle of the day, the custom is to travel only + from six in the evening till eight next morning. My Indian guide + set me on the best mule he had, which did not think proper to + follow the rest, so that I led my fellow-travellers while day + lasted. The whole country <span class="pagenum"><a name="page24" + id="page24"></a>[pg 24]</span> through which we travelled was an + open plain, having Indian plantations laid out with tolerable + regularity, on both sides of us. This champaign country is from + thirty to an hundred miles broad, and extends three hundred miles + along shore; and I was travelling to the southward, having the + Cordelieras, or mountains of the Andes, on my left hand, and the + great Pacific Ocean to the right. As the soil is good and + fertile, this land would be as fine a country as any in the + world, if well watered; but travellers are here obliged to carry + water for their mules as well as themselves. At the approach of + night, I was much puzzled to find the way, my mule still + persisting to go foremost, being often stopped by great sand + hills, and my mule as often endeavoured to pull the reins out of + my hand. This being very troublesome, the Indians advised me to + lay the reins on the mule's neck, and on doing that the creature + easily hit the way. These sand hills often shift from place to + place, which I suppose is occasioned by strong eddy winds, + reverberated from the mountains.</p> + + <p>We rested at night in an old empty house, about half way, + which the guide told me was built by the inhabitants of Piura, + for the accommodation of the prince of San Bueno, viceroy of + Peru, when they met and regaled him at his entrance on his + government. After a short rest, we continued our journey, and + arrived at Piura, a handsome regularly built town, on the banks + of the river <i>Callan</i> or <i>Piura</i>. The Indian conducted + us to the house of an honest Spanish gentleman and his wife, to + whose charge he committed us, and then returned to Payta. In less + than a quarter of an hour, the inhabitants of the town flocked to + see us, as a raree-show, and entertained us with respect and + civility, instead of using us as prisoners of war. The gentleman + to whose charge we were committed was named Don Jeronimo + Baldivieso, who had five daughters, who received us in so + benevolent a manner, that we hoped our time would slide easily + away, and our captivity prove no way disagreeable; and I now + became sensible of the favour shewn me by Don Pedro in sending me + to this place; for he had such interest in all Peru, that for his + sake we found very good treatment.</p> + + <p>After refreshing ourselves, according to the custom of the + country, with chocolate, biscuit, and water, we were serenaded by + the sound of a harp from some inner apartment, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page25" id="page25"></a>[pg 25]</span> of + which instrument the artist seemed to have a good command, as I + heard parts of several famous compositions, both Italian and + English. Upon enquiry, I found that all Don Jeronimo's daughters + had learnt music, and sung or played upon some instrument. Though + this seemed unaccountable at first, I afterwards found that music + was much cultivated in Peru. During the prevalence of the Italian + party at the court of Madrid, the last viceroy of Peru, the + prince of San Bueno, who was an Italian, brought a great many + musicians to that country along with him, by whom the taste for + music had spread every where, and had become as good in Peru as + in old Spain. I the rather notice this, because, by our being + lovers of music, and behaving peaceably and civilly to the + inhabitants, we passed our time quietly and chearfully. We were + only exposed to one inconvenience, which lasted all the time we + remained here: which was, the daily assembling of the people to + stare at us. I and my sergeant Cobbs, being used to exercise in + public, bore this pretty well; but Mr Pressick, being a grave + man, at first hung down his head, and was very melancholy. But he + grew better acquainted with the people by degrees, and came to + like them so well, that we had much ado to get him away, when it + became necessary for us to remove our quarters.</p> + + <p>Almost all the commodities of Europe are distributed through + Spanish America by a sort of pedlars, or merchants who travel on + foot. These men come from Panama to Payta by sea; and in their + road from Payta to Lima, make Piura their first stage, disposing + of their goods, and lessening their burdens, as they go along. + From Piura, some take the inland road by Caxamarca, and others + the road along the coast through Truxillo. From Lima they take + their passage back to Panama by sea, perhaps carrying with them a + small adventure of brandy. At Panama they again stock themselves + with European goods, and return by sea to Payta. Here they hire + mules to carry their goods, taking Indians along with them to + guide the mules and carry them back: And in this way these + traders keep a continual round, till they have gained a + sufficiency to live on. Their travelling expenses are next to + nothing; as the Indians are under such entire subjection to the + Spaniards, that they always find them in lodgings free, and + provide them with provender for their mules. All this every white + man may command, being an homage the Indians have long been + accustomed <span class="pagenum"><a name="page26" id= + "page26"></a>[pg 26]</span> to, and some think themselves + honoured into the bargain. Yet out of generosity, they sometimes + meet with a small recompense. Among the British and French, a + pedlar is despised, and his employment is considered as a very, + mean shift for getting a living: But it is quite otherwise here, + where the quick return of money is a sufficient excuse for the + manner in which it is gained; and there are many gentlemen in old + Spain, in declining circumstances, who send their sons to what + they call <i>the Indies</i>, to retrieve their fortunes in this + way.</p> + + <p>Our lodging while at Piura was in an out-house, which had been + built on purpose for accommodating such travelling merchants. + Every day, according to the Spanish custom, our dinner was served + up under covers, and we eat at the same table with Don Jeronimo; + while the good lady of the house and her daughters sat in another + room. Any strong liquors are only used during dinner: And I think + the only circumstance in our conduct that any way disobliged our + good host, was once seeing me drink a dram with the doctor, at a + small eating-house; and, as nothing is more offensive to the + Spaniards than drunkenness, I had much ado to apologise for this + step. Yet they admit of gallantry in the utmost excess, thus only + exchanging one enormity for another.</p> + + <p>After remaining about six weeks at Piura, our Indian guide + came to conduct us to Payta, to which place the Brilliante had + returned. When about to take leave, Mr Pressick our surgeon was + not to be found, which detained us a day. They had concealed him + in the town, meaning to have kept him there, being a very useful + man; and if he could have had a small chest of medicines, he + might soon have made a handsome fortune. Next day, however, we + mounted our mules, and parted reluctantly with our kind host and + his family. We went on board the Brilliante at Payta, which had + done nothing at sea since we left her, and now made a sort of + cruizing voyage to Calao, the port of Lima. I have already + mentioned the civility I received from Don Pedro Midranda, who + was admiral or general of the South Seas; and I shall here add + one circumstance to the honour of Monsieur de Grange, a captain + under the general. When taken by the Brilliante, the soldiers + stripped us, considering our clothes as the usual perquisite of + conquerors; on which that gentleman generously gave me + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page27" id="page27"></a>[pg + 27]</span> a handsome suit of clothes, two pair of silk + stockings, shirts, a hat and wig, and every thing accordant, so + that I was rather a gainer by this accident.</p> + + <h4>§ 3. <i>Voyage from Payta to Lima, and Account of the + English Prisoners at that place.</i></h4> + + <p>Our voyage to Lima occupied about five weeks; and, immediately + on our arrival, we were committed to the same prison in which the + rest of the ship's company were confined, except Mr Hately, who, + for reasons formerly assigned, was confined by himself, and very + roughly treated. A short time after our arrival, commissioners + were appointed to hear our cause, and to determine whether we + were to be treated as criminals, or as prisoners of war. We were + charged with piracy, not solely for what we had done in the South + Seas in plundering the Spaniards, but for having used the like + violence against other nations, before our arrival in that sea, + from which they proposed to infer that we had evinced a piratical + disposition in the whole of our conduct. Of this they thought + they had sufficient proof in the moidores found upon Hately, as + they appeared to have been taken from the subjects of a prince in + amity with our sovereign. Happily for us, Don Diego Morsilio, the + viceroy, who was an archbishop in the decline of life, was + pleased to investigate this matter; and finding only one of us + guilty, would not sign an order for taking away the lives of the + innocent. Some were for sending Hatley to the mines for life, and + others for hanging him: But the several accounts of the vile + proceedings of Captain Shelvocke contributed to his deliverance, + of the truth of which circumstance, there were enough of our + people at Lima to witness; for, besides Lieutenant Sergeantson + and his men, who were brought thither, there came also the men + whom Shelvocke sent along with Hopkins to shift for themselves in + an empty bark, who were forced to surrender themselves to the + Indians for want of sustenance; so that the court were satisfied + that Shelvocke was the principal in that piratical act, rather + than Hately. Considering that we had all been sufficiently + punished before our arrival at Lima, they thought fit to let us + all go by degrees. Hately was kept in irons about a twelvemonth, + and was then allowed to return to England. I was more fortunate, + as my imprisonment <span class="pagenum"><a name="page28" id= + "page28"></a>[pg 28]</span> lasted only a fortnight, owing to the + interposition of one Captain Fitzgerald, a gentleman born in + France, who had great interest with the viceroy, and became + security for me, on which I was allowed my liberty in the city, + provided I were forthcoming when called for.</p> + + <p>Among my first enquiries was into the condition of other + English prisoners at this place. I learnt from Lieutenant + Sergeantson and his men, who were here before us, that most of + them had adopted the religion of the country, had been + christened, and were dispersed among the convents of the city. + The first of these I met had his catechism in one hand, and a + large string of beads dangling in the other. I smiled, and asked + him how he liked it? He said, very well; for having a religion to + chuse, he thought theirs better than none, especially as it + brought him good meat and drink, and a quiet life. Many of + Shelvocke's men followed this example, and I may venture to say, + that most of them had the same substantial reason for their + conversion. It is here reckoned very meritorious to make a + convert, and many arguments were used for that purpose, but no + rigorous measures were used to bring any one over to their way of + thinking. Those who consented to be baptized, generally had some + of the merchants of Lima for their patrons and god-fathers, who + never failed to give them a good suit of clothes, and some money + to drink their healths.</p> + + <p>About this time four or five of Clipperton's men had leave + from the convents where they resided, to meet together at a + public-house kept by one John Bell, an Englishman, who had a + negro wife, who had been made free for some service or other. The + purpose of this meeting was merely to confirm their new baptism + over a bowl of punch; but they all got drunk and quarrelled, and, + forgetting they were true catholics, they demolished the image of + some honest saint that stood in a corner, mistaking him for one + of their companions. Missing them for a few days, I enquired at + Bell what was become of them, when he told me they were all in + the Inquisition; for the thing having taken air, he was obliged + to go himself to complain of their behaviour, but he got them + released a few days after, when they had time to repent and get + sober in the dungeons of the holy office. Bell said, if these men + had remained heretics, their drunken exploit had not come within + the verge of the ecclesiastical power; but as they were novices, + they were the easier pardoned, <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page29" id="page29"></a>[pg 29]</span> their outrages on the + saint being attributed to the liquor, and not to any designed + affront to the catholic faith, or a relapse into heresy.</p> + + <p>Some time afterwards, about a dozen of our men from the + Success and Speedwell were sent to Calao, to assist in careening + and fitting out the Flying-fish, designed for Europe. They here + entered into a plot to run away with the Margarita, a good + sailing ship which lay in the harbour, meaning to have gone for + themselves, in which of course they would have acted as pirates. + Not knowing what to do for ammunition and a compass, they applied + to Mr Sergeantson, pretending they meant to steal away to Panama, + where there was an English factory, and whence they had hopes of + getting home. They said they had got half a dozen firelocks, with + which they might be able to kill wild hogs or other game, as they + went along, and begged him to help them to some powder and shot, + and a compass to steer their way through the woods. By begging + and making catholic signs to the people in Lima, they had + collected some dollars, which they desired Sergeantson to lay out + for them; and he, not mistrusting their plot, bought them what + they wanted. Thus furnished, one of them came to me at Lima, and + told me their intention, and that Sprake was to have the command, + as being the only one among them who knew any thing of + navigation. I answered, that it was a bold design; but as Captain + Fitzgerald had engaged for my honour, I could not engage in it. + Their plot was discovered a few days after, their lodgings + searched, their arms taken away, and they were committed to + prison. The government was much incensed against them, and had + nearly determined upon their execution; but they were soon all + released except Sprake, who was the ringleader, and was kept in + irons for two or three months, and then set at liberty.</p> + + <p>The dominions belonging to the Spaniards in America are so + large and valuable, that, if well governed, they might render + that monarchy exceedingly formidable. In my long stay in Peru, I + had the means of examining at leisure, and with attention, their + manner of living, the form of their government, and many other + circumstances little known in our part of the world, and had many + opportunities of enquiring into things minutely, which did not + fall under my immediate observation; and of which I propose to + give as clear and accurate an account as I can, constantly + distinguishing between <span class="pagenum"><a name="page30" id= + "page30"></a>[pg 30]</span> what fell under my own immediate + knowledge, and what I received from the information of + others.</p> + + <h4>§ 4. <i>Description of Lima, and some Account of the + Government of Peru.</i></h4> + + <p>The great and rich city of Lima is the metropolis of Peru, and + the seat of an archbishop. It is all regularly built, the streets + being all straight and spacious, dividing the whole into small + squares. It stands in an open vale, through which runs a gentle + stream, dividing the city in two, as the Thames does London from + Southwark. Calao is the port of Lima, from whence it is about + seven miles distant. Because of the frequent earthquakes, the + houses are only of one story, and generally twelve or fourteen + feet high. It contains eight parish churches, three colleges for + students, twenty-eight monasteries of friars, and thirteen + nunneries, so that the religions occupy a fourth part of the + city; yet, by the quick and plentiful flow of money, and the vast + sums bequeathed through the effects of celibacy, they are well + endowed. Besides these, there are two hospitals for sick, poor, + and disabled; and in which several of our men were kindly looked + after. The length of the city from north to south is two miles, + and its breadth one and a half; its whole circumference, + including the wall and the river, being six miles. The other, or + smaller part of the city, is to the east of the river, over which + there is a handsome stone bridge of seven arches. Including all + sorts and colours, I computed that the whole population of Lima + amounted to between sixty and seventy thousand persons; and I + should not wonder at any multiplication in this city, as it is + the centre of so much affluence and pleasure. Besides the natural + increase of the inhabitants, all ships that trade this way, + whether public or private, generally leave some deserters, who + remain behind in consequence of the encouragement given to all + white faces.</p> + + <p>The people here are perhaps the most expensive in their habits + of any in the world. The men dress nearly as in England, their + coats being either of silk, fine English cloth, or camblets, + embroidered or laced with gold or silver, and their waistcoats + usually of the richest brocades. The women wear no stays or + hoops, having only a stitched holland jacket next their shifts, + and they generally wear a square <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page31" id="page31"></a>[pg 31]</span> piece of swansdown + flannel thrown over their shoulders, entirely covered with + Flanders lace, and have their petticoats adorned with gold or + silver lace. When they walk out, the Creole women are mostly + veiled, but not the mulattoes; and, till thirty or forty years of + age, they wear no head-clothes, their hair being tied behind with + fine ribbons. The pride of the ladies chiefly appears in fine + Mechlin or Brussels lace, with which they trim their linen in a + most extravagant manner, not omitting even their sheets and + pillows. Their linen jackets are double bordered with it, both at + top and bottom, with four or five ruffles or furbelows hanging + down to their knees. They are very extravagant also in pearls and + precious stones, in rings, bracelets, and necklaces, though the + value of these is hardly equal to the shew.</p> + + <p>The viceroy has a splendid palace in the royal square, or + great quadrangle of the city, which seemed as large as + Lincoln's-Inn-Fields. His salary is ten thousand pounds a-year, + but his perquisites amount to double that sum. And though his + government expires at the end of three, four, or five years, he + generally makes a handsome fortune, as all places are in his + gift, both in the government and the army throughout all Peru, + except such as are sent out or nominated by the king. The great + court of justice consists of twelve judges, besides a number of + inferior officers, councillors, and solicitors. Before this court + all causes are decided, but they are too often determined in + favour of the party who gives most money. And, though these vast + dominions abound in riches, there is not much work for the + lawyers, as the laws are few and plain, which certainly is much + better than a multiplicity of laws, explaining one another till + they become so intricate that the issue of a cause depends more + on the craft of the solicitor and advocate, than on its justice. + Every magistrate in this country knows that his reign is short, + and that he will be laughed at if he does not make a fortune, so + that they wink at each other; and, so great is the distance + between Spain and Peru, that the royal orders are seldom, + regarded, being two years in going backward and forward: Hence + arise many clandestine doings. According to law, the king ought + to have a twentieth part of all the gold, and a fifth of all the + silver procured from the mines; but vast quantities are carried + away privately, without paying any duty, both north by Panama, + and south through the Straits of Magellan. There are also vast + sums allowed for the militia, <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page32" id="page32"></a>[pg 32]</span> the garrisons, and the + repairs of fortifications, one half of which are never applied to + these objects. Hence it may easily be imagined what immense + riches would flow into the treasury of Madrid, if his catholic + majesty were faithfully served.</p> + + <p>The country of Peru is naturally subject to earthquakes. About + fifty years before I was there, or about the year 1670, there + were two great ones at Lima, which overturned many houses, + churches, and convents. And in the reign of Charles II. the late + king of Spain, there was an earthquake near the equator, which + lifted up whole fields, carrying them to the distance of several + miles. Small shocks are often felt which do no harm, and I have + been often called out of bed on such occasions, and heard nothing + more about the matter; but on these occasions the bells always + toll to prayers. Yet, although this country has suffered much + from earthquakes, especially near the coast, their churches are + lofty and neatly built. Such parts of their buildings as require + strength are made of burnt bricks; but their dwelling-houses are + all constructed of bamboos, canes, and bricks only dried in the + sun, which are sufficiently durable, as it never rains in Peru. + Instead of roofs, they are merely covered over with mats, on + which ashes are strewed, to keep out the dews. The small river of + Lima, or <i>Runac</i>, consists mostly of snow-water from the + neighbouring mountains, which are covered all the year with snow, + that partly dissolves in the summer-season, from September to + March.</p> + + <p>One would expect the weather to be much hotter here; but there + is no proportion between the heat of this part of America and the + same latitudes in Africa. This is owing to two causes; that the + neighbourhood of the snowy mountains diffuses a cool temperature + of the air all around; and the constant humid vapours, which are + so frequent that I often expected it to rain when I first went to + Lima. These vapours are not so dense, low, and gloomy, like our + fogs, nor yet are they separated above like our summer clouds; + but an exhalation between both, spread all around, as when we say + the day is overcast, so that sometimes a fine dew is felt on the + upper garments, and may even be discerned on the knap of the + cloth. This is a prodigious convenience to the inhabitants of + Lima, who are thus screened half the day from the sun; and though + it often shines out in the afternoon, yet is the heat very + tolerable, being tempered by the sea-breezes, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page33" id="page33"></a>[pg 33]</span> and not + near so hot as at Lisbon and some parts of Spain, more than + thirty degrees farther from the equator.</p> + + <p>The entire want of rain in this country induced the Indians, + even before the conquest, to construct canals and drains for + leading water from among the distant mountains, which they have + done with great skill and labour, so as to irrigate and refresh + the vallies, by which they produce grass and corn, and a variety + of fruits, to which also the dews contribute. A Spanish writer + observes that this perpetual want of rain is occasioned by the + south-west wind blowing on the coast of Peru the whole year + round, which always bears away the vapours from the plains before + they are of sufficient body to descend in showers: But, when + carried higher and farther inland, they become more compact, and + at length fall down in rain on the interior hills. The + inhabitants of Peru have plenty of cattle, fowls, fish, and all + kinds of provisions common among us, except butter, instead of + which they always use lard. They have oil, wine, and brandy in + abundance, but not so good as in Europe. Instead of tea from + China, which is prohibited, they make great use of <i>camini</i>, + called herb of Paraguay, or Jesuits tea, which, is brought from + Paraguay by land. They make a decoction of this, which they + usually suck through a pipe, calling it <i>Mattea</i>, being the + name of the bowl out of which it is drank. Chocolate is their + usual breakfast, and their grace cup after dinner; and sometimes + they take a glass of brandy, to promote digestion, but scarcely + drink any wine. In Chili, they make some butter, such as it is, + the cream being put into a skin bag kept for that purpose, which + is laid on a table between two women, who shake it till the + butter comes.</p> + + <p>The Spaniards are no friends to the bottle, yet gallantry and + intrigue are here brought to perfection, insomuch that it is + quite unmannerly here not to have a mistress, and scandalous not + to keep her well. The women have many accomplishments, both + natural and acquired, having graceful motions, winning looks, and + engaging, free, and sprightly conversation. They are all + delicately shaped, not injured by stiff-bodied stays, but left + entirely to the beauty of nature, and hardly is there a crooked + body to be seen, among them. Their eyes and teeth are singularly + beautiful, and their hair is universally of a dark polished hue, + nicely combed and plaited, and tied behind with ribbons, but + never disguised by powder; and the brightness of their skins + round the temples, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page34" id= + "page34"></a>[pg 34]</span> clearly appears through their dark + hair. Though amours are universal at Lima, the men are very + careful to bide them, and no indecent word or action is ever + permitted in public. They usually meet for these purposes, either + in the afternoon at the <i>Siesta</i>, or in the evening in + calashes on the other side of the river, or in the great square + of the city, where calashes meet in great numbers in the dusk. + These are slung like our coaches, but smaller, many of them being + made only to hold two persons sitting opposite. They are all + drawn by one mule, with the negro driver sitting on his back; and + it is quite usual to see some of these calashes, with the blinds + close, standing still for half an hour at a time. In these + amusements they have several customs peculiar to themselves. + After evening prayers, the gentleman changes his dress from a + cloak to a <i>montero</i>, or jockey-coat, with a laced linen cap + on his head, and a handkerchief round his neck, instead of a wig; + or if he wear his own hair, it must be tucked under a cap and + concealed, as it is the universal fashion to be thus disguised. + Even those who have no mistress, are ashamed to appear virtuous, + and must be somehow masked or disguised, in order to countenance + the way of the world. As, all this is night-work, they have an + established rule to avoid quarrels, by never speaking to or + noticing each other, when going in quest of or to visit their + ladies.</p> + + <p>In short, the fore-part of every night in the year is a kind + of masquerade. Among people of any rank who do not keep calashes, + one couple never walks close behind another, but each at the + distance of at least twelve paces, to prevent the overhearing of + any secret whispers. Should a lady drop a fan or any thing else + by accident, a gentleman may take it up, but he must not give it + to the lady, but to the gentleman who accompanies her, lest she + may happen to be the wife or sister of him who takes it up; and + as all the ladies are veiled, these wise rules are devised to + prevent any impertinent discoveries. Any freedom in contravention + of these laws of gallantry would be looked upon as the highest + affront, and would be thought to merit a drawn sword through the + midriff. Should any one see his most intimate friend any where + with a woman, he must never take notice of it, or mention it + afterwards. Every thing of this nature is conducted with all + imaginary gravity and decorum, by which the practice of gallantry + becomes decent and easy; yet there are some jealousies in this + regular commerce of love, which sometimes end <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page35" id="page35"></a>[pg 35]</span> + fatally. A story of this kind happened shortly before I went to + Lima. A young lady, who thought herself sole sovereign in the + heart of her lover, saw him by chance in the company of another, + and, waiting no farther proof of his infidelity, she instantly + plunged a dagger in his bosom. She was soon after brought to + trial, and every one expected that she should pay the forfeit + with her life; but the judges, considering her rashness as + proceeding from excess of love, not malice, acquitted her. + However agreeable these gallantries may be to the <i>Creole</i> + Spaniards, they have an inconvenient effect on society; as the + men are so engrossed by these matters, as to spoil all public + conversation. Their time is entirely taken up in attendance on + their mistresses, so that there are no coffee-houses or taverns, + and they can only be met with at their offices, or in church.</p> + + <p>Perhaps it may be chiefly owing to this effeminate propensity, + that all manly exercises, all useful knowledge, and that noble + emulation which inspires virtue, and keeps alive respect for the + public good, are here unknown. Those amusements which serve in + other countries to relax the labours of the industrious, and to + keep alive the vigour of the body and mind, are unknown in Peru; + and whoever should attempt to introduce any such, would be + considered as an innovator, which, among them, is a hateful + character: For they will never be convinced, that martial + exercises or literary conferences are preferable to intrigues. + They have, however, a sort of a play-house, where the young + gentlemen and students divert themselves after their fashion; but + their dramatic performances are so mean as hardly to be worth + mentioning, being scripture stories, interwoven with romance, a + mixture still worse than gallantry. At this theatre, two + Englishmen belonging to the squadron of Mons. Martinat, fought a + prize-battle a short time before I came to Lima. Having first + obtained leave of the viceroy to display their skill at the usual + weapons, and the day being fixed, they went through many previous + ceremonies, to draw, as the phrase is, a good house. Preceded by + beat of drum, and dressed in holland shirts and ribbons, they + went about the streets saluting the spectators at the windows + with flourishes of their swords, so that the whole city came to + see the trial of skill, some giving gold for admittance, and + hardly any one less than a dollar. The company, male and female, + being assembled, the masters mounted the stage, and, after + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page36" id="page36"></a>[pg + 36]</span> the usual manner of the English, having shaken hands, + they took their distance, and stood on their guard in good order. + Several bouts were played without much wrath or damage, the + design being more to get money than cuts or credit, till at + length one of the masters received a small hurt on the breast, + which blooded his shirt, and began to make the combat look + terrible. Upon this, fearing from this dreadful beginning that + the zeal of the combatants might grow too warm, the company cried + out, <i>Basta! basta!</i> or enough! enough! And the viceroy + would never permit another exhibition of the same kind, lest one + of the combatants might receive a mortal wound, and so die + without absolution.</p> + + <p>So deficient are the Spaniards in energy of spirit, that many + extensive countries and islands remain unexplored, in the + immediate neighbourhood of their vast American dominions, though + some of these are reported to be richer and more valuable than + those which are already conquered and settled. The first Spanish + governors of Mexico and Peru were not of this indolent + disposition, but bestowed great pains in endeavouring to acquire + the most perfect knowledge bordering upon their respective + governments: But now that general thirst of fame is entirely + extinguished, and they content themselves with plundering their + fellow-subjects in the countries already known. The regions to + the north of Mexico are known to abound in silver, precious + stones, and other rich commodities, yet the Spaniards decline all + conquest on that side, and discourage as much as possible the + reports which have spread of the riches of these countries. On + the same principles, they give no encouragement to attempt + penetrating into the heart of South America, whence most of the + riches of Peru are known to come, the mountains at the back of + the country being extremely rich in gold; and the regions, on the + other side, towards the Atlantic, being inhabited by nations that + have abundance of that metal, though, for fear of being oppressed + by the Europeans, they conceal it as much as possible.</p> + + <p>Of all the discoveries that have been talked of among the + Spaniards, that which has made the most noise is the island or + islands of Solomon, supposed to be the same with those discovered + by the famous Ferdinand Quiros. He reported them to be extremely + rich and very populous, and repeatedly memorialed the court of + Spain to be authorised to complete his discovery. All his + solicitations, however, were neglected, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page37" id="page37"></a>[pg 37]</span> and it + became a question in a few years whether any such islands had + ever existed. At length, towards the close of the seventeenth + century, such discoveries were made as to the reality of these + islands, that Don Alvaro de Miranda was sent out to discover them + in 1695. He failed in the attempt, but in the search met with + four islands, between the latitude of 7° and + 10° S. which were wonderfully rich and pleasant, the + inhabitants being a better looking race, and far more civilized + than any of the Indians on the continent of America. This + discovery occasioned a good deal of discourse at the time; but + the subsequent disturbances relative to the succession to the + crown of Spain, so occupied the attention of every person, that + all views of endeavouring to find the islands of Solomon were + laid aside.<a id="footnotetag8" name="footnotetag8"></a><a href= + "#footnote8"><sup>2</sup></a></p><i>[Transcriber's note: No + footnote 1 is present in this section in the original]</i> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote8" name="footnote8"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag8">(return)</a> + + <p>These islands of Miranda appear to have been the Marquebes, + between the latitudes of 8° 45' and 10° 25' + N. and long. 139° W. The Solomon islands, or New + Georgia, are between 5° and 10° N. and long. + 200° to 205° W. 63-1/2 degrees of longitude + farther to the westwards.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h4>§ 5. <i>Some Account of the Mines of Peru and + Chili</i>.</h4> + + <p>As the riches of Peru consist chiefly in mines of silver, I + shall endeavour to give some account of them, from the best + information I could procure. There are two sorts of silver-mines, + in one of which the silver is found scattered about in small + quantities, or detached masses, while, in the other kind of mine, + it runs in a vein between two rocks, one of which is excessively + hard, and the other much softer. These certainly best deserve the + name of silver-mines, and are accordingly so denominated. This + precious metal, which in other countries is the standard or + measure of riches, is the actual riches of Peru, or its chief + natural commodity; as, throughout the whole of that vast country, + silver-mines are almost every where to be met with, of more or + less value, according as the ore produces more or less silver, or + can be wrought at a greater or less expence. Some of these mines + are to the north of Lima, but not a great many, but to the south + they are very numerous. On the back, or eastern side of the + Andes, there is a nation of Indians called <i>Los Platerors</i>, + or the <i>Plate</i>, or <i>Silver</i> men, from their possessing + vast quantities of silver,<a id="footnotetag9" name= + "footnotetag9"></a><a href="#footnote9"><sup>1</sup></a> but with + them the Spaniards have very little communication. <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page38" id="page38"></a>[pg 38]</span> The + best of the mine countries are to the south of Cusco, from thence + to Potosi and the frontiers of Chili, where, for the space of 800 + miles, there is a continued succession of mines, some being + discovered and others abandoned almost every day.</p> + + <p>It is common, both here and elsewhere, for people to complain + of the times, commending the past, as if there had been + infinitely greater quantities of silver dug from the mines + formerly than at present. This certainly may be the case with + particular mines; but, on the whole, the quantities of silver now + annually obtained from the mines in Spanish America, abundantly + exceeds what used formerly to be procured. Those mines which are + at present [1720] most remarkable in Peru are, Loxa, Camora, + Cuenca, Puerto-veio, and St Juan del Oro. Those of Oruro and + Titiri are neglected; and those of Porco and Plata are filled up. + At Potosi there are a vast number of mines; and those of Tomina, + Chocaia, Atacuna, Xuxui, Calchaques, Guasco, Iquique, &c. are + all wrought with more or less profit, according to the skill of + the proprietors or managers. It is generally believed that the + Creoles have a very perfect acquaintance with the minerals, from + experience, and with the art of treating them, so as to obtain + the largest profit; but, when their utter ignorance in all other + arts is considered, their constant going on in the old beaten + track, and their enormous waste of quicksilver, one is tempted to + believe that our European miners might conduct their works to + still greater advantage.</p> + + <p>The most perfect silver that is brought from Peru is in the + forms called <i>pinnas</i> by the Spaniards, being extremely + porous lumps of silver, as they are the remainder of a paste + composed of silver dust and mercury, whence the latter being + exhaled or evaporated, leaves the silver in a spongy mass, full + of holes, and very light. This is the kind of silver which is put + into various forms by the merchants, in order to cheat the king + of his duty; wherefore all silver in this state, found any where + on the road, or on board any ship, is looked upon as contraband, + and liable to seizure.</p> + + <p>In regard to the art of refining, I propose to shew the + progress of the ore, from the mine till it comes to this spongy + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page39" id="page39"></a>[pg + 39]</span> mass or cake. After breaking the stone or ore taken + out of the veins, it is grinded in mills between grindstones, or + pounded in the <i>ingenious reales</i>, or royal engines, by + means of hammers or beetles, like the mills for Paris plaster. + These generally have a wheel of twenty-five or thirty feet + diameter, with a long axle or lying shaft, set round with smooth + triangular projections, which, as the axle turns, lay hold of the + iron hammers, of about two hundred-weight each, lifting them to a + certain height, whence they drop down with such violence that + they crush and reduce the hardest stones to powder. The pounded + ore is afterwards sifted through iron or copper sieves, which + allow the finest powder to go through, the coarse being returned + to the mill. When the one happens to be mixed with copper or + other metals which prevent its reduction to powder, it is roasted + or calcined in an oven or reverberatory furnace, and pounded over + again.</p> + + <p>At the smaller mines, where they only use grindstones, they, + for the most part, grind the ore along with water, forming it + into a liquid paste, which runs out into receivers. When grinded + dry, it has to be afterwards mixed with water, and well moulded + up with the feet for a long time. For this purpose, they make a + court or floor, on which that mud, or paste of pounded ore and + water, is disposed in square parcels of about a foot thick, each + parcel containing half a <i>caxon</i>, or chest, which is + twenty-five quintals or hundred-weights of ore, and these parcels + are called <i>cuerpos</i>, or bodies. On each of these they throw + about two hundred-weights of sea-salt, more or less, according to + the nature of the ore, which they mould or incorporate with the + moistened ore for two or three days. They then add a certain + quantity of quicksilver, squeezing it from a skin bag, to make it + fall in drops equally on the mass or <i>cuerpo</i>, allowing to + each mass ten, fifteen, or twenty pounds of quicksilver, + according to the nature or quality of the ore, as the richer it + is, it requires the more mercury to draw it to the silver + contained in the mass, so that they know the quantity by long + experience. An Indian is employed to mould or trample one of + these square cuerpos eight times a-day, that the mercury may + thoroughly incorporate with the silver. To expedite this + incorporation, they often mix lime with the mass, when the ore + happens to be what they call greasy, and in this great caution is + required, as they say the mass sometimes grows so hot that they + neither find mercury nor silver in it, which <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page40" id="page40"></a>[pg 40]</span> seems + quite incredible. Sometimes also they strew in some lead or tin + ore, to facilitate the operation of the mercury, which is slower + in very cold weather; wherefore, at Potosi and Lipes, they are + often obliged to mould or work up their cuerpos during a month or + six weeks; but, in more temperate climates, the amalgama is + completed in eight or ten days. To facilitate the action of the + mercury, they, in some places, as at Puno and elsewhere, + construct their <i>buiterons</i> or floors on arches, under which + they keep fires for twenty-four hours, to heat the masses or + <i>cuerpos</i>, which are in that case placed as a pavement of + bricks.</p> + + <p>When it is thought that the mercury has attracted all the + silver, the assayer takes a small quantity of ore from each + cuerpo, which he washes separately in a small earthen plate or + wooden bowl; and, by the colour and appearance of the amalgama + found at the bottom, when the earthy matters are washed away, he + knows whether the mercury has produced its proper effect. When + blackish, the ore is said to have been too much heated, and they + add more salt, or some other temper. In this case they say that + mercury is <i>dispara</i>, that is, shoots or flees away. If the + mercury remains white, they put a drop under the thumb, and + pressing it hastily, the silver in the amalgam sticks to the + thumb, and the mercury slips away in little drops. When they + conceive that all the silver has incorporated with the mercury, + the mixed mass, or cuerpo, is carried to a basin or pond, into + which a small stream of water is introduced to wash it, much in + the same way as I shall afterwards describe the manner in which + they wash gold, only that as the silver-ore is reduced to a fine + mud without stones, it is stirred by an Indian with his feet, to + dissolve it thoroughly, and loosen the silver. From the first + basin it falls into a second, and thence into a third, where the + stirring and washing is repeated, that any amalgam which has not + subsided in the first and second may not escape the third.</p> + + <p>The whole being thoroughly washed in these basins, which are + lined with leather, till the water runs clear off, the amalgam of + mercury and silver is found at the bottom, and is termed <i>la + pella</i>. This is put into a woollen bag and hung up, from + whence some of the mercury runs out. The bag is then beaten and + pressed as much as they can, laying upon it a flat piece of wood + loaded with a heavy weight, to get out as much of the mercury as + they can. The paste is then <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page41" id="page41"></a>[pg 41]</span> put into a mould of + wooden planks bound together, generally in the form of an octagon + pyramid cut short, its bottoms being a plate of copper, full of + small holes, into which the paste is stirred and pressed down, in + order to fasten it. When they design to make many <i>pinnas</i>, + or spongy lumps of various weights, these are divided from each + other by thin beds or layers of earth, which hinder them from + uniting. For this purpose, the <i>pella</i>, or mass of amalgam, + must be weighed out in separate portions, deducting two-thirds + for the contained mercury, by which they know to a small matter + the quantity of silver contained in each. They then take off the + mould, and place the pella or mass with its copper base on a + trivet, or such like instrument, standing over a great earthen + vessel full of water, and cover it with an earthen cap, which + again is covered by lighted coals. This fire is fed and kept up + for some hours, by which the mass of pella below becomes + violently heated, the contained mercury being thereby raised into + vapour: But, having no means of escape through the cap or cover, + it is forced down to the water underneath, where it condenses + into quicksilver and sinks to the bottom. By this contrivance, + little of the mercury is lost, and the same serves over again. + But the quantity must be increased, <i>because it grows + weak</i>.<a id="footnotetag10" name="footnotetag10"></a><a href= + "#footnote10"><sup>2</sup></a> At Potosi, as Acosta relates, they + formerly consumed six or seven thousand quintals of mercury every + year, by which Some idea may be formed of the silver there + procured.</p> + + <p>On the evaporation of the mercury, nothing remains but a + spongy lump of contiguous grains of silver, very light and almost + mouldering, called <i>la pinna</i> by the Spaniards. These masses + must be carried to the king's receipt or mint, to pay the royal + fifth; and are there cast into ingots, on which are stamped the + arms of the crown, the place where cast, and their weight and + fineness. All these ingots, having paid the fifth, are sure to be + without fraud or deceit; but it is not so with the <i>pinnas</i>, + as these have often iron, sand, or some other matter contained + within them, to increase their weight; Hence, prudence requires + that these should be opened, and made red hot in a fire; for, if + falsified, the fire will turn them black or yellow, or melt them + more easily. This trial by fire is also necessary to extract + moisture, which they <span class="pagenum"><a name="page42" id= + "page42"></a>[pg 42]</span> contract in places where they are + purposely laid to render them heavier, as also for separating the + mercury with which the bottom of the mass is always more or less + impregnated. The weight of these <i>pinnas</i> may be increased + nearly a third, by dipping them while red hot into water. It also + sometimes happens that the same mass of pinna may be of different + fineness in different parts.</p> + + <p>The ore, or stones taken from the mines, or the + <i>mineray</i>, as it is called in Peru, from which the silver is + extracted, is not always of the same nature, consistence, and + colour. Some are white and grey, mixed with red or bluish spots, + called <i>plata blanca</i> or white silver; of which sort the one + in the Lipes mines mostly consists. For the most part, some + little grains of silver are to be discerned, and very often small + branches are seen, ramifying along the layers of the stone. Some + ores are as black as the dross of iron, and in which no silver is + to be seen, which is called <i>negrillo</i> or blackish ore. + Sometimes the ore is rendered black by admixture of lead, and is + called <i>plombo ronco</i>, or coarse lead, in which the silver + appears as if scratched by something harsh. This ore is generally + the richest in silver, and from it also the silver is got at the + smallest charge; as instead of having to be moulded or kneaded + with quicksilver, it has only to be melted in furnaces, where the + lead evaporates by the force of fire, and the silver remains pure + behind. From this sort. of mines, the Indians drew their silver + before the coming of the Spaniards, having no knowledge of the + use of mercury, and they accordingly only wrought those mines of + which the ore would melt; and, having but little wood, they + heated their furnaces with <i>ylo</i>, the dung of the + <i>Llamas</i> or Peruvian sheep, placing their furnaces on the + sides of mountains, that the wind might render their fires + fierce.</p> + + <p>There is another sort of black ore, in which the silver does + not at all appear; and which, when wetted and rubbed against + iron, becomes red. This ore is called <i>rosicler</i>, signifying + that ruddiness which appears at the dawn of day. This is very + rich, and affords the finest silver. Another kind, called + <i>zoroche</i>, glitters like talc, and is generally very poor, + yielding little silver: Its outer coat is very soft and of a + yellowish red, but seldom rich; and the mines of this sort are + wrought on account of the easiness of extracting the ore, being + very easily dug. Another kind, not much harder than the last, is + of a green colour, called <i>cobrissa</i> or <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page43" id="page43"></a>[pg 43]</span> + copperish, and is very rare. Although the silver usually appears + in this kind, and it is almost mouldering, it is the most + difficult of all to manage, as it parts very difficultly with the + silver. Sometimes, after being stamped or reduced to powder, it + has to be burnt in the fire, and several other expedients must be + used to separate the silver, doubtless because mixed with copper. + There is another very rare sort of ore, which has only been found + in the mine of <i>Cotamiso</i> at Potosi, being threads of pure + silver entangled, or wound up together, like burnt lace, and so + fine that it is called <i>arana</i>, or spider ore, from its + resemblance to a cobweb.</p> + + <p>The veins of <i>mineray</i>, of whatever sort they may be, are + generally richer in the middle than towards the edges; and where + two veins happen to cross each other, the place where they meet + is always very rich. It is also observed that those which lie + north and south are richer than those which lie in any other + direction. Those also which are near to places where mills can be + erected, and can consequently be more commodiously wrought, are + often preferable to others that are richer, but require more + expense in working. For this reason, at Lipes and Potosi, a chest + of ore must yield ten marks or eighty ounces of silver, to pay + the charges of working; while those in the province of Tarama + only require five merks or forty ounces to defray the expences. + When even very rich, and they happen to sink down so as to be + liable to be flooded, the adventurers must have recourse to pumps + and machines in order to drain them; or to <i>cocabones</i> or + levels dug through the sides of the mountain, which often ruin + the owners by the enormous expence they are insensibly drawn + into. At some of the mines, where the methods of separation + already described fail, they use other means of extracting the + silver from the ore, and from other metals which may be combined + with it; as by fire, or strong separating waters; and there the + silver is cast into a sort of ingots, called <i>bollos</i>. But + the most general and useful method is that already described.</p> + + <p>It may naturally be supposed that mines, as well as other + things, are subject to variation in their productiveness. The + mines which, till very lately, yielded most silver, were those of + <i>Oroura</i>, a small town about eight leagues from Arica. In + the year 1712, one was discovered at <i>Ollachea</i> near Cusco, + so rich that it yielded 2500 marks of silver of eight ounces + each, or 20,000 ounces, out of each <i>caxon</i> or chest, being + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page44" id="page44"></a>[pg + 44]</span> almost a fifth part of the ore; but it has since + declined much, and is now [1720] only reckoned among the ordinary + sort. Those of Lipes have had a similar fate. Those at Potosi now + yield but little, and are worked at a very heavy expence, owing + to their excessive depth. Although the mines here are far + diminished in their productiveness, yet the quantity of ore which + has been formerly wrought, and has lain many years on the + surface, is now thought capable of yielding a second crop; and + when I was at Lima, they were actually turning it up, and milling + it over again with great success. This is a proof that these + minerals generate in the earth like all other inanimate + things;<a id="footnotetag11" name="footnotetag11"></a><a href= + "#footnote11"><sup>3</sup></a> and it likewise appears, from all + the accounts of the Spaniards, that gold, silver, and other + metals are continually growing and forming in the earth. This + opinion is verified by experience in the mountain of Potosi, + where several mines had fallen in, burying the workmen and their + tools; and these being again opened up after some years, many + boxes and pieces of wood were discovered, having veins of silver + actually running through them.<a id="footnotetag12" name= + "footnotetag12"></a><a href="#footnote12"><sup>4</sup></a></p> + + <p>All these mines become the property of their first discoverer, + who immediately presents a petition to the magistrates, desiring + to have such a piece of ground for his own. This is accordingly + granted, and a spot of ground eighty Spanish yards in length by + forty in breadth<a id="footnotetag13" name= + "footnotetag13"></a><a href="#footnote13"><sup>5</sup></a> is + measured out and appropriated to the discoverer, who chuses what + spot he pleases within these bounds, and does with it as he + thinks fit. The exact same quantity is then measured off as + belonging to the king, and is sold to the best bidder, there + being always many who are willing to purchase, what may turn out + an inestimable treasure. After this, if any person may incline to + work a part of this mine on his own account, he bargains with the + proprietor for a particular vein. All that is dug out by any one + is his own, subject however to <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page45" id="page45"></a>[pg 45]</span> payment of the royal + duties; being one-twentieth part for gold, and a fifth for + silver; and some proprietors find a good account in letting out + their grounds and mills to others.</p> + + <p>There are gold-mines just beyond the town of Copaipo, and in + all the country around, which have attracted many purchasers and + workmen to that district, to the great injury and oppression of + the Indians; as the Spanish magistrates not only take away their + lands for the purposes of mining, but their horses also, which + they sell to the new adventurers, under pretence of serving the + king and improving the settlements. There is also abundance of + magnet and <i>lapiz lazuli</i>, of which the Indians know not the + value; and some leagues within the country, there is plenty of + salt and salt-petre, which often lies an inch thick on the + ground. On the <i>Cordelieras</i>, about an hundred miles to the + east, there is a vein of sulphur about two feet wide, so fine and + pure that it needs no cleaning. This part of the country is full + of all sorts of mines, but so excessively barren, that the + inhabitants have to fetch all their subsistence from the country + about Coquimbo, over a desert of more than 300 miles extent, in + which the earth abounds so much in salt and sulphur that the + mules often perish by the way, for want of grass and fresh water. + In that long road there is only one river in the course of two + hundred miles, which is named <i>Ancalulae</i> or the Hyporite, + because it runs only from sun-rise to sun-set. This is occasioned + by the great quantities of snow melted on the Cordelieras in the + day, which freezes again by the excessive cold of the night. + Hence <i>Chili</i> is said to derive its name, as <i>chile</i> + signifies cold in the Indian language; and we are told by the + Spanish historians, that some of their countrymen and others, who + first traded to this country, were frozen to death on their + mules; for which reason they now always travel by a lower road, + towards the coast.</p> + + <p>The mine countries are all so cold and barren, that the + inhabitants have to procure most of their provisions from the + coast; this is caused by the exhalations of salts and sulphur + from the earth, which destroy the growth of all vegetables. These + are so stifling to the Spaniards who dwell about the mines, that + they are obliged often to drink the <i>mattea</i>, or tea made of + the herb <i>camini</i>, to moisten their mouths. The mules also, + that trip it nimbly over the mountains, are forced to walk slowly + in the country about the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page46" + id="page46"></a>[pg 46]</span> mines, and have often to stop to + take breath. If these vapours are so strong without and in the + open air, what must they be within the bowels of the earth in the + mines, into which, if a fresh man go, he is suddenly benumbed + with pain. This is the case with many, but seldom lasts above a + day, and they are not liable to be affected a second time: Yet + vapours often burst forth suddenly, by which the workmen are + killed on the spot; and one way or another, great multitudes of + Indians die in working the mines. One is apt to wonder that, + through all this part of the world, those districts which are + most barren and unwholesome are the best inhabited; while other + places, that seem to vie with our nations of the terrestrial + paradise, in beauty and fertility, are but thinly peopled. Yet, + when one considers, that it is the thirst of wealth, not the love + of ease, which attracts people thither, the wonder ceases, and we + see how much the hope of living rich gets the better even of the + hope of living; as if the sole end for which man was created was + to acquire wealth, at the expence of health and happiness.</p> + + <p>In reference to these deserts, the following observation + occurs to my memory, as having happened when we were on the road + to Piura. When we lay down to sleep at night, our mules went + eagerly in search of a certain root, not unlike a parsnip, but + much bigger, which contains a great deal of juice, and, besides + serving as food, often answers as a substitute for water in the + deserts. When the mules find these, and are unable to rake them + out of the ground with their feet, they stand over them and bray + with all their might, till the Indians come to their + assistance.</p> + + <p>It is generally understood that silver is the peculiar wealth + of Peru, and the Spaniards usually talk of gold-mines as confined + to Chili: Yet there are one or two <i>lavaderas</i>, or + washing-places for gold in the south of Peru, near the frontiers + of Chili. In 1709, two surprizingly large <i>pepitos</i>, or + lumps of virgin gold, were found in one of these places, one of + which weighed complete thirty-two pounds, and was purchased by + the <i>Conde de Monclod</i>, then viceroy of Peru, and presented + by him to the king of Spain. The other, shaped somewhat like an + ox's heart, weighed twenty-two pounds and a half; and was + purchased by the corregidor of Arica. In searching for these + <i>lavadores</i> or washing places, they dig in the corners of + some little brook, where they judge, from certain tokens, that + the grains of gold are lodged. <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page47" id="page47"></a>[pg 47]</span> To assist in carrying + away the earth or mud, they let in a stream or current of water + into the excavation, and keep stirring up the soil, that the + water may carry it away. On reaching the golden sand, they turn + the stream another way, and dig out this sand, which is carried + on mules to certain ponds or basons, which are joined by small + canals. Into these they introduce a smart stream of water, to + loosen the earth and carry away the grosser part. The Indians + stand in the basons or ponds, stirring up the earth to assist the + operation of the water, and throwing out the stones. The gold + remains at the bottom, still mixed with a black sand, and is + hardly to be seen till farther cleaned and separated, which is + easily done. These washing places differ much from each other. In + some the grains of gold are as big as small shot; and in one + belonging to the priests, near Valparaiso, some are found from + the weight of two or three ounces to a pound and a half. This way + of getting gold is much better than from the mines, as it does + not require expensive digging, neither are mills necessary for + grinding the ore, nor quicksilver for extracting the metal; so + that both the trouble and expence are much less. The Creoles are + by no means so nice in washing their gold as are the people in + Europe; but great plenty makes them careless, both in this and + other matters.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote9" name="footnote9"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag9">(return)</a> + + <p>This tribe still holds its place in modern geography, in the + vast plain to the E. of the Maranors or Amazons, where there + cannot be any silver-mines, at least that they can explore. + They are so named because of wearing silver ear-rings, which + they must, almost certainly, procure in barter from the tribes + in the mountains, far to the west.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote10" name="footnote10"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag10">(return)</a> + + <p>This is utterly absurd, as the mercury must be the same in + <i>quality</i> as before, the <i>quantity</i> only being + <i>weakened</i>.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote11" name="footnote11"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag11">(return)</a> + + <p>It is merely a proof that the ore had been formerly very + imperfectly managed, and still contained enough of silver to + pay for extraction with profit, by more expert methods.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote12" name="footnote12"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag12">(return)</a> + + <p>This proves only change of place, by solution, infiltration, + and deposition not growth, increase, or new production.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote13" name="footnote13"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag13">(return)</a> + + <p>In Harris this is said to be <i>about 1200 feet in length, + and 100 in breadth</i>, which is obviously absurd; as the one + measure gives the Spanish yard at 15 English feet, and the + latter at 2-1/2 feet. Both measures are probably erroneous; but + there are no data for their correction.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h4>§ 6. <i>Observations on the Trade of Chili.</i></h4> + + <p>It is not intended in this place to give a description of the + large kingdom of Chili, but only some account of the nature of + its trade, and the manner in which that is connected with the + general commerce of Peru, by which the wealth of Chili is + transmitted to Europe. Chili extends in length about 1200 miles + from north to south, but its breadth is uncertain. The air is + very temperate and wholesome, unless when rendered otherwise by + pestilential exhalations, that are most common after earthquakes, + to which this country is peculiarly liable. The winter rains are + very heavy, during the months of May, June, July, and August; + after which, for eight months together, they have fine weather, + generally speaking. The soil, where it admits of cultivation, is + prodigiously fertile, and fruit-trees carried thither from Europe + come to the greatest perfection, so that fruit is coming forward + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page48" id="page48"></a>[pg + 48]</span> in its different stages at all times of the year; + insomuch that it is common to see apple-trees, in the situation + so much admired in orange trees, having blossoms, fruit just set, + green fruit, and ripe apples, all on one tree at the same time. + The valleys, wherever they have any moisture, wear a perpetual + verdure; and the hills are covered with odoriferous herbs, many + of which are very useful in medicine. The country also produces + trees of all sorts. Thus Chili, independent of its gold-mines, + may well be accounted one of the richest and finest countries in + the world. For instance, the town of Coquimbo, in lat. + 30° S. [30° 20'] a short mile from the sea, in + a most delightful place. It is situated on a green rising ground, + about ten yards high, formed by nature like a regular terrace, + stretching north and south in a direct line of more than half a + mile, turning a little at each end to the eastwards; and its + principal street forms a delightful walk, having a fine prospect + of the country and the bay. All this is placed in an evergreen + valley, and watered by a beautiful river, which rises in the + mountains, and flows in a winding stream to the sea, through + beautiful meadows and fertile vales.</p> + + <p>Notwithstanding its many advantages, this vast country is very + thinly inhabited; so that through its whole extent there are + scarcely five towns deserving that appellation, and only one + city, named St Jago. Through all the rest of the country there + are only farms, called <i>estancias</i>, which are so remote from + each other, that the whole country cannot muster 20,000 whites + capable of bearing arms, of which St Jago contains 2000. All the + rest of the population consists of mesticoes, mulattoes, and + Indians, the number of whom may amount to three times as + many.<a id="footnotetag14" name="footnotetag14"></a><a href= + "#footnote14"><sup>1</sup></a> This is exclusive of the + <i>friendly</i> Indians to the south of the river <i>Biobio</i>, + who are reckoned to amount to 15,000 fighting men, but whose + fidelity is not much to be depended upon.</p> + + <p>The trade of this country is chiefly carried on by sea, and at + present, 1720, is rather in a declining situation. The port of + Baldivia was formerly very famous, on account of the very rich + gold-mines which were wrought in its neighbourhood, which are now + in a great measure disused. <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page49" id="page49"></a>[pg 49]</span> Hence it is now only kept + as a garrison, serving to Peru as the fortresses on the coast of + Barbary do to Spain, as a place to which malefactors are sent, to + serve against the Indians. The trade of this place consists in + sending ten or twelve ships every year to Peru, laden with hides, + tanned leather, salt meat, corn, and other provisions, which are + to be had here in great plenty.</p> + + <p>The port of Conception is more considerable, by reason of its + trade with the Indians who are not under subjection to the crown + of Spain. These Indians are copper-coloured, having large limbs, + broad faces, and coarse lank hair. The nation of the + <i>Puelches</i> differs somewhat from the rest, as among them + there are some who are tolerably white, and have some little + colour in their cheeks; which is supposed to be owing to their + having some Europeans blood in their veins, ever since the + natives of this country revolted from the Spaniards, and cut off + most of their garrisons; on which occasion they preserved the + women, and especially the nuns, by whom they had many children; + who still retain a sort of affection for the country of their + mothers, and, though too proud to submit to the Spaniards, yet + are unwilling to hurt them.</p> + + <p>These <i>Puelches</i> inhabit the ridge of mountains called + <i>La Cordeliera</i> by the Spaniards, and as the manner of + trading with them is very singular, it may be proper to give some + account of it. When the Spanish pedlar or travelling merchant + goes into this country, he goes directly to a ca&#231;ique or + chief, and presents himself before him without speaking a word. + The ca&#231;ique breaks silence first, saying to the + merchant, <i>Are you come?</i> To which the merchant answers <i>I + am come.</i> <i>What have you brought me?</i> replies the + ca&#231;ique. To which the merchant rejoins, <i>Wine</i>, and + such other things as he may have to dispose of, wine being a + necessary article. Upon which the ca&#231;ique never fails to + say, <i>You are welcome</i>. The ca&#231;ique then appoints a + lodging for the merchant near his own hut, where his wives and + children, bidding him welcome, each demand a present, however + small, which he accordingly gives. The ca&#231;ique then + gives notice to his scattered subjects, by means of his horn or + trumpet, that a merchant is arrived with whom they may trade. + They come accordingly and see the commodities, which are knives, + axes, combs, needles, thread, small mirrors, ribbons, and the + like. The best of all would be wine, were it not dangerous to + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page50" id="page50"></a>[pg + 50]</span> supply them with that article; as, when drunk, they + are very quarrelsome and apt to kill one another, and it would + not then be safe to be among them. When they have agreed on the + price, or barter rather, they carry away all the articles without + then making payment; so that the merchant delivers all his + commodities without knowing to whom, or even seeing any of his + debtors. When his business is concluded, and he proposes to go + away, the ca&#231;ique commands payment by again sounding his + horn, and then every man honestly brings to the merchant the + cattle he owes for the goods received; and, as these consist of + mules, goats, oxen, and cows, the ca&#231;ique commands a + sufficient number of men to conduct them to the Spanish + frontiers.</p> + + <p>The far greater number of bullocks and cows that are + slaughtered and consumed every year in Chili, comes from the + plains of Paraguay,<a id="footnotetag15" name= + "footnotetag15"></a><a href="#footnote15"><sup>2</sup></a> which + are in a manner covered by them. The Puelches bring them through + the plain of <i>Tapa-papa</i>, inhabited by the + <i>Pteheingues</i>,<a id="footnotetag16" name= + "footnotetag16"></a><a href="#footnote16"><sup>3</sup></a> or + unconquered Indians, this being the best pass for crossing the + mountains, as being divided into two hills of less difficult + access than the others, which are almost impassable for mules. + There is another pass, about eighty leagues from Conception, at + the volcano of <i>Silla Velluda</i>, which now and then casts out + fire, and sometimes with so great a noise as to be heard even at + that city. In that way the journey is much shortened, and they + can go to Buenos Ayres in six weeks. By these communications they + generally bring all the beeves and goats,<a id="footnotetag17" + name="footnotetag17"></a><a href="#footnote17"><sup>4</sup></a> + which are slaughtered in Chili by thousands for their tallow and + lard. This last consists of the marrow of the bones, which serves + throughout all South America instead of butter and oil, for + making sauces. The flesh is either dried in the sun, or by means + of smoke, to preserve it for use, instead of salt as used in + Europe. These slaughters also afford great quantities of hides, + especially goat-skins, which they dress like Morocco leather, by + them called cordovanes, and is sent into Peru for making shoes, + or other uses.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page51" id= + "page51"></a>[pg 51]</span> + + <p>Besides the trade of hides, tallow, and dried meat, the + inhabitants of Conception send every year eight or ten ships of + forty or fifty tons to Calao laden with corn; besides supplying + meal and biscuit to the French ships, which take in provisions + there in order to proceed to Peru, and for their voyage back to + France. All this were quite inconsiderable for so fine a country, + were it better peopled; since the land is so extraordinarily + fertile, were it well cultivated, that they only scratch it for + the most part, by means of a plough made of a crooked stick, and + drawn by two oxen; and, though the seed be scarcely covered, it + produces seldom less than an hundred fold. Neither are they at + any more pains in procuring their vines, in order to make good + wine. Besides which, as they have not the art to glaze their jars + in which the wine is secured, to make them hold in, they are + under the necessity of pitching them. And this, together with the + goat-skin bags in which it is carried from the estancias, gives + it a bitter taste like treacle, and a flavour to which it is hard + for strangers to accustom themselves. The grasses also are + allowed to grow without any attention or industry being employed + in grafting. Apples and pears grow naturally in the woods, and in + such abundance as it is hard to comprehend how they could have so + multiplied since the conquest, as they affirm there were none in + the country before.</p> + + <p>The mines of <i>Quilogoya</i> and <i>Quilacura</i> are within + four leagues of this port, and afford vast quantities of gold. At + the <i>Estancia del Re</i>, or king's farm, which is at no great + distance, there is by far the most plentiful <i>lavaders</i>, or + washing-place for gold in all Chili, where sometimes they find + lumps of pure gold of prodigious size. The mountains of the + Cordelieras are reported to contain a continued chain of mines + for many hundred miles, which certainly is highly probable, as + hardly any of these mountains have hitherto been opened without + vast quantities of metal being found in them, especially fine + copper, of which all the artillery in the Spanish West Indies is + constructed, at least all that are used in the countries on the + South Seas.</p> + + <p>The most considerable port in Chili is Valparaiso, which is + esteemed one of the best harbours on the whole coast of the South + Sea. It lies on a river fifteen leagues below St Jago, the + capital of Chili.<a id="footnotetag18" name= + "footnotetag18"></a><a href="#footnote18"><sup>5</sup></a> To + this port all the riches of <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page52" id="page52"></a>[pg 52]</span> the mines on every side + are brought, particularly from those of <i>Tiltil</i>, which are + immensely rich, and are situated between St Jago and Valparaiso. + The gold here is found in a very hard stone, some of which + sparkles and betrays the inclosed treasure to the eye; but most + of it does not shew the smallest sign of gold, appearing merely a + hard harsh stone of various colours, some white, some red, some + black. This ore, after being broken in pieces, is grinded or + stamped in a mill by the help of water, into a gross powder, with + which quicksilver is afterwards mixed. To this mixture a brisk + stream of water is let in, which reduces the earthy matters to a + kind of mud, which is carried off by the current, the amalgam of + gold and quicksilver remaining at the bottom, in consequence of + its weight. This amalgam is then put into a linen bag, and + pressed very hard, by which the greatest part of the mercury is + strained off, and the remainder is evaporated off by the force of + fire, leaving the gold in a little wedge or mass, shaped like a + pine-apple, whence it is called a <i>pinna</i>. This is + afterwards melted and cast in a mould, to know its exact weight, + and to ascertain the proportion of silver that is mixed with the + gold, no farther process of refining being done here. The + weightiness of the gold, and the facility with which it forms an + amalgam with the mercury, occasions it easily to part from the + dross or earthy matters of the stone or matrix. This is a great + advantage to the gold-miners, as they every day know what they + get; but the silver-miners often do not know how much they get + till two months after, owing to the tediousness of their + operation, as formerly described.</p> + + <p>According to the nature of these gold-mines, and the + comparative richness of the veins, every <i>caxon</i>, or chest + of fifty quintals, yields four, five, or six ounces of gold. When + it only yields two ounces, the miner does not cover his charges, + which often happens; but he sometimes receives ample amends, when + he meets with good veins; and the gold-mines are those which + produce metals the most unequally. In following a vein, it + frequently widens, then becomes narrower, and then seems to + disappear, all within a small space of ground; and this sport of + nature makes the miners live in continual hopes of finding what + they call a <i>purse</i>, being the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page53" id="page53"></a>[pg 53]</span> + expanded end of a vein, which is sometimes so rich as to make a + man's fortune at once; yet this same inequality sometimes ruins + them, which is the reason that it is more rare to see a + gold-miner rich than a silver-miner, or even one in any other + metal, although there be less expence in extracting gold from the + mineral than any other metal. For this reason also the + gold-miners have the particular privilege that they cannot be + sued to execution in civil actions. Gold only pays a twentieth + part to the king, which duty is called <i>Covo</i>, from the name + of a private individual at whose instance the duty was thus + reduced, gold having formerly paid a fifth, as silver still + does.</p> + + <p>On the descent of this mountain of <i>Tiltil</i>, there runs, + during the rainy season, a brisk stream of water, which passes + through among the gold-ore, and washes away abundance of that + rich metal, as it ripens<a id="footnotetag19" name= + "footnotetag19"></a><a href="#footnote19"><sup>6</sup></a> and + breaks from its bed. On this account, this stream is accounted + one of the richest lavaderos in all Chili for four months of + every year; and well it may, as there are sometimes found in it + pellets of gold of an ounce weight. At <i>Palma</i>, about four + leagues from Valparaiso, there is another rich lavadero; and + every where throughout the country, the fall of a brook or + rivulet is accompanied by more or less of these golden showers, + the richest of which fall into the laps of the jesuits, who farm + or purchase abundance of mines and lavaderos, which are wrought + for their benefit by their servants. The soil in the + neighbourhood of Valparaiso is exceedingly rich and fertile, so + that forty ships go from thence yearly to Calao, laden with corn; + yet that commodity still remains so cheap at this place, where + money is so abundant, that an English bushel of wheat may be + bought for less than three shillings. It would be still cheaper, + could all the country be cultivated; but as it has constant dry + weather for eight months endurance, cultivation is only possible + where they have brooks or little rills in the vales coming from + the mountains, which can be applied for irrigating or watering + the cultivated land.</p> + + <p>There is a great trade carried on to all parts of Chili from + the Atlantic ocean, by way of Buenos Ayres, whence the Chilese + receive some European goods, together with large <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page54" id="page54"></a>[pg 54]</span> sums in + silver, in return for their commodities. This is perhaps the + largest route of Indian commerce in the world, as the road from + Buenos Ayres to Potosi is 1500 miles; and though the distance + from Valparaiso be not above 160 miles more,<a id="footnotetag20" + name="footnotetag20"></a><a href="#footnote20"><sup>7</sup></a> + yet it is attended with much greater difficulty, as the vast + chain of mountains called the Cordelieras of the Andes has to be + passed, which can only be done during the three first months of + the year, the passes being impracticable at all other times. At + that season the merchants come from Mendoza, an inland town about + 300 leagues from Buenos Ayres, and travel through the mountains + to St Jago. The passage of the mountains usually takes up six or + seven days, though only about sixty leagues, and the travellers + have not only to carry their own provisions with them, but also + the provender of their mules, as the whole of that part of the + road is a continued series of rocks and precipices, and all the + country round so barren and so exposed to snows in winter, that + it is utterly uninhabitable. The remainder of the journey, from + St Jago to the mines, and from thence to Valparaiso, is both safe + and pleasant; and in this the merchants have nothing to fear, + except staying too long, and losing their passage home through + the mountains for that season, in which case they would have to + remain in Chili at least nine months longer than they + intended.</p> + + <p>On the whole, though a very great part of the enormous extent + of the Spanish dominions in South America be absolutely desert, + and the people in some of the inhabited parts do not acquire + large fortunes, yet the Spanish settlers in Chili certainly + procure immense riches yearly, as the country is but thinly + inhabited, and all the gold drawn from the mines and lavadores + must be divided among them. It is evident, however, that the + greater part of the inhabitants do not abound in wealth. Those + among them who deal in cattle, corn, and the other productions of + the country, only acquire moderate fortunes; and those who are + concerned in the mines are frequently ruined by launching out + into unsuccessful speculations, and by expensive living. Those + who are easy in their circumstances, and retire to the city of St + Jago, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page55" id="page55"></a>[pg + 55]</span> Jago, live in such a manner as sufficiently + demonstrates the riches of Chili; as all their utensils, even + those of the most ordinary sort, are of pure gold, and it is + believed that the wealth of that city cannot fall short of twenty + millions.<a id="footnotetag21" name="footnotetag21"></a><a href= + "#footnote21"><sup>8</sup></a> Add to this, the gold-mines are + continually increasing, and it is only for want of hands that + they are not wrought to infinitely more advantage; for those + already discovered and now neglected, would be sufficient to + employ 40,000 men. It may also be observed, that the frauds + practised against the royal revenue are increasing daily, and, as + the riches of the Spanish West Indies are measured by the amount + of the royal revenue, this must make them appear poorer than they + are in reality. We have one instance of this in the mines of + Potosi, which are said to produce less silver than they did + formerly; yet, on a computation for fifty years, the annual + revenue to the king has amounted, on the average, to 220,000 + <i>pesos</i>, of thirteen rials and a quarter yearly, which shews + that the annual produce of these mines, so far as it has paid the + royal duty, amounts nearly to two million pieces of eight, or + dollars, and it may be confidently asserted that the royal + treasury does not receive above half of what is due: wherefore, + from this example, the rest may be judged of.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote14" name="footnote14"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag14">(return)</a> + + <p>Allowing <i>eight</i> persons of all ages and both sexes to + <i>one</i> fit to bear arms, this would give to Chili, in 1720, + a population of 160,000 whites, and 480,000 of colour, or + 640,000 in all.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote15" name="footnote15"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag15">(return)</a> + + <p>Paraguay is here used in far too extensive a sense, as + comprising the whole level country to the east of the Andes: + The plains of Cuyo are those alluded to in the text.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote16" name="footnote16"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag16">(return)</a> + + <p>The Pehneuches are probably here meant, who dwell on the + west side of the Andes, between the latitudes of 33° + and 36° S. The Puelches on the same side of the Andes, + from 36° to 40°.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote17" name="footnote17"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag17">(return)</a> + + <p>Perhaps, instead of the goats in the text, <i>vicunnas</i> + ought to be understood.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote18" name="footnote18"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag18">(return)</a> + + <p>This is a material error. Valparaiso is on no river, and + lies forty English miles north from the river Maypo, on one of + the upper branches of which, the Mapocho, St Jago is + situated.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote19" name="footnote19"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag19">(return)</a> + + <p>That is, as the matrix or rock in which it is contained, + moulders and decays by the influences of the weather and of + this stream; for the notion of ores ripening is a mere dream or + fancy.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote20" name="footnote20"></a><b>Footnote 7:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag20">(return)</a> + + <p>In these estimates, Betagh has been very unfortunate, as the + direct distance from Buenos Ayres to Potosi does not exceed + 1100 miles, and the distance from Valparaiso, also in a + straight line, is hardly 800 miles.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote21" name="footnote21"></a><b>Footnote 8:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag21">(return)</a> + + <p>The coin or denomination is not specified: If dollars, at + 4<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i>, this would amount to four millions and a + half sterling.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h4>§ 7. <i>Some Account of the French Interlopers in + Chili.</i></h4> + + <p>As the policy of Spain chiefly consists in endeavouring, by + all possible means, to prevent the riches of these extensive + dominions from passing into other hands, so the knowledge + possessed by other nations of the great wealth of these + countries, and of the great demand for European manufactures + among their inhabitants, has excited almost every nation in + Europe to devise every possible contrivance for coming in for a + share in these riches, and this with such effect, that it is even + questionable whether any considerable portion of the riches of + the new world centres among the inhabitants of Old Spain. This + may be judged of from the following considerations: Even the + trade carried on from Spain to the new world is of much greater + importance to foreigners than to the Spaniards themselves. For as + Spain has few commodities <span class="pagenum"><a name="page56" + id="page56"></a>[pg 56]</span> of its own, and carries on + scarcely any manufactures, the Spanish merchants at Cadiz have to + make up their cargoes by means of purchases from other countries; + or rather the Cadiz merchants are mere factors for the merchants + of England, France, and Holland, whose goods they send to + America, and pay them by the returns made in the Plate fleets. + Spain also is a country very ill provided with some of the + necessaries of life, and most of the conveniences; so that + prodigious sums of the money brought from America have to be + yearly exported for the purchase of these.</p> + + <p>Besides such drawbacks as the above, to which the Spaniards + willingly submit, there are many others which they are forced to + endure: For instance, all the negroes they employ in their + plantations, in which every kind of labour is performed by them, + are purchased from foreigners, particularly the English and + Dutch, at a very large annual expence; and, under pretence of + furnishing them with negroes, a clandestine trade is carried on + every year, along the whole coasts of their possessions on the + Atlantic. In the South Sea, however, they were tolerably free + from every thing except the depredations of pirates, till the + general war on account of the succession to the crown of Spain, + which created a new kind of contraband trade, unknown in former + times, of which I now propose to give some account.</p> + + <p>The <i>French interlopers</i> carried vast quantities of goods + directly from Europe into the South Seas, which till then had + hardly ever been attempted by any European nation. This was + always viewed with an evil eye by the court of Spain, as + repugnant to the interests of Spain, and diametrically opposite + to the maxims of her government; but there were many + circumstances at that time which rendered this a kind of + necessary evil, and obliged therefore the people of Old Spain to + submit to it. As for the Creoles, they had European goods and at + a cheaper rate, and it did not give them much concern who it was + that received their money. The town of St Malo has always been + noted for privateers, and greatly annoyed the trade of the + English and Dutch during the whole reign of King William, and + part of that of Queen Anne; and though some allege that money + procured by privateering never prospers, yet I may safely affirm + that the people of St Malo are as rich and flourishing as any in + all France. Privateering has thriven so well among them, that all + their South Sea trade has arisen from thence; and, during the + last war, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page57" id= + "page57"></a>[pg 57]</span> they were so rich and generous, that + they made several free gifts to Louis XIV.; and so dexterous were + they, that though our Admiralty always kept a stout squadron in + the Atlantic, we were never able to capture one of their + South-Sea traders. The reason of this was, that they always kept + their ships extremely clean, having ports to careen at of which + we knew not. In 1709, when I belonged to her majesty's ship the + Loo, being one of the convoy that year to Newfoundland, we saw + and chased upon that coast a ship of fifty guns, which we soon + perceived to be French-built; but she crowded sail and soon left + us. She had just careened at Placentia, and we wondered much to + find such a ship in that part of the world. We afterwards learnt, + from some French prisoners, that she was a French ship bound to + St Malo, having two or three millions of dollars on board, and + was then so trim that she trusted to her heels, and valued + nobody. They went thus far to the north and west on purpose to + have the advantage of a westerly wind, which seldom failed of + sending them into soundings at one spirt, if not quite home. + Since Placentia has been yielded to Great Britain, they now use + St Catherine and Islagrande, on the coast of Brasil, and + Martinico in the West Indies.</p> + + <p>This trade succeeded so well, that all the merchants of St + Malo engaged in it, sending every year to the number of twenty + sail of ships. In 1721, I saw eleven sail of these together at + one time on the coast of Chili, among which were several of fifty + guns, and one called the <i>Fleur-de-luce</i>, which could mount + seventy, formerly a man-of-war. As this trade was contrary to the + <i>Assiento</i> treaty between Great Britain and Spain, memorials + were frequently presented against it at Madrid by the court of + London; and the king of Spain, willing to fulfil his engagements + to the king of England, resolved to destroy this contraband + French trade. As there was no other way to accomplish this but by + sending a squadron of men-of-war into the South Sea, and as few + of the Spaniards were acquainted with the navigation of Cape + Horn, or could bear the extreme rigour of the climate, the court + of Spain was obliged to use foreigners on this expedition, and + the four ships sent oat were both manned and commanded by + Frenchmen. The squadron consisted of the <i>Gloucester</i>, of 50 + guns, and 400 men, the <i>Ruby</i>, of 50 guns, and 330 men, both + of these formerly English ships of war, the <i>Leon Franco</i>, + of 60 guns, and 450 men, and a frigate of <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page58" id="page58"></a>[pg 58]</span> 40 + guns, and 200 men. Monsieur <i>Martinet</i>, a French officer, + was commodore of this squadron, and commanded the + <i>Pembroke</i>,<a id="footnotetag22" name= + "footnotetag22"></a><a href="#footnote22"><sup>1</sup></a> and + Monsieur <i>La Jonquiere</i> the Ruby. The French conducted the + navigation round the cape very well, though in the middle of + winter; but the last ship of the four, which was manned with + Spaniards, could not weather Cape Horn, and was forced back to + the Rio Plata, where she was cast away. As the Spaniards have + little or no trade into any of the cold climates, and are unused + to hard work, it is not to be wondered that they failed on this + occasion, especially considering the improper season of the year. + The Biscaneers, indeed, are robust enough fellows; and had the + Leon Franco been manned with them, she had certainly doubled the + cape along with the other three ships; but the Spaniards in + general, since acquiring their possessions in America, have + become so delicate and indolent, that it would be difficult to + find an entire ship's company capable to perform that + navigation.</p> + + <p>The vast advantage of the trade of Chili by way of Cape Horn, + is so obvious, that his catholic majesty is obliged by treaty to + shut out all the European nations from it, as well as the + English, although his own subjects make nothing of it, as it very + rarely happens that a Spanish ship ventures to go round Cape + Horn. Owing to this, all European goods sell enormously dear in + Chili and Peru; insomuch, that I have been told at Lima, that + they are often at 400 per cent. profit, and it may be fairly + asserted, that the goods carried from France by Cape Horn are in + themselves 50 per cent. better than those sent in the Cadiz + <i>flota</i> to Carthagena and Vera Cruz, because the former are + delivered in six months, fresh and undamaged, while the latter + are generally eighteen months before they reach Chili. In the + course of this trade, the French sold their goods, furnished + themselves with provisions, and got home again, all within twelve + or fourteen months.</p> + + <p>When Martinet arrived on the coast of Chili in 1717, furnished + with a commission from the king of Spain to take or destroy all + the ships of his countrymen found trading in the South Sea, he + soon had sufficient employment for his squadron and of fourteen + ships belonging to St Malo, then on <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page59" id="page59"></a>[pg 59]</span> the + coast, only one escaped him, which lay hid in a landlocked creek + unseen till he had gone to leeward. Although in this he executed + the orders of his catholic majesty, and did a material benefit to + the British South Sea company, yet he almost ruined the trading + part of the Creole Spaniards, as hindering the circulation of + money and spoiling business, so that they could not bear the + sight of the French men-of-war, though they liked the French + merchant ships very much. On the other hand, imagining that they + had done essential service to the Spaniards, the French expected + to have received at least civil treatment in return, during their + stay in these seas. As soon, however, as Martinet brought his + prizes into Calao, and the Frenchmen had received their shares of + the prize-money, forgetting the ancient antipathy of the + Spaniards for the French, they gave themselves extravagant airs + on shore, by dancing and drinking, which still more incensed the + creolians against them, who called them cavachos and renegados, + for falling foul of their own countrymen. From one thing to + another, their mutual quarrels grew so high, that the Frenchmen + were obliged to go about Lima and Calao in strong armed parties, + the better to avoid outrages and affronts. At last, a young + gentleman, who was ensign of the Ruby, and nephew to Captain La + Jonquiere, was shot from a window, and the murderer took refuge + in the great church of Calao. Martinet and La Jonquiere + petitioned the viceroy to have the murderer delivered up to + justice: But the viceroy, who was at the same time archbishop, + would on no account consent to violate the privileges of the + church. On this refusal, they called all their men on board by + beat of drum, and laid the broadsides of their three ships to + bear on the town of Calao, threatening to demolish the town and + fortifications, unless the assassin were delivered up or + executed. All this blustering, however, could not prevail upon + the viceroy to give them any satisfaction, though they had + several other men killed, besides that gentleman.</p> + + <p>At length, unwilling to proceed to extremities, and no longer + able to endure the place where his nephew had been murdered, La + Jonquiere obtained leave of his commodore to make the best of his + way home. About this time, many <i>padros</i> and many rich + passengers were assembled at Conception in Chili, intending to + take their passage to Europe in the French squadron, knowing that + all ships bound for Cape <span class="pagenum"><a name="page60" + id="page60"></a>[pg 60]</span> Horn must touch at Conception, or + some places thereabout, for provisions. La Jonquiere, having thus + the start of his commodore, had all the advantage to himself of + so many good passengers in his ship; for, as the king of Spain + had no officer at Conception to register the money shipped at + that place, these passengers and missionaries put astonishing + sums of money on board the Ruby. They were thereby spared the + trouble of a voyage to Panama or Acapulco, and travelling thence + for Portobello or Vera Cruz, where they must have had their + coffers visited, to see if the <i>indulto</i> of his majesty were + fairly accounted for. They therefore saved every shilling of that + <i>indulto</i>, as the Ruby touched first in France, where no + cognizance whatever was taken of this affair. They also got clear + of the other moiety payable in Spain, as they landed all their + money in France.</p> + + <p>Besides these rich passengers and their money, the Ruby had + also on board a considerable sum arising to his catholic majesty + from the confiscation of the thirteen captured interlopers, all + of which, as I was informed, amounted to four millions of dollars + in that ship. What a fine booty we missed therefore by the + obstinacy of Shelvocke! For, when this ship, the Ruby, found us + at the island of St Catharine, her company was so sickly that she + had not above sixty sound men out of four hundred; so that La + Jonquiere was actually afraid of us, and would not send his boat + to the watering-place, where we kept guard, and our coopers and + sail-makers were at work, till he had first obtained leave of our + captain; neither is this strange, for he knew we had a consort, + and was in Spain all the time he staid there, lest the Success + should have joined us.</p> + + <p>After Commodore Martinet had cleared the coast of Chili and + Peru of his countrymen, he sent his brother-in-law, Monsieur de + Grange, express with the news to Madrid, who went by way of + Panama, Portobello, Jamaica, and London. On delivering his + message, the king of Spain asked what he could do for him, when + he humbly requested his majesty would give him the command of a + ship, and send him again round Cape Horn into the South Sea. He + accordingly got the Zelerin, of fifty guns. He came first to + <i>Calais</i>,<a id="footnotetag23" name= + "footnotetag23"></a><a href="#footnote23"><sup>2</sup></a> where + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page61" id="page61"></a>[pg + 61]</span> the ship was getting ready, and was surprised to meet + with a cold reception from the French merchants and other + gentlemen of his acquaintance residing there; for, as there were + merchants of various nations interested in the ships taken and + confiscated in the South Sea, they universally considered him and + all the French in that squadron as false brethren, for serving + the crown of Spain to the prejudice of their own countrymen. + Thus, while he expected to have had a valuable cargo consigned to + his care, no man would ship the value of a dollar with him. + Captain Fitzgerald, who was then at <i>Cales</i>, made him a + considerable offer for the privilege of going out as his second + officer, with liberty to take out what goods he might be able to + procure, in his own name. As de Grange was not a little + embarrassed, he accepted this offer, and procured a commission + for Fitzgerald as second captain. They accordingly manned the + Zelerin chiefly with French seamen, and some English, and got + very well round Cape Horn. At this time our two privateers, the + Success and Speedwell, were known to be in the South Seas, and + the Zelerin was one of the ships commissioned by the viceroy of + Peru to cruize for us. Fitzgerald sold all his goods to great + advantage at Lima, where he continued to reside; while de Grange + served as captain under Admiral Don Pedro Miranda, who took + Hately and me prisoners.</p> + + <p>Though great sufferers by so many confiscations, the merchants + of St Malo were not entirely discouraged; for, in the year 1720, + we found the Solomon of St Malo, of 40 guns, and 150 men, at + <i>Ylo</i>, on the coast of Chili, with several Spanish barks at + her stern. In the course of six weeks, she sold all her cargo, + got in a supply of provisions, and left the coast without + interruption, as by this time Martinet's squadron had left the + coast. Encouraged by the success of the Solomon, the merchants of + St Malo fitted out fourteen sail together, all of which arrived + in the South Sea in the beginning of the year 1721. Three of the + commanders of these ships, being well acquainted with the + creolians, quickly sold their cargoes and returned home. About + this time, the people of Lima judged that our privateers were + gone off the coast, or at least would not commit any more + hostilities, because of the truce between the two crowns. + Wherefore, the three Spanish men-of-war that had been fitted out + to cruize against us, were ordered against these fresh + interlopers. I was on board the Flying-fish, an advice-boat that + accompanied the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page62" id= + "page62"></a>[pg 62]</span> men-of-war, when they came up with + eleven sail of the St Malo ships, which were then altogether on + the coast of Chili, and, instead of firing on them, the Spaniards + joined them as friends. At first, expecting to have been + attacked, the French ships drew up in a line, as if daring the + ships of war. This seemed to me somewhat strange, that three such + ships, purposely fitted out for this cruize, should decline doing + their duty on their own coasts; for, had they proved too weak, + they had ports of their own to retire to, under their lee. But + the ships of war contented themselves with watching the motions + of the interlopers, keeping them always in sight; and when any of + the French ships drew near the shore, the Spaniards always sent a + pinnace or long-boat along with her, carrying the Spanish flag, + the sight of which effectually deterred the creolians from + trading with the French. In this manner they contrived to prevent + all these ships from disposing of their goods, except when they + were met with at sea by chance, and sold some of their + commodities clandestinely. At length, completely tired out by + this close superintendence, the French got leave to take in + provisions, and went home, at least half of their goods remaining + unsold. Notwithstanding these losses and disappointments, and + severe edicts issued against this trade in France, the merchants + of St Malo still persist to carry it on, though privately, nor is + it probable they will ever leave off so lucrative a commerce, + unless prevented by the strong arm of power, or supplanted by + some other nation.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote22" name="footnote22"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag22">(return)</a> + + <p>No such name occurs, in enumerating the squadron immediately + beforeE.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote23" name="footnote23"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag23">(return)</a> + + <p>This, certainly, is a mistake for Cadiz, often named Cales + by English seamen; and, in fact, only a few lines lower down, + the place is actually named Cales.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h4>§ 8. Return of Betagh to England.</h4> + + <p>I now return to my own affairs, and the manner of my return to + England from Peru. I have already acknowledged the kind reception + I met with from the admiral of the South Seas, Don Pedro Miranda, + and the reasons of his treating us so civilly. I think it barely + justice to mention the several favours I received, during the + eleven months that I continued at Lima, particularly from Don + Juan Baptista Palacio, a native of Biscay, a knight of the order + of St Jago, who came weekly to the prison while we were there, + and distributed money to us all, in proportion to our several + ranks. Captain Nicholas Fitzgerald procured my enlargement, by + becoming security for me; and he afterwards <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page63" id="page63"></a>[pg 63]</span> + supplied me with money and necessaries, from that time till my + departure; and procured for me and twenty more, a passage to + Cadiz, in a Spanish advice-boat called the Flying-fish, of which + our surgeon's mate, Mr Pressick, acted as surgeon, receiving + wages, as did the rest of our men, being released from prison + expressly to assist in navigating that vessel home to Spain. For + my own part, being well treated, I did not think proper to eat + the bread of idleness, but kept my watches as well as the other + officers. And pray, what is the harm of all this? Though + Shelvocke had the stupidity to call it treason; it must surely + appear a very malicious, as well as an ignorant charge, after a + man has been driven among the enemy, to call him a traitor + because he has been kindly used, and for accepting his passage + back again; and, because I was not murdered in Peru, I ought to + be executed at home. This is Shelvocke's great Christian charity + and good conscience!<a id="footnotetag24" name= + "footnotetag24"></a><a href="#footnote24"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>On my arrival at Cadiz, captain John Evers of the Britannia + kindly gave me my passage to London, and entertained me at his + own table. On my return to London, and representing the hardships + I had undergone, nine honourable persons made me a present of ten + guineas each; which afforded me the satisfaction of seeing, that + such as were the best judges, had a proper idea of the miseries I + had suffered, and approved the manner in which I had behaved, the + only consolation I could receive in the circumstances in which I + was left by that unfortunate voyage. The fair account I have + given of facts, and the detail of my proceedings in the Spanish + West Indies, together with the account of what I observed worthy + of notice during my stay in these parts, will acquit me, I hope, + in the opinion of every candid and impartial person, from the + aspersions thrown upon me by Shelvocke, in the account he has + published of his voyage.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote24" name="footnote24"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag24">(return)</a> + + <p>After all, had the Flying-fish been captured by a British + cruizer, Betagh would have run great risk of being found guilty + of treason for <i>keeping his watches</i>.E.</p> + </blockquote> + <hr /> + + <h4><i>Note.</i></h4> + + <p>"Betagh has fully shewn, that the navigation round Cape Horn + is no such dangerous or wonderful voyage. If twenty ships from St + Malo could perform it in one year, and not a single vessel either + shipwrecked or forced to put back, what <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page64" id="page64"></a>[pg 64]</span> shall + hinder an English ship or an English fleet from doing the same? + We see from the foregoing account, with how much ease the French + carried on a prodigious trade to the South Seas, at a time when + the appearance of an English ship there was esteemed a prodigy. + We certainly can send our frigates there, as well as the French + can their ships from St Malo; and it might be well worth the + while of our merchants to send out ships to the coasts of Chili + and Peru, laden with proper goods for that + country."<i>Harris.</i></p> + + <p>In the present day, this trade to the coasts of Chili and Peru + has been resumed by the citizens of the United States; but the + subjects of Britain are debarred from even attempting to take a + share, because within the exclusive limits of the East India + Company; although their ships never come nearer to the western + coast of America than Canton in China, at the enormous distance + of 174 degrees of longitude, and 59 degrees of latitude, counting + from Canton in China to Conception in Peru, or upwards of + <i>twelve thousand English miles</i>. It is certainly at least + extremely desirable, that a trade of such promise should not + remain any longer prohibited, merely to satisfy a punctilio, + without the most distant shadow of benefit to the India Company, + or to the nonentity denominated the South-sea + Company.<i>Ed.</i></p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page65" id= + "page65"></a>[pg 65]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XIII.</h2> + + <h2>VOYAGE ROUND THE WORLD, BY COMMODORE ROGGEWEIN, is + 1721-1723.<a id="footnotetag25" name="footnotetag25"></a><a href= + "#footnote25"><sup>1</sup></a></h2> + + <p> </p> + + <h3>INTRODUCTION.</h3> + + <p>There was, perhaps, no country in the world where commerce was + more profitable, or held more honourable, than in Holland, or + where more respect and attention was shewn to it by the + government. As the republic chiefly subsisted by trade, every + thing relating to it was considered as an affair of a public + nature, in which the welfare of the state was concerned, and + highly deserving therefore of the strictest and readiest + attention. The great companies in Holland, as in other countries, + were considered as injurious to trade in some lights, yet + necessary to its welfare in others. The <i>West India Company</i> + of that country, originally erected in 1621, held, by an + exclusive charter, the commerce of the coast of Africa, from the + tropic of Cancer to the Cape of Good Hope, and that of America, + from the southern point of Newfoundland in the N.E. all along the + eastern coast to the Straits of Magellan or Le Maire, and thence + northwards again along the western coast, to the supposed Straits + of Anian, thus including the entire coasts of the Atlantic and + Pacific oceans. The directors of this company consisted of + seventy-two persons, divided into five chambers, of whom eighteen + were chosen to administer the affairs of the Company, together + with a nineteenth person, nominated by the States-General.</p> + + <p>The affairs of this Company were once in so very flourishing a + condition, that it was considered as even superior to their East + India Company. This prosperity was chiefly owing, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page66" id="page66"></a>[pg 66]</span> to the + happy success of their affairs at sea; as their admiral, Peter + Haines, in the 1629, captured the Spanish plate fleet, laden with + immense riches. They at one time made themselves masters of the + greatest part of Brazil; and were so considerable that the great + Count Maurice of Nassau did not think it beneath him to accept a + commission from this Company as Governor-General of Brazil; which + country, however, after it had cost them immense sums to defend, + they at length lost. The term of their charter, originally + limited to twenty-four years, expired in 1647, and was then + renewed for other twenty-five years. During this second period, + their affairs became so perplexed, so that the Company was + dissolved towards the close of that term, with its own + consent.</p> + + <p>In 1674, a new company was erected, by letters patent from the + States-General, with nearly the same powers and privileges, which + has subsisted ever since with great reputation.<a id= + "footnotetag26" name="footnotetag26"></a><a href= + "#footnote26"><sup>2</sup></a> The capital of this new company + consisted of six millions of florins, which are equal to + 545,454<i>l.</i> 10<i>s.</i> 10<i>d.</i> 10-11ths sterling. And + the limits of their authority are the western coast of Africa and + both coasts of America, all the establishments of the Dutch in + these countries being under their authority, so that any one who + proposes a new scheme of commerce in those parts, must + necessarily apply himself to that company. Under these + circumstances, a Mr Roggewein, a person of parts and enterprize, + formed a project for the discovery of the vast continent and + numerous islands, supposed to be in the southern part of the + globe, under the name of <i>Terra Australis Incognita</i>, of + which the world had hitherto only very imperfect notices from + others; which project, with a plan for carrying the discovery + into execution, they presented to the Dutch <i>East</i> India + Company<a id="footnotetag27" name="footnotetag27"></a><a href= + "#footnote27"><sup>3</sup></a> in 1696, by which it was + favourably received, and he was assured of receiving all the + assistance and support he could desire or expect, as soon as the + affairs of the Company would permit. But the disturbances which + soon afterwards followed put a stop to the good intentions of the + Company; and Mr Roggewein died before any thing could be done. Mr + Roggewein was a gentleman <span class="pagenum"><a name="page67" + id="page67"></a>[pg 67]</span> of the province of Zealand, who + had addicted himself from his youth to mathematical studies, and + we have reason to suppose recommended his projected discovery on + his death-bed to his son.</p> + + <p>After the death of his father, the younger Roggewein applied + to his studies with much vigour, and qualified himself for the + office of counsellor in the court of justice at Batavia, where he + resided for many years. After his return from Java, where he had + acquired a handsome fortune, he resolved upon carrying his + father's projected discovery into execution; and, in the year + 1721, presented a memorial to the West India Company, narrating + the proposal of his father for discovering the southern continent + and islands, which they had formerly been pleased to approve of, + and which he was now ready to attempt. The Company received this + memorial with readiness; and, as its affairs were now in better + order, acquainted Mr Roggewein, that it would give immediate + orders for equipping such a squadron as might be necessary for + carrying his design into effect. The squadron accordingly fitted + out on this occasion consisted of three ships: The Eagle of 36 + guns and 111 men, commanded by Captain Job Coster, and in which + Mr Roggewein embarked as Commodore; the Tienhoven of 28 guns and + 100 men, commanded by Captain James Bowman; and the African, a + galley armed with 14 guns, and carrying 60 men, commanded by + Captain Henry Bosenthal.</p> + + <p>It may be proper to acquaint the reader, that the subsequent + account of this voyage is derived from an original journal, which + never appeared before in our language, for which I was indebted + to the gentleman who commanded the land-forces on board the + Commodore, and whose name I am not at liberty to mention; neither + that of another gentleman who was engaged in the voyage, and from + whom I received considerable assistance. The nature of the + expedition is sufficient in itself to recommend it to the notice + of the curious; and the many remarkable particulars it contains, + especially respecting the state of the Dutch Company in the + Indies, renders it both a very entertaining and a most + instructive performance.</p> + + <p>Before proceeding to the narrative of this voyage, I hope to + be indulged in making a few remarks, which may contribute both to + amusement and information, and may clear up some points that + might otherwise appear obscure in the following <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page68" id="page68"></a>[pg 68]</span> voyage. + It is worth observing, that the Dutch West India Company had been + long in a declining condition; which, instead of dispiriting the + Directors, engaged them to turn their thoughts to every method + that could be devised for recovering their affairs. There is so + wide a difference between our English great chartered companies + and those [formerly] in Holland, that it may not be amiss to give + a concise account of the flourishing state of that Company, as it + may shew what great things may be managed by a board of + merchants, for such the Directors generally were.</p> + + <p>It appears, from the books of the Company, that, in the space + of thirteen years, from 1623 to 1636, the Company had fitted out + 800 ships, either for war or trade, and that the expence of + building, equipping, and seamen's wages had cost forty-five + millions of florins, or upwards of <i>four millions</i> sterling: + And, in the same space of time, the Company had taken from the + enemy 545 vessels, valued at <i>sixty millions</i> of florins, or + nearly <i>five and a half millions</i> sterling; besides to the + value of <i>thirty millions</i> at the least, or nearly <i>two + millions and a quarter</i> sterling, in spoils of various + denominations. The greatest of their exploits was the capture of + the Spanish <i>flota</i> at the Havannah, by their admiral Peter + Heyne; by which they gained seven millions of dollars in money, + or L. 2,625,000 sterling; besides ships, brass cannon, and other + military stores, to the value of above ten millions.<a id= + "footnotetag28" name="footnotetag28"></a><a href= + "#footnote28"><sup>4</sup></a> Such were the flourishing times of + the Company.</p> + + <p>The causes of their decay seem to have been principally the + following. <i>First</i>, their emulation of the East India + Company, which induced them to make the conquest of Brazil from + Portugal, the crown of which country had been usurped by their + arch enemy the king of Spain. This was achieved at a vast + expence, and Count Maurice of Nassau was appointed + governor-general, who conducted their affairs with great skill + and prudence. <i>Secondly</i>, owing to the desire of the Company + to conduct all things, and repining at the expence incurred by + that prince in the government of Brazil, was another cause of + their misfortunes: For the merchants, who had conducted their + affairs with great wisdom <span class="pagenum"><a name="page69" + id="page69"></a>[pg 69]</span> and capacity, while they confined + themselves to commerce and maritime war, shewed themselves only + indifferent statesmen, and soon lost all that Prince Maurice had + gained, and loaded the Company with so heavy a debt, as compelled + them in the end to consent to its dissolution.</p> + + <p>The new West India Company, warned by the example of its + predecessors, has kept more within bounds, and has certainly + managed its affairs with great prudence and economy. Having + formed a project in 1714, for uniting the East and West India + Companies into one,<a id="footnotetag29" name= + "footnotetag29"></a><a href="#footnote29"><sup>5</sup></a> and + the proposition, being rejected, the directors of the West India + Company very wisely turned their thoughts another way; and it is + not improbable, that the rejection of their proposal on this + occasion may have induced them to give encouragement to the + proposition of Roggewein: For, being disappointed in their aim of + coming in for a share in the commodities of the East Indies, they + were desirous of acquiring the same articles of trade by some + other means, expecting to have found these in the continent or + islands proposed to be discovered by Roggewein. This also + accounts for the extraordinary heat and violence of the Dutch + East India Company, against those who were engaged on the present + expedition, and is the true secret of the dispute so warmly + carried on by the two Companies, and so wisely decided by the + States-General. When the Dutch East India Company persecuted and + destroyed Le Maire for his voyage of discovery, under pretence of + interfering within their exclusive boundaries, the government did + not interfere, because at that time the power of the East India + Company was of the highest importance to the state: But, as the + government of Holland became better established, and especially + since a share in the public administration has been acquired by + such as are conversant in trade, the concerns of the East India + Company have been viewed in a new light. The first who explained + this matter clearly was that consummate statesman and true + patriot, John de Witte, whose words are most worthy the attention + of the reader.</p> + + <p>"When the East India Company had attained to a certain extent + of power and grandeur, its interests came not only <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page70" id="page70"></a>[pg 70]</span> to + clash with, but grew absolutely opposite to those of the country. + For, whereas the advantage of the nation consists in the increase + of manufactures, commerce, and freight of ships; the interests of + the Company are to promote the sale of foreign manufactures, and + that with the smallest extent of traffic and navigation that can + be contrived. Hence, if the East India Company can gain more by + importing Japan cloths, India quilts, carpets, and chintzes, than + by raw silk; or, if the Company, by creating an artificial + scarcity of nutmegs, mace, cloves, cinnamon, and other spices, + can raise their price so as to gain as much profit by the sale of + 100 tons, as it would otherwise gain by the sale of 1000 tons, we + are not to expect that it will import raw silks, or be at the + expence of transporting 1000 tons of spice; though the former + would assist and encourage our manufactures at home, and the + latter would increase our navigation.</p> + + <p>This chain of reasoning is so plain, and so evidently agrees + with the interests of all nations, as well as with those of + Holland, that it is impossible for any unprejudiced person not to + discern that all exclusive companies destroy, instead of + promoting, the commerce of the countries in which they are + established. The same great statesman already quoted observes, + "That the more any country extends its foreign conquests, the + more of its stock must necessarily be spent, for the preservation + and defence of these conquests: And consequently, by how much the + greater are its dominions, so much the less is that company able + to prosecute the trade, for the promotion of which it was + erected."<a id="footnotetag30" name="footnotetag30"></a><a href= + "#footnote30"><sup>6</sup></a><i>Harris.</i></p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote25" name="footnote25"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag25">(return)</a> + + <p>Harris, I. 256. Callender, III. 644.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote26" name="footnote26"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag26">(return)</a> + + <p>This refers to the year 1743, when Harris wrote: It is + hardly necessary to say, that Holland and its great commercial + companies are now merely matters of history.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote27" name="footnote27"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag27">(return)</a> + + <p>From what goes both before and after, this seems a mistake + for the <i>West</i> India Company.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote28" name="footnote28"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag28">(return)</a> + + <p>Harris does not say whether dollars or florins: If the + former, equal to L. 2,250,000 sterling at 4<i>s.</i> 6<i>d.</i> + the dollar; if the latter, a little above L. 900,000 sterling + at 11 florins to the pound sterling; both of these the old par + of exchange.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote29" name="footnote29"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag29">(return)</a> + + <p>A long, indistinct, and uninteresting account of this + project is here omitted, which Harris alleges might have + transferred the whole commerce of Europe to the Dutch, but for + which opinion he advances no substantial reasons, or rather + none at all.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote30" name="footnote30"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag30">(return)</a> + + <p>The remarks of Harris on this voyage are extended to a far + greater length than have been here adopted, and are many of + them loose and uninteresting; but some of those here inserted + have a strong reference to a most important subject now under + consideration of the legislature; and the notices respecting + the Dutch West India Companies are curious in themselves, as + well as upon a subject very little known in this country.</p> + + <p>The subject of this voyage round the world is principally + exhausted in the <i>seven</i> first sections; all those + subsequent being chiefly a detail of the Indian settlements of + the Dutch East India Company, as it was in the year 1722, + almost a century ago. These certainly might have been omitted + on the present occasion, without injury to the present article, + as a <i>circumnavigation</i>: But, as conveying a considerable + mass of information, respecting the <i>Dutch possessions in + India</i>, now all belonging to Britain, and respecting which + hardly any thing has been published in the English language, it + has been deemed indispensable to preserve them.E.</p> + </blockquote><span class="pagenum"><a name="page71" id= + "page71"></a>[pg 71]</span> + + <h3>SECTION I.</h3> + + <h4><i>Narrative of the Voyage from Holland to the Coast of + Brazil.</i><a id="footnotetag31" name= + "footnotetag31"></a><a href="#footnote31"><sup>1</sup></a></h4> + + <p>The small squadron of three ships, already enumerated, sailed + from Amsterdam on the 16th July, 1721, and arrived at the Texel + in thirty-six hours, where they were provided with every thing + requisite for so long a voyage. All things being in readiness, + they sailed with a fair wind on the 21st August; but, as the wind + changed next day, they were three days in beating to windward + through the British channel, after which they continued their + course to the S.W. for the coast of Barbary, but were opposed by + a heavy storm which did them considerable damage. To this a dead + calm succeeded, during which the water ran mountains high, owing + to agitation they had been thrown into by the storm. By the + rolling of the ships during the calm, several injuries were + sustained, one of the vessels losing its main-top-mast and + mizen-mast; and the main-yard of the Commodore came down with + such force as to wound several of the people on deck. After two + days the wind freshened again, and they continued their course + S.W. towards the Canaries, amusing themselves with observing the + manner in which the flying-fish endeavours to escape from its + enemies, the albicores and bonitoes. The <i>flying-fish</i> are + not larger than a herring, and raise themselves into the air by + means of two long fins, one on each side, not much unlike the + wings of a bat in strength and texture. They are considered as + good eating, and the sailors are always well pleased when they + are met with in plenty. The <i>bonito</i> is about two feet long, + of a greyish colour, finely streaked from head to tail; but the + flesh is hard, dry, and disagreeably tasted. The <i>albicore</i> + is generally five or six feet long, and sometimes weighs 150 + pounds. They saw likewise several water-fowls, particularly + <i>teal</i>, which the seamen account a sign of land being + near.</p> + + <p>While in lat. 28° N. and soon expecting to see the + Canaries, a sail was descried from the mast-head carrying English + colours. On drawing near she struck her colours and <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page72" id="page72"></a>[pg 72]</span> bore + away, but re-appeared in about an hour, having four sail more in + her company, sometimes carrying white, sometimes red, and + sometimes black colours, which gave reason to suspect that they + were pirates. The Commodore immediately made the signal for the + line of battle, and all hands went to work in clearing the ship + for action, filling grenades, and preparing every thing for the + ensuing engagement, in which they fortunately had the advantage + of the weather-gage. Observing this, the pirates put themselves + into a fighting posture, struck their red flag, and hoisted a + black one, on which was a death's head in the centre, surmounted + by a powder horn, and two cross bones underneath. They likewise + formed the line, and commenced a smart action. The pirates fought + very briskly for some time, as believing the Dutch ships to be + merchantmen; but after two hours cannonade, perceiving the + Commodore preparing to board the vessel to which he was opposed, + the pirates spread all their canvass, and crowded away as fast as + they could sail. Commodore Roggewein, on seeing them bear away, + called out, <i>Let the rascals go:</i> In which he strictly + obeyed his instructions; as all the ships belonging to the Dutch + East and West India Companies have strict orders to pursue their + course, and never to give chase. In this action, four men were + killed, and nine wounded in the Commodore, the other two ships + having seven slain and twenty-six wounded. The carpenters also + had full employment in stopping leaks, and repairing the other + damages sustained.</p> + + <p>Continuing their voyage, they had sight of Madeira on the 15th + November, and in the neighbourhood saw a desert island which is + much frequented by the pirates, for wood and water and other + refreshments. They afterwards had sight of the Peak of Teneriffe, + which is generally esteemed the highest single mountain in the + world, on which account the geographers of Holland adopt it as + the first meridian in their maps and charts; while the French and + English of late incline to fix their first meridians at their + respective capitals of Paris and London. These differences are + apt to create much confusion in the longitudes of places, when + not explained by the writers who use these several modes of + reckoning; on which account Lewis XIII. of France, by edict in + 1634, endeavoured to obviate this inconvenience, by directing the + first meridian to be placed in the island of Ferro, the most + westerly of the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page73" id= + "page73"></a>[pg 73]</span> Canaries.<a id="footnotetag32" name= + "footnotetag32"></a><a href="#footnote32"><sup>2</sup></a> From + these islands they directed their course for the islands of Cape + Verde, so named from Cabo Verde, or the Green Cape, a point or + mountain on the coast of Africa, called <i>Arlinarium</i> by + Ptolemy.</p> + + <p>This cape is bounded by two rivers, the Senegal and Gambia, + called by the ancients the <i>Garatius</i> and <i>Stachiris</i>. + It has an island to the west, which is frequented by an infinite + number of birds, the eggs of which are frequently gathered by + mariners going this way. This cape is dangerous to land upon, + because of a great many sunken rocks about it. The continent is + here inhabited by negroes, who trade with all nations, and speak + many languages, especially French and Portuguese. Most of them go + naked, except a piece of cloth about their middle, but their + princes and great men wear long garments of calico striped with + blue, and made like shifts; they hang also little square bags of + leather on their arms and legs, but we could not learn of them + what these bags contain.<a id="footnotetag33" name= + "footnotetag33"></a><a href="#footnote33"><sup>3</sup></a> They + wear necklaces made of sea-horses teeth, alternating with glass + beads; and have caps of blue and white striped calico on their + heads. They are a prudent and wise people, cultivating their + soil, which bears good rice and other articles sufficient for + their maintenance; and the richer people keep cattle, which are + very dear, as being scarce. They have many good blacksmiths, and + iron is much, valued among them, being forged into fish-spears, + implements for cultivating the ground, and various weapons, as + the heads of arrows, darts, and javelins. Their religion seems to + border on Mahometism, as they are all circumcised; but they have + little knowledge of the true God, except among a few who converse + with Christians. They are very lascivious, and may have as many + wives as they please; but the women are seldom contented with one + husband, and are passionately fond of strangers. The whole + country is under subjection to the governors or head-men of the + various towns and villages, who row on board such ships as + arrive, making them pay customs. Several Portuguese reside here, + who trade freely with all nations, but have no power or + authority, except over their own slaves and + servants.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page74" id= + "page74"></a>[pg 74]</span> + + <p>Having the advantage of a strong N.E. wind, they took their + departure from Cape de Verde, and continued their course for six + weeks, without coming to anchor or handing a sail. In this long + passage, they had some days in which the heat was almost + insupportable, and the crew began to murmur excessively on + account of being at short allowance of water. On this occasion + one of the swabbers got into the hold, and, being extremely + thirsty, pierced a cask of brandy, of which he pulled, so + heartily that he was soon intoxicated to a degree of madness. In + this condition he staggered into the cook-room, where he threw + down a pan of grease, and being sharply reproved by the cook, + drew his knife and rushed upon him. Some of the crew gathered + about him and wrenched the knife out of his hand, but not till he + had drawn it two or three times across the cook's face. For this + they drubbed him soundly, which he resented so deeply that he + seized a knife as soon as he got loose, and gave himself several + stabs in the belly. The utmost care was taken of his recovery, in + order to make him a public example, to prevent such actions in + future among the crew; and after his recovery he was punished in + the following manner. Being declared infamous at the fore-mast, + he was thrice keel-hauled, and had 300 strokes on the buttocks, + after which his right hand was fastened to the mast with his own + knife. When he had stood some time in this condition, he was put + in chains on the fore-castle, being allowed nothing but bread and + water for some days; and was continued in irons to be set on + shore at the first barren island they came to.</p> + + <p>Continuing their voyage till near the line, they were much + incommoded by the shifting of the wind; and by scarcity of water, + many of the crew falling ill of the scurvy. When it sometimes + fell entirely calm, the heat of the sun became more than + ordinarily oppressive, owing to which some of the men became + quite distracted, others fell into high fevers, and some had fits + like the epilepsy. Their water, as it grew low, stunk abominably, + and became full of worms. The salt provisions were in a manner + quite spoiled, and served only to turn their stomachs and + increase their thirst. Hunger is said to be the greatest of + torments, but they had reason to consider thirst as the greatest + misery incident to human nature. At this time they often observed + towards evening that the sea appeared all on fire; and taking up + some buckets of water in this condition, they observed that it + was full of an infinite <span class="pagenum"><a name="page75" + id="page75"></a>[pg 75]</span> number of little globules, of the + size, form, and colour of pearls. These retained their lustre for + some time when held in the hand, but on pressure seemed nothing + more than an earthy fat substance like mud.</p> + + <p>They at length crossed the line, with the loss only of one + man, who died of a high fever; and on getting into the latitude + of 3° S. they fell into the true trade-wind, before + which they scudded along at a great rate. In lat. 5° S. + they had the sun directly vertical, so that they were some days + without any observation. In 6° S. they caught many + dorados and dolphins, both, in the opinion of the author of this + voyage, being the same fish, of which the dolphin is the male and + the dorado the female. Some of these are six feet long, but not + of proportional bulk. In the water they appear excessively + beautiful, their skins shining as if streaked with burnished + gold; but lose their splendid appearance on being taken out of + the water. Their flesh is very sweet and well flavoured, so that + the seamen always feast when they can procure plenty of this + fish. They saw also abundance of sharks, many of which are ten + feet long. Their flesh is hard, stringy, and very disagreeably + tasted; yet the seamen frequently hang them up in the air for a + day or two, and then eat them: Which compliment the surviving + sharks never fail to return when a seaman falls in their way, + either dead or alive, and seem to attend ships for that + purpose.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote31" name="footnote31"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag31">(return)</a> + + <p>In the various steps of this voyage, the merely + uninteresting journal or log-book incidents have been + materially abbreviated.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote32" name="footnote32"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag32">(return)</a> + + <p>The Royal Observatory at Greenwich is now the first meridian + in British maps and globes, from which St Paul's in London is + 0° 5' 37" W. the observatory of Paris 2° 20' + E. Teneriffe peak 16° 40' W. and Ferrotown + 17° 45' 50" W.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote33" name="footnote33"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag33">(return)</a> + + <p>These are called <i>obi</i>, containing a variety of + ridiculous trash, and are held in superstitious esteem as + amulets.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION II.</h3> + + <h4><i>Arrival in Brazil, with some Account of that + Country.</i></h4> + + <p>Coming near the coast of Brazil, their design was to have + anchored at the island <i>Grande</i>, but finding they had passed + that island, they continued their course till off Porto, in lat. + 24° S. where they came to anchor. Some of the ship's + company of the commodore then got into the boat in order to go + shore, both for the purpose of procuring wood and water and other + refreshments, and in order to bury one of their seamen who had + died. Before they could get on shore, they descried a body of + Portuguese well armed moving along the coast, who seemed to + prevent them from landing, and beckoned the Dutch to keep off, + threatening to fire if they attempted to land: But, on shewing + them the dead body, they <span class="pagenum"><a name="page76" + id="page76"></a>[pg 76]</span> allowed them to land, and even + shewed them a place in which to inter their dead companion. Being + desirous of procuring some intelligence, the Dutch asked many + questions about the country, but could only get for answer, that + Porto was an advanced port to St Sebastian, not marked in the + charts, and that they were inhabitants of Rio Janeiro, which lay + at the distance of eight miles.<a id="footnotetag34" name= + "footnotetag34"></a><a href="#footnote34"><sup>1</sup></a> The + Dutch endeavoured to persuade them to go on board the commodore, + but they refused, fearing they might be pirates, which frequently + used to come upon the coast, and, under pretence of getting fresh + water, would land and pillage any of the little towns near the + sea.</p> + + <p>About six months before the arrival of Roggewein at this + place, a pirate had been there, and, while the crew were + preparing to make a descent, a French ship of force arrived, + which sent her to the bottom with one broadside. She sank in + thirteen fathoms, and as she was supposed to have seven millions + on board,<a id="footnotetag35" name="footnotetag35"></a><a href= + "#footnote35"><sup>2</sup></a> they had sent for divers from + Portugal, in order to attempt recovering a part of her treasure. + However, by dint of entreaties and the strongest possible + assurance of safety, two of them were prevailed upon to go on + board the commodore, where they were very kindly treated, and had + clothes given them, by which they were induced to carry the + squadron into a safe port, which was most serviceable to men in + their condition, almost worn out with fatigues, and in a manner + destroyed for want of water.</p> + + <p>The harbour of Porto affords good anchorage in from six to + eight fathoms. In entering it on the S.W. the main land is on the + right, and a large island on the left, all the coast appearing + very high land, consisting of mountains and intermediate vallies, + overgrown with trees and shrubs. Porto is in a pleasant + situation, but at this time had no inhabitants. They caught here + both fish and tortoises of exquisite flavour, and so very + nourishing, that about forty of the people who were ill of the + scurvy, recovered very fast. Having remained there two days, in + which time they supplied themselves with <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page77" id="page77"></a>[pg 77]</span> wood + and water, they weighed anchor, and in six leagues sailing to the + S.W. came into the road of St Sebastian. Just when entering the + mouth of the river a violent storm arose, on which they had to + drop their anchors, lest they had been driven on the rocks, and + to wait the return of the tide in that situation. They entered + the port next day, and came to anchor just before the town, which + they saluted, but without being answered, either because the + Portuguese guns were not in order, of because the inhabitants + were not pleased, with their arrival, suspecting them of being + pirates, though under the Dutch flag. In order to remove these + apprehensions, Roggewein wrote to the governor, informing him + what they were, and desiring to be furnished with cattle, + vegetables, fruits, and other refreshments for payment, also + requesting the use of a few huts on shore for the recovery of the + sick men. The governor made answer, that these things were not in + his power, as he was subordinate to the governor of Rio de + Janeiro, to whom he should dispatch an express that evening, and + hoped the commodore would give him time to receive the orders of + his superior officer. But Roggewein was by no means satisfied + with this answer, giving the governor to know, if he refused to + deal with him by fair means and for ready money as offered, be + should be obliged to have recourse to force, though much against + his inclinations. Having learnt that there was a Franciscan + monastery in the town, Roggewein sent also to inform the fathers + of his arrival, accompanying his message by a present.</p> + + <p>It happened fortunately for the Dutch, that a native of + Utrecht, one Father Thomas, belonged to this monastery, who came + immediately on board, accompanied by several other monks. He was + so much delighted at the sight of his countrymen, that he + declared he should now die in peace, having earnestly wished for + twenty-two years to enjoy the satisfaction he was now gratified + with. The commodore gave him a kind welcome, and presented him + with whatever was deemed useful for the monastery. The prior, who + was of the party on this occasion, begged the commodore to have + patience till the return of the express from Rio de Janeiro, and + promised to use his interest with the governor, to induce him to + furnish the demanded refreshments, so that they parted well + satisfied with each other. In the mean time, the Portuguese came + down to the coast in large bodies well armed, posting themselves + in such places as they judged the <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page78" id="page78"></a>[pg 78]</span> Dutch might attempt to + put their men on shore; and at the approach of a Dutch pinnace, + thought proper to fire at her, by which one of the Dutchmen was + dangerously wounded in the shoulder. The boat's crew returned the + fire by a general discharge of their fire-arms, by which two of + the Portuguese were brought down, and the rest made a precipitate + retreat. The Dutch then landed immediately, filling what water + they had occasion for, and returned on board.</p> + + <p>On the report of what had happened, which he deemed an act of + hostility, Roggewein made immediate dispositions for attacking + the town, ordering his smallest ship to go as near the place as + possible, while the Teinhoven was ordered to watch the coast, and + the commodore laid his own ship opposite the monastery, as if he + had intended to batter it down. All this was merely to frighten + the Portuguese into better behaviour, and it had the desired + effect, as the deputy-governor came soon after on board, and + entered into a treaty, granting every thing desired. He at the + same time expressed considerable doubts of being paid for what + they might furnish, as a French ship had been lately supplied + with necessaries, and at its departure the French captain + threatened to burn the town about their ears, if they insisted on + payment according to agreement and his promises on first coming + in. The sick were now landed on the island, and the whole of the + ships companies were daily furnished by the Portuguese with beef, + mutton, fowls, vegetables, fruits, and every thing else they + wanted. The ships companies also had leave to go on shore, and + soon contracted acquaintance among the Portuguese, from whom they + obtained sugar, tobacco, brandy, and every thing else they wished + for, in exchange for European goods, although the governor had + strictly prohibited all commerce, under the strictest penalties. + Thus, in a very short time the Portuguese became so well + satisfied of the honesty and good intentions of the Dutch, that + they brought back all their rich effects, formerly carried out of + town when the ships first arrived. The Portuguese, however, + complained loudly of the bad usage they met with from the French, + who came frequently to this place with their ships, taking + whatever they pleased by force, and plundering the houses in + which they were permitted to lodge the sick; owing to which the + Portuguese believed that all other Europeans would treat them in + the same manner.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page79" id= + "page79"></a>[pg 79]</span> + + <p>The town of St Sebastians is situated in lat. 24° S. + and long. 60° W.<a id="footnotetag36" name= + "footnotetag36"></a><a href="#footnote36"><sup>3</sup></a> being + a place of moderate extent, only indifferently fortified by an + inclosure of palisades, with a few cannon for its defence. The + church however is a beautiful building, and the palace of the + governor is very magnificent; but the houses of the inhabitants + are only such as are commonly met with among the Spanish and + Portuguese colonists in America. The Franciscan monastery stands + on the S. side of the town, and accommodates about thirty monks + very conveniently. The prior shewed to the commodore and his + officers a curious idol, which he said had been worshipped by the + ancient natives of the place. It was the image of a creature half + tiger half lion, about four feet high and a foot and a half + round. Its feet resembled the paws of a lion, and the head was + adorned with a double crown, in which were stuck twelve Indian + darts, one of which on each side was broken. On each shoulder + there was a large wing like that of a stork. In the inside was + seen the statue of a man, completely armed in the manner of the + country, having a quiver of arrows at his back, a bow in his left + hand, and an arrow in his right. The tail of this strange idol + was very long, and twisted three or four times round the body of + the man. It had been called <i>Nasil Lichma</i>, by its + worshippers, and the prior said that it was made of gold; but the + author of this voyage suspected it was only gilded. The monks had + also a numerous collection of European and American curiosities, + which they exhibited at the same time.</p> + + <p>The port, or river rather, of St Sebastian, is three or four + leagues in length, and about one league broad, having a very fine + island on the N.E. of about four miles round, and there are + smaller islands on all the other sides of this haven. The country + of Brazil is very large and rich, insomuch that the king of + Portugal is said to draw as great a revenue from hence, as the + king of Spain from all his vast possessions in America. Its + capital is Bahia, or St Salvador, besides which <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page80" id="page80"></a>[pg 80]</span> there + are many other towns, as Siara, Olinda, Rio de Janeiro, St + Vincent, and others. The country was discovered in 1590; but even + at this day the Portuguese have not penetrated above eighty + leagues into the interior. The soil is good, and the country + would doubtless produce abundance of corn and wine for the use of + its inhabitants; but, from a principle of policy, the colonists + are not permitted to cultivate these productions, and are + consequently supplied with them from Portugal. It is the common + opinion that the ancient inhabitants were <i>anthropophagi</i>, + or cannibals, and it is even said that human flesh was sold in + their markets, as commonly as beef and mutton, but of this there + is no authentic proof.<a id="footnotetag37" name= + "footnotetag37"></a><a href="#footnote37"><sup>4</sup></a></p> + + <p>Such of the natives as were seen were large dark-complexioned + men, having thick lips, flat noses, and very white teeth. The + Portuguese are numerous in Brazil, both Creoles, and such as come + from time to time from Portugal, to repair their broken fortunes. + A little time before the arrival of Roggewein, the Portuguese had + discovered a diamond mine not far from St Sebastian, of which at + that time they were not in full possession, but were meditating + an expedition against the Indians, in order to become sole + masters of so valuable a prize; and with this view they invited + the Dutch to join them, promising them a share in the riches in + the event of success. By these means, nine of our soldiers were + tempted to desert. I know not the success of this expedition; but + it is probable that it succeeded, as great quantities of diamonds + have since been imported from Brazil into Europe. They are said + to be found on the tops of mountains among a peculiar red earth + containing a great deal of gold; and, being washed down by the + great rains and torrents into the vallies, are there gathered in + lavaderas by negroes employed for the purpose.</p> + + <p>Brazil abounds with numerous sorts of beasts, birds, and fish, + both wild and tame. They have tigers that do a great deal of + mischief, also elephants in great abundance, the teeth + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page81" id="page81"></a>[pg + 81]</span> of which are of great value.<a id="footnotetag38" + name="footnotetag38"></a><a href="#footnote38"><sup>5</sup></a> + There is no country on earth where serpents, and other venomous + reptiles, are more frequent, or of larger size. So far as the + Portuguese power and colonization extends, the popish religion is + established; but vast numbers of the indigenous natives of the + country remain unsubdued, and continue their original idolatry, + being of such cruel and vindictive dispositions, that when a + Christian falls into their hands, the best thing that can happen + to him is to have his throat cut, as they are, for the most part, + put to death by means of cruel tortures. The air of the country, + though excessively hot at certain times of the year, is extremely + wholesome, as we experienced by our speedy recovery from the + scurvy and other distempers. About St Sebastian there are vast + quantities of venomous musquetoes, which sting to such a degree + that we were all covered over with blisters. Our pilot, having + drank too freely of the country rum, and afterwards fallen asleep + in the open air, had his head, face, arms, and legs so severely + stung, that his life was in imminent danger, and he recovered + after a long time, not without much care.</p> + + <p>While here, the commodore kept up a very strict discipline + over his people; and some of his sailors being complained against + as having maltreated some Indian women, he caused them to be + severely punished, and would never afterwards allow them to go on + shore. The Dutch and Portuguese agreed extremely well, but the + governor was far from being pleased with his visitors, more + especially because he had learnt from some of the deserters that + the object of the expedition was to make discoveries in the + south. For this reason he practised every art he could devise to + hinder and distress them, and furnished them with provisions only + from day to day, that they might not increase their sea-stores. + He also frequently talked of there being five or six Portuguese + men-of-war in Rio de Janeiro, in order to put the Dutch in fear + of being attacked, and actually sent for the only ship that was + there at the time, to come to St Sebastian. Roggewein perfectly + understood the meaning of all this, of which he took no notice, + and complied exactly with the terms of <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page82" id="page82"></a>[pg 82]</span> the + agreement entered into with the deputy governor, saving part of + the fresh provisions daily and salting them, cleaned and repaired + his ship in succession, and took on board tobacco, sugar, and + every thing else he wanted, till in a condition to continue the + voyage. He then fully satisfied the governor for every thing + procured at this place, making payment in fire-arms, hats, silk + stockings, linen, stock-fish, and other European articles, and + made him a considerable present besides. In return, the governor + sent him some black cattle, and gave him a certificate of his + honourable behaviour.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote34" name="footnote34"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag34">(return)</a> + + <p>There must be a considerable mistake here in regard to the + latitude of Porto, said to be in 21° S. as Rio Janeiro + is in lat. 22° 54' S. and must therefore have been + eighty leagues distant. Perhaps the eight miles in the text, as + the distance to Rio Janeiro, ought to have been eighty leagues + or Dutch miles.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote35" name="footnote35"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag35">(return)</a> + + <p>This is a most inconclusive mode of expression, perhaps + meaning Dutch florins, and if so, about £636,363 + sterling.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote36" name="footnote36"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag36">(return)</a> + + <p>It is impossible to reconcile this longitude with any of the + first meridians mentioned in a former note, or indeed with any + known geographical principles. It is 45° 30' W. from + Greenwich. If reckoned from the meridian of Teneriffe, said to + be that used by the Dutch, this would place it 21° 10' + too far west, as Teneriffe is 16° 40' W. from + Greenwich. This place, in an island of the same name, has to be + carefully distinguished from the city of St Sebastian, now more + commonly known by the name of Rio de Janeiro.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote37" name="footnote37"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag37">(return)</a> + + <p>There is no doubt that at least some of the tribes roasted + and eat their prisoners, like the Caribs of the West Indies. + But certainly they had not arrived to that state of + civilization as to have markets; and beef and mutton were + unknown in America, till carried there from Europe.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote38" name="footnote38"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag38">(return)</a> + + <p>There are animals of the tyger kind in Brazil and other + parts of America, and the Jaguar, Owza, or Brazilian tyger, is + probably the one here meant. No elephants exist in America, and + their teeth, mentioned in the text, must have come from some of + the Portuguese African possessions.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION III.</h3> + + <h4><i>Incidents during the Voyage from Brazil to Juan Fernandez, + with a Description of that Island.</i></h4> + + <p>Every thing being settled at St Sebastian, Roggewein set sail + towards the S.W. and falling in with a desert island about three + leagues from the coast, he set on shore the swabber who had + attempted to murder the cook, pursuant to his sentence, as + formerly related. Leaving the coast of Brazil, the commodore + proposed to have visited an island called Aukes Magdeland, after + the name of its supposed discoverer, who is said to have seen a + light on that island about an hundred years before, but did not + go on shore. This island was said to be situated in the latitude + of 30° S. and as being in the route of the navigation + towards the South Sea, and in a good climate, he proposed to have + settled a colony there for the service of such ships as might + afterwards be bound for the <i>Southern Indies</i>, the object he + was now in search of, where they might be supplied with wood, + water, and other refreshments. But after much pains, he could + neither discover that nor any other island in or near the + latitude of 30° S. He therefore altered his coarse, + steering for those called the <i>New Islands</i> by the Dutch, + and the <i>Islands of St Lewis</i>, by a French privateer who + first discovered them. Keeping always within forty or fifty + leagues of the American coast, the squadron prosecuted its course + very happily, having always the advantage of the land and + sea-breezes; whereas, if it had kept farther from land, it would + infallibly have fallen in with the western trade-wind.</p> + + <p>On the 21st December, being in lat. 40°. S. they were + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page83" id="page83"></a>[pg + 83]</span> assailed by a hurricane, attended with thunder and + lightning, during which storm the Tienhoven parted company, and + did not rejoin till three months afterwards. The extreme violence + of this hurricane only lasted about four hours, during which they + every moment expected to have been swallowed up by the waves, + which ran mountain-high. These hurricanes are extremely + dangerous, and are far more frequent in the American seas than in + the East Indies. They usually happen at that season of the year + when the west monsoon reigns, which is from the 20th July to the + 15th October, for which reason ships usually remain then in port + till they think the danger is over. Yet as storms of this kind + are not exactly periodical, ships that trust to such calculations + are often caught, as there are some years in which there are no + hurricanes, and others in which they are more frequent and + violent, and at unusual periods. The ordinary, or at least the + surest sign of an approaching hurricane, is very fair weather, + and so dead a calm that not even a wrinkle is to be seen on the + surface of the sea. A very dark cloud is then seen to rise in the + air, not larger than a man's hand, and in a very little time the + whole sky becomes overcast. The wind then begins to blow from the + west, and in a short space of time, whirls round the compass, + swelling the sea to a dreadful height; and as the wind blows now + on one side and then on the other, the contrary waves beat so + forcibly on the ships that they seldom escape foundering or + shipwreck. On first perceiving the before-mentioned small cloud, + the best thing a ship can do is to stand out to sea. It is + remarkable that the hurricanes are less frequent as we approach + the higher latitudes in either hemisphere, so that they are not + to be feared beyond the lat. of 55° either S. or N. It + is also remarked, that hurricanes rarely happen in the middle of + the wide ocean, but chiefly on the coasts of such countries as + abound with minerals, and off the mouths of large rivers. Another + surprising phenomenon at sea is what is called a whirlwind + water-spout, or syphon, which often carries up high into the air + whatever comes within the circle of its force, as fish, + grasshoppers, and other things, where they appear like a thick + vapour or cloud. The English fire at a water-spout or whirlwind, + and often succeed in stopping its progress; the circular motion + ceasing, and all that it had taken up falling immediately down, + when the sea becomes presently calm.</p> + + <p>On the cessation of the hurricane, the commodore and his + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page84" id="page84"></a>[pg + 84]</span> remaining consort, the African galley, continued their + course to the S.S.W. till in the height of the Straits of + Magellan. They here fell in with an island of near 200 leagues in + circumference, and about 14 leagues from the mainland of America, + and seeing no smoke, nor any boat, or other kind of embarkation, + they concluded that it was uninhabited. The west coast of this + island was discovered by a French privateer, and named the Island + of St Lewis; but being seen afterwards by the Dutch, who fancied + its many capes to be distinct islands, they called it <i>New + Islands</i>. Considering that, if ever it should be inhabited, + its inhabitants would be the antipodes of the Dutch, Roggewein + gave it the name of <i>Belgia Australis</i>. It is in the lat. of + 52° S. and long. of 95° W.<a id="footnotetag39" + name="footnotetag39"></a><a href= + "#footnote39"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>The land appeared extremely beautiful and very fertile, being + chequered with mountains and vallies, all of which were cloathed + with fine straight trees. The verdure of the meadows, and + freshness of the woods, afforded a delightful prospect, insomuch + that all the people believed they should have found abundance of + excellent fruits. But the commodore would not delay by permitting + them to land, being anxious to get round Cape Horn, and chose + therefore to defer a thorough examination of this new country + till his return from discovering the southern continent and + islands: This, however reasonable, proved vain in the sequel, as + he was forced to return with his squadron by the East Indies; and + this fine island, therefore, is likely to continue in a great + measure unknown.</p> + + <p>Quitting this island, they made for the Straits of Magellan, + in order to wait a wind favourable for their navigation, which + took place in a few days: for, if it had continued to blow from + the west, they could not possibly have got into the South Seas. + They now resolved to attempt the Straits of Le Maire, as + infinitely more commodious than the Strait of Magellan, in which + latter the sea has but small depth, and the meeting of the north + and south currents occasion continual rough seas. The bottom also + of the Straits of Magellan is rocky, affording no good anchorage; + and the flows of <span class="pagenum"><a name="page85" id= + "page85"></a>[pg 85]</span> winds from the mountains on both + sides are apt to endanger all ships that endeavour to pass + through these perilous straits. Having now a fair wind, they + continued their course to the south for the Straits of Le Maire, + seeing on their way abundance of whales and other large fish of + that kind. Among the rest, they were followed for a whole month + by that kind of fish which is called the <i>Sea Devil</i> by the + Dutch sailors, which they took the utmost pains to catch, but to + no purpose. It has a large head, a thick short body, and a very + long tail, like that which painters bestow on the dragon.</p> + + <p>Arriving in the lat. of 55° S. they soon after saw + State Island, or Staten-land, which forms one side of the Straits + of Luttaire. The fury of the waves, and the clashing of + contending currents, gave such terrible shocks to their vessels, + that they expected every moment their yards should have been + broken, and their masts to come by the board. They would gladly + have come to anchor, especially on finding the bottom to be good, + but the weather and the sea were so rough that they durst not. + They passed through the straits, which are about ten leagues + long, by six over, with a swiftness not to be expressed, owing to + the force and rapidity of the current. After getting through, + this current, together with the westerly winds, carried them a + great way from the coast of America; and, that they might be sure + to sail free of Cape Horn, they sailed as high as the lat. of + 62° 30' S. For three weeks together, they sustained the + most dreadful gusts of a furious west wind, accompanied with hail + and snow, and the most piercing frost. While enveloped in thick + mists, they were apprehensive of being driven by the extreme + violence of the winds upon mountains of ice, where they must + inevitably have perished.</p> + + <p>Whenever the weather was in any degree clear or serene, they + had scarcely any night; for, being in the middle of January, + 1722, the summer was then in its height, and the days at their + utmost length.</p> + + <p>These mountains of ice, of which they were so much afraid, are + certain proofs that the southern countries extend quite to the + pole, as well as those under the north; for, without question, + these vast hills of ice cannot be produced in the sea, nor formed + by the common force of cold. It must therefore he concluded, that + they are occasioned by the sharp piercing winds blowing out of + the mouths of large rivers.<a id="footnotetag40" name= + "footnotetag40"></a><a href="#footnote40"><sup>2</sup></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page86" id="page86"></a>[pg + 86]</span> It is no less certain, that the currents discerned in + this ocean must all proceed from the mouths of large rivers, + which, rolling down from a high continent, fall with such + impetuosity into the sea, as to preserve a great part of their + force long after they have entered it.<a id="footnotetag41" name= + "footnotetag41"></a><a href="#footnote41"><sup>3</sup></a> The + great quantity of birds seen here was an additional proof that + land was not far off. It may be asked, whether this land be + inhabited or not? For my part I believe it is. It may be again + asked, How men should live in such a climate, in the lat. of + 70° S. where the winter is so very long, the summer so + short, and where they must be involved for so great a portion of + the year in perpetual night? To this I answer, That such as dwell + there come only in the fine season in order to fish, and retire + on the approach of winter, as is done by many of the inhabitants + of Russia and of Davis Straits, who, when they have provided + themselves with fish on the coasts of a frozen climate, retire + farther inland, and eat in their cabins during the winter the + fish they have caught in the summer. If the people who inhabit + Greenland and Davis Straits are to be believed, the country is + inhabited even as high as 70° N. both winter and summer; + and what is practicable in one country, cannot justly be reputed + impracticable when supposed in another.<a id="footnotetag42" + name="footnotetag42"></a><a href= + "#footnote42"><sup>4</sup></a></p> + + <p>Being driven 500 leagues from the continent by the contrary + winds, the commodore now believed that he was beyond Cape Horn to + the westwards, and steered therefore N.E. by N. in order to fall + in with the coast of Chili. On <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page87" id="page87"></a>[pg 87]</span> the 10th March, being in + lat. 37° 30' S. they discovered the coast of Chili to + their great joy, and anchored soon after on the coast of the + island of Mocha, which is three leagues from the continent.<a id= + "footnotetag43" name="footnotetag43"></a><a href= + "#footnote43"><sup>5</sup></a> They were in hopes of finding on + this island at least a part of the refreshments of which they + were in want, especially fresh meat and vegetables, but were + disappointed, by finding the island entirely abandoned, all its + inhabitants having removed to the main land. They saw, however, + in the island a multitude of horses and birds, and found some + dogs in two cabins near the shore. They also discovered the wreck + of a Spanish ship, from which they supposed the dogs had got on + shore. The horses were supposed to have been left here to graze, + and that the owners came at certain times from the main to take + them, as wanted. They here killed abundance of geese and ducks; + and finding the coast extremely rocky, and having no safe place + of anchorage, they resolved to put to sea. In a council of the + officers, it was determined to continue for some time longer on + the coast of Chili, in hopes of meeting with some port in which + they could safely anchor, in order to get some refreshments; but + perceiving the Spaniards to be every where on their guard, they + steered W.N.W. for the island of Juan Fernandez, which they + reckoned to be at the distance of ninety leagues in that + direction. Although the coast of Chili appears to be enormously + high when seen from a distance, they discovered, by sailing along + shore, that it was not higher than the coast of England, and that + they had been deceived by the enormous height of the inland + mountains, the tops of which are hid in the clouds, and cloathed + in perpetual snow.</p> + + <p>Having a favourable wind, they made way at a great rate, and + got sight of the island of Juan Fernandez, on the fourth day + after leaving the coast of Chili, but could not get to anchor + that day in the road, owing to its falling calm. Next day, when + ready to go in, they were astonished by seeing a ship riding at + anchor, which they conjectured to be either a Spanish ship of + force or a French interloper, but at last concluded to be a + pirate. While consulting what to do, they saw the boat belonging + to the ship coming towards them, carrying a Spanish flag, on + which they began to prepare for <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page88" id="page88"></a>[pg 88]</span> an engagement, but were + astonished beyond measure, on its nearer approach, to find that + it belonged to their consort the Tienhoven, which they concluded + had foundered. Captain Bowman was himself on board the boat, and + shewed how well he had followed his instructions, as, by the + commodore's orders in case of separation, this was to be the + first place of rendezvous; whence, after cruizing six weeks, they + were to repair to lat. 28° S. and cruize there a similar + time: But, in case of not meeting the commodore in either of + these places, they were then to open their sealed instructions, + and follow them exactly. As soon as Captain Bowman was on board + the commodore, he made a signal agreed on to his own ship, to + acquaint them that the two ships were their consorts, After this, + the Eagle and African entered the harbour.</p> + + <p>When leisure permitted, Captain Bowman gave an account of the + dangers he had encountered in passing the Straits of Magellan: + That he had met with many storms on the coast of America, and + that his ship was in a very bad condition, having only arrived at + Juan Fernandez the evening before his consorts, both of which he + believed had been lost in the hurricane at the time of their + separation. The three captains afterwards dined together very + cheerfully in the Tienhoven, where they recounted and + reciprocally commiserated their past misfortunes, and rejoiced at + their present happy meeting. As it still continued a dead calm, + they were unable to come to anchor at the place intended, but + they next day got close beside the Tienhoven, anchoring in forty + fathoms, within musket-shot of the shore. The sick were now + landed, and proper persons sent ashore along with them to + construct cabins or huts for their accommodation; and to search + for provisions and refreshments.</p> + + <p>According to the author of this voyage, the island of Juan + Fernandez is one of the finest and best situated in the world, + having a pleasant, wholesome, and temperate climate, fit to + restore health to the sick, and to give a constant flow of + spirits to those who are in health, which this author personally + experienced, having here recovered from a complication of + disorders to perfect health. The hills are covered with tall + trees of various kinds, fit for all kinds of uses; and the + vallies are fertile, and able to produce all the necessaries of + life with very little cultivation. It abounds with small streams + and brooks, the banks of which are covered with wholesome giants; + and the waters which run down from the mountains, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page89" id="page89"></a>[pg 89]</span> though + not in the least disagreeable to the taste, or injurious to + health, are so impregnated with some mineral particles, that they + never corrupt. On the east side of the bay in which the Dutch + ships anchored, there are three mountains, the middlemost of + which resembles the Table Mountains at the Cape of Good Hope. + Behind these there are many other mountains which rise to a + prodigious height, and are generally covered by very thick mist, + especially in the mornings and evenings, whence I am apt to + suspect that these mountains may contain rich mines. To give a + just idea of the island in few words, it resembles in all + respects the country at the Cape of Good Hope.</p> + + <p>This author also mentions the sea-lions and seals of other + writers, and adds, that there are sea-cows also of enormous size, + some weighing near half a ton. He also mentions the abundance and + excellence of the fish, of which the Dutch cured many thousands + during their short stay, which proved extraordinarily good, and + were of great service during the rest of the voyage. He mentions + goats also on the island in abundance, but says the Dutch were + unable to catch them, and at a loss how to get at their bodies + when shot; but they were frightened from this sport by an unlucky + accident which happened to the steward of one of the ships, soon + after their arrival, who, rambling one evening in the mountains, + fell suddenly from the top of a rock and was dashed to pieces. + They found here the remains of a wreck, supposed by them to have + been of a Spanish ship; but it was more probably the vestiges of + the Speedwell, lost a year before, and from which, by diving, + some of the sailors recovered several pieces of silver plate.</p> + + <p>Having attentively considered the advantageous situation and + many conveniences of this island, Roggewein conceived the design + of settling on it, as the most proper place that could be thought + of for ships bound, as he was, for the <i>Terra Australis</i>, or + southern islands, and was the more encouraged in this design by + considering the fertility of the island, which could not fail to + afford sufficient subsistence for six hundred families at least. + He postponed this, however, as also the settlement of <i>Belgia + Australis</i>, or Falkland islands, till his proposed return, + owing to which they never were settled. A settlement at the + latter might have afforded a proper place for ships to careen and + refit at, and to procure wood and water, after the long voyage + from Europe, before entering the <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page90" id="page90"></a>[pg 90]</span> Straits of Magellan, and + Juan Fernandez would have afforded every convenience for + repairing any injuries that might have been sustained in passing + through these straits, or going round Cape Horn. Whatever nation + may revive and prosecute this plan, will certainly acquire in a + few years as rich and profitable a commerce as is now possessed + by the Spaniards with Mexico and Peru, or the Portuguese with + Brazil.<a id="footnotetag44" name="footnotetag44"></a><a href= + "#footnote44"><sup>6</sup></a></p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote39" name="footnote39"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag39">(return)</a> + + <p>There is not the smallest doubt that the text refers to the + Falkland islands or Malouines, which consist of two principal + islands, called West and East Islands, besides a number of + islets, about 360 English miles from the continent of South + America. The centre of the west, or principal island, is in + lat. 51° 25' S. and long. 60° W. from + Greenwich.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote40" name="footnote40"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag40">(return)</a> + + <p>This is quite erroneous, as it is now well known that the + sea water freezes, when reduced to a sufficient degree of cold, + considerably lower than what is requisite for freezing fresh + water. On this occasion, the salt precipitates from the + freezing water, and the ice of sea water is sufficiently fresh + for use when melted, if the first running be thrown away, which + often contains salt, either adhering to the surface, or + contained in cells.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote41" name="footnote41"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag41">(return)</a> + + <p>This is poor reasoning to support a preconceived theory of a + southern continent, and might easily have been answered by + themselves, as the prodigious current which set them through + the Straits of Le Maire with such rapidity, could not have + originated from any such cause. Currents are well known to be + occasioned by the tides, the diurnal revolution of the earth, + and by prevailing winds, influenced and directed by the + bendings of coasts, the interposition of islands, and the + position of straits. No such currents could possibly come from + rivers in an austral land, locked up in ever-during frost, + should any such land exist.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote42" name="footnote42"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag42">(return)</a> + + <p>It might be asked, whence are these fishers to come? Not + surely from among the miserable inhabitants of Terra del Fuego. + A miserable hypothesis is thus often obstinately defended by + wretched arguments.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote43" name="footnote43"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag43">(return)</a> + + <p>Mocha is in lat. 36° 20' S. and about 20 miles from + the coast of Chili.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote44" name="footnote44"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag44">(return)</a> + + <p>Britain once tried a settlement at Falkland islands, and had + nearly gone to war with Spain on the occasion; and there can be + no doubt that Spain could never have submitted to the + settlement of Juan Fernandez by any other power. There is now a + fort and small garrison kept in that island.E</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION IV.</h3> + + <h4><i>Continuation of the Voyage from Juan Fernandez till the + Shipwreck of the African Galley.</i></h4> + + <p>On leaving Juan Fernandez, Roggewein proposed to visit that + part of the southern lands which was reported to have been + discovered by Davis in 1680.<a id="footnotetag45" name= + "footnotetag45"></a><a href="#footnote45"><sup>1</sup></a> As the + Dutch author of this voyage is rather dark on this subject, I + shall here insert Mr Wafer's account of this discovery, as it is + very short. Wafer was a man of sense and knowledge, who sailed + along with Davis when this discovery was made.</p> + + <p>"We steered from the Gallapagos island S. by E. 1/2 E. until + we came into the lat. of 27° 20' S. when we fell in with + a low sandy island, and heard a great roaring noise right a-head + of the ship, like that of the sea beating on the shore. It being + some hours before day, and fearing to fall foul of the shore, the + ship put about, and plied off and on till next morning, and then + stood in for the land, which proved to be a small flat island, + not surrounded by any rocks. To the westwards, about twelve + leagues by estimation, we saw a range of high land which we took + to be islands, as there were several partitions in the prospect, + and this land seemed to extend fourteen or sixteen leagues. There + came great flocks of fowls from that direction; and I and more of + the men would have made this land and gone on shore there, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page91" id="page91"></a>[pg + 91]</span> but the captain would not consent. The small island + bears 500 leagues from Copaipo almost due W. and from the + Gallapagos 600 leagues."<a id="footnotetag46" name= + "footnotetag46"></a><a href="#footnote46"><sup>2</sup></a></p> + + <p>In prosecuting his voyage to the westwards, the first land + seen by Roggewein was the lesser island of Juan Fernandez, + otherwise called Massa-fuero, about ninety-five English miles + direct west. This appeared lower and less fertile from a + distance, but they had not an opportunity of landing. Having the + benefit of a S.E. trade-wind, they soon arrived in lat. + 28° S. and the longitude of 251° E. where they + expected to have fallen in with the land seen by Davis, but no + such land was to be found. Continuing their voyage to the + westwards, and attended by a vast quantity of birds, they arrived + on the coast of a small island about sixteen leagues in extent, + which they fell in with on the 14th April, 1722, being + Easter-day, and called it therefore <i>Pascha</i>, or + <i>Easter</i> Island.</p> + + <p>The African galley being the smallest ship, was sent in first + to examine this new discovery, and reported that it seemed to be + very fertile and well peopled, as abundance of smoke was to be + seen in all parts of the island. Next day, while looking out for + a port, and when about two miles from the shore, an Indian came + off to the ships in a canoe, who came readily on board and was + well received. Being naked, he was first presented with a piece + of cloth to cover him, and they gave him afterwards pieces of + coral, beads, and other toys, all of which he hung about his + neck, together with a dried fish. His body was painted all over + with a variety of figures, through which the natural colour of + his skin appeared to be dark brown. His ears were excessively + large and long, hanging down to his shoulders, occasioned + doubtless by wearing large heavy ear-rings; a thing also + practised by the natives of Malabar. He was tall, well-made, + robust and of a pleasing countenance, and brisk and active in his + manners, appearing to be very merry by his gestures and way of + speaking. They gave him victuals, of which he eat heartily, but + could not be prevailed on to use a knife and <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page92" id="page92"></a>[pg 92]</span> fork; + and when offered a glass of wine threw it away to their great + surprise, afraid of being poisoned, or offended by the smell of + strong liquor, to which he was unaccustomed. He was then dressed + from head to foot, and had a hat put on his head, with which he + did not seem at all pleased, but cut a very awkward figure, and + seemed uneasy. The music was then ordered to play, with which he + seemed much pleased, and when taken by the hand would leap and + dance. Finding it impossible to bring the ships to anchor that + day, they sent off the Indian, allowing him to keep all he had + got in order to encourage the rest to come on board. But, what + was really surprising, he had no mind to go away, and looked at + the Dutch with regret, held up his hands towards his native + island, and cried in a loud voice several times <i>Odorega!</i> + making appear by signs that he would much rather have staid, and + they had much ado to get him into his canoe. They afterwards + imagined he called upon his gods, as they saw abundance of idols + erected on the coast when they landed.<a id="footnotetag47" name= + "footnotetag47"></a><a href="#footnote47"><sup>3</sup></a></p> + + <p>Next morning at day-break, the ships entered a cove or bay on + the S.E. side of the island, when <i>many thousands</i><a id= + "footnotetag48" name="footnotetag48"></a><a href= + "#footnote48"><sup>4</sup></a> of the inhabitants came down to + meet them, bringing with them vast quantities of fowls and roots; + and many of them brought these provisions on board, while the + rest ran backwards and forwards on the shore, like so many wild + beasts. As the ships drew near, the islanders crowded down to the + shore to get a better view of them, and at the same time lighted + fires, and made offerings to their idols, probably to implore + their protection against the strangers. All that day the Dutch + spent in getting into the bay and mooring their ships. Next + morning very early, the islanders were observed prostrating + themselves before their idols towards the rising sun, and making + burnt offerings. While preparations were making for landing, the + friendly native who had been before on board came a second time, + accompanied by many others, who had their canoes loaded with + living fowls and roots cooked after their manner, as if to make + themselves welcome. <span class="pagenum"><a name="page93" id= + "page93"></a>[pg 93]</span> Among this troop of islanders there + was one man perfectly white, having round pendents in his ears as + big as a man's fist. He had a grave decent air, and was supposed + to be a priest. By some accident, one of the islanders was shot + dead in his canoe by a musket, which threw the whole into + prodigious confusion, most of them leaping into the sea in order + to get the sooner ashore; while the rest who remained in their + canoes paddled away with all their might.</p> + + <p>The Dutch presently followed, and made a descent with 150 + soldiers and seamen, at the head of whom was Commodore Roggewein, + accompanied by the author of the voyage, who commanded the + soldiers. The islanders crowded so close upon them while landing, + that they thought it necessary to make their way by force, + especially as some of the natives were so bold as to lay hold of + their arms; and the Dutch accordingly fired, when a great number + of the islanders were slain, among whom was the friendly native + who had been twice aboard ship. This frightened and dispersed + them; yet in a few minutes they rallied again, but did not come + quite so near the strangers as before, keeping at the distance of + about ten yards, as if they supposed that were sufficient to + ensure their safety from the muskets. Their consternation was + however very great, and they howled and lamented dismally. After + all, as if to employ every possible means to mollify their + invaders, the men, women, and children presented themselves in + the most humble postures, carrying branches of palm in token of + peace and submission, bringing plenty of provisions of all kinds, + and even pointing to their women, giving the Dutch to understand + by signs that these were entirely at their disposal, and that + they might carry as many of them on board ship as they thought + proper. Softened by these tokens of submission, the Dutch did + them no farther harm, but made them presents of coral beads and + small looking-glasses, and distributed among them sixty yards of + painted cloth.</p> + + <p>The natives now brought at once to the Dutch about 500 live + fowls, every way the same with the ordinary poultry of Europe, + together with a great quantity of red and white roots and + potatoes, which these islanders use instead of bread. They + brought also several hundred sugar-canes, and a great quantity of + <i>pisans</i>, which are a sort of figs as large as gourds + covered by a green rind, the pulp of which is as sweet as honey. + The leaves of the tree on which these <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page94" id="page94"></a>[pg 94]</span> figs + grow are six or eight feet long and three broad, and there are + sometimes an hundred of these <i>pisans</i> on one bough. The + Dutch saw no quadrupeds of any kind, yet supposed there might be + cattle and other beasts in the interior, as on shewing some hogs + to the islanders, they expressed by signs that they had seen such + animals before. They used pots to dress their meat in; and it + appeared that every family or tribe among them dwelt in a + separate village. The huts or cabins composing these villages + were from forty to sixty feet long, by six or eight feet broad, + made of upright poles, having the interstices filled up with loam + or fat earth, and covered at top with palm leaves. They drew most + of their subsistence from the earth by cultivation, the land + being portioned out into small plantations very neatly divided + and staked out. While the Dutch were there, almost all the fruits + and roots were in full maturity, and the island seemed to abound + in good things. In their houses there were not many moveables, + and those they had were of no value, except some red and white + quilts or cloths, which served them in the day for mantles, and + at night for coverlets. The stuff of which these were composed + felt as soft as silk, and was probably of their own + manufacture.</p> + + <p>The natives of this island were in general a brisk, slender, + active, well-made people, very swift of foot, and seemed of sweet + tempers, and modest dispositions, but timorous and faint-hearted; + for whenever they brought fowls or other provisions to the Dutch, + they threw themselves on their knees, and immediately on + delivering their presents retired in all haste. They were mostly + as brown-complexioned as Spaniards, some among them being almost + black, while others were white, and others again had their skins + entirely red, as if sun-burnt. Their ears hung down to their + shoulders, and some had large white bales hanging to them, which + they seemed to consider as a great ornament. Their bodies were + painted all over with the figures of birds and other animals, on + some much better executed than on others.<a id="footnotetag49" + name="footnotetag49"></a><a href="#footnote49"><sup>5</sup></a> + All their women had artificial bloom on their cheeks, but of + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page95" id="page95"></a>[pg + 95]</span> a much deeper crimson than is known in Europe, and the + Dutch could not discover what this colour was composed of. They + wore little hats on their heads made of straw or reeds, and had + no other covering than the quilts or mantles formerly + mentioned.<a id="footnotetag50" name="footnotetag50"></a><a href= + "#footnote50"><sup>6</sup></a> The women were by no means + extremely modest, for they invited the Dutchmen into their houses + by signs, and when they sat by them would throw off their + mantles, as inviting familiarity. It is very singular of these + islanders, that the Dutch saw no appearance whatever of arms + among them; but, when attacked, they fled for refuge to their + idols, numbers of which were erected all along the coast. These + idols were all of stone, representing the figures of men with + great ears, their heads covered by the representations of crowns; + and all so nicely proportioned, and so highly finished, that the + Dutch were much amazed. Many of the inhabitants seemed to be more + frequent and more zealous worshippers of these images than the + rest, which induced the Dutch to believe that these were priests; + and that the more especially, as their heads were close shaven, + on which they wore caps of black and white feathers,<a id= + "footnotetag51" name="footnotetag51"></a><a href= + "#footnote51"><sup>7</sup></a> and they had large white balls + hanging at their ears.</p> + + <p>No appearance of government or subordination was observed + among these islanders, and consequently no prince or chief having + dominion over the rest. The old people wore bonnets made of + feathers resembling the down of ostriches, and had sticks in + their hands. In some of the houses, the father of the family was + observed to have rule over all its inhabitants, and was obeyed + with the greatest readiness. In the opinion of the Dutch author + of this voyage, this island might be settled to great advantage, + as the air is very wholesome and the soil rich; being proper for + producing corn in the low lands, and its higher grounds might be + converted into vineyards. On the evening, after returning on + board, Roggewein proposed to land again next morning with a force + sufficient to make a strict survey of the whole island: But + during the night there arose so strong a west wind as drove them + from their anchors, and they were forced to put <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page96" id="page96"></a>[pg 96]</span> to sea, + to avoid being shipwrecked. After this misfortune, they cruized + for some time in the same latitude, seeking in vain for the land + discovered by Davis, on which Roggewein determined to bear away + for the <i>Bad Sea of Schouten</i>, keeping always a west course, + in hopes of discovering some new land. In this coarse, they soon + found themselves in the height of the island discovered by + Schonten in 1615, to which he gave the name of <i>Bad-water</i>, + because all its waters were brackish; but, by changing their + course, they ran 300 leagues out of their way, and at least 150 + leagues farther than Schonten.</p> + + <p>In this wide sea, Roggewein sailed upwards of 800 leagues + without seeing land, though he frequently varied his course. At + length, when in lat. 15° 30' S. they discovered a very + low island, the coast of which was covered with a deep + yellow-coloured sand, having in the middle of the island a kind + of pond, lake, or lagoon. All the principal officers were of + opinion that this was the island to which Schonten gave the name + of <i>Dog</i> island, and did not therefore think it necessary to + go on shore for more particular examination.<a id="footnotetag52" + name="footnotetag52"></a><a href="#footnote52"><sup>8</sup></a> + The author of this voyage was of a different opinion, conceiving + it a new discovery, and calling it <i>Carlshoff</i>,<a id= + "footnotetag53" name="footnotetag53"></a><a href= + "#footnote53"><sup>9</sup></a> which he says is in lat. + 15° 45' S. and long. 280°. He describes it as a + low flat island of about three leagues in extent, having a lake + in the middle.</p> + + <p>Leaving this island, the wind came about to the S.W. a sign + that they were near some coast, which had changed the current of + the air; and by this alteration of wind they were driven among + some small islands, where they found themselves considerably + embarrassed. In this situation the African galley led the way for + the rest, as sailing best and drawing least water; but she soon + found herself in such danger, that they fired repeated guns of + distress, on which the other two ships hastened to her + assistance, when they found her stuck so fast between two rocks + that it was impossible to get her of? and were only able to save + her people. Roused by the noise of the signal guns, the natives + of the surrounding <span class="pagenum"><a name="page97" id= + "page97"></a>[pg 97]</span> islands kindled many fires on their + hills, and flocked in crowds to the coasts; and the Dutch; not + knowing what might be their designs in the darkness of the night + and in the midst of their own confusion, fired upon them without + ceremony, that they might have as few dangers as possible to deal + with at one time. In the morning as soon as it was light, they + had a clear view of the danger all the ships had been in during + the darkness of the past night, finding themselves environed on + all sides by four islands, with a continued chain of steep rocks, + and so close together that they could hardly discern the channel + by which they had got in, so that they had much reason to be + thankful for having been so wonderfully preserved in the midst of + so much danger. On this occasion only one seaman was lost, who + belonged to the Tienhoven, and who, in his eagerness to go to + succour his friends, dropt overboard and was drowned.</p> + + <p>The danger was by no means over as soon as discovered, as it + cost the Dutch no less than five days to extricate themselves + from their perilous situation, during which time the commodore + was separated from the Tienhoven, and remained ignorant of the + fate of the African. At length, the boat of the Tienhoven, having + sailed all round the group of islands, brought information that + the crew of the African had got safe on shore; and that the + natives, after being once fired on, had retired into the interior + in all haste. Roggewein now sent his boat to bring off all those + who had got on shore; and on mustering the crew of the African on + board the Eagle, it appeared that a quarter-master and four + seamen were missing. On enquiry, it was found that these men had + chosen to remain on the island, as they had mutinied against + their officers on getting ashore, because they had interposed to + prevent them from killing each other with their knives, and + Captain Rosenthall had threatened to have them all put to death + when he got them aboard the commodore, wherefore they had fled to + avoid punishment. Being unwilling to lose them, the commodore + sent the author of this narrative with a detachment of soldiers + to bring them away, but he was unable to succeed.</p> + + <p>These islands are situated between the latitudes of + 15° and 16° S. about twelve leagues west from + Carlshoff,<a id="footnotetag54" name="footnotetag54"></a><a href= + "#footnote54"><sup>10</sup></a> each of <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page98" id="page98"></a>[pg 98]</span> them + appearing to be four or five leagues in compass. That on which + the African was shipwrecked was named <i>Mischievous Island</i>, + the two next it the <i>Brothers</i>, and the fourth the + <i>Sister</i> All four islands were beautifully verdant, and + abounded in fine tall trees, especially cocoas; and the crews + found material benefit while here by refreshing themselves on the + vegetable productions of these islands, by which many of them + were surprisingly recovered from the scurvy. The Dutch found here + vast quantities of muscles, cockles, mother-of-pearls, and + pearl-oysters, which gave reason to expect that a valuable pearl + fishery might have been established here. These islands are + extremely low, so that some parts of them must be frequently + overflowed; but the inhabitants have plenty of stout canoes, as + also stout barks provided with sails and cables; and the Dutch + found several pieces of rope on the shore, that seemed made of + hemp. The natives were of extraordinary size, all their bodies + being painted [or <i>tatooed</i>] with many colours, and had + mostly long black hair, though some had brown hair even inclined + towards red. They were armed with pikes or lances eighteen or + twenty feet long, and kept in bodies of fifty or an hundred + together, endeavouring to entice the Dutch to follow them into + the interior, as if to draw them into an ambuscade, on purpose to + be revenged for the loss they had sustained by the firing on the + night of the shipwreck.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote45" name="footnote45"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag45">(return)</a> + + <p>We have omitted a long, inconclusive, and uninteresting + discussion about the climate and productions of the proposed + discovery, the <i>Terra Australis</i>, which still remains + <i>incognito</i>, or rather has been clearly shewn to have no + existence.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote46" name="footnote46"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag46">(return)</a> + + <p>There can be no doubt that the small low flat island was + Easter island, in lat. 27° 20' S. long. 110° + 10' W. Its distance from Copaipo, almost due W. is almost + exactly 40° or 800 marine leagues. The range of high + land seen to the westwards, could be nothing but a fog bank, so + that Roggewein set out from Juan Fernandez in search of a + nonentity.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote47" name="footnote47"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag47">(return)</a> + + <p>It will be afterwards seen in the modern circumnavigations, + that there are several gigantic statues, having a distant + resemblance to the human figure, on this island, which are + perhaps alluded to in the text.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote48" name="footnote48"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag48">(return)</a> + + <p>This surely is a prodigious exaggeration, as the island is + utterly incapable to have supported any considerable number of + inhabitants, and there is not any other within 1500 + miles.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote49" name="footnote49"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag49">(return)</a> + + <p><i>Tatooed</i> in all probability, a practice so common + through the inhabitants of Polynesia, which will be minutely + described in an after division of this collection. It may + suffice to say at present, that this decoration is formed by + pricking the skin with sharp instruments till it just bleeds, + and afterwards rubbing some coloured powders into the + punctures, which leave indelible stains.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote50" name="footnote50"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag50">(return)</a> + + <p>It is left ambiguous whether these straw hats and mantles + were worn by both sexes, or confined exclusively to the + women.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote51" name="footnote51"></a><b>Footnote 7:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag51">(return)</a> + + <p>A dissertation is here omitted on a fancied migration of + storks annually from Europe to this island and others in the + South-sea, as high as lat. 40° and 50° S. + merely because the Dutch thought the feathers in these caps + resembled those of storks.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote52" name="footnote52"></a><b>Footnote 8:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag52">(return)</a> + + <p>In modern geography Dog island is placed in lat. + 15° 10' S. long. 137° 45' W. from + Greenwich.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote53" name="footnote53"></a><b>Footnote 9:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag53">(return)</a> + + <p>Carlshoff is laid down by Arrowsmith in lat. 15° + 45' S. as in the text, and long. 145° 28' W. The first + meridian used for the longitude in the text is quite + inexplicable, and was probably assumed on very erroneous + computation. It is 190 marine leagues due west from Dog + island.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote54" name="footnote54"></a><b>Footnote 10:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag54">(return)</a> + + <p>Pernicious islands, almost certainly the Mischievous islands + of the text, are placed in lat. 16° 5' S. and long. + 148° 50' W. about 20 leagues W. by S. from Carlshoff + by Arrowsmith.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION V.</h3> + + <h4><i>Continuation of the Voyage after the Loss of the African, + to the Arrival of Roggewein at New Britain.</i></h4> + + <p>The next morning after leaving Mischievous island, they saw a + new island eight leagues to the west, to which they gave the name + of <i>Aurora</i> island, because observed first at break of day. + At this time the Tienhoven was so near, that if the sun had risen + half an hour later, she must have shared the same fate with the + African, as she was within cannon-shot of the shore when the + danger was perceived, and she then tacked and escaped with + considerable difficulty. The fright which this occasioned + produced a mutiny, in which all the seamen insisted with the + commodore either to return immediately, or to give them security + for payment of <span class="pagenum"><a name="page99" id= + "page99"></a>[pg 99]</span> their wages, in case they should be + so unfortunate as to suffer shipwreck. This request seemed just + and reasonable, being daily exposed to excessive fatigue in these + stormy and unknown seas, and at the same time ran the hazard of + losing all the reward of their labours, as it is the custom in + Holland that the seamen lose their wages if the ship is lost in + which they sail. The commodore listened to their complaints with + much humanity, and immediately gave them assurance upon oath, + that they should have their wages to the uttermost farthing, and + kept his promise with the utmost exactness; for, though the + African was lost before, and both the other ships were condemned + at Batavia, yet every one of their respective crews received + their full wages on their arrival at Amsterdam.</p> + + <p>The island of <i>Aurora</i> was about four leagues in extent, + the whole being covered with delightful verdure, and adorned with + lofty trees interspersed with smaller wood. But, as the coast was + found to be all foul and rocky, they left this island also + without landing. Towards evening of the same day, they had sight + of another island, to which therefore they gave the name of + <i>Vesper</i>.<a id="footnotetag55" name= + "footnotetag55"></a><a href="#footnote55"><sup>1</sup></a> This + was about twelve leagues in circuit, all low land, yet verdant + and containing abundance of trees of various sorts. Continuing + their course to the west in about the latitude of 15° S. + they next morning discovered another country; and, as it was + covered with smoke, they concluded it was inhabited, and made + there all sail to come to it, in hopes of procuring refreshments. + On approaching nearer, some of the inhabitants were seen + diverting themselves off the coast in their canoes. They also + perceived by degrees, that what they had at first supposed to be + one country or large island, was in reality abundance of islands + standing close together, among which they had now entered so far, + that they found it difficult to get out again. In this situation, + a man was sent to the mast-head to look out for a passage, and as + the weather was quite serene, they had the good fortune to get + out once more into the open sea without injury; although in + passing by several steep ranges of rocks, they had reason to + consider this as a great deliverance. There were six of these + islands, exceedingly <span class="pagenum"><a name="page100" id= + "page100"></a>[pg 100]</span> beautiful and pleasant in + appearance, which altogether could not be less than thirty + leagues in circumference. They were about twenty-five leagues + west from Mischievous island, and the Dutch called them the + Labyrinth,<a id="footnotetag56" name="footnotetag56"></a><a href= + "#footnote56"><sup>2</sup></a> having difficultly got clear of + them by numerous tacks.</p> + + <p>As it was very dangerous to anchor on the coast, and as none + of the inhabitants came off in their canoes, the Dutch did not + think fit to make any stay, but continued still a western course, + and in a few days discovered another island, which at a distance + appeared very high and beautiful; but, on a nearer approach they + found no ground for anchorage, and the coast appeared so rocky + that they were afraid to venture near. Each ship therefore + embarked twenty-five men in their boats, in order to make a + descent. The natives no sooner perceived their design than they + came down in crowds to the coast to oppose their landing, being + armed with long spears, which they soon shewed they knew how to + use to the best advantage. When the boats drew near, the shore + was found to be so steep and rocky, that the boats could not come + to land, on which most of the sailors went into the water with + their arms in their hands, having some baubles fit for presents + to the natives tied upon their heads; while those who remained in + the boats kept up a continual fire to clear the shore. This + expedient succeeded, and the seamen got ashore without much + resistance from the natives; who were frightened by the fire of + the musquetry, and retired up the mountains, but came down again + as soon as the Dutch ceased firing.</p> + + <p>On the return of the islanders, the Dutch who had landed + shewed them small mirrors, beads, and other baubles, and the + people came up to them without fear, took their presents, and + suffered them to search where they pleased for herbs and + sallading for the sick. They found abundance of these, and soon + filled twelve sacks, six for the Eagle and six for the Tienhoven, + the inhabitants even assisting them and shewing them the best + sorts. They carried their cargo of greens immediately on board, + which were more acceptable to the sick than if they had brought + them as much gold and silver. Next morning a larger body of men + were ordered on shore, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page101" + id="page101"></a>[pg 101]</span> both on purpose to gather herbs + and to examine the island. The first thing they did was to make a + present to the king or chief of a considerable assortment of + trinkets, which he received with an air of indifference and + disdain, which did not promise much good in their future + intercourse, yet sent the Dutch a considerable quantity of cocoa + nuts in return, which were very agreeable to them in their + present circumstances. The chief was distinguished from the + ordinary inhabitants by wearing various ornaments of pearls, as + they judged to the value of 600 florins, or L. 55 sterling. The + women of the island seemed to admire the white men much, and + almost stifled them with caresses: But this was all employed to + lull the Dutch into security, that the plot contrived by the men + for their destruction might the more readily succeed.</p> + + <p>When the Dutch had filled twenty sacks with greens, they + advanced farther into the country, till they came to the top of + some steep rocks, which hung over a large and deep valley, the + natives going both before and behind them, quite unsuspected of + any evil intention. At length, thinking they had the Dutch at an + advantage, the natives suddenly quitted them, and soon after + prodigious numbers came pouring out from caves and holes in the + rocks, and surrounded the Dutch on all sides, while they + immediately formed in close order for defence. The chief or king + then made a signal for the Dutch to keep off, but as they + continued to advance, the chief made a signal of battle, which + was instantly followed by a prodigious shower of stones. The + Dutch in return made a general discharge of their fire arms, + which did great execution, and the chief was among the first who + fell. Yet the islanders continued to throw stones with great + fury, so that most of the Dutch were soon wounded and almost + disabled, on which they retired under shelter of a rock, whence + they fired with such success that great numbers of the islanders + were slain. They still obstinately maintained their ground, and + the Dutch were at last forced to retreat, having some of their + number killed, and a great many wounded, most of whom died not + long after, in consequence of their scorbutical habit of body, in + spite of every care. As soon as they could disengage themselves + from the enemy, the Dutch retired on board ship, carrying with + them the sacks of greens which they had gathered. This rencounter + had so great an effect on the <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page102" id="page102"></a>[pg 102]</span> Dutch, that when it + was proposed to land again, not a man could be prevailed upon to + make the dangerous attempt.</p> + + <p>They had given to this island, before this unfortunate affair, + the name of the <i>Island of Recreation</i>,<a id="footnotetag57" + name="footnotetag57"></a><a href="#footnote57"><sup>3</sup></a> + which is in lat. 16° S. and long. 285°. It is + about twelve leagues in compass, with a fertile soil, producing a + great number of trees, especially cocoa nuts, palms, and + iron-wood. The Dutch conceived that there might be rich mines in + the heart of the country, and other valuable things, but were not + allowed to search. The natives were of middle size, but robust + and active, having long black shining hair, which they anoint + with cocoa-nut oil, a practice very common among the Indians. + They were painted all over, like the inhabitants of Easter + island; the men wearing a kind of net-work round their middles, + which they stick up between their legs. The women were entirely + covered by a kind of mantles of their own manufacture, the stuff + of which to the sight and touch resembled silk;<a id= + "footnotetag58" name="footnotetag58"></a><a href= + "#footnote58"><sup>4</sup></a> and they wear long strings of + pearls about their necks and wrists.</p> + + <p>Roggewein thought proper to sail from this island without + farther loss of time, and before his departure held a council of + his officers, in which he stated his instructions, which were,If + no discovery of importance could be made in the latitude and + longitude in which they then were, that he should return home. + Some of the council were much astonished at this, and + remonstrated, That having already gone so far, and met with such + encouragement to hope for discoveries of great importance, they + thought it would betray a great want of spirit not to proceed. To + this Roggewein answered, That they had now been out ten months, + having still a long voyage to make to the East Indies; that + provisions began to grow scarce, and, above all, that the crews + were already so much diminished in number, and the survivors in + so weak a condition, that if twenty more were to die or fall + sick, there would not be a sufficient number remaining to + navigate both ships. The true reason, however, in the opinion of + the author of this voyage, was the anxiety <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page103" id="page103"></a>[pg 103]</span> to + get to the East Indies before the change of the monsoon, in which + case they must have remained six months longer in these seas. + Some of the officers opposed this motion to the last, earnestly + entreating the commodore that he would rather winter at the land + mentioned by Ferdinand de Quiros, from which they could not now + be more than 150 leagues distant. They insisted that it was wrong + to think of going to the East Indies, that being directly + contrary to the design of their instructions: And that by + continuing in the same western course, they could not fail to + fall in with some island, where they might land and procure + refreshments, remaining on shore till all their sick men were + recovered, and erecting a fort to defend themselves against the + natives. If this were complied with, they said they might + afterwards return home by an eastern coarse; and, by taking time, + might effectually complete the discoveries on which they were + sent.</p> + + <p>These reasons were listened to with patience and civility, but + had not the weight they deserved; and a resolution was formed to + continue their coarse for New Britain and New Guinea, and thence + to the East Indies, by way of the Moluccas, being in hopes to + procure there a supply of provisions and necessaries, together + with a reinforcement of seamen, in case they should then be too + weak for navigating their ships home to Europe. In consequence of + this resolution, an end was put to all hope of visiting the land + of Quiros, which the best seamen on board thought might have been + easily discovered, called by him and Torres the <i>Islands of + Solomon</i>, and reported to be beautiful and fertile, and + abounding in gold, silver, precious stones, and spices.<a id= + "footnotetag59" name="footnotetag59"></a><a href= + "#footnote59"><sup>5</sup></a></p> + + <p>Leaving the island of <i>Recreation</i>, Roggewein steered a + coarse towards the N.W. pursuant to the resolution of the + council, in order to get into the latitude of New Britain. On the + third day, in lat. 12° S. and long. 29° they + discovered several islands which appeared very beautiful at a + distance, and, on a nearer approach, were seen to be well planted + with all sorts of trees, and produced herbs, corn, and roots in + great plenty, to which they gave the name of <i>Bowman's + Islands</i>, after the captain of the Tienhoven, by whom they + were first seen.<a id="footnotetag60" name= + "footnotetag60"></a><a href="#footnote60"><sup>6</sup></a> As + soon as they were seen by the natives, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page104" id="page104"></a>[pg 104]</span> they + came off in their canoes to the ships, bringing fish, cocoa-nuts, + Indian figs, and other refreshments, in return for which the + Dutch gave them small mirrors, strings of beads, and other + trifles. These islands were very fully peopled, as many thousands + of men and women came down to the shore to view the ships, most + of the men being armed with bows and arrows. Among the rest, they + saw a majestic personage, who, from the peculiar dress he wore, + and the honours that were paid him, evidently appeared to be + chief or king of these islanders. This person soon afterwards + went into a canoe, accompanied by a fair young woman, who sat + close by his side, and his canoe was immediately surrounded by a + vast number of others, which seemed intended for his guard.</p> + + <p>All the inhabitants of these islands were white, differing + only from Europeans in being sun-burnt, and they seemed a very + harmless good sort of people, of brisk and lively dispositions, + behaving to each other with much civility, and shewing no + appearance of wildness or savageness in their behaviour. Their + bodies were not painted like those of the islanders they had seen + hitherto, but very handsomely cloathed from the waist downwards, + with a sort of silk fringes very neatly arranged. On their heads + they wore hats of a very neat-looking stuff, very large and wide + spreading, in order to keep off the sun, and their necks were + adorned with collars or garlands of beautiful odoriferous + flowers. The islands appeared quite charming, being agreeably + diversified with beautiful hills and intermediate vallies. Each + family or tribe appeared to have its separate district, and to + compose a separate government or community, all the land being + regularly laid out into regular and fair plantations, as had + formerly been observed at <i>Pasch</i>, or <i>Easter</i> island. + In all respects, the natives were the most civilized and best + disposed people they had seen in the South Seas. Instead of + shewing any terror or apprehension at the arrival of the Dutch, + the natives expressed the utmost joy and satisfaction, treating + them with the utmost kindness and respect, and manifested the + most sincere and deep concern at their departure. Many of the + Dutch also felt a similar regret, and would have been well + pleased to have made a longer stay in this delightful and + plenteous country, among so kind a <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page105" id="page105"></a>[pg 105]</span> people, as, by the + help of the excellent provisions in great abundance with which + these good islands furnished them, all their sick people would + have been perfectly recovered in a month. These islands had also + one convenience greatly superior to those they had met with + before, as there was good anchorage almost every where along + their coasts, where they rode in the utmost safety, in from + fifteen to twenty fathoms.</p> + + <p>So many advantageous circumstances ought to have induced + Roggewein and his officers to have remained here longer; but + their heads were so full of proceeding for the East Indies, that + they were fearful of missing the favourable monsoon, while they + afterwards discovered, to their cost, that they were two months + too early, instead of two months too late. By this indiscreet + step, they sacrificed the health and strength of their crew to + such a degree, that they were at length hardly able to navigate + their ships, and at one time were on the point of burning one of + their ships, that they might be better able to manage the other: + All of which inconveniences might have been avoided, had they + embraced this opportunity afforded them by Divine Providence, and + been contented to remain in a place of safety, plenty, and + pleasure, till their sick were recovered, instead of wilfully + seeking new dangers which they were so little able to + encounter.</p> + + <p>Leaving Bowman's islands, and continuing their course towards + the N.W. they came next morning in sight of two islands, which + they took to be <i>Coccos</i> and <i>Traitor's</i> islands,<a id= + "footnotetag61" name="footnotetag61"></a><a href= + "#footnote61"><sup>7</sup></a> so called by Schouten, who + discovered them. The island of Coccos, at a distance, for + Roggewein would not stop to examine it, seemed very high land, + and about eight leagues in circuit. The other seemed much lower, + composed of a red soil, and destitute of trees. They soon after + saw two other islands of large extent, one of which they named + <i>Tienhoven</i>,<a id="footnotetag62" name= + "footnotetag62"></a><a href="#footnote62"><sup>8</sup></a> and + the other <i>Groninguen</i>; which last many of their officers + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page106" id="page106"></a>[pg + 106]</span> were of opinion was no island, but the <i>great + southern continent</i> they were sent out to discover. The island + of <i>Tienhoven</i> appeared a rich and beautiful country, + moderately high, its meadows or low lands, by the sea, + exceedingly green, and the interior well provided with trees. + They coasted along this island for a whole day without reaching + its extremity, yet noticed that it extended semi-circularly + towards the island of Groninguen, so that those which they took + for islands might be contiguous lands, and both of them parts of + the <i>Terra Australis incognita</i>.</p> + + <p>A great part of the company were for anchoring on this coast, + and making a descent, but the officers were so intent on + proceeding for India, that they alleged it might be very + dangerous to attempt landing, lest any of the men might be cut + off, and they should not have enough left to carry on the ships. + They continued in their course, therefore, not doubting that they + should soon see the coasts of New Britain or New Guinea: But, + after sailing many days without seeing any land at all, they + began to see the vanity of these calculations, and could not + forbear murmuring at their effects, as the scurvy began to cut + off three, four, or five of their best hands daily. At this time + nothing was to be seen but sick people, struggling with + inexpressible pains, or dead carcasses just relieved from their + intolerable distress. From these there arose so abominable a + stench, that even those who were yet sound often fainted away, + unable to endure it. Cries and groans were incessantly heard in + all parts of the ships, and the sight of the poor diseased + wretches who were still able to crawl about, excited horror and + compassion. Some were reduced to such mere skeletons that their + skins seemed to cleave to their bones, and these had this + consolation, that they gradually consumed away without pain. + Others were swelled out to monstrous sizes, and were so tormented + with excruciating pain, as to drive them to furious madness. Some + were worn away by the dysentery, and others were racked with + excruciating rheumatism, while others again dragged their dead + limbs after them, having lost feeling through the palsy. To these + numerous and complicated diseases of the body, many had + superadded distemperature of the mind. An anabaptist of + twenty-five years old called out continually to be baptized, and + when told with a sneer that there was no parson on board, he + became quiet, and died with great resignation. Two papists + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page107" id="page107"></a>[pg + 107]</span> on board gave what little money they had to their + friends, beseeching them, if they ever got back to Holland, to + lay it out in masses to St Anthony of Padua for the repose of + their souls. Others again would listen to nothing that had the + smallest savour of religion, for some time before they died. Some + refused meat and drink for twenty-four hours before death, while + others were suddenly carried off in the midst of + conversation.</p> + + <p>All these various appearances of disease are attributed by the + author of this voyage principally to the bad quality of their + provisions; their salt meat being corrupted, their bread full of + maggots, and their water intolerably putrid. Under these + circumstances medicines were of no avail, being utterly unable to + work a cure, and could at best only defer death for a little, and + protract the sufferings of the sick. Though as well as any one in + either ship, the author of this journal had the scurvy to such a + degree that his teeth were all loose, his gums inflamed and + ulcerated, and his body all over covered with livid spots. Even + such as were reputed in best health, were low, weak, and much + afflicted with the scurvy. Nothing could effectually relieve or + even alleviate their sufferings, except fresh meat, vegetables, + and sweet water. At length it pleased God to put a period to + their miseries, by giving them sight of the coast of New Britain, + the joy of which filled the sick with new spirits, and encouraged + those who were still able to move, with the enlivening hope of + once more revisiting their native land. Our author was fully of + opinion, that if they had been many days longer at sea, they must + all have perished by the continuance and necessary increase of + the miseries which they endured, which no description can + possibly express in any thing like adequate terms.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote55" name="footnote55"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag55">(return)</a> + + <p>Aurora and Vesper are called in modern geography Roggewein's + or Palliser's Islands, in lat. 15° 32' S, about 10 + leagues N. by W. of Pernicious Islands.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote56" name="footnote56"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag56">(return)</a> + + <p>Perhaps Prince of Wales' islands are here alluded to, in + lat. 15° 50' S. and long. 148° 5' W. about 40 + marine leagues W.N.W. from Pernicious islands.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote57" name="footnote57"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag57">(return)</a> + + <p>By Arrowsmith, this island is placed in lat. 16° + 32' S. and long. 148° 50' W. The longitude in the text + is inexplicable on any supposition.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote58" name="footnote58"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag58">(return)</a> + + <p>The cloth of the South-sea islands is a substance in a great + measure resembling paper, composed of the inner bark of the + paper mulberry, the preparation of which will be afterwards + detailed in the narratives of the modern circumnavigatorsE.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote59" name="footnote59"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag59">(return)</a> + + <p>We have here omitted a long, uninteresting, and inconclusive + disquisition on the supposed Terra Australis, as altogether + founded on supposition and error.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote60" name="footnote60"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag60">(return)</a> + + <p>These appear to have been the most northerly of the Society + islands, about 70 marine leagues, or 3-1/2 degrees W. by N. + from Recreation island, in lat. 15° 20' S. long. + 152° W.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote61" name="footnote61"></a><b>Footnote 7:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag61">(return)</a> + + <p>There must be here an enormous error in the text; Coccos and + Traitor's islands are almost directly west from Recreation + island, and the northermost of the Society islands, supposed to + be the Bowman's islands of the text, and not less than + 23°10' farther west than these last, or 463 marine + leagues, which could not well be run in less than a week or ten + days.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote62" name="footnote62"></a><b>Footnote 8:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag62">(return)</a> + + <p>These were probably the <i>Fee-jee</i>, or Bligh's islands, + in lat. 17° 20' S. long. 181° 30' W. but the + narrative is too incomplete to ascertain this and many other + points with any tolerable certainty.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION VI.</h3> + + <h4><i>Description of New Britain, and farther Continuation of + the Voyage till the Arrival of Roggewein at Java.</i></h4> + + <p>The country of New Britain, and all the islands in its + neighbourhood, is composed of very high land, many of the + mountains hiding their heads in the clouds. The sea coasts are + however both pleasant and fertile, the low lands being + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page108" id="page108"></a>[pg + 108]</span> cloathed in perpetual verdure, and the hills covered + with a variety of trees, mostly bearing fruit. It is in lat. + between 4°and 7° S.<a id="footnotetag63" name= + "footnotetag63"></a><a href="#footnote63"><sup>1</sup></a> and + both in regard to situation and appearance, no country can + promise better than this. After some consultation, it was + resolved to go on shore here at all events, though now so much + reduced by the long-continued sickness, that they could hardly + muster a sufficient number of men from both ships to man a boat, + and leave men enough, in case they were cut off, to navigate one + ship home, supposing them even to sacrifice one of the ships. Yet + such was the ardent desire of all to get on shore, and so urgent + was the necessity for that measure, that it appeared + indispensable to venture on landing, let the consequences be what + they might. Accordingly, our author was ordered into the boat, + with as many men as could be spared, with orders to get on shore + at any rate, by fair means if possible, and with the consent of + the inhabitants, for whom he carried a great number of baubles to + distribute among them as presents. If, however, these had no + effect, he was then to use force, as the circumstances to which + they were reduced made it as eligible to die by the hands of + barbarians as to perish gradually by disease and famine.</p> + + <p>The nearer they drew towards the coast, the more they were + delighted with its appearance, as giving them a nearer prospect + of the wished-for refreshments. The inhabitants came down in + multitudes to the coast, but in such guise as did not by any + means increase their satisfaction, as they were all armed with + bows and arrows and slings, and demonstrated sufficiently by + their gestures that the Dutch were by no means welcome visitors, + and that they were not to expect being permitted to land + peaceably. As the boat approached the shore, the natives seemed + to become frantic with despair, made frightful faces, tore their + hair, and howled in a horrible manner; and at length, as + borrowing courage from the increase of danger, they hurried into + their canoes and put off <span class="pagenum"><a name="page109" + id="page109"></a>[pg 109]</span> from the shore, as if to meet + that danger the sooner which was evidently unavoidable. As the + Dutch continued their way towards the land, the natives + discharged a flight of arrows at the boat, which they followed by + throwing their spears or javelins, after which they threw in a + shower of stones discharged from slings. Convinced now that there + was nothing to be trusted to but force, the Dutch opened their + fire, and kept it up with such effect, that many of the natives + were slain, and the rest so terrified, that great numbers of them + leapt into the water to swim ashore, and at last all the + survivors followed the example, by turning their canoes towards + the land. But such was their confusion and dismay, that they were + now unable to distinguish the proper channels by which to get + back to the coast, but ran them on the rocks and shoals. This + circumstance almost deprived the Dutch of all hopes of being able + to attain the coast.</p> + + <p>While thus embarrassed, there arose a violent storm, of that + kind which the Dutch call <i>traffat</i>, and which in the east + is named a <i>tuffoon</i>, which usually arises suddenly in the + midst of a calm, and when the air is perfectly clear and serene, + and which, by its extreme violence, often brings the masts by the + board, and whirls the sails into the air, if they are not furled + in an instant. By this sudden tempest, the two ships were forced + out to sea, and the poor people in the boat were left without + relief, and almost devoid of hope. The boat was forced on a + sand-bank, where she was for some time so beaten by the winds and + waves, that there seemed no chance of escaping almost instant + destruction. But despair often lends strength and spirits to men + beyond their usual powers; and, by dint of great exertions, they + dragged their boat clear of the bank, and got to land, where all + got safe on shore without hurt, but almost exhausted by fatigue. + The first thing they did was to look out for some place of + retreat, where they might be safe from any sudden assault of the + natives; but night came on before any such could be found, so + that they were forced to rest contented with making a fire on the + shore, in order to dry and warm themselves, which in some measure + revived their spirits. The light of the fire enabled them to + discover several huts or cabins of the natives in the + neighbourhood of where they were, on which they felt inclined to + examine them, but found neither inhabitants nor household goods + of any kind, all that they met with worth taking away being a few + nets of curious <span class="pagenum"><a name="page110" id= + "page110"></a>[pg 110]</span> workmanship. They also saw + abundance of cocoa-nut trees, but, having no hatchets, were + unable to come at any of the fruit, and had to pass a most + comfortless night, during which they were perpetually disturbed + and alarmed by the frightful noise of the natives in the + adjoining wood, whence they naturally concluded they were every + moment about to attack them. About midnight they heard a signal + from the ships, which had been able to come back to that part of + the coast, on which they immediately hastened on board, and + immediately continued their voyage along the coast of New + Britain, making their way with considerable difficulty through + among numerous islands. They named that part of the coast on + which they landed, <i>Stormland</i>, which was probably the same + called <i>Slinger's bay</i> by Dampier, on account of the + dexterity of the natives in the management of that + instrument.</p> + + <p>This country of New Britain seems to be extremely fertile, and + to abound in fruits of many sorts. The inhabitants are a tall + well-made people, perfect mulattoes in their complexions, with + long black hair hanging down to their waists, being extremely + nimble and vigorous, and so dexterous in the management of their + weapons, that in all probability they live in a state of + continual warfare with their neighbours. The sea along the coast + is studded with numerous islands, so that they had great + difficulty in getting a passage through them.</p> + + <p>Notwithstanding the dangers they had already experienced, they + resolved to make another descent upon the coast on the first + opportunity, though they had not now ten men in both vessels in + perfect health, but their necessities admitted of no other + remedy. The stock-fish, on which they had lived for some time + past, was now so full of worms, and stunk so abominably, that, + instead of eating it, they were unable to come near it. The + officers were unable now to pacify the men with stories of relief + in the East Indies, for they unanimously declared that immediate + death on shore would be more welcome than living longer at sea in + this dreadful condition. In this forlorn condition they arrived + in the lat. of 2° S. where they fortunately fell in with + the islands of <i>Moa</i> and <i>Arimoa</i>, <a id= + "footnotetag64" name="footnotetag64"></a><a href= + "#footnote64"><sup>2</sup></a> formerly discovered by Schouten, + and immediately <span class="pagenum"><a name="page111" id= + "page111"></a>[pg 111]</span> determined upon endeavouring to + procure relief from Arimoa, the larger of these islands. The + natives, on perceiving the approach of the two ships, came + immediately off to meet them in their canoes, of which they had + prodigious numbers. All of these people were armed with bows and + arrows, even their women and children; but they brought with them + various refreshments, as cocoa-nuts, <i>pisans</i>, or Indian + figs, with various other fruits, and different kinds of roots, + rowing directly to the ships without any signs of fear or + distrust. The Dutch gave them such kind of trifles as they had by + way of presents, and in return for these refreshments; but on + shewing more of these, and giving the islanders to understand, by + signs, that such was the merchandize they had to give in barter + for refreshments, they looked at them coolly, as if they had no + desire to trade for such commodities. Next day, however, they + returned with great quantities of similar articles of provision; + and the Dutch having endeavoured to express by signs that they + wished them to bring some hogs, the natives mistook their + meaning, and brought two or three dogs the day following, to the + great disappointment of the Dutch.</p> + + <p>These refreshments were very seasonable, and greatly amended + the health of many of the sick people in the two ships; and our + author is convinced that most of them would have perfectly + recovered in a few days, if they could have ventured to live on + shore. The islanders never failed to invite them ashore every + time they came off; but being greatly weakened, as for some days + they had thrown four or five of their people overboard, they did + not think it prudent to run so great a hazard; more especially + as, even in the midst of their civility, the air, look, and + language of these people seemed to savour of perfidy, and besides + the island was extremely populous. The Dutch noticed that these + islanders, always on coming on board their ships, carried a piece + of stick to which some white stuff was fixed, as if in the nature + of a flag of truce, whence they supposed they were often at war + with some neighbouring nation or tribe, and especially + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page112" id="page112"></a>[pg + 112]</span> with the inhabitants of <i>Moa</i>, particularly as + none of their canoes ever went ashore on that island, but always, + on the contrary, passed it with evident precipitation. These + remarks furnished the Dutch with a new project by which to + acquire a considerable stock of provisions speedily, by a sudden + descent on Moa, which appeared to be but thinly peopled, though + as pleasant and fertile as the other, hoping to carry off at once + enough of provisions to enable them to prosecute their voyage, + without the risk of falling again into the distress they had so + lately endured.</p> + + <p>This bold scheme required much prudence, and it was thought + expedient to land in different places at once, one party being + directed to advance into the country, while the others should be + at hand to support them, and to secure their retreat. This was + accordingly very happily effected; for, although the natives + formed an ambush behind the trees and bushes, and discharged + their arrows at the principal party as soon as they began to cut + down the cocoa-trees, the Dutch fortunately remained uninjured, + and laid many of the natives dead by discharges of their + fire-arms. This so frightened the rest that they took refuge in + their canoes, whence they endeavoured by cries and shouts to + alarm the rest of their countrymen to come to their assistance: + But the Dutch were so judiciously posted as to constrain them to + remain in the mountains, by which means the main party were + enabled to carry off about 800 cocoa-nuts to their boats, with + which booty they rejoined their ships.</p> + + <p>The <i>cocoa-tree</i> is a species of palm, found in most + parts of the East and West Indies. The trunk is large, straight, + and lofty, tapering insensibly to the top, whence the fruit hangs + in bunches united by a tendril, not unlike the twig of a vine, + but stronger. The flowers are yellow, resembling those of the + chesnut. As it produces new bunches every month, there are always + some quite ripe, some green, some just beginning to button, and + others in full flower. The fruit is three-lobed and of a greenish + hue, of different sizes, from the size of an ordinary + tennis-ball, to that of a man's head, and is composed of two + rinds. The outer is composed of long tough fibres, between red + and yellow colour, the second being a hard shell. Within this is + a thick firm white substance or kernel, lining the shell, tasting + like a sweet almond; and in a central hollow of this kernel there + is a considerable quantity of a clear, bright, cool liquor, + tasting like sugared water. The <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page113" id="page113"></a>[pg 113]</span> natives of the + countries in which these trees grow, eat the kernel with their + victuals instead of bread; and likewise extract from it, by + pressure, a liquor resembling milk of almonds in taste and + consistence. When this milk is exposed to the action of fire, it + changes to a kind of oil, which they use as we do butter in + dressing their victuals, and also burn in their lamps; and they + likewise employ it for smearing their bodies. They also draw from + the tree a liquor called <i>sura</i> by the Indians, and which + the Europeans name <i>toddy</i>, or palm-wine. For this purpose, + having cut one of the largest twigs about a foot from the body of + the tree, they hang to this stump a bottle or calabash, into + which the sap distils. This <i>sura</i> is of a very agreeable + taste, little inferior to the Spanish white wine; but being + strong and heady, is generally diluted with fresh clear water got + from the nut It does not however keep, as it becomes sour in + about two days; when, by exposure to the sun, it is converted + into excellent vinegar. When boiled in its recent state, it is + converted into another liquor, called <i>orraqua</i> by the + Indians; from which they distil a spirituous liquor called + arrack, which many people prefer to the other liquor of the same + name distilled from rice in India, which is so well known and so + much esteemed in Europe.</p> + + <p>Besides cocoa-nuts, the Dutch found in Moa great plenty of + pomegranates of exquisite taste, and abundance of <i>pisans</i> + or Indian figs. These refreshments were of infinite service to + them, as without them the whole of both ships companies must have + inevitably perished; and immediately on returning to their ships, + they began to prepare for resuming their voyage. While engaged in + these preparations, the inhabitants of Moa came off to the ships + in about 200 canoes, which they exchanged with the Dutch for + various articles, apparently doing this to prevent the Dutch from + making a second descent on their island: But on this occasion, + though the Dutch received them kindly, and treated them with + fairness in purchasing their provisions, they would only admit a + few of them into the ships at once; and when the islanders + attempted to rush on board in crowds, they fired upon them. On + these occasions, the natives all ducked their heads, and when + they raised them again broke out into loud laughter. This + exchange was no sooner over than they weighed anchor and + proceeded on their voyage. The author of this narrative remarks, + that such of the sick as had any <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page114" id="page114"></a>[pg 114]</span> strength remaining + recovered surprisingly at these islands, through the excellent + refreshments they procured there, while those who were already + quite exhausted soon died.</p> + + <p>Leaving these islands of <i>Moa</i> and <i>Arimoa</i>, they + continued their voyage through a part of the sea so very full of + islands, that finding it difficult or impossible to count them, + they gave them the name of <i>Thousand Isles</i>.<a id= + "footnotetag65" name="footnotetag65"></a><a href= + "#footnote65"><sup>3</sup></a> Their inhabitants were negroes, of + a short squat make, and their heads covered with thick curled + wool, being a bold, mischievous, and intractable race of savages. + They were all naked, men, women, and children, having no other + ornaments except a belt about two fingers broad, stuck fall of + teeth, and bracelets of the same; and some of them wore light + straw hats, adorned with the feathers of the + <i>Bird-of-Paradise</i>. These birds are said to be found no + where else but in these islands. Such of these islands as are + situated near the west point of New Guinea are still called the + <i>Islands of the Popoes</i> or <i>Papuas</i>, the continent + itself being called the <i>Land of Papua</i>, till Schouten + imposed upon it the name of <i>New Guinea</i>, chiefly because of + its being in the same latitude with <i>Old Guinea</i>.<a id= + "footnotetag66" name="footnotetag66"></a><a href= + "#footnote66"><sup>4</sup></a></p> + + <p>When the inhabitants of these islands go to Ternate, Banda, + Amboina, or any of the Moluccas, in order to sell their salt + pork, amber,<a id="footnotetag67" name= + "footnotetag67"></a><a href="#footnote67"><sup>5</sup></a> + gold-dust, and other merchandise, they always carry some of these + <i>Birds-of-Paradise</i>, which they constantly sell dead, + affirming that they find them so, and that they know not whence + they come or where they breed. This bird is always seen very high + in the air. It is extremely light, as its bulk consists mostly of + feathers, which are extremely beautiful, rendering it one of the + greatest curiosities in the world. The plumage of the head is as + bright as burnished gold; that of the neck resembles the neck of + a drake; and those of the wings and tail are like those of a + peacock. In beak and form, this bird comes nearest to a swallow, + though considerably larger. Such as deal in them endeavour to + persuade strangers that they have no feet, and that they hang + themselves, when they sleep, to the boughs of trees by means of + their feathers. But, in reality, these traders cut off their + feet, to render them the more wonderful. They <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page115" id="page115"></a>[pg 115]</span> also + pretend that the male has a cavity on his back, where the female + lodges her young till they are able to fly. They always cut off + the feet of these birds so close to the body, that the flesh + dries in such a manner that the skin and feathers perfectly + unite, making it impossible to perceive the smallest scar. They + also assert, that these birds are perpetually on the wing, + subsisting on birds and insects, which they catch in the air. The + feathers of the male are much brighter than those of the female. + In the east, this bird is usually called <i>Mancodiata</i>, or + the Bird-of-God. Great numbers of them are sent to Batavia, where + they generally sell for three crowns each. The Moors, Arabians, + and Persians are anxious to procure these birds, with which they + adorn their saddles and housings, often mixing with them pearls + and diamonds. They wear them also in their turbans, especially on + going to war, having a superstitious notion that they act as a + charm or talisman, capable of preserving them from wounds. + Formerly, the Shah and Mogul used to present their favourites + with one of these birds, as a mark of esteem or favour.</p> + + <p>Besides their girdle and bracelets, formerly mentioned, the + <i>Popoes</i>, or inhabitants of the Thousand Isles, wear a bit + of stick, the size of a tobacco-pipe and the length of a finger, + thrust through the gristle of the nose, which they think renders + them terrible to their enemies, as some Europeans consider + mustachios. They are the worst and most savage people in all the + South Seas. The continent of <i>New Guinea</i> appeared a high + country, extremely full of trees and plants of a vast variety of + kinds, so that, in sailing 400 leagues along its coast, they did + not observe one barren spot. Our author thinks that it probably + contains many precious commodities, as rich metals and valuable + spices, especially as most of the countries hitherto discovered + under the same parallel are not deficient in such riches. He was + afterwards assured, that some of the free burgesses in the + Moluccas go annually to New Guinea, where they exchange small + pieces of iron for nutmegs. Schouten and other navigators + conceived high ideas of this country, and represented it as one + of the finest and richest in the world; but they were unable to + penetrate any way into the interior, which could not be done with + a small force, as it is extremely populous, and the natives are + mostly well armed, and of a martial disposition.</p> + + <p>Roggewein and his officers were at this time in considerable + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page116" id="page116"></a>[pg + 116]</span> doubts, whether to prosecute the route formerly + followed by Dampier, or to go by Ternate, Tidore, and Bacian, as + the less dangerous passage. To gain time, however, they chose the + former, as they most otherwise have coasted round the + last-mentioned islands, in their way to the Moluccas. In this + view, they steered along shore, or rather through an innumerable + chain of small islands, extending from the western point of New + Guinea to the island of Gilolo, making their passage with much + difficulty and danger, and were greatly delighted and astonished + on getting sight of the island of <i>Bouro</i>, in lat. + 2° S. [3° 30' S. and long. 127° E.] + the most eastern country in which the Dutch East-India Company, + maintain a factory. This island is mostly pretty high land, and + abounds every where with trees and shrubs of various kinds. On + their arrival upon its coast, they were spoken with by a small + vessel, in which were two white men and several blacks. The white + men examined them very strictly to whom they belonged, whence + they came, and whither they were bound. To which they answered, + that they came from New Guinea, and were going to Batavia, but + wisely concealed belonging to the West-India Company, knowing + that the East-India Company permitted no vessels, except their + own, to navigate these seas, and had given strict orders to + capture all strange vessels that might appear there. Yet, in + spite of these precautions, the English sometimes find their way + among these islands, to the no small displeasure of the Dutch + company, although they keep ships cruizing here during both + monsoons, to preserve their monopoly of spices.</p> + + <p>The island of <i>Bouro</i> is about forty or fifty leagues in + circumference, and is indifferently fertile, formerly producing + abundance of clove-trees; but a detachment of Dutch soldiers is + sent yearly to grub them up, as they do also in the other Molucca + islands, because Amboina is thought to produce enough of that + commodity to maintain their commerce. Formerly also the Dutch had + a strong fort here, which the natives took and demolished after a + long siege, putting all the garrison to the sword. At present, + [in 1721,] the company only sends a detachment of soldiers to + root out the clove-trees, for which the inhabitants receive some + present. The two whites who were on board this Dutch bark were + the first Christians seen by Roggewein for the space of ten + months, or since leaving the coast of Brazil. Continuing their + course for the island of <i>Bootan</i>, in hopes of meeting + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page117" id="page117"></a>[pg + 117]</span> with refreshments, of which they were now in extreme + want, they arrived there in lat 4° S.<a id= + "footnotetag68" name="footnotetag68"></a><a href= + "#footnote68"><sup>6</sup></a> and sailed along its coast for a + whole day, in hopes of finding the strait for which they sought, + and at length found they were eight leagues to leeward of it, and + the monsoon now blew too strong to be able to bear up for the + intended port. They had now no hopes of being able to find any + port for refreshments till they should arrive at the island of + Java; as, wherever they might attempt to land, they well knew + that their ships would be confiscated, in consequence of the + invariable maxims of the East-India Company. All men therefore, + but especially the sick and feeble, cast an anxious look on the + fertile island now left behind them, presaging the melancholy + effects which must necessarily attend so pernicious a + measure.</p> + + <p>The situation of the island of <i>Bootan</i> is remarkably + advantageous, being in from 4° to 6° of S. + latitude, and nearly equal in size to the island of <i>Bouro</i>. + It is extremely fertile, especially in rice, and has abundance of + cattle and fish. It would also produce plenty both of clove and + nutmeg trees, if they were permitted to grow. The king of the + island has a very strong fort, on which the Dutch standard is + displayed, though there is no Dutch garrison; the company + contenting itself with sending deputies yearly to see the spice + trees destroyed, in consideration of which the king receives a + considerable sum yearly from the company. This nation is the most + faithful of all the inhabitants of the Indian islands to the + India company, having not only assisted them in expelling the + Portuguese, but also against the inhabitants of the Moluccas, + whenever they have attempted to revolt; by which means the + company has acquired the whole trade of this part of the world. + In consideration of this, the inhabitants of Bootan enjoy many + privileges that are denied to all other Indians: As, for + instance, they are allowed to come into any of the Dutch forts + armed, which is never allowed even to the natives of the + countries in which the forts are situated. Some time before this + voyage, the king of Bootan sent his eldest son ambassador to the + governor-general of Batavia, where he was received with every + mark of honour and distinction. It would not have been easy to + have known this prince for an Indian, had he not worn a + triple-rowed turban, richly adorned with gold and precious + stones, as the rest of his <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page118" id="page118"></a>[pg 118]</span> dress was entirely + European, and he wore a sword instead of a cutlass, which no + Indian had done before. His train was numerous and splendid, all + dressed in the Indian manner: Twelve of them were armed with + cuirasses and bucklers, carrying each a naked sword resting on + his shoulder. At this time there was a prodigious mortality in + Batavia, which carried off 500 of the attendants of this prince, + and destroyed no less than 150,000 persons in one year, besides + vast numbers of beasts. This mortality was occasioned by a + malignant pestilential fever, which attacked indiscriminately all + the inhabitants of Batavia, Europeans, natives, Chinese, and + blacks. It spread also through Bengal and all the dominions of + the Great Mogul, where it made incredible ravages, and extended + even to Japan in the most extreme violence, where numbers fell + down dead in the streets, who had left their houses in perfect + health. This dreadful malady was supposed to have arisen from + excessive drought, as no rain had fallen during the space of two + years, whence it was conceived that the air was surcharged with + mineral vapours.</p> + + <p>Leaving the island of Bootan, and passing through the channel + of the Moluccas, or between the S.W. leg of Celebes and Salayr + islands, during which course the crews of the two vessels + suffered inexpressible miseries, by which the greatest part of + them were carried off, Roggewein arrived on the coast of Java + towards the close of September 1722.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote63" name="footnote63"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag63">(return)</a> + + <p>No account is given of this voyage from Bowman's islands, + perhaps the Fee-jees, as already mentioned, to New Britain, + neither indeed is it any way expressed on what part of New + Britain they had now arrived. They probably steered a course + N.W. or N.W. by W. from the Fee-jees, and fell in with the N.E. + part of New Britain, now known to be a separate island, and + called New Ireland; and by the lower latitude mentioned, in the + text, they appear to come first to the eastern part of New + Ireland; but it is impossible to say whether they went to the + N. or S. of Solomon's island.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote64" name="footnote64"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag64">(return)</a> + + <p>It is utterly impossible to ascertain what islands are here + meant, as the indications of the voyage are so entirely vague. + In the indicated latitude, off the mouth of the Great bay, in + New Guinea, there are two considerable islands, named Mysory, + or Schouten's island, and Jobie, or Long-island, which may + possibly be Arimoa and Moa. Perhaps Jobie of our modern maps + includes both, as in some more recent maps it is laid down as + two contiguous islands, and it is more exactly in the indicated + latitude, while Mysory is rather less than one degree from the + line.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote65" name="footnote65"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag65">(return)</a> + + <p>These appear, by the sequel, to have been the islands at the + N.W. extremity of Papua or New Guinea, and from thence to + CelebesE.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote66" name="footnote66"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag66">(return)</a> + + <p>More probably because of its inhabitants being + negroes.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote67" name="footnote67"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag67">(return)</a> + + <p>Perhaps ambergris ought to be here understood.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote68" name="footnote68"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag68">(return)</a> + + <p>The northern end of Bootan is in lat. 4° 40' S.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION VII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Occurrences from their Arrival at the Island of Java, to + the Confiscation of the Ships at Batavia.</i></h4> + + <p>Roggewein came to anchor immediately in the road of Japara, + and saluted the city and fort, after which the boats were hoisted + out to go on shore, where they were astonished to find that it + was Saturday, whereas on quitting their ships they conceived it + to be Friday morning. This was occasioned by having come round + from the east along with the sun, by which they had lost a day in + their reckoning. Roggewein immediately waited upon Ensign Kuster, + a very civil and well-behaved gentleman, who commanded there on + the part of the East-India Company, to whom he gave an account of + his motives for coming to this place. Kuster immediately + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page119" id="page119"></a>[pg + 119]</span> assembled a council, to consider what measures were + to be taken on this occasion, and all were much moved at the + recital of the miseries which Roggewein and his people had + endured. In truth, never were men more worthy of compassion. Only + ten persons remained in any tolerable health, and twenty-six were + down in various sicknesses, by which, exclusive of those who had + been slain in their different engagements with the Indians, they + had lost seventy men during the voyage. Their next care was to + get the sick men on shore, which was done with all care and + diligence, slinging them in their hammocks into the boats. Four + of these poor people were in so low a condition that it was + thought impossible they could bear removal, and they were + therefore left on board, the very thoughts of which, after their + companions went ashore, soon killed them. Those who were carried + on shore were lodged under tents in an island, where they had + every necessary afforded them that the country produced, yet many + of them died.</p> + + <p>Mr Kuster sent an immediate account of their arrival to the + commandant of the coasts of Java, who instantly forwarded it to + Mr <i>Swaardekroon</i>, at that time governor-general of the East + Indies. He sent a favourable answer, promising every assistance + in his power, and adding, that they had nothing to do but to get + to Batavia as soon as possible. While waiting the answer of the + governor-general and the recovery of their sick, they passed + their time agreeably enough at Japara, as their countrymen used + them with all imaginable kindness. In a few days, the seamen + became as frolicsome and gay as if they had made a pleasant and + fortunate voyage; insomuch, that those who, only a few days + before, were weeping, sighing, praying, and making warm + protestations of leading new lives, if God in his mercy were + pleased to save them, now ran headlong into the greatest + extravagances; spending their whole time in debauched houses, and + in swearing and drinking. This our author attributed to the bad + example of those among whom they lived, all the lower people at + Japara being as lewd and profligate as could be imagined; + insomuch, that the first question they put to strangers from + Europe is, if they have brought over any new oaths.</p> + + <p>The town of <i>Japara</i> is seated at the bottom of a + mountain of moderate height, is of a middling size, and is + inhabited by Javans, Chinese, and Dutch; and was of more + considerable <span class="pagenum"><a name="page120" id= + "page120"></a>[pg 120]</span> extent than now, when in the hands + of the Portuguese. Before getting possession of Jacatra, now + Batavia, the Dutch East-India Company had their principal + magazines for trade at this place, which was their chief factory, + and on which all the other factories in Java were dependent; but + it has fallen much in importance since the factory was + transferred to Samarang. The port of Japara is both safe and + commodious, and is defended by a fort, built mostly of wood, on + the top of the mountain at the foot of which the town is seated. + This fort is called the <i>Invincible Mountain</i>, because the + Javanese were constantly defeated in all their attempts to get it + into their hands, when in possession of the Portuguese; and its + guns command the whole road.</p> + + <p>The king of Japara mostly resides at a place called + <i>Kattasura</i>, about twenty-nine leagues up the country, where + the Dutch have a strong fort with a good garrison, serving at the + same time to secure their conquest, and to guard the king. This + prince is a Mahomedan, and is served entirely by women, of whom + he takes as many as he pleases, either as wives or concubines. + Some of his priests are obliged to go every year on pilgrimage to + Mecca, in order to make vows for the safety and prosperity of the + king and royal family. His subjects are extremely faithful, and + devoted to his service; the principal persons of his court having + to approach him on their knees, every time they have an audience; + but in time of war, this slavish custom is dispensed with. Such + as commit the slightest fault, are poniarded on the spot by a + kriss or dagger; this being almost the only punishment in use + among them, as the smallest faults and the greatest crimes are + all equally capital. The natives of this country are mostly of a + very brown complexion, tolerably well shaped, and having long + black hair, which however many of them cut short. Their noses are + all flat and broad, and their teeth very black, owing to the + incessant chewing of betel and faufel.</p> + + <p>The <i>faufel</i> or <i>areka</i> is a kind of nut, not much + unlike a nutmeg, but smaller, and in a great measure tasteless, + but yielding a red juice when chewed, which juice also is used by + the Indians in painting chintzes, so much admired in Europe. The + tree which bears this nut is very straight, and has leaves like + those of the cocoa-nut tree. The <i>betel</i> is a plant + producing long rank leaves, shaped like those of the citron, and + having an agreeable bitter taste. The fruit of this plant + resembles a lizard's tail, and is about an inch and half long, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page121" id="page121"></a>[pg + 121]</span> having a pleasant aromatic flavour. The Indians + continually carry the leaves of this plant, which also are + presented at all ceremonious visits. They are almost continually + chewing these leaves, and they mostly qualify their extreme + bitterness by the addition of the faufel or areka-nut, and the + powder of calcined oyster-shells, which give them a very + agreeable taste; though some mix their betel leaves with shell + lime, ambergris, and cardamom seeds, while others use Chinese + tobacco. After all the juice is chewed out, they throw away the + remaining dry mass. Many Europeans have got into the habit of + chewing betel, so that they cannot leave it off, though it has + proved fatal to some of them; for the natives are very skilful in + preparing betel so as to do a man's business as effectually as a + pistol or a dagger.</p> + + <p>The prevailing diversion among these people is called + <i>tandakes</i>, which are a kind of comedies, acted by women + very richly dressed, and consists chiefly in singing and dancing, + accompanied by music, not very pleasant to European ears, the + only instruments being small drums, on which they beat with much + dexterity. Their dancing is mostly of a grotesque kind, in which + they are very dexterous, throwing their bodies into all sorts of + postures with astonishing agility, and expressing by them the + passions of the mind so comically, that it is impossible to + refrain from laughing. The men also practise a kind of war dance, + in which the king and grandees bear a part. They also practise + cock-fighting, like the English, and bet such considerable sums + on this sport as often beggars them.</p> + + <p>The country abounds in all the necessaries of life, having + abundance of beeves and hogs, and amazing quantities of fowls. + The only thing scarce is mutton, chiefly owing to the richness of + the pasture, which is very apt to burst the sheep. As to wild + animals, they have buffaloes, stags, tygers, and rhinoceroses; + which last animal is hunted by the Indians chiefly for the sake + of its horns, of which they make drinking cups that are greatly + valued, owing to a notion that they will not contain poison, but + break immediately on that being poured into them. The high price + of these tends to shew that the Javanese are addicted to the + infamous practice of poisoning. The land is every where extremely + fertile, producing vast abundance of pepper, ginger, cinnamon, + rice, cardamoms, and other valuable articles. Of late they have + planted coffee, and with such success as to have a reasonable + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page122" id="page122"></a>[pg + 122]</span> hope of rendering it a principal commodity of the + country. Cocoa-nuts, figs, and a variety of other excellent + fruits grow every where in the greatest profusion; and as the + trees on which they grow are verdant during the whole year, and + are planted in rows along the rivers, they form the most + agreeable walks that can be conceived. Sugar-canes also abound in + Java. They have also plenty of vines, which produce ripe grapes + seven times every year, but they are only fit for making raisins, + and not wine, being too hastily ripened by the climate. The sea, + and all the rivers, furnish an infinite variety of the finest + fish. Thus, taking it altogether, it may be safely affirmed that + Java is one of the most plentiful and pleasantest islands in the + world.</p> + + <p>Having refreshed at Japara for about a month, Roggewein began + to think of proceeding to Batavia, encouraged by the fine + promises of the governor-general. Every thing being ready, the + voyagers spent two days in taking leave of their kind friends, + who supplied them with all sorts of provisions, much more than + sufficient for so short a voyage, and they at length departed, + feeling a sensible regret at parting with those who had treated + them with so much kindness, relieving all their wants with so + much generosity, and had enabled them to spend several weeks in + peace and plenty, after a long period of sickness and misery. + Steering from thence about seventy leagues to the westwards, with + a fair wind, they entered the road of Batavia, where they saluted + the fort, and anchored close to the ships that were loading for + the voyage home, believing that all their distresses were now + over, and that they should speedily accompany these other ships + homewards. As soon as the ships were safely anchored, Roggewein + went along with the other captains into his boat, meaning to have + gone ashore to Batavia, but had not proceeded far from the ship + when he met a boat having the commandant of Batavia on board, + together with the fiscal, and some other members of the council, + by whom he was desired to go back to his ship, which he did + immediately; and, when the two boats came within hearing of the + ships, the fiscal proclaimed, with a loud voice, that both ships + were confiscated by order of the governor-general. At this time + both ships were so environed by other large vessels belonging to + the East India Company, that it was impossible to have escaped, + if they had so inclined; and soon afterwards several hundred + soldiers came on board, taking <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page123" id="page123"></a>[pg 123]</span> possession of both + ships, and placing their crews under safe custody. Taught by so + many and such unlooked-for misfortunes, Roggewein now thoroughly + repented having proposed to return home by way of the East + Indies, but was now wise behind hand. He had neglected + prosecuting the discovery on which he had been sent, for which he + now suffered a just punishment from the East India Company, + however unjust in itself the sentence might be considered. By the + sentence, both ships were declared legal prizes, and all the + goods they contained were confiscated; and to prevent all trouble + and delay from representations, reclamations, or memorials, every + thing was immediately exposed to public auction, and sold to the + highest bidders. The crews of both ships were divided, and put on + board several of the homeward-bound ships.</p> + + <h3>SECTION VIII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Description of Batavia and the Island of Java, with some + Account of the Government of the Dutch East India Company's + Affairs.</i></h4> + + <p>The city of Batavia lies in the lat. of 6° 20' S. and + long. 107° E. from Greenwich, being the capital of all + the vast dominions belonging to the Dutch East India Company, + serving also as the emporium of its prodigious trade, where all + the merchandise and riches of that princely and wealthy company + are laid up. It fell into the hands of the Dutch company in 1618, + till which time it was known by the name of <i>Jacatra</i>, and + soon afterwards they built a fort in the neighbourhood of that + native city, to which they gave the name of Batavia. By the time + this was hardly well finished, the natives of the island attacked + it, animated and assisted by the English, and repeated their + attempts several times, but always unsuccessfully, and to their + great loss. The last time, they kept it blockaded for a + considerable time, till succoured by a powerful squadron from + Europe under Admiral Koen, when the siege was immediately raised, + and the natives obliged to retire with the utmost precipitation. + The Dutch had now leisure to consider the excellent situation of + the fort, and the many advantages it possessed for becoming the + centre of their East Indian trade and dominion, on which + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page124" id="page124"></a>[pg + 124]</span> they resolved to build a town in the neighbourhood of + the fort. With this view they demolished Jacatra, and erected on + its ruins this famous commercial city, which they named + Batavia.</p> + + <p>This city arrived at perfection in a short time, by the + extraordinary diligence bestowed upon its construction, in spite + of the many obstacles it met with from the two kings of Matarana + and Bantam; the former of whom laid siege to it in 1629, and the + latter in 1649. It is surrounded by an earthen rampart of + twenty-one feet thick, faced on the outside with stone, and + strengthened by twenty-two bastions, the whole environed by a + ditch forty-five yards wide, and quite full of water, especially + in spring-tides. All the approaches to the town are defended by + several detached forts, all of which are well furnished with + excellent brass cannon. Six of these are so considerable as to + deserve being particularly mentioned, which are, Ansiol, Anke, + Jacatra, Ryswyk, Noordywyk, and Vythock. The fort of + <i>Ansiol</i> is seated on a river of the same name, to the + eastwards, and about 1200 yards from the city, being built + entirely of squared stone, and always provided with a strong + garrison. <i>Anke</i> is on a river of the same name, to the + westwards, about 500 yards from the city, and is built like the + former. <i>Jacatra</i> lies also on a river of the same name, and + is exactly like the two former, being 500 paces from the city. + The road to this fort lies between two regular rows of fine + trees, having very fine country houses and gardens on each side. + The other three forts are all built of similar materials on the + inland side of the city, and at small distances; the two + first-named serving to secure the city on the side of the sea, + and the other four to defend the approaches towards it from the + land, and at the same time to protect the country houses, + plantations, and gardens of the inhabitants. By these, all + enemies are prevented from coming upon the city by surprise, as + on every side they would be sure to meet a formidable resistance; + and besides, no person is allowed to pass the forts, even + outwards, unless with a passport.</p> + + <p>The river of Jacatra passes through the middle of the city, + and supplies water to fifteen canals, all faced with freestone, + and adorned on each side with ever-green trees, affording a + charming prospect. Over these canals, which are all within the + city, there are fifty-six bridges, besides others without the + town. The streets are all perfectly straight, and are in + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page125" id="page125"></a>[pg + 125]</span> general thirty feet broad on each side, besides the + breadth of the canals. The houses are built of stone, mostly of + several stories high, like those in the cities of Holland. The + city of Batavia is about a league and a half in circuit, but is + surrounded by a vast number of houses without the walls, which + may be considered as forming suburbs, and in which there is ten + times the population that is within the city. It has five gates, + including that leading to the port, near to which there is a + boom, or barrier, which is shut every night at nine o'clock, and + at which there is a strong guard of soldiers night and day. There + were formerly six gates, but one of these has since been walled + up. There is a very fine stadt-house, or town-hall, and four + churches for the Calvinists. The first of these, named + <i>Kruist-kirk</i>, or Cross-church, was built in 1640, and the + second in 1672, and in both of these the worship is in the Dutch + language. The third church belongs to the <i>protestant</i> + Portuguese, and the fourth is for the Malays who have been + converted to the reformed Christian religion. Besides these, + there are abundance of other places of worship for various sorts + of religions.</p> + + <p>They have likewise in this city a <i>Spin-hays</i>, or house + of correction for the confinement of disorderly women; an + orphan-house, and arsenal of marine stores, and many magazines + for spiceries: Also many wharfs, docks, rope-walks, and other + public buildings. The garrison usually consists of from two to + three thousand men. Besides the forts formerly mentioned, the + famous citadel or castle of Batavia is a fine regular + fortification, having four bastions, situated at the mouth of the + river opposite to the city; two of its bastions fronting towards + the sea and commanding the anchorage, while the other two face + towards the city. There are two main gates to the citadel, one + called the Company's gate, which was built in 1636, to which + leads a stone bridge of fourteen arches, each of which is + twenty-six feet span, and ten feet wide. The other is called the + Water-gate. Besides which, there are two posterns, one in the + east curtain, and the other in the west, neither of which are + ever opened except for the purposes of the garrison. In this + citadel the governor-general resides, having a brick palace two + stories high, with a noble front of Italian architecture. + Opposite to this palace is that of the director-general, who is + next in rank to the governor. The counsellors and other principal + officers of the company have also their apartments within the + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page126" id="page126"></a>[pg + 126]</span> citadel, together with the chief physician, chief + surgeon, and chief apothecary. There in also a remarkably neat + and light small church, and there are many magazines and + store-houses well furnished with ammunition and military stores; + and in it are the offices in which all the affairs of the company + are transacted, and archives for containing all the records.</p> + + <p>Besides many Dutch, all of whom are either in the service of + the company or free burgesses, the city is inhabited by a vast + number of people of many different Indian nations, besides many + Portuguese, French, and other Europeans, established here on + account of trade. The Portuguese are mostly descendants of those + who lived formerly here or at Goa, and who, finding their account + in living under the government of the Dutch, did not think proper + to remove after the Dutch had reduced the country; but far the + greater number of these are now of the reformed religion. The + Indian inhabitants consist of Javanese, or natives of the island, + Chinese, Malays, negroes, Amboinese, Armenians, natives of the + island of Bali, Mardykers, Macassars, Bougis, and others. It is a + very curious thing to see so great a multitude of different + nations all living in the same great city, and each nation + according to their own manners. Every moment one sees new + customs, strange manners, varieties of dresses, and faces of + different colours, as black, white, brown, yellow, and + olive-coloured; every one living as he pleases, and all speaking + their different languages. Yet, amidst all this variety of people + and customs so opposite to each other, there is a surprising + unity among the citizens, occasioned by the advantages of + commerce, the common object of all, so that they live + harmoniously and happily under the gentle and prudent laws + established by the company. All enjoy perfect liberty of + conscience, whatever may be their religion or sect, only that + none are permitted the public exercise of their religion except + the Calvinists, any more than in Holland, so that priests and + monks must not walk the streets in the habits of their respective + orders. All are however allowed to live here in peace, and may + exercise the rites of their religion within doors. Jesuits are, + however, excluded, for fear of their intrigues; and the Chinese + religion, because of its abominable idolatry, is obliged to have + its pagoda, or idol temple, about a league from the city, where + also they bury their dead.</p> + + <p>Every Indian nation settled at Batavia has its chief or head, + who watches over the interests of his nation, but is not + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page127" id="page127"></a>[pg + 127]</span> allowed to decide upon any thing of importance, his + chief functions being those of religion, and to decide slight + controversies among his countrymen. The <i>Japanese</i> chiefly + addict themselves to agriculture, ship-building, and fishing. + These people, for the most part, only wear a kind of short + petticoat, reaching to their knees, all the rest of their bodies + being naked, having also a sort of scarf or sash across their + shoulders, from which hangs a short sword. On their heads they + wear small bonnets. Their huts or cabins are remarkably neater + than those of the other Indians, built of split bamboos, with + large spreading roofs, under which they sit in the open air.</p> + + <p>The <i>Chinese</i> are very numerous, as it is reckoned there + are at least five thousand of them in the city and its suburbs. + These people seem naturally born for trade, and are great enemies + to idleness, thinking nothing too hard or laborious that is + attended with a prospect of gain. They can live on very little, + are bold, enterprising, possessed of much address, and + indefatigably industrious. Their sagacity, penetration, and + subtilty, are so extraordinary as to make good their own saying, + "That the Dutch have only one eye, while they have two;" but they + are deceitful beyond measure, taking a pride in imposing on those + who deal with them, and even boast of that cunning of which they + ought to be ashamed. In husbandry and navigation they surpass all + the other nations of India. Most of the sugar-mills around + Batavia belong to them, and the distillery of arrack is entirely + in their hands. They are the carriers of eastern Asia, and even + the Dutch often make use of their vessels. They keep all the + shops and most of the inns of Batavia, and farm all the duties of + excise and customs. Generally speaking, they are well-made men, + of an olive complexion, their heads being peculiarly round, with + small eyes, and short flat noses. They do not cut their hair, as + all in China are obliged to do since the Tartars conquered the + country; and whenever any one comes to Batavia from China, he + immediately suffers his hair to grow, as a token of freedom, + dressing it with the utmost care; their priests only excepted, + whose heads are all close shaven.</p> + + <p>The Chinese go always bare headed, carrying an umbrella in + their hands to keep off the sun; and they suffer their nails to + grow immoderately long, which gives them prodigious dexterity in + slight of hand, an art of considerable importance as they use it. + Their dress here differs materially <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page128" id="page128"></a>[pg 128]</span> from + what they wear in their own country, their cotton robes being + very ample, and their sleeves very wide. Below this they have a + kind of breeches reaching to their ancles, having a kind of + little slippers on their feet instead of shoes, and never wear + stockings. Their women, who are very brisk, lively, impudent, and + debauched, wear very long cotton robes. In general, the Chinese + have no distinction of meats, but eat without ceremony of any + animal that comes to hand, be it even dog, cat, or rat, or what + it may. They are amazingly fond of shows and entertainments. + Their feast of the new year, which they celebrate in the + beginning of March, commonly lasts a whole month; during which + they do nothing but divert themselves, chiefly in dancing, which + they do in a strange manner, running round about to the sound of + gongs, flutes, and trumpets, which do not form a very agreeable + concert. They use the same music at their comedies, or theatrical + diversions, of which they are extremely fond: These comedies + consist of a strange mixture of drama, opera, and pantomime, as + they sometimes sing, sometimes speak, and at other times the + whole business of the scene consists in gesture. They have none + but <i>women</i> players,<a id="footnotetag69" name= + "footnotetag69"></a><a href="#footnote69"><sup>1</sup></a> who + are brought up to this employment from their infancy; but many of + them act male parts, using proper disguises for the purpose. + Whenever they act a comedy, the city receives fifty crowns for a + licence. They erect the theatre in the street, in front of the + house of him who is at the expence of the play, the subject of + which always turns on the exploits of their ancient heroes, or + the austerities of their old saints.</p> + + <p>The funerals of the Chinese are very singular, as well as very + rich and pompous, forming grand and solemn processions, in which + sometimes at least 500 persons of both sexes assist, the women + being all cloathed in white. At these funerals they employ music + to heighten the shew, together with coloured umbrellas and + canopies, carrying their principal idol, which they call + <i>Joostie de Batavia</i>, under one of their canopies. Their + tombs are some of them very magnificent. They follow the + idolatrous religion of their native country, and have a pagoda, + or idol temple, about the distance of a league from the city, + where they assemble for worship. They <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page129" id="page129"></a>[pg 129]</span> are + perhaps the grossest idolaters, and the most ridiculous in their + opinions, of all the pagans of the east, as they openly profess + to worship and adore the devil. This does not proceed from their + ignorance or unbelief in a God, but rather from mistaken notions + in their belief concerning him. They say that God is infinitely + good and merciful, giving to man every thing he possesses, and + never doing any hurt; and therefore that there is no need to + worship him. But with the devil, the author of all ill, they are + desirous to live upon good terms, and to omit nothing that can + entitle them to his good graces. It is the devil therefore whom + they represent by the idol above mentioned, and in whose honour + they have frequently great feasts and rejoicings.</p> + + <p>Like the Javans, the Chinese are extravagantly addicted to + gaming and laying wagers; and this humour, especially at + cock-fights and the new-year's feasts, drives them sometimes into + downright madness. They will not only stake and lose their money, + goods, and houses, but sometimes their wives and children; and + when these are all lost, will stake their beards, nails, and + winds; that is, they bind themselves not to shave their beards, + pare their nails, or go on board ship to trade, till they have + paid their game debts. When reduced to this condition, they are + forced to hire themselves as the bond slaves of some other + Chinese. Under such misfortunes their only resource is, that some + relative, either at Batavia or China, pays their debts out of + compassion, and by that means reinstates them in their property + and freedom.</p> + + <p>The <i>Malays</i> who live at Batavia usually employ + themselves in fishing, having very neat and shewy vessels, the + sails of which are most ingeniously constructed of straw. These + are a most wicked and profligate people, who often commit + atrocious murders for very trifling gain. They profess the + Mahomedan religion, but are so absolutely devoid of moral + principle, that they even make a boast and merit of cheating + Christians. Their last chief was publicly whipped and branded for + his frauds and villainies, his goods confiscated, and he himself + banished to Ceylon; since when they have been ashamed to elect + another chief. Their habits are of silk or cotton, the men + wearing a piece of cotton round their heads, and their black hair + tied into a knot behind.</p> + + <p>The blacks or negroes at Batavia are mostly Mahomedans, who + come chiefly from Bengal, dressing like the Malays, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page130" id="page130"></a>[pg 130]</span> and + living in the same quarter of the city. Some of them work at + different mechanic trades, and others are a kind of pedlars; but + the most considerable of them trade in stones for buildings, + which they bring from the neighbouring islands.</p> + + <p>The <i>Amboinese</i> are chiefly employed in building houses + of bamboos, the windows of which are made of split canes, very + nicely wrought in various figures. They are a bold boisterous + race, and so turbulent that they are not permitted to reside in + the city, but have their quarter near the Chinese burying ground. + The chief of their own nation, to whom they pay the utmost + submission, has a magnificent house in their quarter, well + furnished after their manner. Their arms are chiefly large sabres + and long bucklers. The men wear a piece of cotton cloth wrapped + round their heads, the ends of which hang down behind, and adorn + this species of turban with a variety of flowers. Their women + wear a close habit, and a cotton mantle over their shoulders, + having their arms bare. Their houses are built of boards, + thatched with leaves, usually two or three stories high, the + ground floor especially being divided into several + apartments.</p> + + <p>The <i>Mardykers</i> or <i>Topasses</i> are idolaters from + various Indian nations, and follow various trades and + professions; and their merchants, under licences or passports + from the company, carry on considerable commerce among the + neighbouring islands. Some of these people are gardeners, others + rear cattle, and others breed fowls. The men of this mixed tribe + generally dress after the Dutch fashion, but the women wear the + habits of other Indians. These people dwell both in the city and + country, their houses being better than those of the other + Indians, built of stone or brick, several stories high, and very + neat. There are also some <i>Macassers</i> at Batavia, so famous + for their little poisoned arrows, which they blow from tubes. + This poison is made of the juice of a certain tree, which grows + in Macasser and the <i>Bougis</i> islands, into which they dip + the points of the arrows and allow them to dry. The wound + inflicted by these arrows is absolutely mortal. The <i>Bougis</i> + are natives of three or four islands near Macasser, and since the + conquest of that island have settled at Batavia. They are very + bold and hardy fellows, for which reason they are employed as + soldiers by the company. Their arms are bows and arrows, with + sabres and bucklers. Besides these enumerated nations, which + contribute to form the population of Batavia, there are several + Armenians and <span class="pagenum"><a name="page131" id= + "page131"></a>[pg 131]</span> some other Asiatics who reside + there occasionally for the sake of trade, and stay no longer than + their affairs require, All the inhabitants around Batavia, and + for a track of about forty leagues along the mountains of the + country of Bantam, are immediately subject to the + governor-general, who sends <i>drossards</i> or commissaries + among them, to administer justice, and to collect the public + revenues; and the chief men of the several districts resort at + certain times to Batavia, to give an account of the behaviour of + these commissaries.</p> + + <p>The city of Batavia, and all the dominions possessed by the + company in the East Indies, are governed by two supreme councils, + one of which is named the Council of the Indies, and the other + the Council of Justice, both of which are fixed at Batavia, the + capital of the dominions belonging to the company. To the first + of these belong all matters of government, and the entire + direction of public affairs, and to the other the administration + of justice in all its branches. The governor-general always + presided in the former of these councils, which is ordinarily + composed of eighteen or twenty persons, called counsellors of the + Indies; but it seldom happens that these are all at Batavia at + one time, as they are usually promoted to the seven governments + which are at the disposal of the company. This council assembles + regularly twice a-week, besides as often extraordinarily as the + governor pleases. They deliberate on all affairs concerning the + interest of the company, and superintend the government of the + island of Java and its dependencies: But in affairs of very great + importance, the approbation and consent of the directors of the + company in Europe must be had. From this Council of the Indies, + orders and instructions are sent to all the other governments, + which must be implicitly obeyed. In this council, all letters + addressed to the governor or director-general are read and + debated, and answers agreed upon by a plurality of voices.</p> + + <p>The Council of Justice consists of a president, who is + generally a counsellor of the Indies, together with eight + counsellors of justice, a fiscal or attorney-general for affairs + of government, another fiscal for maritime affairs, and a + secretary. The first fiscal has a vote along with the + counsellors, and receives a third part of all fines below an + hundred florins, and a sixth part of all above that sum. The duty + of his office is to observe that the laws are obeyed, and to + prefer informations against those who break them. The fiscal of + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page132" id="page132"></a>[pg + 132]</span> the sea has jurisdiction over all frauds committed in + commerce, in cases of piracy, or in whatever tends to disturb the + settled rules of maritime affairs. Besides these sovereign + tribunals, there is a council of the city of Batavia, consisting + of nine burgomasters or aldermen, including a president, who is + always a member of the Council of the Indies, and a + vice-president. The bailiff of the city, and the commissary of + the adjacent territory, have also seats in this council, to which + likewise there is a secretary.</p> + + <p>The governor-general is head of the empire belonging to the + company in India, being as it were stadtholder, captain-general, + and admiral of the Indies. By his office he is president of the + supreme council, in which he has two voices. He has the keys of + all the magazines, and directs every thing belonging to them, + without being accountable to any one. He commands by his own + proper authority, and every person is bound to obey him, so that + his authority equals, and even surpasses, that of several + European sovereigns. But he is accountable to, and removeable by + the directors at home. In cases, however, of being guilty of + treason, or any other enormous crime, the Council of Justice have + a right to seize his person and call him to account. In case the + governor-general dies or resigns his office, the Council of the + Indies meets and elects a successor, when they immediately write + to the directors at home, desiring them to confirm and approve + their choice. They also write to the same purpose to the + states-general of the United Provinces, who have reserved to + themselves the power of confirming or excluding a + governor-general. It is usual, however, for the directors and the + state to confirm the choice of the council, and to send him + letters patent, conformable to the desire of the council; yet + there have been some instances of the directors rejecting the + governor-general thus elected, and sending out another.</p> + + <p>The salary allowed by the company to the governor-general is + 800 rix-dollars, with other 500 dollars for his table, and also + pay the salaries of the officers of his household. But these + appointments form a very small portion of his revenue; as the + legal emoluments of his office are so great that he is able to + amass an immense fortune in two or three years, without + oppressing the people or burdening his conscience. Being the head + and apparent sovereign of all the countries belonging to or + dependent upon the company, he is allowed a court and most of the + honours usually paid to crowned <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page133" id="page133"></a>[pg 133]</span> heads, in compliance + with the customs of the east. When he goes from his palace to his + country seat, he is preceded by the master of his household, at + the head of six gentlemen on horseback. A trumpeter and two + halberdeers on horseback go immediately before the coach. The + master of the horse and six mounted halberdeers ride on the + right; and he is followed by other coaches carrying his friends + and retinue. The whole cavalcade is closed by a troop of + forty-eight dragoons, commanded by a captain and three + quarter-masters, and preceded by a trumpeter richly clothed. If + this office be considerable for its honour, power, and emolument, + it is also very fatiguing, as the governor-general is employed + from morning to night in giving audiences, in reading letters, + and in giving orders in the service of the company; so that he + seldom can allow above half an hour for dinner, and even + dispatches pressing affairs while at table. He has also to + receive all Indian princes and ambassadors who come to Batavia, + and of these many arrive every year.</p> + + <p>The director-general is the next in authority after the + governor-general, and is the second person in the council of the + Indies. This employment requires great care and attention, as he + has the charge of buying and selling all the commodities that + enter into or go out from the Company's warehouses. He gives + orders for the kinds and quantities of all goods sent to Holland + or elsewhere, keeps the keys of all the magazines, and every + officer in the service of the Company makes a report to him daily + of every thing committed to their charge. He has the supreme + direction of every thing relative to the trade and commerce of + the Company, both at Batavia and all other places; and the + members of all the factories belonging to the Company are + accountable to him for their conduct.</p> + + <p>The third person in the government is the Major-general, who + has the command of all the forces under the governor-general. The + number of regular troops in the service of the Company throughout + the Indies may be about 12,000 men, exclusive of the militia, + which amount to about 100,000 more, and are well disciplined, and + always called out in time of danger. The entire military and + naval strength of the Company by land and sea is about 25,000 + men, including officers, soldiers, and sailors. For the support + of its commerce, the Company keeps in constant employment about + 180 ships, of from 30 to 60 pieces of cannon, and in cases + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page134" id="page134"></a>[pg + 134]</span> of emergency are able at any time to fit out forty of + the largest size.</p> + + <p>The ecclesiastical government at Batavia, or consistory, + consists of eleven persons; viz. the five ministers of the two + Dutch churches in the city, and that in the citadel, besides the + minister who resides in the island of <i>Ourust</i>, together + with the three ministers of the Portuguese churches, and the two + belonging to the Malay church. These last five are all + Dutchmen-born, though they preach in the Portuguese and Malay + languages. As it is deemed necessary that the state should be + informed of all that passes among their clergy, the eleventh + person is nominated by the government, whose especial business is + to see that they do nothing contrary to the laws or to the + regulations of the Company. Besides these, the consistory also + consists of eight elders and twenty deacons. One principal branch + of business confided to the consistory, is to provide ministers + for the subordinate governments; where they are relieved after a + certain term of years, and either return to Batavia or to + Holland, to enjoy the fruits of their labours. Our author relates + that one of these ministers went home in the same ship with him, + who had made such good use of his time, that he bought a <i>noble + fief</i> on his return, and became a man of quality. In the + smaller places belonging to the Company, where there are no + established ministers, an itinerant is sent once in three or four + years, to marry, baptize, and dispense the communion; which is + necessary, since the synods do not permit the propagation of any + other except the reformed religion in the territories of the + Company.</p> + + <p>For a long time the Lutherans have solicited for permission to + have a church in Batavia, but have constantly been refused, + though certainly a just and reasonable demand, especially in a + place where Mahomedans and Pagans are freely tolerated in the + exercise of their religion, and where the Chinese are even + permitted to worship the devil. This ecclesiastical consistory + has also dependent upon it all the schoolmasters, consolators of + the sick, and catechists. Of these last there are many in the + service of the Company in their ships; their duty being to say + prayers every day, and to instruct such as embrace the Christian + religion; and as they are mostly natives, and speak several + languages, they are the better able to give instructions, and to + teach the confession of faith to so many different nations. Such + as are <span class="pagenum"><a name="page135" id= + "page135"></a>[pg 135]</span> converted are baptized and receive + the communion; and, for the better preservation of uniformity in + doctrine, an annual visitation of all the new converts is made by + the ministers. In consequence of these regulations, the reformed + religion has made amazing progress, especially among the blacks, + of whom our author says he has seen 150 at a time present + themselves to receive baptism. This however is not rashly + granted, as all who receive it must be well instructed, and be + able to make their confession of faith. The Chinese are well + known to be so obstinately addicted to their great Confucius, as + not to be easily induced to embrace any other religion; yet some + even of them from time to time have abjured their idolatry, and + embraced the protestant faith. Yet our author seems to doubt + their sincerity, alleging that the Chinese are seldom sincere in + any thing; and he tells us, that a Chinese, on renouncing + idolatry; said he was about to embrace the religion of the + Company.</p> + + <p>The country around Batavia is extremely beautiful, and it may + be said that nature and art seem to strive which shall have the + greatest share in adorning it. The air is sweet and mild, the + land extremely fertile, and the face of the country finely + diversified with hills and vallies, all laid out in regular + plantations, beautiful canals, and whatever can contribute to + render the country pleasant and agreeable. The island of Java is + about 300 leagues in circumference, divided into several kingdoms + and principalities, all dependent upon the emperor who resides at + <i>Kattasura</i>, except the kings of Bantam and Japara,<a id= + "footnotetag70" name="footnotetag70"></a><a href= + "#footnote70"><sup>2</sup></a> who do not acknowledge his + authority. The country produces in abundance all the necessaries + of life, as also great quantities of those valuable productions + which form its commerce. It is interspersed by many mountains, + rivers, and woods, to all of which nature has bestowed her + treasures with a bountiful hand. There are gold-mines in some + parts of the country, and for some years the government caused + the mountains of <i>Parang</i> to be wrought, in hopes of reaping + profit; but, after expending a million, the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page136" id="page136"></a>[pg 136]</span> + marcasites were found not to be fully ripened.<a id= + "footnotetag71" name="footnotetag71"></a><a href= + "#footnote71"><sup>3</sup></a> Those who directed this enterprise + were much censured, and the works have been long discontinued. + Some are thoroughly satisfied that the natives find considerable + quantities of gold in several places, which they carefully + conceal from the knowledge of the Dutch. During the last war in + Java, which continued from 1716 to 1721, the inhabitants of some + parts of the country were so often plundered that they were + reduced to absolute beggary; yet, after a year's peace, they were + observed to have grown excessively rich, having plenty of gold, + both in dust and ingots.</p> + + <p>The mountains of Java are very high, so that many of them can + be seen at the distance of thirty or forty leagues. That which is + called the <i>Blue Mountain</i> is by far the highest, being seen + from the greatest distance at sea. Java is subject to frequent + and terrible earthquakes, which the inhabitants believe are + caused by the mountain of Parang, which is full of sulphur, + salt-petre, and bitumen, which take fire by their intestine + commotions, causing a prodigious struggle within the bowels of + the earth, whence proceeds the earthquake; and they assert that + it is common, after an earthquake, to see a vast cloud of smoke + hanging over the top of that mountain. About thirty years before + Roggewein was in Batavia, Mynheer Ribeck, then governor-general, + went with many attendants to the top of this mountain, where he + perceived a large cavity, into which he caused a man to be let + down, to examine the inside. On his return, this man reported + that the mountain was all hollow within, that he heard a most + frightful noise of torrents of water on every side, that he here + and there saw flames bursting out, so that he was afraid of going + far, from apprehension of either being stifled by the noxious + vapours, or falling into one of the chasms. The waters in the + neighbourhood of this mountain are unwholesome, and even those in + the neighbourhood of Batavia are impregnated with sulphur, those + who drink much of them being liable to several disorders, + particularly the dysentery. But when boiled, their water is + entirely freed from the sulphur, and does no manner of harm, + though drank copiously.</p> + + <p>The fruits and plants of Java are excellent and numberless. + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page137" id="page137"></a>[pg + 137]</span> Among these the cocoa-nut tree is by far the most + valuable, as besides its fruit already described, the bark makes + a kind of hemp which is manufactured into good ropes and cables; + the timber serves to build houses and ships, and the leaves serve + to cover the former. It is said that the father of a family in + this country causes a cocoa-nut tree to be planted at the birth + of each of his children, by which each may always know his own + age, as this tree has a circle rising yearly on its stem, so that + its age may be known by counting these circles: and when any one + asks a father the ages of his children, he sends them to look at + his cocoa trees.</p> + + <p>There are numerous woods or forests in different parts of the + island, in which are abundance of wild beasts, as buffaloes, + tigers, rhinoceroses, and wild horses. These also abound in + serpents, some of which are of prodigious size. Crocodiles are + numerous and large in this island, being mostly found about the + mouths of the rivers; and, being amphibious animals, delight much + in marshes and savannahs. Like the tortoise, this creature + deposits its eggs in the hot sands, taking no farther care of + them, and the sun hatches them in the proper season, when they + immediately betake themselves to the water. A short time before + the arrival of Roggewein at Batavia, a crocodile was taken in the + mouth of the river to the east of the city, upwards of + thirty-three feet long, and proportionally large. They have fowls + of all kinds, and exquisitely good; particularly peacocks, + partridges, pheasants, and wood-pigeons. The Indian bat is a + great curiosity, differing little in form from ours, but its + extended wings measure a full yard, and its body is as large as a + rat.</p> + + <p>There are great numbers of excellent fish of different sorts + to be had in the adjoining sea, and so plentiful and cheap that + as much may be bought for three-pence as will dine six or seven + men. Tortoises or sea-turtle also are abundant, their flesh + resembling veal, and there are many persons who think it much + better. The flat country round Batavia abounds in all kinds of + provisions; and to prevent all danger of scarcity, vessels + belonging to the Company are continually employed in bringing + provisions, spiceries, and all other necessaries, from the most + distant parts of the island, together with indigo, rice, pepper, + cardamoms, coffee, and the like. In the magazines and + store-houses, there are always vast quantities of rich and + valuable commodities, not of Java only, but of all parts of + India, ready to be transported <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page138" id="page138"></a>[pg 138]</span> to other parts of the + Company's dominions, in the ships which return annually to + Holland.</p> + + <p>The homeward-bound ships sail five times every year from + Batavia. The first fleet sails in July, generally consisting of + four or five sail, which touch on their way at the island of + Ceylon. The second, of six or seven vessels, sails in September. + The third usually consists of from sixteen to twenty ships, and + leaves Batavia in October. The fourth, of four or five vessels, + sails in January. And the fifth, being only a single ship, + generally sails in March, but not till the arrival of the fleet + from China which brings the tea, of which the principal part of + the cargo of this ship consists, wherefore it is usually called + the <i>tea-ship</i>: The common people call it also the + <i>book-ship</i> as it carries home the current account of the + whole year, by which the Company is enabled to judge of the state + of its trade in India. It is to be observed that these ships, + laden with the rich commodities of many countries, all sail from + this single port of Batavia; the ships from Mokha which carry + coffee, being the only vessels in the service of the Dutch East + India Company that are allowed to proceed directly home without + going to Batavia.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote69" name="footnote69"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag69">(return)</a> + + <p>This may possibly have been the case at this time in + Batavia; but we are assured by recent travellers in China, that + they have there none but <i>men</i> players, the female parts + being acted by youths.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote70" name="footnote70"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag70">(return)</a> + + <p>There is some strange error here, which we do not presume to + correct or explain. In the former section, the king of + <i>Japara</i> is said to reside chiefly at <i>Kattasura</i>, + which in the present instance is said to be the residence of + the emperor. In an after division of this collection, more + ample and distinct accounts will be found of this rich island, + now subject to Britain.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote71" name="footnote71"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag71">(return)</a> + + <p>In plain English, the mineral, or ore, was so poor as not to + defray the expence of extracting the metal.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION IX.</h3> + + <h4><i>Description of Ceylon.</i></h4> + + <p>The next best government belonging to the Dutch East India + Company, after Batavia, is that of the island of Ceylon. The + governor of this island is generally a member of the council of + the Indies, and has a council appointed to assist him, framed + after the model of that in Batavia, only that the members are not + quite such great men. Though the governor of Ceylon be dependent + upon the Council of the Indies at Batavia, he is at liberty to + write directly to the directors of the Company in Holland, + without asking permission from the governor-general, or being + obliged to give any account of his conduct in so doing. This + singular privilege has had bad effects, having even tempted some + governors of Ceylon to endeavour to withdraw themselves from + their obedience to the Company, in order to become absolute + sovereigns of the island. There have been many examples of this + kind, but it may be sufficient to mention the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page139" id="page139"></a>[pg 139]</span> two + last, owing to the tyranny of two successive governors, Vuist and + Versluys, which made a considerable noise in Europe.</p> + + <p>When Mr Rumpf left the government of Ceylon, his immediate + successor, Mr Vuist, began to act the tyrant towards all who were + not so fortunate as to be in his good graces, persecuting both + Europeans and natives. Having from the beginning formed the + project of rendering himself an independent sovereign, he pursued + his plan steadily, by such methods as seemed best calculated to + insure success. He thought it necessary in the first place to rid + himself of the richest persons in the island, and of all having + the reputation of wisdom, experience, and penetration. In order + to save appearances, and to play the villain with an air of + justice, he thought it necessary to trump up a pretended plot, + and caused informations to be preferred against such persons as + he intended to ruin, charging them with having entered into a + conspiracy to betray the principal fortresses of the island into + the hands of some foreign power. This scheme secured him in two + ways, as it seemed to manifest his great zeal for the interest of + the Company, and enabled him to convict those he hated of high + treason, and to deprive them at once of life and fortune. To + manage this the more easily, he contrived to change the members + of his council, into which he brought creatures of his own, on + whose acquiescence in his iniquities he could depend upon. The + confiscations of the estates and effects of a number of innocent + persons whom he had murdered by these false judicial proceedings, + gave him the means of obliging many, and gained him numerous + dependants.</p> + + <p>Vuist was born in India of Dutch parents, and had a strong + natural capacity which had been improved by assiduous application + to his studies. His dark brow, and morose air, shewed the cruelty + of his disposition: Yet he loved and protected the Indians, + either from a natural disposition, or because he deemed them fit + instruments to forward his designs. In order to gain the natives + in his interest, he preferred them to many vacant offices under + his government, in direct opposition to repeated instructions + from the Company, to bestow the principal offices on Dutchmen or + other Europeans. After carrying on his designs with much + dexterity, and having acquired by gifts a vast number of + dependants, ready to support his purposes, some of the faithful + servants <span class="pagenum"><a name="page140" id= + "page140"></a>[pg 140]</span> of the Company sent such clear and + distinct information of his proceedings to Holland, as + sufficiently evinced his real intentions, in spite of all his + arts to conceal them. At length the Company sent out Mr Versluys + to supersede him in the government of Ceylon, with orders to send + him prisoner to Batavia. As soon as he arrived there, abundance + of informations were preferred against him, for a variety of + crimes both of a private and public nature, into all of which the + council of justice made strict inquisition, and were furnished + with abundant proofs of his guilt. In the end, he freely + confessed that he had caused nineteen innocent persons to be put + to death, having put them all to the torture, extorting from all + of them confessions of crimes which they had never even dreamt of + committing. He was accordingly sentenced to be broken alive on + the wheel, his body to be quartered, and his quarters burnt to + ashes and thrown into the sea.</p> + + <p>Such was the deserved end of the traitor and tyrant Vuist; yet + Versluys, who was sent expressly to amend what the other had done + amiss, and to make the people forget the excesses of his + predecessor by a mild and gentle administration, acted perhaps + even worse than Vuist. Versluys was by no means of a cruel + disposition, wherefore, strictly speaking, he shed no blood, yet + acted as despotically and tyrannically as the other, though with + more subtilty and under a fairer appearance. His great point was + not the absolute possession of the country, but to possess + himself of all that it contained of value. For this purpose, + immediately on getting possession of the government, he raised + the price of rice, the bread of the country, to so extravagant a + height that the people in a short time were unable to purchase + it, and were soon reduced to beggary and a starving condition. + Their humble representations of the great and general misery + which reigned among all ranks of people throughout the island + made no impression on his avaricious disposition; but all things + went on from bad to worse, till an account of his nefarious + conduct was transmitted to Holland. When informed of the + distressed situation of the inhabitants of Ceylon, the + States-general sent out Mr Doembourgh as governor, with orders to + repair all past errors, and to treat the natives with all + possible tenderness and indulgence. On his arrival, Versluys, + after beggaring the whole nation, took it into his head that they + would defend him against his masters, and absolutely refused to + resign the government; and <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page141" id="page141"></a>[pg 141]</span> had even the insolency + to fire upon the Company's ships as they lay at anchor in the + road of Columbo. Doembourgh, however, immediately landed, and his + authority was readily recognised by all the Company's servants, + and submitted to by the people. He caused Versluys to be + immediately arrested and sent to Batavia, where a long criminal + process was instituted against him, but which was not concluded + when our author left India.</p> + + <p>Of all the Asiatic islands, Ceylon is perhaps the fairest and + most fertile. It lies to the S.E. of the peninsula of India on + this side of the Ganges, between the latitudes of 5° 30' + and 9° N. and between the longitudes of 79° 45' + and 82° 12' E. so that it extends 70 marine leagues from + N. to S. and 49 leagues from E. to W. It is so fertile and + delicious, that many have believed it to have been the seat of + the terrestrial paradise; and the natives certainly believe this, + for they pretend to shew the tomb of Adam, and the print of his + foot on the mountain named the Peak of Adam,<a id="footnotetag72" + name="footnotetag72"></a><a href="#footnote72"><sup>1</sup></a> + one of the highest mountains in the world. On another mountain + there is a salt-lake, which the inhabitants affirm was filled by + the tears shed by Eve, while she wept incessantly an hundred + years for the death of Abel.</p> + + <p>The principal places in Ceylon are Jafnapatam, Trinkamaly, + Baracola, Punta de Galla, Columbo, Negombo, Sitavaca, and Candy. + The Dutch East India Company are possessed of all the coasts of + the island, and ten or twelve leagues within the land, and most + of the before-mentioned towns, except the two last. While the + Portuguese had possession, they built abundance of forts for + their security, so that the Dutch found it a difficult matter to + dislodge them; but having contracted a secret treaty with the + king of Candy, the Portuguese were attacked on all sides, by sea + and land, and were driven by degrees out of all their + possessions. Since then, the Dutch have taken much pains to + cultivate a good understanding with that native sovereign, from + whom they have obtained almost every thing they demanded. They + send every year an ambassador to him with various presents; in + return for which his Candian majesty sends to the company a + casket of jewels, of such value that the ship which carries it + home is reckoned to be worth half the fleet.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page142" id="page142"></a>[pg 142]</span> + + <p>Punta de Galle and Columbo are the two principal places in the + island, the latter being the residence of the governor, and the + other, properly speaking, is only the port of that city. Though + extremely hot, the air of Ceylon is reckoned healthy, and the + country abounds with excellent fruits of many kinds. The sea and + the rivers afford plenty of various kinds of fish. There are also + on the land great abundance of fowls, both wild and tame, and + many wild animals, particularly elephants that are larger than + any other country in Asia, also tygers, bears, civet cats, + monkeys, and others. <i>Cinnamon</i> is the production for which + this island is peculiarly famous, as that which is procured here + is estimated far superior to any other. The Dutch East India + Company have the entire monopoly not only of this, but of all the + other spices, with which they supply all parts of the world. + Cinnamon is the inner bark of a tree resembling the orange, the + flowers of which very much resemble those of the laurel both in + size and figure. There are three sorts of cinnamon. The finest is + taken from young trees; a coarser sort from the old ones; and the + third is the <i>wild cinnamon</i>, or cassia, which grows not + only in Ceylon, but in Malabar and China, and of late years in + Brazil. The company also derives great profit from an essential + oil drawn from cinnamon, which sells at a high price; and it also + makes considerable gain by the precious stones found in this + island, being rubies, white and blue sapphires, topazes, and + others.</p> + + <p>Off the coast of this island, at Manaar and Tutecorin, there + is a fine pearl fishery, which brings in a large revenue, being + let twice a-year in farm to certain black merchants. The oysters + are at the bottom of the sea, and the fishery is only carried on + in fine weather, when the sea is perfectly calm. The diver has + one end of a rope fastened round his body below the arm-pits, the + other end being tied to the boat, having a large stone tied to + his feet, that he may descend the quicker, and a bag tied round + his waist to receive the oysters. As soon as he gets to the + bottom of the sea, he takes up as many oysters as are within his + reach, putting them as fast as possible into the bag; and in + order to ascend, pulls strongly at a cord, different from that + which is round his body, as a signal for those in the boat to + haul him up as fast as they can, while he endeavours so shake + loose the stone at his feet. When the boats are filled with + oysters, the black merchants carry them to different places on + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page143" id="page143"></a>[pg + 143]</span> the coast, selling them at so much the hundred; which + trade is hazardous for the purchasers, who sometimes find pearls + of great value, and sometimes none at all, or those only of small + value.</p> + + <p>The inhabitants of Ceylon are called <i>Cingolesians</i>, or + Cingalese, who are mostly very tall, of a very dark complexion, + with very large ears, owing to the numerous large and heavy + ornaments they wear in them. They are men of great courage, and + live in a hardy manner, and are therefore excellent soldiers. + They are, for the most part, Mahomedans,<a id="footnotetag73" + name="footnotetag73"></a><a href="#footnote73"><sup>2</sup></a> + though there are many idolaters among them who worship cows and + calves. The inhabitants of the interior do not greatly respect + the Dutch, whom they term their <i>coast-keepers</i>, in + derision; but the Dutch care little about this, endeavouring to + keep in good correspondence with the king of Candy, whose + dominions are separated from theirs by a large rapid river, and + by impenetrable forests. The Ceylonese are remarkable for their + great skill in taming elephants, which they employ as beasts of + burden in time of peace, and render serviceable against their + enemies in war.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote72" name="footnote72"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag72">(return)</a> + + <p>This gross absurdity is not worth contesting; but the fact + is, that the real natives, the idolaters of the interior, refer + both the tomb and the footmark to their false god, or lawgiver, + Bodh.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote73" name="footnote73"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag73">(return)</a> + + <p>The author has probably confounded the original natives of + Ceylon, who are idolaters, with the Malays, who are Mahomedans, + and of whom a considerable number are settled on the coast + country.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION X.</h3> + + <h4><i>Some Account of the Governments of Amboina, Banda, + Macasser, the Moluccas, Mallacca, and the Cape of Good + Hope.</i></h4> + + <p>The third government under the East India Company is that of + Amboina, one of the Molucca islands, which was formerly the seat + of the governor-general till the building of Batavia, when it was + transferred there on account of its advantageous situation, in + the centre of the company's trade and settlements, while Amboina + lay too far to the east. The island of Java also is vastly more + fertile than Amboina, producing all the necessaries of life in + abundance, so that it has no dependence for provisions on any + other country, while they had provisions to search for in all + other places, at the time when the government was established at + Amboina. This island is one of the largest of the Moluccas, being + situated in the <i>Archipelago of St Lazarus</i>, in lat. 3 40' + S. and <span class="pagenum"><a name="page144" id= + "page144"></a>[pg 144]</span> long. 128° 30' E. + 21° 30' or 430 marine leagues east from Batavia. It was + conquered in 1519 by the Portuguese, who built a fort there to + keep the inhabitants under subjection, and to facilitate the + conquest of all the adjacent islands. This fort was taken by the + Dutch in 1605, but they did not entirely reduce the whole island + of Amboina and the neighbouring islands till 1627, by which + conquest they acquired entire possession of the clove trade, + whence these islands are termed the <i>gold-mine</i> of the + company, owing to the vast profit they draw from them, and it is + so far superior to other gold-mines, that there is no fear of + these islands being ever exhausted of that commodity. A pound + weight of cloves or nutmegs, for the company has the entire + monopoly of both, does not in fact cost the company much more + than a half-penny, and every one knows at what rate the spices + are sold in Europe. Amboina is the centre of all this rich + commerce; and to keep it more effectually in the hands of the + company, all the clove-trees in the other islands are grubbed up + and destroyed; and sometimes, when the harvest is very large at + Amboina, a part even of its superfluous produce is burnt.</p> + + <p>This valuable spice grows only in Amboina and the other five + Molucca islands, and in the islands of Meao, Cinomo, Cabel, and + Marigoran. The Indians call cloves <i>calafoor</i>, while the + inhabitants of the Moluccas call them <i>chinke</i>. The + clove-tree is much like the laurel, but its leaves are narrower, + resembling those of the almond and willow. Even the wood and + leaves taste almost as strong as the cloves themselves. These + trees bear a great quantity of branches and flowers, and each + flower produces a single clove. The flowers are at first white, + then green, and at last grow red and pretty hard, and are + properly the cloves. While green, their smell is sweet and + comfortable, beyond all other flowers. When ripe, the cloves are + of a yellow colour, but after being gathered and dried, they + assume a smoky and black hue. In gathering, they tie a rope round + each bough, and strip off the whole of its produce by force, + which violence injures the tree for the next year, but it bears + more than ever in the following season. Others beat the trees + with long poles, as we do walnut-trees, when the cloves fall down + on cloths spread on the ground to receive them. The trees bear + more fruit than leaves, the fruit hanging from the trees like + cherries. Such cloves as are sold in the Indies are delivered + just as procured from the trees, mixed with their stalks, and + with dust and <span class="pagenum"><a name="page145" id= + "page145"></a>[pg 145]</span> dirt; but such as are to be + transported to Holland are carefully cleaned and freed from the + stalks. If left ungathered on the tree, they grow large and + thick, and are then termed <i>mother-cloves</i>, which the + Javanese value more than the others, but the Dutch prefer the + ordinary cloves.</p> + + <p>No care is ever taken in propagating or planting clove-trees, + as the cloves which fall to the ground produce them in abundance, + and the rains make them grow so fast that they give fruit in + eight years, continuing to bear for more than an hundred years + after. Some are of opinion that the clove-tree does not thrive + close to the sea, nor when too far removed; but seamen who have + been on the island assert that they are found everywhere, on the + mountains, in the vallies, and quite near the sea. They ripen + from the latter end of August to the beginning of January. + Nothing whatever grows below or near these trees, neither grass, + herb, or weed, as their heat draws all the moisture and + nourishment of the soil to themselves. Such is the hot nature of + cloves, that when a sackful of them is laid over a vessel of + water, some of the water is very soon wasted, but the cloves are + no way injured. When a pitcher of water is left in a room in + which cloves are cleaned, all the water is consumed in two days, + although even the cloves have been removed. Cloves are preserved + in sugar, forming an extraordinary good confection. They are also + pickled. Many Indian women chew cloves to give them a sweet + breath. A very sweet-smelling water is distilled from green + cloves, which is excellent for strengthening the eyes, by putting + a drop or two into the eyes. Powder of cloves laid upon the head + cures the headache; and used inwardly, increases urine, helps + digestion, and is good against a diarrhoea, and drank in milk, + procures sleep.</p> + + <p>A few days after the cloves are gathered, they are collected + together and dried before the fire in bundles, by which operation + they lose their natural beautiful red colour, changing into a + deep purple or black. This is perhaps partly owing to their being + sprinkled with water, which is said to be necessary for + preventing worms from getting into them. Those persons who are + sent for this commodity in the company's ships, practise a fraud + of this nature, in order to conceal their thefts: For, having + abstracted a certain quantity or proportion from the cloves + received on board, they place two or three hogsheads of sea-water + among those remaining, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page146" + id="page146"></a>[pg 146]</span> which is all sucked up in a few + days by the cloves, which that recover their former weight. By + this contrivance, the captain and merchant or supercargo agreeing + together, find a way to cheat the company out of part of this + valuable commodity. Yet this fraud, though easy and expeditious, + is extremely dangerous as when detected it is invariably punished + with death, and the company never want spies. Owing to this, + cloves are commonly enough called galgen kruid, or gallows-spice, + as frequently bringing men to an ill end.</p> + + <p>The king of Amboina has a pension from the company, and a + guard of European soldiers, maintained at its expence. The + inhabitants of the island are of middle stature, and of black + complexions, being all extremely lazy and given to thieving; yet + some of them are very ingenious, and have a singular art of + working up the cloves while green into a variety of curious toys, + as small ships or houses, crowns, and such like, which are + annually sent to Europe as presents, and are much esteemed. Those + of the Amboinese who acknowledge the authority of the king are + Mahomedans, but there are many idolaters who live in the + mountains, and maintain their independence, considering + themselves as free men, but the king and the Hollanders reckon + them savages; and as they are guilty of frequent robberies and + murders, they are always reduced to slavery when caught, and are + treated with the utmost rigour, and employed in the hardest + labour. On this account a most excessive hatred subsists between + them and the other inhabitants of the island, with whom they are + perpetually at war, and to whom they hardly ever give quarter. + Their arms are bucklers; swords, and javelins or pikes.</p> + + <p>The garrison kept in the fort of Amboina is numerous, and + constantly maintained in excellent order, being composed of the + best troops in the company's service. The fort is so strong, both + by nature and art, as to be reckoned impregnable, and so + effectually commands the harbour, that no vessel can possibly go + in or out without being sunk by its cannon. Although the rich + commerce in cloves might make a sufficient return to the company + for the charges of this island, yet of late years coffee has been + ordered to be cultivated here, and is likely to turn out to + advantage. While this island was under the government of Mr + Barnard, it was discovered that considerable quantities of + gold-dust were washed down by the torrents in some parts of the + mountains, and by tracing up the auriferous streams to their + sources, the mine has <span class="pagenum"><a name="page147" id= + "page147"></a>[pg 147]</span> at last been found. Amboina also + produces a red kind of wood, which is both beautiful and durable, + and is naturally embellished in its grain with abundance of + curious figures. Of this wood they make tables, cabinets, + writing-desks, and other beautiful pieces of furniture, which are + sent as presents to the principal persons in the government, the + rest being sold at extravagant prices all over India.</p> + + <p>The fourth government under the company is <i>Banda</i>, an + island about fifty leagues from Amboina towards the east, and to + the southward of the Moluccas. The governor, who is generally an + eminent merchant, resides at <i>Nera</i>, the capital of the + country, and has several other neighbouring islands under his + jurisdiction, in the government of all which he is assisted by a + council, as at Amboina. In some representations sent home, and + published by the company, this island is set forth as being very + expensive to the company, and so thinly inhabited as to take off + very little goods, while it is so barren as to require large + supplies of provisions. All this is pure artifice; for, though + Banda is a very small island in comparison with Amboina, being + only about twelve leagues in circumference, it certainly affords + as great profits, which arise from the important commerce in + nutmegs, which grow here in such prodigious quantities as to + enable the Dutch company to supply all the markets in Europe.</p> + + <p>This admirable and much-valued fruit grows in no other part of + the world except Banda and a few other small islands in its + neighbourhood, named Orattan, Guimanasa, Wayer, Pulo-wai, and + Pulo-rion. The nutmeg-tree is much like a peach-tree, but the + leaves are shorter and rounder. The fruit is at first covered by + two skins or shells, the outer one being tough and as thick as + one's finger, which falls off when the fruit ripens. This outer + rind when candied has a fine taste and flavour. When this falls + off, the next is a fine smooth skin or peel, which is the mace, + or flower of the nutmeg; and below this is a harder and blackish + shell, much like that of a walnut; and on opening this shell, the + nutmeg is found within, being the kernel. The mace is at first of + a fine scarlet colour; but, when ripe, it falls off the shell, + and is then of an orange colour, as it comes to Europe. They + preserve whole nutmegs in sugar, which make the best sweetmeat in + India. The Bandanese call nutmegs <i>palla</i>, and mace + <i>buaa-palla</i>. There are two sorts of nutmegs; the one being + of a long shape, called males, and the other round and reddish, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page148" id="page148"></a>[pg + 148]</span> called females, which latter have better taste and + flavour than the other. When gathered and the mace carefully + preserved, the shells are removed and the nutmegs dried, being + first thrown among quicklime, as otherwise worms would breed in + and destroy them.</p> + + <p>There are several islands in the neighbourhood of Banda in + which the nutmeg-trees grow, but these are carefully destroyed + every year, which at first sight may seem extraordinary, as, if + once destroyed, one would imagine they would never grow again. + But they are annually carried by birds to these islands. Some + persons allege that the birds disgorge them undigested, while + others assert that they pass through in the ordinary manner, + still retaining their vegetative power. This bird resembles a + cuckoo, and is called the nutmeg-gardener by the Dutch, who + prohibit their subjects from killing any of them on pain of + death. The nutmeg is a sovereign remedy for strengthening the + brain and memory, for warming the stomach, sweetening the breath, + and promoting urine; it is also good against flatulence, + diarrhoea, head-ach, pain of the stomach, heat of the liver, and + amenorrhoea. Oil of nutmegs is a powerful cordial. Mace is an + effectual remedy for weakness of the stomach, helps digestion, + expels bad humours, and cures flatulence. A plaister of mace and + nutmegs in powder, and diluted with rose-water, greatly + strengthens the stomach. Being peculiar to Banda, merchants from + Java, Malucca, China, and all parts of the Indies, come to Nera + and the other towns of Banda to purchase mace and nutmegs; and + immediately on their arrival, they all purchase wives to keep + house for them and dress their victuals during their stay, which + is usually two or three months, and when they go away again, they + give liberty to these temporary wives to go where they + please.</p> + + <p>The island of Banda is very hilly, yet fertile, the government + among the natives being a kind of commonwealth, administered by + the Mahomedan priests, who are very strict and severe. The + population of the whole island may be about 12,000 persons of all + ages, of whom about 4000 are fighting men. It is so well + fortified as to be deemed impregnable, yet there is always a + numerous squadron of small vessels on the coast for farther + security. The garrison is numerous, but in a worse condition than + those of any other garrison, belonging to the company, owing to + the scarcity of victuals, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page149" + id="page149"></a>[pg 149]</span> as the island is of a barren + sandy soil,<a id="footnotetag74" name= + "footnotetag74"></a><a href="#footnote74"><sup>1</sup></a> + wherefore the soldiers eat dogs, cats, and any other animal they + can find. For six months of the year they have tolerable + abundance of turtle or sea-tortoises, and after this they are + glad to get a little sorry fish, now and then. Their bread is + made from the juice of a tree, which resembles the grounds of + beer when first drawn, but grows as hard as a stone when dried: + Yet, when put into water, it swells and ferments, and so becomes + fit to eat, at least in this country, where nothing else is to be + had.<a id="footnotetag75" name="footnotetag75"></a><a href= + "#footnote75"><sup>2</sup></a> Butter, rice, dried fish, and + other provisions, are all imported from Batavia, and are much too + dear to be purchased by the soldiers, at least in any great + plenty. Thus the inhabitants are none of the happiest; but, to do + them justice, they live fully as well as they deserve, as there + is not an honest man on the island.</p> + + <p>According to the Dutch, the original natives of this island + were so cruel, perfidious and intractable, that they were forced + to root them out in a great measure for their own security, and + to send a Dutch colony to occupy the island: But such a colony as + has not much mended the matter, being entirely composed of a + rascally good-for-nothing people, who were either content to + come, or were sentenced to be sent here, almost to starve, not + being able to live elsewhere. Their misery at this place does not + continue long, as they are usually soon carried off by the dry + gripes or twisting of the guts, which is the endemic, or peculiar + disease of the country. Hence, and because wild young fellows are + sometimes sent here by their relations, the Dutch at Batavia + usually call this <i>Verbeetering Island</i>, or the Island of + Correction.</p> + + <p>Macasser, or the island of Celebes, is considered as the + fourth best government after Batavia. This island lies between + Borneo and the Moluccas, 260 leagues or 13° E. from + Batavia. It is a singularly irregular island, consisting in a + manner of four long peninsular processes, two projecting + eastwards, and two towards the south, reaching from lat. + 1° 30' N. to 5° 45' S. and from long. + 119° to 125° 20', both E. It is called, and + with great reason, the key of <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page150" id="page150"></a>[pg 150]</span> the spice islands, and + the form of its government is much the same as in the other + islands, consisting of a governor and council. Since the Dutch + conquered these islands from the Portuguese, they have carefully + fortified the sea-coast, and have always a very numerous garrison + in the fort of Macasser, where the governor resides; which is + particularly necessary, as the island is very populous, and the + natives are beyond comparison the bravest and best soldiers in + India. This nation long gave inexpressible trouble to the Dutch, + but was at length, subdued, and stands now in as much awe of the + company as any other nation: But, till very lately, the expences + of the troops at this place were so large, that the company + derived very little gain from the conquest, although the + slave-trade here is very profitable.</p> + + <p>Before the last Macasser war, which ended in the entire + subjugation of the prince of this country, he was able to procure + great quantities of mace, nutmegs, and cloves, which he sold to + the English and other nations, at much more reasonable rates than + they could procure them from the Dutch. For which reason the + Dutch were at great pains and expence to reduce this island to + entire subjection, that it might become the bulwark of the + Moluccas, and secure their monopoly of the spice-trade: But, for + similar reasons, the other European powers ought to have + supported the king of Macasser in his independence. The island of + Celebes is very fertile, and produces abundance of rice, and + articles of great value in the Indies. The inhabitants are of + middle stature, and have yellow complexions, with good features, + and are of brisk and active dispositions: But are naturally + thieves, traitors, and murderers to such a degree, that it is not + safe for an European to venture beyond the walls of the fort + after dark, or to travel at any time far into the country, lest + he be robbed and murdered. Yet many of the natives live under the + protection of the Dutch forts, being free burgesses, who carry on + considerable trade. There are also a considerable number of + Chinese residents, who sail from hence in vessels of their own to + all parts of the company's dominions, and who acquire immense + wealth by means of extensive commerce.</p> + + <p>The inland country is under the dominion of three different + princes, who, fortunately for the Dutch, are in continual + opposition to each other; for, if united, they might easily drive + the Dutch from the island. One of these princes is <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page151" id="page151"></a>[pg 151]</span> + styled the <i>Company's King</i>, as he lives in good + correspondence with the Dutch, and promotes their interest as far + as he can. On this account the Dutch make him presents of + considerable value from time to time, such as gold chains, golden + coronets set with precious stones, and the like, in order to keep + him steady in his allegiance, and to prevent him from uniting + with the other two princes of the island. Some little time before + the arrival of Roggewein at Batavia, a rich gold-mine was + discovered in Celebes, to which a director and a great number of + workmen were sent from Batavia; but how far this has been + attended with success, our author was unable to say.</p> + + <p><i>Ternate</i> is the fifth government at the disposal of the + company, and the farthest east of all belonging to the Dutch + dominions in India, so that it is a kind of frontier. The + governor is always a merchant, and has a council, like all the + others already mentioned. This is one of the largest of the + Molucca islands, and the king of Ternate is the most valuable of + all the allies of the company; as, although his island would + abound in cloves, he causes them to be rooted out annually, for + which the company allows him a pension of eighteen or twenty + thousand rix dollars yearly. He has likewise a numerous + life-guard, with a very strong fort well garrisoned, all at the + expence of the company. The kings of Tidore and Bachian are his + tributaries. Ternate is very fertile, and abounds in all sorts of + provisions, and in every thing that can contribute to the ease + and happiness of life, yet its commerce is of no great + importance, hardly amounting to as much as is necessary to defray + the charges of the government. It was at this time, however, + expected to turn out to better account, as a rich gold-mine had + been recently discovered. The natives are a middle-sized people, + strong and active, more faithful than their neighbours, and + better affected towards the Europeans. In religion they are + mostly Mahometans or Pagans; but of late many of them had become + Christians, chiefly occasioned by their king having declared + himself of that religion, a point of great consequence towards + the conversion of the people. The inhabitants of Ternate make a + species of palm wine, called <i>Seggeweer</i>, which is + excessively strong. There are here many most beautiful birds, + having feathers of all sorts of colours, charmingly diversified, + which are sent to Batavia, where they are sold at high prices on + account of their beauty and docility, as they <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page152" id="page152"></a>[pg 152]</span> may + be taught to sing finely, and to imitate the human voice. Many + Birds-of-Paradise are also brought from this island. There are + several sorts of these birds. The most common kind is yellow, + having small bodies, about eight inches long exclusive of the + tail, which is half a yard long, and sometimes more. The second + kind is red, the third blue, and the fourth black. These last are + the most beautiful and most in request, being called the King of + the Birds-of-Paradise. This kind has a crown or tuft of feathers + on the top of its head, which lies flat or is raised up at + pleasure. In this they resemble the <i>cadocus</i> or cockatoo, a + bird entirely white, with a yellow crown on its head.</p> + + <p>The sixth government is Malacca, which city is the capital of + a small kingdom of the same name, inhabited by Malayans or + Malays. The governor here is a merchant, and is assisted by a + council like all the others. This kingdom of Malacca is the south + part of the peninsula of India beyond the Ganges, being divided + from the island of Sumatra by a strait, named the strait of + Malacca. This city is of considerable size, and carries on an + extensive commerce, for which it is admirably situated, and is + the storehouse or emporium of all that part of India. It is also + the rendezvous of all the homeward-bound ships from Japan, which + make at this place a distribution of their merchandise into + various assortments, which are sent from hence to all the + settlements of the company in India. It is however subject to the + great inconvenience of scarcity of provisions, having nothing of + that kind except various sorts of fish. The princes of the + adjacent countries and their subjects are all notorious pirates, + and give much disturbance to the trade of India; but are + particularly inimical to the Dutch company, and omit no + opportunity of doing all the evil in their power to its subjects. + These people suffered formerly some severe reverses from the + Portuguese, who were formerly established here, and since from + their successors the Dutch, which has gradually reduced their + power, so that they are now much less able to carry on their + depredations. The natives of Malacca are of a very dark + complexion, but brisk and active, and greatly addicted to + thieving. Some are idolaters but they are mostly Mahometans.</p> + + <p>When the Portuguese were masters of Malacca, they had no less + than three churches and a chapel within the fortress, and one on + the outside. That which is now used for worship <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page153" id="page153"></a>[pg 153]</span> by + the Dutch stands conspicuously on the top of a hill, and may be + seen for a great distance up or down the straits. It has a + flag-staff on the top of its steeple, where a flag is always + displayed on seeing a ship. The fort is large and strong. A third + part of its walls is washed by the sea: A deep, narrow, and rapid + river covers its western side; and all the rest is secured by a + broad, deep ditch. The governor's house is both beautiful and + convenient, and there are several other good houses, both in the + fort and the town. But, owing to the shallowness of the sea at + this place, ships are obliged to ride above a league off, which + is a great inconvenience, as the fort is of no use to defend the + roads. The straits here are not above four leagues broad, and + though the opposite coast of Sumatra is very low, it may easily + be seen in a clear day: Hence the sea here is always quite + smooth, except in squalls of wind, which are generally + accompanied with thunder, lightning, and rain. These squalls, + though violent, seldom last more than an hour.</p> + + <p>The country of Malacca produces nothing for exportation, + except a little tin and elephants teeth; but has several + excellent fruits and roots for the use of its inhabitants, and + the refreshment of strangers who navigate this way. The + pine-apples of Malacca are esteemed the best in the world, as + they never offend the stomach; while those of other places, if + eaten in the smallest excess, are apt to occasion surfeits. The + <i>mangostein</i> is a delicious fruit, almost in the shape of an + apple. Its skin is thick and red, and when dried is an excellent + astringent. The kernels, if they may be so called, are like + cloves of garlic, of a most agreeable taste, but very cold. The + <i>rambostan</i> is a fruit about the size of a walnut, with a + tough skin beset with capillaments,<a id="footnotetag76" name= + "footnotetag76"></a><a href="#footnote76"><sup>3</sup></a> and + the pulp within is very savoury.</p> + + <p>There is a high mountain to the N.E. of Malacca, whence + several rivers descend, that of Malacca being one of them, and + all these have small quantities of gold in their channels. The + inland inhabitants, called <i>Monacaboes</i>, are a barbarous and + savage people, whose chief delight is in doing injury to their + neighbours. On this account, the peasantry about Malacca sow no + grain, except in inclosures defended by thickset <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page154" id="page154"></a>[pg 154]</span> + prickly hedges or deep ditches: For, when the grain is ripe in + the open plains, the Monacaboes never fail to set it on fire. + These inland natives are much whiter than the Malays of the lower + country; and the king of Johor, whose subjects they are or ought + to be, has never been able to civilize them.</p> + + <p>When the Dutch finally attempted to conquer Malacca from the + Portuguese, in alliance with the king of Johor, and besieged it + both by sea and land, they found it too strong to be reduced by + force, and thought it would be tedious to reduce it by famine. + Hearing that the Portuguese governor was a sordid, avaricious + wretch, much hated by the garrison, they tampered with him by + letters, offering him mountains of gold to betray his trust, and + at length struck a bargain with him for 80,000 dollars, and to + convey him to Batavia. Having in consequence of his treachery got + into the fort, where they gave no quarter to any one found in + arms, they dispatched the governor himself, to save payment of + the promised bribe.</p> + + <p>The seventh government bestowed by the company is that of the + Cape of Good Hope. The governor here is always one of the + counsellors of the Indies, and has a council to assist him. This + colony was taken from the Portuguese by the Dutch in 1653, and is + justly esteemed one of the most important places in the hands of + the company, though the profits derived from it are not + comparable to what they derive from some of the islands in the + East Indies. Formerly things were still worse, as the revenues of + this settlement fell short of its expences. Yet the company could + hardly carry on the trade to India, were it not in possession of + this place, as here only the ships can meet with water and other + refreshments on the outward and homeward-bound voyages; and these + are indispensably necessary, especially for such ships as are + distressed with the scurvy. This place so abounds in all sorts of + provisions, that there never is any scarcity, notwithstanding the + vast yearly demand, and all ships putting in here are supplied at + moderate rates. These refreshments consist of beef, mutton, + fowls, fruit, vegetables, wine, and every thing, in short, that + is necessary, either for recovering the sick on shore, or + recruiting the sea-stores for the continuance of the voyage out + or home. In the space of a year, at least forty outward-bound + ships touch here from Holland alone, and in these there cannot be + less than eight or nine thousand people. The homeward-bound Dutch + ships are not <span class="pagenum"><a name="page155" id= + "page155"></a>[pg 155]</span> less than thirty-six yearly, in + which there are about three thousand persons; not to mention + foreign vessels, which likewise put in here, and have all kinds + of refreshments furnished to them at reasonable rates. There are + almost always some ships in this road, except in the months of + May, June, and July, when the wind usually blows with great + violence at N.W. and then the road is very dangerous.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote74" name="footnote74"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag74">(return)</a> + + <p>This is contradictory, having been before described as + hilly, yet fertile.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote75" name="footnote75"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag75">(return)</a> + + <p>This account of the matter is not easily understood, and + seems to want confirmation. Perhaps it is an ignorant or + perverted report of sago: Yet there may possibly be some tree + or plant affording a considerable quantity of fecula or starch + by expression.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote76" name="footnote76"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag76">(return)</a> + + <p>This uncommon word is explained by Johnson, as "small + threads or hairs growing in the middle of flowers, adorned with + little knobs."Here it may be supposed to mean that the fruit is + hairy.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XI.</h3> + + <h4><i>Account of the Directories of Coromandel, Surat, Bengal, + and Persia.</i></h4> + + <p>Having now given a short view of the governments in the + disposal of the Dutch East-India Company, which are a kind of + principalities, as each governor, with the advice and assistance + of his council, is a kind of sovereign, and acts without controul + through the whole extent of his jurisdiction, we are now to + consider the other establishments of the company in India, for + carrying on this extensive trade. In all the countries where + their affairs require it, they have factories, in each of which + there is a chief, with some title or other, having also a council + to assist him in regard to matters of policy or trade. Among + these, the directories of Coromandel, Surat, Bengal, and Persia + are all of great importance, and the direction of them is + attended with great profit. The directors have the same power + with the governors, within their respective jurisdictions; only + that they cannot execute any criminal sentences within the + countries in which they reside, so that all criminals are + executed on board ship, under the flag of the company.</p> + + <p>The directory of Coromandel is the first of the four, and has + all the forts and factories belonging to the Dutch on that coast + under his jurisdiction. Besides Negapatnam, on the southernmost + point of Coromandel, and the fort of <i>Gueldria</i>, in which + the director resides, they have factories at Guenepatnam, + Sadraspatnam, Masulipatnam, Pelicol, Datskorom, Benlispatnam, + Nagernauty, and Golconda. The Dutch director is a principal + merchant, and if he discharges his office with reputation, he is + commonly in a few years promoted to be one of the counsellors of + the Indies. It is not uncommon for a governor or director in the + Indies, in the space of a <span class="pagenum"><a name="page156" + id="page156"></a>[pg 156]</span> few years, to amass a fortune + equal to the original capital of the company, or six millions and + a half of guilders, or nearly £600,000 sterling.</p> + + <p>Formerly, the country of Coromandel was divided into a great + number of principalities, and the little princes and chiefs + imposed such heavy duties, and gave such interruptions to trade + in other respects, as rendered the company very uneasy. But after + the war of Golconda, which cost the company a great deal of + money, yet ended to their advantage, these princes grow more + tractable. At present, the kings of Bisnagar and Hassinga,<a id= + "footnotetag77" name="footnotetag77"></a><a href= + "#footnote77"><sup>1</sup></a> who are the most powerful in + Coromandel, live in tolerably good terms with the Dutch and other + European nations; the English and Danes having also a share in + Coromandel, with several good fortresses for the protection of + their trade.</p> + + <p>The great trade carried on here is in cotton goods, as + muslins, chintzes, and the like; in exchange for which the Dutch + bring them spices, Japan copper, steel, gold-dust, sandal and + <i>siampan</i> woods. In this country, the inhabitants are some + Pagans, some Mahomedans, and not a few Christians. The country is + very fertile in rice, fruits, and herbs, and in every thing + necessary to the support of man; but the weather is exceedingly + hot during the eastern monsoon. All the manufactures of this + country, purchased by the Dutch, are transported first to + Batavia, whence they are sent home to Holland, and are thence + distributed through all Germany and the north of Europe.</p> + + <p>The second and third directories are established at Hoogly on + the Ganges, and at Surat on the western coast of India, both in + the territories of the Great Mogul, and the two most important + places of trade in all Asia. The Dutch, English, French, and + other European natives trade to both, and have erected forts and + magazines for their security and convenience. The best part of + the trade is carried on by black merchants, who deal in all sorts + of rich goods; such as opium, diamonds, rich stuffs, and all + kinds of cotton cloths. The empire of the Great Mogul is of + prodigious extent, and the countries under his dominion are + esteemed the richest in the world. The air is tolerably pure, yet + malignant fevers are common, generally attacking strangers as a + kind of seasoning <span class="pagenum"><a name="page157" id= + "page157"></a>[pg 157]</span> sickness, in which, if the patient + escape the third day, he generally recovers.</p> + + <p>Most of the inhabitants of this country are tall black robust + men, of gay and lively dispositions. In point of religion, many + of them are idolaters, more of them Mahometans,<a id= + "footnotetag78" name="footnotetag78"></a><a href= + "#footnote78"><sup>2</sup></a> and some of them Christians. The + idolaters are split into numerous sects, some of whom believe + firmly in the metempsychosis, or transmigration of souls; for + which reason they will not take away the life of any living + creature, not even daring to kill a fly or a flea. They have even + hospitals for worn-out oxen and old cows, where they are fed and + attended till they die of age or disease. These people are in + general very industrious, but covetous, false, and perfidious. + They employ themselves, such as reside in towns, in the + manufactures of silk and cotton; and those who live in the + country are very diligent cultivators, so that they annually + expect from hence vast quantities of grain to Batavia.</p> + + <p>The Great Mogul is one of the richest and most powerful + princes in the world, having a most magnificent court, and a + numerous army always on foot. The directors at Bengal and Surat + know perfectly well how to deal with him, and, by making shewy + presents, procure valuable diamonds and other precious stones in + return. Surat is a town of no great antiquity, yet very large and + immensely rich. It is in compass about five miles within the + walls, and is computed to contain about 200,000 inhabitants. The + Moorish and even the Indian merchants here are many of them + prodigiously rich. The former chiefly addict themselves to the + diamond trade, which is very precarious; for sometimes a small + stock produces an immense fortune, while at other times, a man + wastes immense sums without finding stones of any great value: + For, at the diamond-mines, the adventurers purchase so many yards + square at a certain price, employing slaves to dig and lift the + earth, taking whatever stones are found in that spot; which + sometimes are of great value, and sometimes so few and small as + not to pay costs. Other Moorish merchants deal largely in foreign + trade, and as the Mogul is a very easy master, some of them + acquire prodigious wealth, and carry on commerce to such an + extent as can scarce be credited in Europe. About twenty years + ago, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page158" id="page158"></a>[pg + 158]</span> [that is, about the year 1700,] there died a Moorish + merchant at Surat, who used yearly to fit out twenty sail of + ships, from three to eight hundred tons, the cargoes of each of + which were in value from ten to twenty thousand pounds, and who + always retained goods in his warehouses equal in value to what he + sent away. The customs of Surat amount every year to upwards of + L. 160,000 sterling, and, as the merchants pay three per cent. at + a medium, the value of the goods must exceed five millions + yearly.</p> + + <p>The fourth and last factory under a director, is that of + Gambroon or Bendar-abassi on the coast of Persia. The director + here is always a principal merchant, having a council and a + fiscal to assist him. As this city stands on the Persian gulf or + sea of Basora, being the only port of Persia on the Indian sea, + and lies at a great distance from Batavia, this direction is not + so much sought after as others; and besides, the heat at this + place is greater than in any part of the world, and the air is + excessively unwholesome. To balance these inconveniences, the + director at Gambroon has an opportunity of making a vast fortune + in a short time, so that in general, in four or five years, he + has no farther occasion to concern himself in commerce. There are + several other European nations settled here besides the Dutch, + but they have by far the best factory, and have fortified it so + effectually, that the inhabitants of the neighbouring mountains, + who are a crew of bold and barbarous robbers, have never been + able to gain possession of it, though they have made frequent + attempts. The king of Persia, who reigned about 1722, came + sometimes to Gambroon, and distinguished the Dutch above the + other European nations by many marks of his favour, and by the + grant of many privileges. Some time before that period, he sent a + gold saddle very richly wrought, and adorned with precious + stones, a present to the governor of Batavia, desiring in return + an European habit for himself and another for his queen.</p> + + <p>Gambroon is a disagreeable place to live in, as in August it + is unbearably hot; and yet the winter is so cold that they wear + English cloth lined with furs. They have here beeves, sheep, + goats, poultry, and fish, all good of their kinds, and tolerably + cheap. They have also grapes, melons, and mangoes in the utmost + perfection, and excellent wine, which is esteemed superior to + that of all other countries, insomuch that it still preserves its + flavour after being diluted with four <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page159" id="page159"></a>[pg 159]</span> + times its quantity of water. At the time when our author was in + India, intestine wars raged to such a degree in Persia, that a + ship had to be constantly stationed at Gambroon to bring off the + factory, in case of danger. Another inconvenience to the trade on + this coast proceeded from the multitude of pirates on those seas, + mostly Europeans, who, having run away with the ships of their + owners, subsisted by robbing all nations. Among these at this + time was a stout ship named the Hare, which had been sent from + Batavia to Persia: But the crew mutinied, and forced their + officers to turn pirates. After committing many depredations on + this coast, they sailed to the Red-Sea, where they attacked and + plundered many Arabian pirates. At length, being short of + provisions, and not daring to put into any port, they resolved to + return; and finding themselves also in want of water, they + resolved to supply themselves at an island. With this view, most + of them crowded into the pinnace and put off from the ship, which + gave an opportunity to the officers to resume their authority; + wherefore they cut the cable, and brought the ship into the + harbour of Gambroon, by which means the ship and cargo were + restored to the Company.</p> + + <p>In 1701, the Ballorches, who rebelled against the Shah, + attempted to make themselves masters of the English and Dutch + factories at Gambroon, with a body of four thousand men, but were + beat off at both places; but a warehouse belonging to the Dutch, + at some distance from the factory, fell into their hands, in + which were goods to the value of twenty thousand pounds. A short + time afterwards, the famous rebel <i>Meriweys</i> made himself + master of Ispahan, where he plundered both the English and Dutch + factories, taking from the former goods to the value of half a + million, and from the latter to the value of two hundred thousand + pounds.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote77" name="footnote77"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag77">(return)</a> + + <p>This seems to be a misprint for Narsinga, otherwise the + Carnatic.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote78" name="footnote78"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag78">(return)</a> + + <p>This is an obvious mistake, as by far the greater part of + the population is idolatrous.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Account of the Commanderies of Malabar, Gallo, Java, and + Bantam.</i></h4> + + <p>In such subordinate places as were not thought of sufficient + consequence to require a governor or director, the Dutch East + India Company has established another principal officer, with the + title of chief or commander. If the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page160" id="page160"></a>[pg 160]</span> + person entrusted with this authority be a merchant, he is + accountable for his conduct to the civil government, but if a + captain, to the military establishment. A chief or commander, in + conjunction with his council, has nearly the same authority with + a governor, except that he cannot execute any capital judgment on + criminals, till the case has been reviewed and confirmed by the + council at Batavia.</p> + + <p>At the time when our author was in India, the commander at the + fort of Cochin on the Malabar coast, was Captain Julius de + Golints, a native of Mecklenburg, from whom he received great + civilities. Malabar was the first country discovered by the + Portuguese in India, and in which they established themselves, + not without great effusion of blood, nor were they many years in + possession till they were driven out by the Dutch. These + conquerors, in their turn, found it very difficult to support + themselves against the natives, who attacked them with great + spirit and success, and had infallibly driven them out of the + country, but for the courage and conduct of Major John Bergman, + who preserved their establishments with much difficulty.</p> + + <p>Though very warm, the climate of Malabar is very healthy, and + the soil is fertile in rice, fruit, and all sorts of herbs. It is + divided into many principalities, among which the following are + reckoned kingdoms; Cananore, Calicut, Cranganore, Cochin, + Calicoulan, Porcaloulang, and Travancore. As the capital of the + Dutch possessions in Malabar was the city of Cochin, it may be + proper to describe this little kingdom as at that period. It + reaches from <i>Chitway</i> in the north, and extends twenty-four + leagues to the southwards along the coast, being divided into a + multitude of small islands by the streams which descend from the + mountains of <i>Gatti</i>, [the Gauts.] These rivers have two + great or principal mouths, one at Cranganore in the north, and + the other at Cochin, in the south, distant thirty marine leagues + from each other. The Portuguese were the first European nation + who settled here, where they built a fine city on the river about + three leagues from the sea; but the sea has since so gained on + the land, that it is now not above an hundred paces from the + city. This place is so pleasantly situated, that the Portuguese + had a common saying, "That China was a good place to get money + in, and Cochin a pleasant place to spend it at." The great number + of islands formed by the rivers and canals, make fishing and + fowling very <span class="pagenum"><a name="page161" id= + "page161"></a>[pg 161]</span> amusing; and the mountains, which + are at no great distance, are well stored with wild game. On the + island of <i>Baypin</i> [Vaypen], there stands an old fort called + <i>Pallapore</i>, for the purpose of inspecting all boats that + pass between Cranganore and Cochin: And five leagues up the + rivulets, there is a Romish church called <i>Varapoli</i> + [Virapell], served by French and Italian priests, and at which + the bishop takes up his residence when he visits this part of the + country. The <i>padre</i>, or superior priest at Virapell can + raise four thousand men on occasion, all Christians of the church + of Rome; but there are many more Christians of the church of St + Thomas, who do not communicate with the Romanists.<a id= + "footnotetag79" name="footnotetag79"></a><a href= + "#footnote79"><sup>1</sup></a> About two leagues farther up than + Virapell, towards the mountains, there is a place called + <i>Firdalgo</i>,<a id="footnotetag80" name= + "footnotetag80"></a><a href="#footnote80"><sup>2</sup></a> on the + side of a small but deep river, where the inhabitants of Cochin + annually resort in the hot months of April and May to refresh + themselves. The banks and bottom of the river here are clean + sand, and the water is so clear that a small pebble stone may be + seen at the bottom, in three fathoms water.</p> + + <p>All the water along this low flat coast, to the south of + Cranganore, has the very bad quality of occasioning swelled legs + to those who drink it. This disease sometimes only affects one + leg, but sometimes both, and the swelling is often so great as to + measure a yard round at the ancles. It occasions no pain, but + great itching, neither does the swelled leg feel any heavier than + that which occasionally remains unaffected. To avoid this + disease, the Dutch who reside at Cochin, send boats daily to + Virapell, from which they bring water in small casks of about ten + or twelve gallons, to serve the city. This water is given free to + the servants of the Company, but private persons have to pay + six-pence for each cask-full, which is brought to their houses at + that price. Still, however, both Dutch men and women are + sometimes afflicted with this disease, and no means have hitherto + been found out for prevention or cure. The old legend imputes + this disease to the curse laid by St Thomas upon his murderers + and their posterity, as an odious mark to distinguish + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page162" id="page162"></a>[pg + 162]</span> them: But St Thomas was slain by the + <i>Tilnigue</i><a id="footnotetag81" name= + "footnotetag81"></a><a href="#footnote81"><sup>3</sup></a> + priests at Miliapoor in Coromandel, above four hundred miles from + this coast; and the natives there have no touch of this + malady.</p> + + <p>Cochin is washed by the greatest outlet on this coast, and + being near the sea, its situation is strong by nature, but art + has not been wanting to strengthen it. As built by the + Portugueze, it was a mile and a half long by a mile in breadth. + The Dutch took it in 1662, when Heitloff van Chowz was commander + of the forces by sea and land. The insolence of the Portuguese + had made several of the neighbouring princes their enemies, who + joined with the Dutch to drive them out of that country, and the + king of Cochin in particular assisted them with twenty thousand + men. Not long after the Dutch had invested the town, Van Chowz + received notice of a peace having been concluded between Portugal + and Holland, but kept the secret to himself and pushed on the + siege. Having made a breach in the weakest part of the + fortifications, he proceeded to a furious assault, which was kept + up for eight days and nights incessantly, relieving the + assailants every three hours, while the Portuguese were kept on + continual duty the whole time, and were quite worn out with + fatigue. Finding the city in danger of being taken by storm, the + Portuguese at length capitulated and gave up the place. There + were at this time four hundred topasses in the garrison, who had + done good service to the Portuguese, but were not comprehended in + the capitulation. On discovering this omission, and knowing the + cruel and licentious character of the Dutch soldiery in India, + they drew up close to the gate at which the Portuguese were to + march out, and the Dutch to enter, declaring, unless they had + equally favourable terms granted them with the Portugueze, they + would massacre them all, and set fire to the town. The Dutch + general not only granted them all they asked, but even offered to + take those who had a mind into the Dutch pay, to which many of + them assented. The very day after the surrender, a frigate came + from Goa, with the articles of peace, and the Portuguese loudly + complained of having been unfairly dealt with by Van Chowz; but + he answered, that the Portuguese had acted in the same manner + with the Dutch, only a few years before, in the capture of + Pernambuco <span class="pagenum"><a name="page163" id= + "page163"></a>[pg 163]</span> in Brazil. The English had at that + time a factory in Cochin, but the Dutch ordered them immediately + to remove with all their effects, which they accordingly did to + their factory at Paniany.</p> + + <p>On gaining possession of Cochin, the Dutch thought it too + extensive, and therefore contracted it to the size it is now, + being hardly a tenth part of what it was before. It measures + about 600 paces long, by 200 in breadth, and is fortified with + seven large bastions and intermediate curtains, all the ramparts + being so thick that they are planted with double rows of trees, + to give shade in the hot season. Some of the streets built by the + Portuguese still remain, together with a church, which is now + used for the Dutch worship, the cathedral being converted into a + warehouse. The house of the commandant is the only one built in + the Dutch fashion, which is so near the river that the water + washes some part of its walls. The flag-staff is placed on the + steeple of the old cathedral, on a mast seventy-five feet high, + above which is the staff, other sixty feet in length, so that the + flag may be seen above seven leagues off at sea. The garrison of + Cochin usually consists of three hundred men; and from Cape + Comoras upwards, in all their forts and factories, they have five + hundred soldiers, and an hundred seamen, all Europeans, besides + some topasses and the militia. They procure their store of rice + from Barcelore, because the Malabar rice will not keep above + three months out of the husk, though it will keep twelve with the + husk on. This part of the country produces great quantities of + pepper, but it is lighter than that which grows more to the + northwards. The forests in the interior affords good teak-wood + for ship-building, and two woods, called <i>angelique</i> and + <i>prospect</i>, which make beautiful chests and cabinets, which + are sent all over the coasts of western India. They have also + iron and steel in plenty, and bees-wax for exportation. The sea + and the rivers afford abundance of excellent fish of various + kinds, which are sold very cheap.</p> + + <p><i>Cranganore</i>, a little to the north of Cochin, stands + upon a river about a league from the sea, and at this place the + Dutch have a fort. This place is remarkable for having formerly + been the seat of a <i>Jewish government</i>, and that nation was + once so numerous here as to consist of 40,000 families, though + now reduced to 4000. They have a synagogue about two miles from + the city of Cochin, not far from the palace of the rajah, and in + it they carefully preserve their records, engraven <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page164" id="page164"></a>[pg 164]</span> upon + plates of copper in the Hebrew language; and when any of the + characters decay, they are cut anew, so that they still possess + their history down from the reign of Nebuchadnezzar to the + present day. About the year 1695, <i>Mynheer van Reede</i> had an + abstract of this history translated from Hebrew into the Dutch + language. They assert themselves to be of the tribe of Manasseh, + a part of which was sent by Nebuchadnezzar to the most easterly + province of his large empire, which is alleged to have reached + Cape Comorin. Twenty thousand of them travelled from Babylon to + this place in three years, and were civilly and hospitably + treated by the inhabitants of Malabar, who allowed them liberty + of conscience in religion, and the free exercise of their reason + and industry in the management of their secular affairs. Having + increased in numbers and riches, they at length, by policy or + wealth, became masters of the small kingdom of Cranganore: And a + particular family among them being much esteemed for wisdom and + riches, two of that family were chosen by their elders and + senators to govern the commonwealth, and to reign jointly over + them. At length one of the brothers invited his colleague to a + feast, at which he basely killed him, thinking to reign alone; + but a son of the deceased slew the fratricide, after which the + state fell into a democracy, which still continues among the Jews + here. Their lands have, however, reverted for many years into the + hands of the Malabars, and poverty and oppression have occasioned + many of them to apostatise.</p> + + <p>Between Cranganore and Cochin there is an island called + Baypin, [Vaypen] four leagues long, but in no part above two + miles broad. The Dutch do not allow any vessels or boats to enter + or go out at Cranganore, obliging all to use the river of Cochin, + which is a quarter of a mile broad, and very deep, but has a bar + on which there is no more than fourteen feet water at + spring-tides. The inhabitants of this country are mostly + idolaters, over whom the bramins or priests exercise great + authority, which they much abuse, of which the following + abominable custom is a strong instance. When any man marries, he + is prohibited from bedding with his wife the first night, which + function is performed in his stead by one of the bramins, or, if + none of these be at hand, by some other man. Foreigners used + formerly to be often employed on these occasions, as the Malabars + made choice of them instead of their own countrymen, often making + large <span class="pagenum"><a name="page165" id= + "page165"></a>[pg 165]</span> presents to the substitutes, + sometimes to the value of forty or fifty pounds. But of late the + bramins have become so very religious, that they never fail to + execute this duty themselves. Besides this, the bramins frequent + the company of the women so much, that no one of their religion + can pretend to know his own father with any certainty. For which + reason, by the laws of this country, sons or daughters never + inherit from the husbands of their mothers, but the heritage + always goes, to nephews and nieces, by sisters of the deceased + born of the same mother, as certainly of his blood. This rule is + observed also in the order of succession in their royal families, + and is a glaring proof of the strange effects of boundless + superstition.<a id="footnotetag82" name= + "footnotetag82"></a><a href="#footnote82"><sup>4</sup></a></p> + + <p>The next commandery is <i>Gallo</i>, or Point de Galle, on the + island of Ceylon, at the distance of about twenty leagues from + Columbo, the Dutch capital of that island. Gallo was the first + place in Ceylon taken from the Portuguese by the Dutch, and still + is a place of considerable trade. The commander at this place is + entirely dependent upon the governor of Ceylon, and can do + nothing without his approbation. About the year 1672, Lewis XIV. + sent out a squadron of eight frigates, with orders to make + themselves master of this place, this project having been + proposed to the court of France by one Mynheer Jan Martin, who + had served the Dutch East India Company for many years, and had + quitted their service on some disgust. When the royal orders came + to be opened at sea, Martin found that the government was to be + vested in another person, in case the place were taken, on which + he took such measures as frustrated the object of the expedition. + Mynheer van Cosse, who then commanded the Dutch fleet, soon + arrived on the coast, and the French retired without venturing an + engagement. They went to <i>Trankamala</i>, or + <i>Trinconomalee</i>, and anchored in the bay of that name, + meaning to force the garrison of that small fort to surrender: + But Van Cosse soon followed them, and brought them to action + while disadvantageously situated in the bay, and either sank or + burnt half of the French fleet. The rest fled to St Thomas, on + the coast of Coromandel, intending <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page166" id="page166"></a>[pg 166]</span> to have formed a + settlement there; but Van Cosse again followed them to that place + and seized all their ships, many of their guns having been + carried ashore, as were at this time a great number of their + officers and men. The French who were on shore capitulated with + the Dutch to quit India, on being allowed shipping to carry them + home, which Van Cosse agreed to, giving them his flag-ship, the + <i>Groote Britanye</i>, and two others, for that purpose. Martin + was detained and carried to Batavia, where he was confined for + life on an allowance of a rix-dollar a-day.</p> + + <p>The next commandery is that of Samarang, on the island of + Java, and he who commands here has the direction of all the + factories in that island, except those which depend immediately + on the government of Batavia. <i>Kuttasura</i>, which is the + residence of the emperor of Java, is within his jurisdiction. In + the year 1704, a war broke out in Java between the brother and + son of the deceased emperor, as competitors for the succession, + which lasted twenty years. The Dutch sided with the former, but + the affections of the natives were with the latter, who drew over + to his party a great number of the native soldiers who had served + under the Dutch, and who, being well disciplined, behaved + gallantly on all occasions, and gave the Dutch much trouble.</p> + + <p>At <i>Bantam</i>, on the same island, the Dutch have a strong + fort with a numerous garrison, to keep the people in awe, who are + very mutinous, and far from being well affected to the Dutch + government. The king, or rajah of Bantam, has also a fort only a + few hundred paces from that belonging to the Dutch, in which be + keeps a numerous garrison for the security of his person. The + only commodity of this part of the country is pepper, of which + they are able to export 10,000 tons yearly. The king is obliged + to supply the company with a certain quantity of pepper yearly; + but in all other respects they treat him kindly enough. His + dominions are extensive and well peopled, and his subjects are + hardy and enterprising, but perfidious and revengeful, and + mortally hate all Christians. The bay of Bantam is safe and + pleasant, having many islands, which still retain the names given + them by the English, who had a fine factory here, from which they + were expelled in 1683. The territory of Bantam is very fertile, + abounding in rice, pepper, fruits, and cattle. In the interior of + the country the natives sometimes find precious stones of great + value, of which however the Dutch rarely <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page167" id="page167"></a>[pg 167]</span> get + possession, as the people fear they might be induced to extend + their conquests, by which they are already greatly oppressed. The + head of the factory at this place has the title of chief.</p> + + <p>Another Dutch chief resides at <i>Padang</i>, on that part of + the coast of Sumatra which is called the <i>gold-coast</i>. This + chief has a council and fiscal like all the rest, and his post is + considered as both honourable and profitable. Sumatra is a very + large fine island, separated from the continent of Asia by the + Straits of Malacca, and from the island of Java by the Straits of + Sunda, and is justly esteemed one of the richest and noblest + islands in all India. The Dutch have a factory at Palambaugan, + about eight leagues from the sea, on the banks of a very large + river, which empties itself into the sea by four different + channels. The great trade of this part of the country is in + pepper, which the Dutch company wish to monopolize, as they have + done cloves, nutmegs, mace, and cinnamon; and are at great + expence in keeping several armed barks cruising at the mouths of + this river, to prevent what they are pleased to call smuggling. + It must be allowed, however, that they have a contract with the + king of this country to take all the pepper in his dominions, at + the rate of ten dollars the bahar of 400 pounds weight, which is + a fair price.<a id="footnotetag83" name= + "footnotetag83"></a><a href="#footnote83"><sup>5</sup></a> They + have, however, a clause in the contract, by which half the price + is to be paid in cloth, at such rates as greatly reduce the + cost.</p> + + <p>The interior of the island is very mountainous, but most of + the mountains abound in mines of gold, silver, lead, and other + metals. The company possesses some mines of gold, said to be very + rich, and great care is taken to secure and conceal the profits. + Gold-dust is found in great quantities in all the rivers and + rivulets of the country, especially when the western monsoon + reigns, when the torrents roll down from the mountains with great + rapidity. Abundance of copper is also found here, of which they + make very good cannon. There are likewise found several sorts of + precious stones. There is a burning mountain on the island, which + continually throws forth flame and smoke, like Etna in Sicily; + and there is said to be a fountain of balsam, or petroleum. This + island abounds also in spice and silk; but the air is not very + wholesome, especially to strangers, owing to the great numbers + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page168" id="page168"></a>[pg + 168]</span> of rivers, standing waters, and thick forests, which + every where abound. It produces no wheat, nor any other of the + grains which grow in Europe; but has plenty of rice, millet, and + fruits, which afford good and sufficient nourishment for the + inhabitants. It produces also, in great abundance, honey, + bees-wax, ginger, camphor, cassia, pepper, and many Other + valuable articles. It is of great extent, being 310 leagues long + from N.W. to S.E. and about 50 leagues across at an average. The + greatest sovereign in the island is the king of <i>Acheen, + Atcheen</i>, or Achem, who resides in a city of that name at the + N.W. end of the island. It was formerly always governed by a + woman, and it is not above forty years ago since the government + fell into the hands of a man, since which several attempts have + been made to restore the old constitution. Acheen is a free port, + to which the English, Dutch, Portuguese, and Chinese resort, and + in short all the trading nations of Europe and Asia. The goods + brought there are rich brocades, silks of all kinds, muslins of + all sorts, raw silk, fish, butter, oil, and ammunition, for which + the payments are mostly made in gold, the great commodity of the + country, and remarkably fine.</p> + + <p>During the western monsoon, the rains fall here with + prodigious violence, attended with terrible storms of thunder and + lightning, and frequent earthquakes; but the people, being used + to them, are not much alarmed. The nations are, generally + speaking, Mahometans, and are very expert in making all sorts of + plate and ornaments in gold, with very few tools, yet with such + inimitable dexterity, that their workmanship sells at a high rate + all over India. The company sends a great number of slaves to + this island every year to work in their gold-mines; but the kings + in that part of the country are seldom on good terms with the + Dutch, with whom they often quarrel. The principal places where + gold is found are <i>Trion</i> and <i>Manicabo</i>, and the way + in which they procure the gold is as follows:They dig trenches at + the bottoms of the hills, so as to intercept the torrents which + roll rapidly down their sides in the winter months: and having + drained off the water from the ditches in summer, they find + considerable quantities of gold-dust in the mud which remains. It + is generally believed that this island furnishes annually 5000 + pounds weight of gold-dust,<a id="footnotetag84" name= + "footnotetag84"></a><a href="#footnote84"><sup>6</sup></a> yet + very little of <span class="pagenum"><a name="page169" id= + "page169"></a>[pg 169]</span> this quantity is ever brought to + Europe, being mostly employed by the servants of the East India + Company in making purchases of commodities in places where gold + bears a high price.</p> + + <p>The Dutch East India Company has long entertained a project of + building ships at this island, as its timber is so good that + ships built here are expected to last forty or fifty years, + whereas those of Europe seldom last more than twelve or thirteen + years. The Dutch have a strong fort and great factory at + <i>Jambee</i>, and another at <i>Siack</i>, both in this island. + This last place is excessively unwholesome, owing to the + following circumstance, which certainly might be obviated. It + stands on the great river Andragheira, into which, at one season + of the year, there come vast shoals of large shads, a third part + of their bulk being composed of their <i>roes</i>, which are + accounted a great delicacy. Wherefore, after taking these out, + the rest of the fish is thrown away, and as these lie in great + heaps to corrupt, they exhale pestilential vapours and infect the + air. The persons, therefore, who are sent to reside at Siack, are + much of the same description with those formerly mentioned as + sent to Banda, being of abandoned characters and desperate + fortunes. There is another very considerable factory on the river + Bencalis, which produces a large profit from the sale of cloth + and opium, for which gold-dust is received in payment. This trade + was discovered about forty years ago, that is, about the year + 1680, by a factor, who carried it on privately for his own + emolument for ten years, during which he acquired upwards of a + <i>ton of gold</i> yearly, a Dutch phrase implying L. 10,000 + sterling. He then resolved to secure what he had got by making a + disclosure of this valuable branch of traffic to the company. + There are also several Dutch establishments on what is called the + <i>West-coast</i> of Sumatra.</p> + + <p>A very powerful and warlike people subsists in this island, + known to Europeans by the name of the <i>Free-nation</i>, who are + equally averse from submitting either to the Sumatran sovereigns + or Europeans, and have always defended themselves valiantly + against both. All the natives of Sumatra are much more inclined + to the English than the Dutch, perhaps because they are not under + subjection to the former. But the latter use every precaution + they can to prevent the natives from dealing with any except + themselves. For a considerable time past, the chiefs at Padang + have been so unlucky <span class="pagenum"><a name="page170" id= + "page170"></a>[pg 170]</span> as to have their honesty much + suspected, chiefly owing to their management of the mines, which + do not turn out greatly to the profit of the company, while all + their officers gain immense sums out of them, which the councils + at Batavia are much dissatisfied with, yet cannot prevent. For + this reason they change the chief very frequently, yet to little + purpose.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote79" name="footnote79"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag79">(return)</a> + + <p>A very interesting account of the remnant of an ancient + Christian church in the Travancore country, a little to the + southward of Cochin, has been lately published by Dr Buchanan, + in a work named Christian Researches in India, which will be + noticed more particularly in an after division of our + Collection.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote80" name="footnote80"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag80">(return)</a> + + <p>Perhaps Bardello, about the distance mentioned in the + text.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote81" name="footnote81"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag81">(return)</a> + + <p>This word ought assuredly to have been Telinga.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote82" name="footnote82"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag82">(return)</a> + + <p>This strange custom has been differently related formerly, + and we believe more accurately, as prevalent only in the Nayra + tribe, in which the women are allowed several husbands at the + same time, and may change them at pleasure.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote83" name="footnote83"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag83">(return)</a> + + <p>Exactly five farthings and two-fifths of a farthing the + pound.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote84" name="footnote84"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag84">(return)</a> + + <p>Supposing these troy pounds, the value may be estimated at + L. 240,000 sterling.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XIII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Some Account of the Residences of Cheribon, Siam, and + Mockha.</i></h4> + + <p>The chiefs of those factories belonging to the Dutch in India + are termed <i>Residents</i>, and correspond directly with the + governor-general at Batavia, and are not dependent on any + subordinate governor or director. The first of these independent + residents is fixed at <i>Cheribon</i>, on the coast of Java, at + the distance of about forty leagues from Batavia, where a very + advantageous commerce is carried on by the company in coffee, + cardamoms, indigo, and cotton. The land at this place is as + fertile in rice and other provisions as perhaps any country in + the world. This district is of considerable extent, and was + formerly under the dominion of four great lords, who used to be + styled <i>pangerans</i>, but have now the titles of sultans, + though their authority is not much extended by these more + splendid titles. One of these is called the company's sultan, + because always attached to the interests of the company, though + in truth they might all get the same appellation, as they are all + under the protection of the company, and freed from apprehensions + of the king of Bantam, who used formerly to be continually at war + with them, and must have reduced them under subjection, but for + the assistance of the Dutch. Since then, both from gratitude for + past favours, and in expectation of future protection, they have + granted great privileges to the company in their dominions. The + company maintains a fort at Cheribon, with a garrison of sixty + men, and has an excellent factory.</p> + + <p>About half a league from the fort of Cheribon, the tombs of + the princes of Cheribon stand in a vast temple, splendidly built + of various fine kinds of stone, and are said to contain vast + riches, yet are left unguarded, from an idea that they + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page171" id="page171"></a>[pg + 171]</span> are protected by some supernatural power; and they + tell strange stories of persons having dropt down dead, on + approaching the places where these riches are hidden, with an + intention to steal. Many people believe that the Javanese + priests, who are Mahometans, have the power of causing sudden + death by means of incantations; and that they are able to enchant + crocodiles and serpents, causing the former to go into and out of + the water at command, and the latter to remain in any posture + they please. A great number of priests are maintained about this + great temple, many of whom have made the pilgrimage to Mecca, and + are therefore held in much veneration. These priests are all + governed by a sovereign pontiff or mufti, who is even more + respected than the sultans. There was formerly a considerable + English factory at Cheribon, having a small town belonging to it: + But the persons of the factory so provoked the people, by + intriguing with their wives, that they rose one night and + massacred them all. Perhaps this might have been set on foot by + their Dutch neighbours.</p> + + <p>Another resident has the direction of the company's affairs in + the kingdom of Siam, where the company carries on a considerable + trade in tin, lead, elephants-teeth, gum-lac, <i>wool</i>,<a id= + "footnotetag85" name="footnotetag85"></a><a href= + "#footnote85"><sup>1</sup></a> and other commodities. The king of + Siam is a prince of considerable power, and his dominions extend + nearly 300 leagues. Being favourable to commerce, all nations are + allowed to trade freely in his country; but ships of no great + burden are forced to anchor at the distance of sixty leagues from + his capital; because the river <i>Menan</i>, on which it is + situated, is so rapid that they find great difficulty in getting + higher up. This river, like the Nile and many others, overflows + its banks at a certain season, so that most of the country is + under water for half the year, for which reason all the houses + are built on posts. The capital is a large city, consisting at + least of 50,000 houses, with a prodigious number of + temples.<a id="footnotetag86" name="footnotetag86"></a><a href= + "#footnote86"><sup>2</sup></a> The natives are all pagans, and + hold this singular maxim, "That all religions are good, provided + they tend to the honour of God." They think, however, that their + own is the best; though they sometimes own that the God of the + Christians is most powerful, because the head of their principal + idol has been twice beaten to pieces by thunder. <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page172" id="page172"></a>[pg 172]</span> This + is perhaps the largest idol in the world, and is called by the + Dutch in derision, <i>The great blockhead of Lust</i>. He is + represented sitting cross-legged like a tailor; in which posture + he measures seventy feet high, and every one of his fingers is as + large as the body of a man. About three leagues from the capital + there is a temple of vast size, having an idol not quite so large + as the other, which the priests say is his wife; and that once in + seven years, one of these goes to visit the other. The priests + also pretend that both of these idols are of solid gold; but the + thunder-clap, which destroyed the head of the larger idol + detected that part of the cheat, shewing it to be only brick and + lime, very artificially gilded all over. One may justly wonder + that this accident did not put an end to the adoration of so + wretched a deity; but where superstition once prevails the + plainest proofs very seldom produce any effect.</p> + + <p>The country of Siam is very rich and fertile, and there is a + considerable trade carried on here by the Chinese. The Dutch have + here considerable privileges, and are the favoured nation, + especially since the great revolution, when they got into great + favour with the new king, because the English had been entrusted + by his predecessor, whom he murdered, with the best places in the + government, both civil and military. The Dutch have a factory on + the side of the river, about a mile below the city, where they + collect great numbers of deer-skins; which are sent annually to + Japan. The Siamese are themselves much addicted to trade, and the + Chinese who reside here still more; so that they send ships every + year to Japan, which, considering the difficulty of the + navigation, is not a little extraordinary. The Siamese boast of + having used the compass above a thousand years before it was + known in Europe: But the Jesuits very justly observe, that the + Siamese and Chinese compasses are very imperfect.</p> + + <p>The third resident is fixed at <i>Mokha</i>, being always a + merchant, having two factors under him. This country is under the + government of an Arab prince, styled <i>Imaum</i>, who resides in + the inland country, about 200 miles east from Mokha. The sea-port + of his dominions was formerly Aden; but as that was found very + inconvenient, he removed the trade to Mokha, then only a fishing + village. Mokha is situated close to the sea, in a large dry sandy + plain, which affords neither fruits nor water, except what is + brackish and unwholesome, and those who are forced to drink it + have long worms bred <span class="pagenum"><a name="page173" id= + "page173"></a>[pg 173]</span> in their legs and feet, which are + very troublesome and dangerous. The town is supplied with very + good and wholesome water from <i>Musa</i>, a town at the distance + of twenty miles; but it is so dear, being brought by land + carriage; that it costs as much as small beer does in England. + Mokha is large, and makes a fine appearance from the sea, the + buildings being lofty, but they look much better without than + within. The markets are well supplied with provisions, such as + beef, mutton, goats, kid, lamb, and camels flesh, antelopes, + poultry, guinea-fowls, partridges, and pigeons. The sea affords a + variety of fish, but not well tasted, owing probably to the + nature of their food. It is also furnished all the year with + excellent fruits, as grapes, peaches, apricots, and quinces, of + which they make great quantities of marmalade, both for their own + use and exportation. Yet there is neither tree nor shrub to be + seen near the town, except a few date-trees, and they seldom have + above two or three showers of rain in a year, sometimes no rain + for two or three years. Among the mountains, however, about + twenty miles inland, seldom a morning passes without a moderate + shower, which makes the vallies very fertile in such corn and + fruits as suit the soil and climate. They have plenty of wheat + and barley, but no rice.</p> + + <p>Since Mokha has been made a free port, it has become a place + of great trade. Besides the Dutch factory, it has one belonging + to the English East-India Company. Trade is also carried on here + by English free merchants, by Portuguese, Banians, and Moors; + also by vessels from Basora, Persia, and Muskat. The country + itself produces few commodities, except coffee and some drugs, as + myrrh, olibanum or frankincense from <i>Cossin</i>, Soccotrine + aloes from Soccotora, liquid storax, white and yellow arsenic, + some gum-arabic, mummy, and balm of gilead, these two last being + brought down the Red Sea. The coffee trade brings a continual + supply of gold and silver from Europe, particularly Spanish + money, German crowns, and other European silver coins, with + chequins and German and Hungarian gold ducats, and + <i>ebramies</i> and <i>magrabees</i> of Turkey. It is a settled + point here, though other goods may be bought and sold on credit + for a certain time, coffee must always be paid for in ready + money. The European shipping that comes here annually rather + exceeds 20,000 tons, and that belonging to other nations may + amount to nearly the same tonnage. The whole province of + <i>Betlefackee</i> is planted with coffee-trees, which are + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page174" id="page174"></a>[pg + 174]</span> never allowed to grow above four or five yards high. + The berries cling to the branches like so many insects, and are + shaken off when ripe. They are at first green, then red, and + lastly of a dark-brown colour.</p> + + <p>The Dutch have here a great advantage over all other nations, + in consequence of their monopoly of the spice-trade, as these are + consumed here in great quantities, which consequently enables + them to procure coffee at much easier rates than other nations. + Yet this trade of Mokha is continually falling off, owing to the + vast quantities of coffee produced in their own plantations, + especially at Batavia, Amboina, and the Cape of Good Hope: Even + the Dutch, however, acknowledge that there is no comparison + between the coffee raised on their own plantations and that + brought from Mokha.</p> + + <p>The <i>Happy Arabia</i> is divided into many small + territories, under independent princes, styled Emirs, who all pay + a kind of homage, but no obedience, to the Grand Signor or + Emperor of the Turks. The Red Sea gets this name from several + parts of it being of a red colour, owing to its bottom in these + parts.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote85" name="footnote85"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag85">(return)</a> + + <p>Perhaps cotton, often termed <i>cotton-wool</i>, ought to + have been here substituted.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote86" name="footnote86"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag86">(return)</a> + + <p>In Harris the temples are stated at 30,000.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XIV.</h3> + + <h4><i>Of the Trade of the Dutch in Borneo and China.</i></h4> + + <p><i>Borneo</i> is the largest island in the East Indies, + perhaps the largest in the world, being 220 marine leagues from + N. to S. and 170 leagues from E. to W. It is divided into many + small principalities, of which the most powerful is the king of + <i>Banjaar Masseen</i>, and after him the kings of <i>Borneo</i> + and <i>Sambas</i>. The air is reckoned very unwholesome in some + places, on account of being low and marshy; and it is only thinly + peopled, though abounding in very rich commodities. On the first + establishment of the Dutch in India, they were very solicitous to + have factories in this island, and accordingly fixed three, at + the cities of Borneo, Sambas, and Succadanea; but they soon found + it was impossible to have any dealings with the natives, who + certainly are the basest, crudest, and most perfidious people in + the world; wherefore they quitted the island, and though several + times invited back, have absolutely refused to return. The + commerce of <span class="pagenum"><a name="page175" id= + "page175"></a>[pg 175]</span> Borneo is as rich as any in India. + At Sambas and Banjaar Masseen they deal in diamonds, of which + there is a mine in the interior country. These stones generally + run from four to twenty-four carats each, though some are found + as high as thirty and even forty carats; but the whole trade does + not exceed 600 carats yearly. They always sell these stones for + gold, though that is a commodity of the island, and there is a + considerable trade in gold-dust at Pahang, Saya, Calantan, + Seribas, Catra, and Melanouba. Bezoar is another principal + article of their trade. Japan wood, fine wax, incense, mastic, + and several other rich gums, are here met with; but the staple + commodity is pepper, which this island produces in as great + abundance as any place in India. A drug is met with in this + island, called <i>piedro de porco</i>, or pork-stone, so highly + esteemed as to be worth 300 crowns each; as the Indian physicians + pretend that they can infallibly discover whether their patients + are to live or die, by exhibiting to them the water in which this + stone has been steeped.</p> + + <p>Before the Portuguese discovered the way by sea to India, the + Chinese possessed the whole trade of this island, and since the + Europeans have declined settling here, it has reverted to them + again. The places where they are settled are Banjaar Masseen, + Mampua, Teya, Lando, and Sambas, where they parry on a great + trade, furnishing the inhabitants with silks, chintz, calico, and + all the manufactures of China and Japan. It has been suggested, + that a more valuable trade might be established in Borneo than in + any other part of India, as there come here every year large + fleets of Chinese junks, laden with all the commodities of that + empire, which might be purchased here as cheap, or cheaper even + than in China itself. There come also yearly some small vessels + from the island of Celebes to Borneo, in spite of the utmost + vigilance of the Dutch, which bring considerable quantities of + cloves, nutmegs, and mace, so that the Dutch are unable to sell + much of these spices to the inhabitants: Yet they send ships here + frequently to load with pepper, endeavouring to keep up a good + correspondence with the kings of Borneo and Sambas, for the king + of Banjaar Masseen refuses to have any dealings with them.</p> + + <p>Considering the vast sway of the Dutch in India, it is strange + that they should not have any factory in China. They have indeed + formerly sent ambassadors to that country, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page176" id="page176"></a>[pg 176]</span> + under pretence of demanding a free trade, but in reality on + purpose to gain a more accurate knowledge of the nature of trade + in China, and in consequence of their discoveries in that manner, + have been induced to decline entering upon any direct trade to + that country. While they were possessed of the island of Formosa, + they carried on a direct trade to China with great profit: But, + since their expulsion from that island in 1661, they have not + been able to make that trade turn out profitable. After the + establishment of the Ostend East-India Company, they tried to + send ships to China, direct from Holland; but even this came to + no great account, the profit having seldom exceeded twenty-five + per cent. which, considering the hazard of so long a voyage, was + not considered a very encouraging return. It has been doubted + whether the Dutch were able to deal with the Chinese, where both + nations are upon an equal footing, as the latter are certainly + the cunningest of men: Besides, the Chinese are less inclined to + deal with the Dutch than with any other Europeans; and, when they + do, always hold them to harder terms. The port charges also in + China, and the presents they are obliged to make, cut deep into + their gains.</p> + + <p>Besides the foregoing circumstances, as China is at a great + distance from Batavia, and as the officers of the Dutch ships can + so easily consign their effects into the hands of the Portuguese, + English, and other foreign merchants, they have been found to + mind their own affairs much more than those of the Company. But + the principal reason of avoiding the trade to China is, that the + Chinese carry on a prodigious trade with Batavia; and though the + voyage exceeds 550 leagues, the Chinese junks make the run in six + weeks, sailing from Canton in the beginning of December, and + arriving at Batavia in the middle of January. The company has in + the first place a duty of four per cent. on all the goods brought + by the Chinese, which are gold, silks of all sorts, tea, + anniseed, musk, rhubarb, copper, quicksilver, vermilion, china + ware, &c. For which they receive in exchange lead, tin, + pepper, incense, camphor, cloves, nutmegs, amber, and many other + articles, on all which the Dutch fix their own prices, and + consequently buy much cheaper than other nations can do in China. + They have also found by experience, that a direct trade greatly + lessens this more profitable mode at Batavia. They have also + opportunities of dealing with the Chinese in many other parts of + India, where, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page177" id= + "page177"></a>[pg 177]</span> after the Chinese merchants have + completed their sales to the natives, they are glad to part with + the remainder of their commodities to the Dutch, at a cheap rate. + Thus, the Dutch East-India Company are able to send home vast + quantities of the commodities of China, and purchased on very + advantageous terms, without trading directly to China, either + from Holland or from Batavia.</p> + + <h3>SECTION XV.</h3> + + <h4><i>Of the Dutch Trade with Japan.</i></h4> + + <p>A Dutch chief resides at Japan, who is always a principal + merchant, and is assisted by some writers in the Company's + service. The profit formerly made of this establishment by the + Dutch East-India Company, frequently amounted to 80 and even 100 + per cent. but has fallen off to such a degree, that they rarely + make now, 1721, above eight or ten. This has been chiefly + occasioned by the Chinese, who for some time past have purchased + every kind of goods at Canton that are in demand in Japan, and it + is even said that they have contracted with the Japanese to + furnish them with all kinds of merchandize at as low prices as + the Dutch. Another cause of the low profits is, that the Japanese + fix the prices of all the goods they buy, and if their offer is + not accepted, they desire the merchants to take them home again. + This may possibly have been suggested to them by the Chinese, who + used formerly to be treated in the same manner at Batavia. There + is no place in all India where the Dutch have so little + authority, or where their establishments are of so little + consequence, as in Japan. They are allowed a small island to + themselves, where they have warehouses for their goods, and a few + ordinary houses for the members of the factory; but this island + is a prison, in which they are completely shut up as long as they + remain in Japan, not being permitted to pass the bridge that + joins this island to the city of Naugasaque. The only shadow of + liberty that is allowed them is, that their chief, with two or + three attendants, goes once a-year as ambassador to the emperor. + One great reason of this is said to have been occasioned by their + using too great familiarities with the Japanese women; but the + true reason is, that the Dutch have more than once given strong + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page178" id="page178"></a>[pg + 178]</span> indications of an inclination to establish themselves + in the country by force.</p> + + <p>A French gentleman, Monsieur Carron, who was for some time at + the head of their factory in Japan, and who, in several journeys + to the court, had ingratiated himself into the favour of the + emperor, by entertaining him with accounts of the state of + Europe, got his permission to build a house for the factory on + the little island allotted to them. He accordly laid the + fortifications of great extent, and continued the work till he + had completed a handsome fortification, in form of a regular + tetragon; and as the Japanese were quite ignorant in the art of + fortification, they suffered it to be finished, without any + suspicion of deceit. Carron now desired the council at Batavia to + send him some cannon, packed in casks filled with oakum or + cotton, along with some other casks of the same form filled with + spices. This was done accordingly, but in rolling the casks after + landing, one of them that contained a brass gun burst open, by + which accident the cheat was discovered. This put an entire stop + to all trade till the pleasure of the emperor was known. The + emperor, without prohibiting trade, gave orders that no Dutchman + should presume to stir out of the island on pain of death, and + ordered Carron up to Jeddo, to answer for his fault. The emperor + reproached him for abusing his favour; after which he ordered his + beard to be pulled out by the roots, and that he should be led, + dressed in a fool's coat and cap, through all the streets of the + city. He was thus sent back to the factory, with orders to leave + Japan in the first ship that sailed for Batavia.</p> + + <p>The island of <i>Desima</i>, where the Dutch reside, is + divided from the city of Naugasaki by a small creek of salt water + of about forty feet broad, over which there is a convenient + bridge, having a draw-bridge at one end, of which the Japanese + keep possession, and no Dutchman can pass this without leave from + the governor of the city; neither dare any Japanese converse with + the Dutch, except the merchants and factors, who have a licence + for that purpose. For the security of the factory, the island of + Desima is pallisaded all round. It contains four streets, with + large warehouses, and a spacious market-place over against the + bridge, where at stated times the town's people have leave to + trade with the Dutch. So great is the jealousy entertained of the + Dutch, that they are not even allowed to have the command of + their own ships while in Japan: For, as soon as one of them + enters <span class="pagenum"><a name="page179" id= + "page179"></a>[pg 179]</span> the harbour, the Japanese take + entire possession of her, taking out all the arms and ammunition, + which they lay up on shore, and return again in good order, when + the ship is ready to sail. They also exact a complete account of + all the men on board, whom they muster by one of their own + commissaries.</p> + + <p>Japan is well peopled, and produces every thing necessary for + human sustenance in great plenty; yet the Dutch pay high for + every thing they need, and have even to purchase wood for fuel by + weight. The mountains are rich in gold, silver, and copper, which + last is the best in the world. Their porcelain is finer than that + of China, as also much thicker and heavier, with finer colours, + and sells much dearer both in India and Europe. The tea of Japan, + however, is not near so good as that of China. Their lackered + ware, usually called Japan, is the best in the world, and some of + it will even hold boiling water without being injured. They have + abundance of silks, both raw and manufactured, much stronger than + what is produced in China. Their houses are mostly built of wood, + but the palace of the emperor is of marble, covered with copper, + so remarkably well gilded that it withstands the weather many + years. Jeddo is the metropolis, and its magnitude may be guessed + from this circumstance, that in a great fire which raged in this + city for eight days, about the year 1660, it consumed 120,000 + houses, and 500 temples.</p> + + <p>The Japanese are strict observers of moral rules, especially + in commercial matters; insomuch that merchants of reputation put + up sums of gold <i>cupangs</i>, always in decimal numbers, in + silken bags, sealed with their seals; and these bags always pass + current for the several sums indicated by the seals, without any + one ever examining the contents of the bags for several + generations. These <i>cupangs</i> are broad oblong pieces of + gold, of about twenty shillings value in Japan; but gold is there + so plentiful and cheap, in relation to silver, that a + <i>cupang</i> passes current in Batavia for thirty-two shillings; + and, after being stampt with the lion of the Company, it passes + for forty shillings sterling. The Japanese also are exact + observers of justice, and punish crimes with extreme rigour. To a + man of distinction, when found guilty of a capital crime, the + emperor writes a letter, commanding him to become his own + executioner, on an appointed <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page180" id="page180"></a>[pg 180]</span> day and hour, on + penalty of being subjected to the most exquisite tortures, if he + survive the appointed time. On receiving this mandate, the + delinquent invites all his friends and near relations to a + sumptuous feast on the set day. When the feast is over, he shows + them the letter from the emperor, and, while they are reading it, + he stabs himself with a dagger below the navel, and cuts open his + belly to the breast bone. The capital punishments inflicted on + the inferior people are hanging, beheading, or being flung over a + precipice; and for smaller faults, whipping and branding are + usual.</p> + + <p>The government of Japan would be well pleased to encourage + trade with all nations, but for two considerations. The first is, + lest their religion should be insulted, which was frequently the + case from misguided zeal, while there were any Christians among + the Japanese. The other proceeds from their aversion to strange + customs, or to any innovation in the manners of the people, from + which they dread the worst consequences. When the Dutch were + first established in this empire, the then prime minister + explained their opinions on this subject in the following manner: + "We are well acquainted with the advantages resulting from the + system of government established among us, and will on no account + run the hazard of any change. We know that great revolutions are + often brought about by imperceptible degrees, and are therefore + resolved to cure the itch of novelty by the rod of chastisement." + Upon this maxim a law is established in Japan, by which all the + subjects of the empire are prohibited from leaving the country; + or, if any do, they must never return. They are so wedded to + their own customs and opinions, and so jealous of the + introduction of any new or foreign customs, that they never send + any embassies to other countries, neither do they allow their + merchants to carry on commerce beyond their own country. A few + small junks are sent in summer to the land of Yedso, a country + about fifty leagues from the northern extremity of Japan; and it + is said that they bring much gold from thence.</p> + + <p>There is but one good harbour in Japan, all the rest of the + coast being so guarded by steep rocks or shoals, that they have + no reason to fear being invaded. In point of military discipline + and bravery, the Japanese far exceed the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page181" id="page181"></a>[pg 181]</span> + Chinese, and are by no means of so base and effeminate + dispositions as most of the inhabitants of that great empire. The + government also of Japan is perfectly uniform and well settled, + so that there cannot be any diversity of interests; for, though + several of its provinces are denominated kingdoms, yet all these + petty kings are under the strictest subjection to the emperor, + and the laws of the country extend over all. These laws pay the + strictest regard to private property, the father transmitting to + his children not only the patrimonial estate, but all the + acquisitions of his own industry; and this is certainly a + powerful prevention of any desire of change. Though the emperor + resides at Jeddo, thirty days journey from Naugasaki, yet he + receives intelligence in the space of three days, of the number + and force of every ship that arrives, conveyed by a chain of + signal-posts, by means of flags and fire beacons.</p> + + <p>The forms observed in business are wonderfully exact, and the + edicts and orders of the emperor are signified in most expressive + and dignified terms, containing very little of the bombast and + swelling style so common among oriental courts. Yet, amid all + their good sense and quick parts, the religion of the Japanese is + the idlest and most ridiculous paganism that can well be + imagined, of which the following is a sufficient proof. Every + family has a tutelary deity or idol, which is placed at the top + of the house, and instructed to keep off all sickness, + misfortunes, or accidents: And when any such happen, the idol is + taken down and whipt, for not doing its duty. <i>Amida</i> is the + name of their favourite god, his residence in heaven is at a + prodigious distance, insomuch that it requires three years + journey of a departed soul to reach paradise, which is only the + outskirts or suburbs of heaven; but when once there, the soul is + sure of getting to heaven, and enjoys a quiet residence in that + place, as none of the fiends dare come there to give annoyance. + They have several other gods, to all of whom they are + particularly attached devotees; and each god has his own + particular paradise, none nearer this world than three years + journey. On purpose to gain an easy passage to these paradises, + some of the zealots cut their own throats, and others hang + themselves. Their idols are often carried in procession on + horseback, attended by bands of music; and many feasts and + sacrifices are made in their honour, the idols being fed on + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page182" id="page182"></a>[pg + 182]</span> the smoke and flavour, while the votaries regale on + the substantial meats.<a id="footnotetag87" name= + "footnotetag87"></a><a href="#footnote87"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote87" name="footnote87"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag87">(return)</a> + + <p>Harris here subjoins a long enquiry into the nature of the + Dutch commerce in Japan, in the form of answers to a number of + queries on the subject: But as we shall have an opportunity, in + a subsequent division of this work, to give much more ample and + satisfactory accounts of these matters, by actual travellers in + Japan, this has been omitted, as tedious and + unsatisfactory.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XVI.</h3> + + <h4><i>Account of the Colony of the Cape of Good Hope.</i></h4> + + <p>Nothing remarkable occurred to the author of this voyage, + while on the way from Batavia to the Cape of Good Hope, except + seeing the wreck of the Schonenberg, a ship belonging to the + Company, which had been lost a little before.<a id= + "footnotetag88" name="footnotetag88"></a><a href= + "#footnote88"><sup>1</sup></a> On coming in sight of the Cape, + they discovered many French, English, and Dutch ships at anchor + in the roads, some outward-bound and some homewards. A little way + from the entrance of the bay is a small island, on which there is + always a guard composed of a serjeant and a small number of men. + As soon as the serjeant sees what number of ships a fleet + consists of, he hoists a flag, and fires so many pieces of cannon + as there are ships in sight, to give notice to the commandant at + the Cape. They are here employed in making train-oil, and in + raking oyster-shells to burn into lime. Into this island, + malefactors are generally banished from the Cape, and from most + parts of India. Here, besides the punishment of being separated + from all their friends, they are kept to the hardest labour.</p> + + <p>Table Bay is very fine and large, of a semi-oval form, + entering several leagues into the land, and may be about nine + leagues in circuit; but the anchorage is not every where equally + good, and there is some danger near the shore. The middle of the + bay is commanded by a very strong fort, being a regular pentagon, + and each of its fine bastions mounts twenty pieces of heavy + cannon. This fort and the town are situated on the edge of a + plain about three leagues <span class="pagenum"><a name="page183" + id="page183"></a>[pg 183]</span> in extent, lying at the bottom + of three very high mountains. The first of these is <i>Lion + Mountain</i>, having some resemblance to a lion couchant. The + second is <i>Table Mountain</i>, which is much higher, and has a + broad flat top like a table, being so high that it may be seen + twenty leagues out at sea in clear weather. The third is called + the <i>Devil's Mountain</i>, and is not so remarkable as either + of the other two. The houses of Cape Town are very neat and + commodious, but are only built two stories high, on account of + the furious winds at S.E. which sometimes blow here.</p> + + <p>About the year 1650, the Dutch East-India Company bought a + certain district of this country from the Hottentots, its + aboriginal inhabitants, and took care to have it immediately + planted and well peopled, for the convenience of their ships, + both outward and homeward bound. All the inhabitants of this + colony are Europeans, or descended from Europeans. Some of the + planters are settled at the distance of three hundred leagues + from the Cape; yet all are obliged to appear once a-year at a + place called Stellenbosch, where the <i>Drossart</i> or + magistrate of the country resides. They have here to pass in + review, as all the peasants, as well as the towns-men, are formed + into companies under proper officers. After the review is over, + they go back to their respective plantations, generally carrying + home with them what tools or other European articles they stand + in need of. These people cultivate the ground, raising rye, + barley, beans, and other grains. They also plant vines, which + produce excellent grapes, of which they make very good wine. Some + of these peasants are in very easy circumstances, having, besides + large and well-cultivated plantations, great flocks of sheep and + cattle.</p> + + <p>Among other colonists, there is one about eight leagues from + Cape Town, at a place called <i>Drakenstein</i>, entirely + composed of French refugees, who have a large tract of well + cultivated ground, and are allowed churches and ministers of + their own. Part of the inhabitants of Cape Town are in the + service of the Company, and the rest are free burgesses. They + have regular magistrates, who decide causes of small importance, + and regulate any little disputes that happen among them; but + affairs of moment are carried before the governor and council, + who determine finally and without appeal. In the interior + country, the drossart determines in things of small consequence; + but all matters of importance <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page184" id="page184"></a>[pg 184]</span> must come before the + governor and council, whose sentences, both in civil and criminal + cases, are executed without delay. The officer who commands here + in chief, has the rank and pay of major, yet does the duty in all + respects of a major-general. The officers under him are captains, + lieutenants, and ensigns, who take care to keep their companies + always complete and well disciplined; and in case of attack, they + can draw together five thousand men at least, all well armed and + as good as regular troops: Each peasant knows where he has to + repair to, in order to range himself under his proper + standard.</p> + + <p>It is not easy to describe the expertness with which these + peasants manage their fire-arms, an exercise in which they are + constantly employed, even from their infancy; and it is almost + incredible how boldly they attack even the fiercest animals. Many + among them disdain to shoot a sleeping lion, because, as they + say, it shows neither skill nor courage: When, therefore, they + discover a lion asleep, they throw stones to waken him, and do + not fire till he is on his feet. A little before the arrival of + our author at the Cape, two peasants went out together to hunt. + One of them, seeing a lion, fired at and missed him, when the + lion rushed upon the man, who threw away his gun, to have more + liberty to defend himself. The other peasant, on hearing the + report, hastened to the place, and found his companion and the + lion closely engaged; on which he snatched up the gun, and slew + the lion by a few blows on the head, but broke the gun in pieces. + The first peasant, whose property the gun was, complained loudly + of its demolition, blamed his companion for coming up uncalled + for, and even talked of making him pay for the gun, insisting + that he could have slain the lion himself without aid. It was + formerly considered a wonderful deed for a man to kill a lion; + but now it is so common an occurrence, that they make no more of + killing a lion, than we do of shooting a hare.</p> + + <p>The country about Cape Town is full of vineyards and gardens. + Two of these belong to the company, which are perhaps the finest + in the world. One is at the distance of two hundred paces from + the fort, between the town and Table Mountain, being about 1400 + paces in length, by 235 paces broad, and having a fine rivulet + from the mountain running through the middle of it. It is divided + into quarters, in which they cultivate, with the utmost success, + the fruits and flowers <span class="pagenum"><a name="page185" + id="page185"></a>[pg 185]</span> of the four quarters of the + globe. The other garden is about two leagues distant from the + town, in what is called the <i>New Country</i>, and is likewise + kept in excellent order by slaves belonging to the company, of + whom there are seldom less than five hundred. The country + hereabout is mountainous and stony; but the vallies are very + agreeable, and extremely fertile. The climate is perhaps the best + in the world, neither cold nor heat being ever felt here to any + intolerable degree. The people accordingly live to great ages, + and have hardly any diseases except such as proceed from + intemperance of some kind. The mountains, which contribute to the + wholesomeness of the country, are supposed to be rich in gold and + other valuable metals. Some trials have been made; but as yet no + mines have been discovered, or at least none in such situations + as would permit their being worked to advantage.</p> + + <p>Mynheer van Steel, who was lately governor of this colony, + travelled over the country, and examined it with much attention. + He caused gardens to be laid out, and pleasure-houses to be + built, in several places; but the peasants who were employed in + building these houses and cultivating these gardens, sent over a + representation and complaint to the company, alleging that these + works were prejudicial to their private affairs, and prevented + them from being able to maintain their families; upon which that + governor was immediately recalled. His discoveries, however, were + of great consequence, having made the interior country known to + the Dutch, together with the nations or tribes by whom it is + inhabited. These, so far as yet discovered, consist of seven + different tribes, all comprehended under the general denomination + of <i>Hottentots</i>. The first of these, and least considerable, + who live in the neighbourhood of the Cape, have no chief, and are + mostly either in the service of the company, or are employed as + servants by the townsmen, or by the peasants and farmers in + cultivating the lands, or tending their flocks and herds. The + second tribe inhabit the mountains, or, more properly speaking, + dwell in the caverns of the mountains, being thieves and robbers + by profession, and subsist entirely by plundering the other + Hottentots, with whom they are perpetually at war; yet never rob + or molest the Christians. The other tribes are called the + <i>Great</i> and <i>Little Maqua</i>, and the <i>Great</i> and + <i>Little Kriqua</i><a id="footnotetag89" name= + "footnotetag89"></a><a href="#footnote89"><sup>2</sup></a>, and + the <i>Caffres</i>. The words <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page186" id="page186"></a>[pg 186]</span> <i>Maqua</i> and + <i>Kriqua</i> signify king or chief, and these four tribes are + continually engaged in war against each other; but when any one + nation is in danger of being totally ruined, other tribes + immediately take up its cause; and these rude tribes seem to have + a notion of maintaining a kind of balance of power.</p> + + <p>Such of the Hottentots as have submitted to the Hollanders are + called the Company's Hottentots. The Dutch send every year fifty + or sixty persons to trade among the Hottentots, who purchase + their cattle, giving them in exchange arrack, tobacco, hemp, and + such other things as they have occasion for; by which means a + good understanding is kept up. These Hottentots of the Company + are often attacked by the other tribes, and, when no longer able + to defend themselves, their king or chief comes down to the Cape, + attended by a small escort of his subjects, to demand assistance. + He goes immediately to the governor, having in his hand the staff + of command given him by the Company, decorated with their arms, + and holding it in his hand, demands assistance. If the governor + does not think proper to grant his request, but endeavours to + shift him off with fair words, he throws down his staff saying, + in bad Dutch, <i>Voor my, niet meer Compagnies Hottentot</i>; + that is, "For me, I will no more be the Company's Hottentot." The + governor generally sends him home with an escort of troops, as it + is the interest of the company to be on good terms with these + chiefs, who are always ready to do any service required of + them.</p> + + <p>The Hottentots are a very stupid and brutal people. They rub + their bodies all over with rancid grease, which gives them a very + bad smell, so that you may nose them at a considerable distance. + Their children are all born perfectly white; but being constantly + rubbed with grease, and exposed to the sun, they grow by degrees + quite brown, and almost black. When a woman brings forth twins, + one of them is immediately condemned to death, and is tied to a + tree, where it is left to expire. Some of them have a custom of + extirpating one testicle in their male children, as soon as they + are able to bear the operation, in hope of preventing them + afterwards from begetting twins. They seem to have little or no + religion; yet they frequently look with admiration at the + heavenly bodies, saying, "He who governs these is certainly a + being of infinite power and wisdom." In many respects + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page187" id="page187"></a>[pg + 187]</span> they are more like beasts than men, being abominably + nasty in their persons, and, taking them altogether, they are + certainly one of the meanest nations on the face of the earth. + They are short and thick-set, with flat noses like a Dutch pug + dog, very thick lips, and large mouths, having very white teeth, + but very long and ill set, some of them sticking out of their + mouths like boar's tusks. Their hair is black, and curled like + wool. They are very nimble, and run with incredible speed. They + are generally covered with a sheep's skin, each man having a + quiver full of arrows on his back, and a bow in his hand. + Immediately on coming in sight of an enemy, they set up a + dreadful cry, leaping, dancing, and skipping about, and throwing + themselves into the most frightful postures.</p> + + <p>The seventh nation is named the <i>Caffres</i>, who are + certainly the <i>Anthropophagi</i> who have made so much noise in + the world<a id="footnotetag90" name="footnotetag90"></a><a href= + "#footnote90"><sup>3</sup></a>. The Hottentots are much afraid of + them, and take care to keep out of their way as much as possible, + for fear of being roasted or boiled if taken prisoners. This + abominable nation has never entered into any kind of commerce + with the Christians; but, on the contrary, takes all the pains + they can to entrap and murder them, in order, as is generally + believed, to eat them. It is reported that they have grown + somewhat more tractable of late years, and will enter into some + sort of trade with such as venture among them. They are a potent + and warlike nation, strong and well-made; and though black, and + having curled hair like other negroes, they have better faces, + and a much more manly appearance.</p> + + <p>At the distance of about eighteen leagues from the Cape, there + is another port called Saldanha Bay, which is, in all respects, + an infinitely better harbour than Table Bay, except in wanting + fresh water, which prevents it from being frequented. The animals + of this country are many. The lion is common here, and in hard + winters often comes very near the habitations of the colonists. + He is reputed the king of beasts, because he never eats a man + till he has beaten out his breath with his paws. Before attacking + a man he roars terribly, and shakes his mane; and if he does not + give these signals of rage, there is no danger in passing him. + Tigers <span class="pagenum"><a name="page188" id= + "page188"></a>[pg 188]</span> and leopards are also very common, + and do a vast deal of mischief; and it is probable these animals + would be much more numerous, were it not for a race of wild dogs, + which hunt in packs, and are so bold that they often weary out + and worry a lion. They often destroy tigers, leopards, and + wolves, and it is said that they will allow a man to take their + prey from them when they have killed it. Travellers are never + afraid when they fall in with these wild dogs, but rather + rejoice, because they are sure that no ferocious animal is in the + neighbourhood. There are many elephants in this country, and of + as great size, as any in the world, being often from twelve to + fifteen feet high or better, their teeth weighing from sixty to + an hundred and twenty pounds. The rhinoceros is also often met + with. This animal is rather less than the elephant, but stronger. + His skin is prodigiously thick, and so hard that scarcely any + weapon can pierce it. His snout is like that of a hog, on which + grows a solid horn, ten or twelve inches long, which is much + valued, because esteemed an excellent medicine in + convulsions.</p> + + <p>There are two animals peculiar to this country, which + therefore deserve notice. One is a species of wild ass, which + resembles the common ass in nothing but the length of its ears. + It is as large as an ordinary horse, and is the most beautiful + animal in the world. His hair is very soft, and from the ridge of + the back descends in coloured streaks to the belly, forming so + many circles. It is a brisk and lively creature, which runs more + swiftly than any horse. It is very difficult to take alive, and + when taken cannot be tamed; yet sells at a prodigious price, and + is thought a fit present for a sovereign prince, from its rarity + and exquisite beauty<a id="footnotetag91" name= + "footnotetag91"></a><a href="#footnote91"><sup>4</sup></a>. The + other creature, found in no other country, is called by the Dutch + the <i>Stinkbungsen</i>, or Stinking-Badger. This is of the size + of an ordinary dog, but is shaped like a ferret. When pursued by + man or beast, it retreats but slowly, and when its enemy draws + near, discharges backwards a so intolerably fetid wind, that dogs + tear up the ground and hide their noses in it, to avoid the + smell. When killed, it stinks so abominably that there is no + approaching the carcass, which is therefore left to consume where + it falls.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page189" id= + "page189"></a>[pg 189]</span> + + <p>It is impossible to describe all the creatures that are seen + in the vast forests of Africa, as the inhabitants see new animals + every year that are utterly unknown to them. They allege that, in + the middle of summer, when the wild animals are almost raging mad + with thirst, they resort in vast multitudes to the rivers named + Salt, Elephants, and St John's rivers, where the males and + females of different species intermixing, produce strange beasts + that seem to be new species. The Hottentots in the service of the + Company frequently carry the skins of these monsters to the + governor; and our author assures us that he saw one of the + following description, that had been killed not long before. It + was about the size of a calf of six months old, and seemed to + have had four eyes. The head resembled that of a lion, but the + hair was quite smooth, and of a dark grey colour. It had tusks + like a boar. The fore-feet resembled those of that creature; but + the hind-feet were like those of a tiger.</p> + + <p>The birds of this country are in a manner infinite in numbers + and sorts; and though they have not been observed often to + intermingle species, yet hybrids are sometimes remarked among + them. The largest and strongest birds are to be found in Africa, + among which is the ostrich, the largest of all, being commonly + seven feet high. The beak is short and pointed, but the neck is + very long. The feathers of the male are white and black only, + while those of the female are mixed white, black, and grey. Those + of the former are most esteemed, as their large feathers are + better spread, and their down much softer. This bird is + prodigiously swift of foot, and is hunted down by hounds. Their + wings do not serve them to fly, but assist them in running, + especially when they have the wind with them. The common opinion + of their being able to digest iron is totally false. They swallow + pieces of iron indeed, but then it is only to bruise the food in + their gizzards, just as other birds swallow stones for the same + purpose. They are also said to leave their eggs uncovered on the + sand, and to take no care of their young. But those of the Cape + country hide their eggs in the sand, and are so tender of their + young, that, though naturally timorous, if one of them is + missing, they become quite furious, so that it is not safe to go + near them. There are abundance of eagles of all sorts at the + Cape, which are very bold, and frequently do a great deal of + mischief. They are not very large, yet are incredibly strong, so + that they often kill and devour cattle when <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page190" id="page190"></a>[pg 190]</span> + returning home from work, when they come in great flocks. of + fifty or an hundred at once, single out a beast as it feeds among + the flock, and falling upon it all at once, kill and devour + it.</p> + + <p>Some years before our author was at the Cape, there was seen + on Table Mountain a bird as large in the body as a horse, having + grey and black plumage. His beak and talons were like those of an + eagle, but of a most dreadful size. He sat and hovered about that + mountain for a long time, and the people were persuaded it was a + griffin. It frequently carried off sheep and calves, and at + length began to destroy the cows, on which orders were given to + destroy it, and it was accordingly shot, its skin stuffed, and + sent home as a curiosity to the Company. No such bird, has been + seen since, and the oldest people of the colony do not remember + to have heard of any such before.<a id="footnotetag92" name= + "footnotetag92"></a><a href="#footnote92"><sup>5</sup></a></p> + + <p>Africa has been long famous for serpents, and there are such + vast numbers of them in the neighbourhood of the Cape, that many + of them have no names. Most of them are extremely venomous, and + the colonists would suffer much more than they do from them, were + it not that they have a specific remedy for their bites, not + known in Europe. This remedy is the <i>serpent-stone</i>, allowed + to be factitious, and is brought from India, where they are made + by the bramins who have the secret of composing them, which they + so carefully conceal, that no Europeans have hitherto been able + to discover how they are made. The serpent-stone is about the + size of a bean, white in the middle, but of a fine sky-blue on + the outside. When a person is bitten by a serpent, this stone is + applied to the wound, to which it soon sticks fast of itself, + without the aid of any bandage or plaister. The part bitten + begins immediately to swell and becomes inflamed. The stone also + swells till it becomes full of the venom, and then drops off. It + is then put into warm milk, where it soon purges itself from the + venom, and resumes its natural colour, after which it is again + applied to the wound, where it sticks as before, till a second + time full, and so on till all the venom is extracted and the cure + perfected.</p> + + <p>All the mountains of this vast country are full of minerals + and crystal, with many things of great value, if they could be + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page191" id="page191"></a>[pg + 191]</span> got at; but the natives are so fearful of being made + slaves in the mines, that they take all imaginable pains to + conceal them. There is particularly a mountain, about 500 leagues + from the Cape, called <i>Copper-mountain</i>, which is supposed + to contain great quantities of metals. Large quantities of copper + have been found here, which is said to contain a mixture of gold. + Some Europeans endeavoured to follow the natives, who were + suspected of going to that mountain to gather gold, but were all + massacred. The Company is so tender of the colonists, and so + unwilling to risk a revolt, that they have even neglected a + gold-mine much nearer the Cape, the marcasites of which gave + great hopes of its containing abundance of gold. Perhaps the + Company may have another reason for acting in this manner, lest, + if a gold-mine was discovered at the Cape, it might tempt the + French or English to undertake something to their prejudice. + Under its present management, the Dutch colony at the Cape is a + general advantage to other nations, as well as to the Dutch. A + few years ago a cavern was discovered in a mountain very near + Cape-Town, in which the Hottentots find the venom in which they + dip their poisoned arrows. There have likewise been found about + twenty leagues from the Cape, some hot springs impregnated with + steel, which have been found to cure many diseases, by using as a + bath.</p> + + <p>Considerable improvements may certainly be made on this + colony, for the advantage both of the inhabitants and the + company, which latter make no great gains by this establishment + besides the convenience it affords in giving refreshments to + their ships going to and returning from India. The Company would + be glad of any means that might increase the value of the + settlement, consistent with their maxims of government, and with + that indulgence they find it necessary to shew the Hottentots, + who are perhaps more tenacious of their liberty than any people + on earth, and the most desperate in resenting any attempts to its + prejudice.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page192" id= + "page192"></a>[pg 192]</span> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote88" name="footnote88"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag88">(return)</a> + + <p>This is said to have been on the coast of Africa <i>at the + height of Angola</i>, whither they were driven by a storm. But + this could not possibly have been the case <i>before</i> + reaching the Cape of Good Hope.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote89" name="footnote89"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag89">(return)</a> + + <p>These tribes are known in geography by the names of Namaquas + and Briquas, the latter being also called Booshuanas. The + second tribe in this account are named Bosjemans by the + Dutch.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote90" name="footnote90"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag90">(return)</a> + + <p>A very different account is now given of the Caffres, or + Koussis rather, who are described as a half-civilized race, who + cultivate the ground, and live under regular government.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote91" name="footnote91"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag91">(return)</a> + + <p>This is a very imperfect account of the Zebra, which exactly + resembles the ass, except in colour, and is by no means larger. + One died lately in Edinburgh, after being exhibited as a show, + which was as quiet and gentle as any lady's donkey.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote92" name="footnote92"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag92">(return)</a> + + <p>This was probably a stray Condor, and its size an ordinary + exaggeration, in the passage of the story, like that of <i>the + three black crows</i>.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XVII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Voyage from the Cape of Good Hope to Holland, with some + Account of St Helena, the Island of Ascension, and the + Acores.</i></h4> + + <p>Towards the end of March, 1723, the ship being revictualled, + they sailed from Table-bay with a brisk wind at S.E. the fleet + homewards bound consisting of twenty-three sail, mostly belonging + to the Dutch East India Company. In about three weeks they + reached the island of <i>St Helena</i>, which is in the latitude + of 16° 15' S. [lat. 16° S. long. 5° + 30' W.] This island is about seven leagues in circumference, and + is entirely composed of rocky hills, which may be seen in a clear + day from the distance of forty leagues. It is surprising to see + so small an island in the midst of the ocean, at so great a + distance from any other land, being 550 leagues from the Cape, + 500 leagues from Brazil, and 350 from Augusta, which is the + nearest land<a id="footnotetag93" name= + "footnotetag93"></a><a href="#footnote93"><sup>1</sup></a>; yet + the sea is all around so very deep, that there is hardly an + anchorage to be found. This island was first discovered by the + Portuguese, on which occasion one of their large Indian carracks + was wrecked, from the remains of which they built a chapel, long + since decayed, but which still gives name to the finest valley in + the island. They planted lemons, oranges, and pomegranates all + over the island, and left here hogs and goats, together with + partridges, pigeons, and peacocks, for the convenience of ships + touching here. At one time a hermit chose to live here, killing + the goats for the sake of their skins, which he sold to ships + that stopped here; but the Portuguese removed him, as they did + afterwards some negro slaves who had settled in the mountains. It + is now possessed by the English, who have so good a fort that it + is not likely any other nation should be able to drive them out. + The vallies are exceedingly beautiful and fertile, and in these + the weather is sometimes exceedingly hot; but as it is always + cool on the mountains, the inhabitants can never be in want of a + place of refreshment. It is admirably watered, having many + rivulets running <span class="pagenum"><a name="page193" id= + "page193"></a>[pg 193]</span> from the tops of the hills into the + sea, the water of these being as clear as crystal. The island + produces abundance of mustard, parsley, sorrel, cresses, and + other herbs, excellent against the scurvy. It has also abundance + of trees fit for fuel, but none that can serve as timber. All + sorts of refreshments are to be had in plenty.</p> + + <p>They sailed from hence for the island of <i>Ascension</i>, + which lies in lat 8° N. and long. 14° 20' W. + about 200 leagues N. W. from St Helena. This is much of the same + size, but the shore is excessively rocky, and the whole island + absolutely barren, having neither trees nor grass, and the entire + surface seems as it were rent asunder, whence some have + conceived, and not without great show of reason, that it had been + formerly a volcano, or burning mountain. In the middle of the + island there is a high hill, on one side of which water has been + found. At one season of the year, the whole surface of the island + is covered with sea-fowl. What chiefly induces ships to put into + the only harbour of the island, is the great plenty of excellent + turtle to be found here. When these animals come on shore in the + night to lay their eggs, the sailors turn them over on their + backs till they have leisure to carry them on board. These + creatures will live above a month without any kind of sustenance, + having only a little salt water sprinkled over them three or four + times a-day. The sailors never weary of eating them, believing + that they make a perfect change of their juices, freeing them + entirely from the scurvy and other diseases of the blood.</p> + + <p>As this island is a very miserable place to live in, it is + common to leave malefactors here when they do not incline to put + them to death. This was done not long before our author passed + this way, to a Dutch book-keeper, who was convicted of sodomy; + though perhaps this may be considered as a worse punishment even + than death, considering the miseries that must be endured in the + hottest climate of the world, on a place that does not afford + even the slightest shelter. After leaving this island, they began + to approach the line, which they crossed without feeling any + excessive heat, as the sun was then towards the north, and they + had the benefit of pretty fresh gales, which moderated the heat + extremely. They now also began to see the north-star at night, + which they had not done for a year and a half and it is + impossible to express how much the seamen were rejoiced at this + circumstance.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page194" id= + "page194"></a>[pg 194]</span> + + <p>Coming into the latitude of 18° N. we found that part + of the sea which is generally so covered with grass that it looks + at a distance like a meadow. This grass has a yellowish cast, + being hollow within, and on being pressed it yields a clammy + viscous juice. In some years none of this grass appears, while in + other years it is found in prodigious quantities. Some imagine + that it comes from the bottom of the sea, as divers report that + the bottom is in many places covered with grass and flowers. + Others conceive that it comes from the coast of Africa: But our + author disapproves both of these opinions, because, if it came + from the bottom, there is no reason why the same appearance + should not be found elsewhere; whereas, if it came from the coast + of Africa, it ought to be found in other situations, especially + near that coast. His opinion, therefore, is, that it comes from + the coast of America, and particularly from the Gulf of Bahama, + or Mexico, where it is known to grow in great abundance, and + where, when it comes to maturity, it breaks off; and is carried + away by the currents.<a id="footnotetag94" name= + "footnotetag94"></a><a href="#footnote94"><sup>2</sup></a></p> + + <p>Nothing is more difficult than to account for the motion and + course of currents in the ocean, which, in some places, run for + six months in one direction, and six in another, while in other + places they run always one way. There are instances also where + they run one way for a day or two after full moon, and then run + strongly in the opposite direction till next full moon. Seamen + also observe, that in places where the trade-winds blow, the + currents are generally influenced by them, moving the same way + with the winds, but not with equal force in all places; neither + are they so discernible in the wide ocean, but chiefly about + islands, where their effects are more or less felt according as + they are influenced by being more or less in the way of the + trade-winds. It would be of great service to navigation if + sensible men would take notice of these currents, and enquire + into the reason of their appearances. In old books of voyages we + find many more wonders than in those of later date, not because + the course of nature is at all changed, but because nature was + not then so well understood. A thousand things were prodigious a + century ago, which are not now at all strange. Thus the storms + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page195" id="page195"></a>[pg + 195]</span> at the Cape of Good Hope, which make so great a + figure in the histories of the Portuguese discoveries, are now + known to have been merely the effect of endeavouring to double + that Cape at a wrong season of the year.</p> + + <p>In the East and West Indies, the natives are able to foretell + hurricanes and tornadoes, not from any superior skill, but by + observing certain signs which usually precede them. There is + often so little apparent connection between the sign and the + event, that men who value themselves on their wisdom are apt to + slight such warnings as impertinent and absurd. But they had + better enquire diligently into facts, and neither receive nor + reject them too hastily. In the present case, it is a clear + matter of fact that the sea, in the latitude of 18° N. + between Africa and America, is frequently covered with weeds to a + great extent, and there is good reason for enquiry as to whence + these weeds come. In the first voyage made by the famous Columbus + for the discovery of the new world, he met with this grass or + sea-weed floating on the sea, without which he could not have + prevailed on his sailors to continue the voyage; and it is very + remarkable, that, by pursuing his course through these weeds, he + arrived in the Gulf of Bahama, the place whence our present + author supposes this sea-grass to come.<a id="footnotetag95" + name="footnotetag95"></a><a href= + "#footnote95"><sup>3</sup></a></p> + + <p>Continuing their course to the north, they encountered hard + gales of wind, by which they were driven into lat. 37° + N. where they fell in with two islands, which proved to be + <i>Flores</i> and <i>Corres</i>;<a id="footnotetag96" name= + "footnotetag96"></a><a href="#footnote96"><sup>4</sup></a> and as + their fresh provisions were now nearly spent, they stopped three + days at the larger island to procure refreshments. There are two + of the islands named <i>A&#231;ores</i> by the Spaniards, + which signifies the <i>islands of hawks</i>. The Dutch call them + <i>Vlanneische eslanders</i>, or <i>Flemish islands</i>, because + Fayal was first peopled by Flemings, and their descendants remain + in the island to this day, and are easily distinguished from the + other inhabitants by their shape and air. They dwell upon a + little river running down a mountain, called <i>Ribera dos + Flamenas</i> by the Portuguese, or river of the Flemings.</p> + + <p>The nine islands of the A&#231;ores, or Wester Islands, + are Tercera, San Michael, Santa Maria, St George, Gratiosa, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page196" id="page196"></a>[pg + 196]</span> Pico, Fayal, Corvo, and Flores. Tercera is the chief + island, being fifteen or sixteen leagues in circumference, and so + high and steep in many places that it is almost impregnable, and + they have built forts in such places as are accessible. The only + port is before the capital, named <i>Angra</i>, and as it is in + the form of a half-moon, it is called the <i>Half-Moon of + Angra</i>. At each horn of this half-moon there is a mountain, + which are called the Brazils, which project out into the sea, + appearing from a distance as if two islands; and these mountains + are so high that one may see at any time ten or twelve leagues + off, and fifteen in clear weather. Angra has a fine cathedral, + and is the residence of a bishop, and of a governor and council, + whose authority extends over all the nine islands. There is + another town three leagues from Angra, called Praya, or the town + of the shore, situated on a shore which cannot be approached by + ships, so that it has no trade, and the town seems a kind of + desert, though well built and walled round.</p> + + <p>The inhabitants raise sufficient provisions on the island for + all their wants, being pleasant and fertile, and all covered with + corn-fields; and so abounds with flesh, fish, and all sorts of + victuals, that even in times of the greatest scarcity, there is + enough for all the inhabitants. It produces wine also, but very + small, and does not keep well, wherefore the richer people + provide themselves from Madeira and the Canaries. They want oil, + salt, lime, and potters ware, which they have to import from + other countries. They have abundance of peaches, apples, pears, + oranges, and lemons, with all sorts of vegetables and garden + stuffs, and among these a plant called <i>batatas</i>, which + grows like a vine stock, but the leaves are different. These + produce roots, weighing a pound more or less, and are so + plentiful that they are despised by the rich, though of a sweet + pleasant taste and very nourishing. There is another root in this + country as large as a man's two fists, covered over with + filaments of a golden yellow colour, and as smooth as silk. The + inhabitants stuff beds with this, instead of feathers, but + skilful workmen could certainly manufacture it into fine + stuffs.</p> + + <p>There are but few birds, except canaries, quails, ordinary + poultry, and turkies, which are numerous. Several parts of this + island are very hilly, and full of thick and almost impervious + woods; and travelling is rendered very difficult, as you often + find rocks a league in length, so rugged and sharp that + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page197" id="page197"></a>[pg + 197]</span> they cut the shoes at every step; yet these rocks are + so full of vines that they are not to be seen in summer, being + covered over by the vine leaves. These vines spread their roots + among the crannies and crevices of the rocks, which are so small + and devoid of soil, that it is wonderful how they should find any + nourishment; yet if planted in the good soil of the country, the + vines will not grow. The corn and fruits of this island will not + keep above a year; and unless the corn is buried under ground, it + spoils in four months. On this account, every inhabitant has a + pit without the town, the mouth of which is round, just large + enough to admit a man, which is covered by a flat stone and + secured by a lock. Some of these pits are so large as to contain + two or three lasts of corn, the last containing 108 bushels + Amsterdam measure, and each bushel weighing forty pounds or more. + They put their corn into these pits in July, and cover the stone + with earth to exclude the air, and take it out at Christmas, or + considerably later, finding it then as good as when put in. The + oxen in Tercera are the largest and finest that can be, equal to + any in Europe, and have prodigiously wide horns. Every one has + his name, like our dogs, and they are so familiar, that when the + master calls one of them by his name, though among a thousand + others, he will presently come to him.</p> + + <p>One would think the ground of this island were hollow, as the + rocks sound like vaults when walked on; and indeed the thing is + not at all improbable, as the island is much subject to + earthquakes. In many places of the island of San Michael there + are holes and cracks, out of which there comes a great smoke, and + the ground seems as if burnt all around. This is not uncommon + also in all the islands, as they all have sulphur mountains. + There are also fountains of water so hot as to boil eggs. Three + leagues from Angra there is a petrifying spring, which changes + wood into stone; and there was formerly a tree having some of its + roots in that water, which were stony and as hard as flint. This + island produces excellent timber, especially cedar, which is so + common that their carts and waggons are made of it, and it is + even used as fuel. The island of <i>Pico</i>, twelve leagues from + Tercera, has a sort of wood called <i>teixo</i>, as hard as iron, + and of a shining red colour when wrought. It becomes always + better and finer as it grows older; for which reason no person is + allowed to cut any of these trees, unless for the king's use, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page198" id="page198"></a>[pg + 198]</span> and by virtue of a special order from the royal + officers. The chief trade of Tercera consists in <i>woad</i>, of + which they have great quantities. The fleets of Spain and + Portugal, bound for the East Indies, Brazil, Cape Verd, Guinea, + and other countries, usually come here for refreshments, to the + great profit of this and the other islands, the inhabitants + selling to them their various articles at good prices.</p> + + <p>The island of <i>San Michael</i> is seven or eight leagues + S.E. of Tercera, and is about twenty leagues in length, having + several towns and villages. The capital of this island is + <i>Ponta del Guda</i>, which drives a considerable trade in + <i>woad</i>, sent to Tercera, producing about 200,000 + quintals<a id="footnotetag97" name="footnotetag97"></a><a href= + "#footnote97"><sup>5</sup></a> every year. This island also + produces such abundance of corn, that it is transported to the + other islands; but it has no harbours or rivers to give shelter + to ships.</p> + + <p><i>Santa Maria</i>, twelve leagues S. of San Michael, is ten + or twelve leagues in circumference, its only trade being in + earthen ware, with which the inhabitants supply the other + islands. It also produces plenty of all manner of provisions for + its own inhabitants. The island of <i>Gratiosa</i>, seven or + eight leagues N.N.W. of Tercera, is only about five or six + leagues in circumference, but abounds in provisions of all sorts. + <i>St George</i>, eight or nine leagues N.W. of Tercera, is + twelve leagues in length by two or three in breadth. This is a + wild mountainous country, producing very little woad. The + inhabitants subsist by cultivating the ground and keeping cattle, + and export considerable quantities of cedar to Tercera. + <i>Fayal</i>, seven German leagues S.S.W. of St George, is + seventeen or eighteen leagues in circumference, and is the best + of the A&#231;ores, after Tercera and San Michael. This + island has plenty of woad, with abundance of fish, cattle, and + other commodities, which are exported to Tercera and the other + islands. Its chief town is called <i>Villa Dorta</i>. Most of the + inhabitants of this island are descended from Flemings, but now + speak the Portuguese language; yet they continue to love the + Flemings, and use all strangers kindly.</p> + + <p>Three leagues S.E. of Fayal is the island of <i>Pico</i>, so + called from a peaked mountain, which some believe to be higher + than the Peak of Teneriffe. The inhabitants cultivate the soil, + and have plenty of cattle and other provisions, growing + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page199" id="page199"></a>[pg + 199]</span> also better wine than in any other island of the + A&#231;ores. This island is about fifteen leagues in + circumference. Seventy leagues W.N.W. from Tercera is the island + of <i>Flores</i>, and to the N. of it lies <i>Corvo</i>, the + former about seven, and the latter not above two or three leagues + in circumference. They both produce woad, especially Flores, + which also abounds in provisions. The winds at all these islands + are so strong, and the air so piercing, especially at Tercera, + that they in a short time spoil and consume the stones of the + houses, and even iron.<a id="footnotetag98" name= + "footnotetag98"></a><a href="#footnote98"><sup>6</sup></a> They + have a kind of stone, however, that is found within high-water + mark, which resists the air better than the other sorts, and of + which the fronts of their houses are generally built.</p> + + <p>Leaving the A&#231;ores, and getting into Spanish sea, or + mouth of the bay of Biscay, the weather proved so bad that the + <i>Advice-ship</i> lost her rudder, which obliged her to go + through the Channel in order to purchase a new one on the coast + of England. The French, Danish, and other ships, generally go + that way; but the Dutch ships generally go round Ireland and + north about, from an idea, if they should happen to meet with + stormy weather in the channel, so as to be obliged to go into an + English port, that this might occasion several inconveniences. + Such ships, however, as have sustained any damage at sea, are + permitted to take their way through the channel. The rest of the + Dutch fleet followed the north-about course; and after three + weeks, during which they were involved in perpetual mists and + fogs, they had sight at length of the Orkney islands, where some + Dutch ships were still engaged in the herring fishery. In the + latitude of 60° N. they met some ships of war that + waited for them, and convoyed them to the coast of Holland, where + all the ships got into their destined ports in safety. Those on + board of which were our author, and the other prisoners, came + into the Texel on the 11th of July, 1723; and arrived five days + afterwards at Amsterdam, the very same day two years after + sailing on their voyage.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page200" id="page200"></a>[pg 200]</span> + + <p>The West-Company immediately commenced a law-suit against the + East-India Company, in behalf of themselves and all the persons + engaged in their service in the foregoing voyage, to obtain + satisfaction for the injury and injustice done them at Batavia. + After a long litigation, the States-General decreed, that the + East-India Company should furnish the West-India Company with two + new ships, completely fitted for sea in every respect, better + than those which had been confiscated by their officers in India, + and should pay the full value of their cargoes. Also, that the + East-India Company should pay the wages of the crews of both + ships, up to the day of their landing in Holland: Together with + the entire costs of suit; besides a considerable sum by way of + fine, as a punishment for having abused their authority so + egregiously.<a id="footnotetag99" name= + "footnotetag99"></a><a href="#footnote99"><sup>7</sup></a></p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote93" name="footnote93"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag93">(return)</a> + + <p>Caleo Negro, in lat. 16° 20' S. on the coast of + Africa, is the nearest part of the continent, and is probably + what is referred to in the text under the name of + Augusta.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote94" name="footnote94"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag94">(return)</a> + + <p>In the old Portuguese maps and voyages, this part of the + Atlantic is called <i>Mar de Sargasso</i>, or the <i>Sea of + Cresses</i>; Sargasso signifying water-cresses, which these + weeds which spread over the sea nearly resemble.Harris.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote95" name="footnote95"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag95">(return)</a> + + <p>In his first voyage, Columbus kept the parallel of about + 37° N. but was considerably farther south in his + subsequent voyage.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote96" name="footnote96"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag96">(return)</a> + + <p>Flores is in lat. 39° 10', Corvo in 39° + 35', both N.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote97" name="footnote97"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag97">(return)</a> + + <p>This is perhaps an error for 2000, as the larger quantity + would amount to 10,000 tons.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote98" name="footnote98"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag98">(return)</a> + + <p>This effect on the iron is obviously occasioned by the + muriatic acid in the sea spray; and were it not that the author + expressly says they have no lime, one would be apt to believe + that the stones so affected were limestone. There are, however, + some cilicious sand-stones, in which the grit, or particles of + sand, are cemented together by a calcareous infiltration, which + may be the case in these islands.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote99" name="footnote99"></a><b>Footnote 7:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag99">(return)</a> + + <p>Harris has given a report of this law-suit at some length, + but it did not seem necessary to give any more than the result, + as quite uninteresting at the present day.E.</p> + </blockquote><span class="pagenum"><a name="page201" id= + "page201"></a>[pg 201]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XIV.</h2> + + <h2>VOYAGE ROUND THE WORLD, BY CAPTAIN GEORGE ANSON, IN</h2> + + <h2>THE YEARS 1740-1744.<a id="footnotetag100" name= + "footnotetag100"></a><a href="#footnote100"><sup>1</sup></a></h2> + + <h3>PREFACE.</h3> + + <p>Though of considerable length, the importance of this + narrative forbids all attempts to alter it in any respect; except + that it has been necessary to leave out the explanations of + several engraved views of coasts and harbours, inserted in the + original, but which were greatly too large for admission, and + would have been rendered totally useless by being reduced to any + convenient use for the octavo form of this collection. Indeed, to + have introduced all the engravings of plans and views, necessary + for the illustration of this and many other voyages and travels, + would have been utterly incompatible with the nature and + circumstances of this work; as nothing less than a complete Atlas + and entire Neptune of the whole globe could have sufficed, + attended by an enormous expence, and at the same time + inadmissible into octavo volumes. It has therefore been + indispensably requisite, on all occasions, to confine our + illustrations of that kind to a few reduced charts, merely + sufficient to convey general notions of geographical + circumstances, and occasionally sketch plans of harbours, + straits, islands, and capes, explanatory of particular and + important places. Such of our readers, therefore, as require more + complete illustrations of geography, topography, and hydrography, + must have recourse to Atlasses, Neptunes, and coasting + pilots.</p> + + <p>This narrative was originally published under the name of + Richard Walter, chaplain to H.M.S. Centurion in the expedition, + dedicated by him to John Duke of Bedford, and said to have been + compiled by that gentleman from papers and materials furnished + for the purpose by Commodore Anson.</p> + + <p>As the object of this expedition was of an extensive political + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page202" id="page202"></a>[pg + 202]</span> nature, intended to humble the power of Spain, in her + most valuable yet most vulnerable possessions, by injuring and + intercepting the great source of her public treasure, it has been + thought proper, on the present occasion, to give a transcript of + the reflections made upon the policy and expedience of this + important voyage, very soon after its completion, by Dr John + Harris, by way of <i>Introduction</i> to his abridged account of + this circumnavigation, in his Collection of Voyages and Travels, + vol. i. p. 337.</p> + <hr /> + + <p>"It is a thing that has been generally taken for granted, ever + since Spain has been possessed of her American dominions, and has + made use of the riches derived from these to disturb the peace + and invade the liberties of her neighbours, that the best way to + reduce her strength, and to prevent the bad effects of her evil + intentions, would be to attack her in the South Seas. This was + pursued with great diligence, and in some measure with success, + in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, [as has been already shewn in + the circumnavigatory voyages of Drake and Candish, almost solely + devoted to that object.] In that of her successor, when a new + quarrel broke out with that crown, in the year 1624, the first + thing thought of by our patriots, who were equally willing to + humble the king's enemies and to save the money of the nation, + was an expedition to the South Seas, to be carried on at the + expence of, and for the benefit of the people; which scheme was + entitled <i>The West-India Association</i>.</p> + + <p>"It may be thought I look a great way back when I offer to the + view of the reader the reasons which were then suggested in + parliament in support of that scheme. But whoever considers that + it is not only the most effectual, but the safest method, to + instruct the present age from the sentiments of the last, will + readily enter into the reasons which induce me, upon this + occasion, to produce the speech of an eminent patriot, in which + the nature and scope of that <i>Association</i>, as well as the + motives on which it is grounded, are very fully and pathetically + set forth; and this in such terms, as, if the reader were not + told that this was a speech to Sir Dudley Diggs, then chairman of + a committee of the whole house, by Sir Benjamin Rudyard, he might + mistake it for a speech made only a few years since, so agreeable + is it, in language and sentiments, even to our present + occasions.</p> + + <p>"Sir,I do profess that as my affections, my reason, and + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page203" id="page203"></a>[pg + 203]</span> my judgement go strongly with the scope and drift of + this proposition, so shall good part of my fortune when it comes + to execution. For, to my understanding, there was never + propounded in parliament a design more proper for this kingdom, + nor more pregnant with advantages to it, whether we consider the + nature of our situation or the quality of our enemy's forces. As + we are an island, it concerns our very being to have store of + ships to defend us, and also our well-being by their trade to + enrich us. This Association for the West Indies, when it shall be + regulated and established by act of parliament, and thereby + secured from the violence and injury of any intruding hand, will + certainly give many men encouragement and confidence voluntarily + to bring in large and liberal contributions towards so noble and + so profitable an enterprize; so that, in short, we shall see many + new ships built, many brave men employed, and enabled to act for + the service of their country. None of this money shall be carried + out of the kingdom, but laid out in shipping, which is the + defence of it, and bestowed upon our own men, who must be fed and + maintained though they stay at home. For this, we shall reap the + fruit of whatsoever benefit plantation, traffic, or purchase can + procure us, besides honour and security.</p> + + <p>"Now, let us a little consider the enemy we have to encounter, + the king of Spain. They are not his great territories which make + him so powerful and so troublesome to all Christendom. For it is + very well known that Spain itself is but weak in men, and barren + of natural commodities, and as for his other territories, they + lie divided and asunder, which is a weakness in itself. Besides, + they are held by force, and maintained at an extraordinary + charge; insomuch, as although he be a great king, yet he is like + that giant who was said to have an hundred hands, but had fifty + bellies to feed, so that, rateably, he had no more hands than + another man. No, sir, they are his mines in the West Indies which + minister fuel to feed his ambitious desire of universal monarchy. + It is the money he hath from thence which makes him able to levy + and pay soldiers in all places, and to keep an army on foot ready + to invade and endanger his neighbours, so that we have no other + way but to endeavour to cut him off at the root, and seek to + impeach or to supplant him in the West Indies; by part of which + course that famous queen, of glorious memory, had heretofore + almost brought him to his knees. And this our undertaking, if it + pleases God to bless <span class="pagenum"><a name="page204" id= + "page204"></a>[pg 204]</span> it, most needs affect it sooner and + quicker, the whole body of the kingdom being united, and + concurring in a perpetual supply to this action, so that he shall + have no free time given him to rest.</p> + + <p>"Moreover, this will be a means not only to save, but to fill + his majesty's coffers, enabling the people to give him liberally + and often. The king's ships will have little to do but to guard + the coasts; for the sea-war will be chiefly made at the charge of + the subjects. This I doubt not but that, in a short time, both + king and people shall be safe at home, and feared abroad. To + conclude, I shall be very glad to hear any man make objection + against this design, so that he do so with an intention to refine + and perfect the work; but if any shall speak against it with a + mind to hinder and destroy it, I must entreat him to pardon me, + if I do scarce think him to be a good Englishman.</p> + + <p>"That project of the West India Association had the same fate + with most other bold and honest projects in that reign, which + was, after being talked of a little, it sunk into oblivion. Our + next difference with Spain was under the protectorate of + Cromwell, who encouraged Father Gage to publish his account of + the Spanish West Indies, which formed the foundation of his + attempt upon Hispaniola, and conquest of Jamaica; but I do not + know of any design formed by him to attack the Spaniards in the + South Seas. After the Restoration we were upon good terms with + Spain, as certainly was our interest. Yet Charles II. did not + absolutely neglect this navigation, but sent Sir John Marborough, + one of the best seamen this nation ever bred, in the Sweepstakes, + in the latter end of the year 1669, by way of the Straits of + Magellan, into the South Seas. To say the truth, our privateers, + under the command of Captains Sharpe, Davis, Swan, &c. were + continually in these seas, during all that reign and the next; so + that, in those days, our seamen were no strangers to any of the + passages into the South Seas; and, as the reader may have already + observed, from the voyage of Captain Cowley, it was then no + unusual thing for the traders of London to fit out ships for + these parts, but whether with a view to traffic or privateering, + is a point not easy to determine at this distance of time. But + whatever the purpose they were sent upon, thither they went, and + no complaints were ever heard of with respect to extraordinary + hardships in the voyage, which is sufficient to shew how much + depends upon keeping all branches of navigation open, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page205" id="page205"></a>[pg + 205]</span> in order to be constantly in a condition to secure + and extend our trade, and to preserve our reputation as a + maritime power.</p> + + <p>"After the Revolution, several proposals were made in relation + to the establishment of a commerce in the South Sea, which were + received with approbation; and it is certain that king William + gave instructions to Admiral Benbow, when he went out last to the + West Indies, to enquire how far any of these projects were + feasible. After the breaking out of the last general war, all the + world expected that the first thing the maritime powers would + have done, would have been sending a squadron to these seas, + either for the service of the prince whom they owned as king of + Spain, or for their own advantage. The people of this nation, in + particular, were so desirous of seeing the war carried on this + way, and on this side, that, to give them hopes, and to shew, at + the same time, that the legislature approved their sentiments, a + bill was brought in and passed, in the House of Lords, for the + better carrying on the war in the West Indies, which was lost, + however, by a kind of ministerial craft, in the House of Commons; + and soon after, for reasons which have never yet been explained + to the public, all designs of this nature were laid aside. The + only expedition of this nature, during the whole war, was that of + the Duke and Duchess, under the command of Captain Woods Rogers, + already related, which was fitted out at the expence of some + private merchants of Bristol. On the change of ministry, a + prodigious clamour was raised on this head, and all of a sudden a + resolution was taken to secure all the advantages that could be + wished for to this nation from the trade of the South Seas, which + ended, however, only in erecting a company under that title. The + nation very soon became sensible that this would not do, and + therefore, as soon as our disputes with the king of Spain came to + a height, in the reign of the late king, George I. a design was + immediately set on foot for sending privateers once more into + that part of the world, which ended in the expedition of Captain + Shelvocke and Captain Clipperton, already related at large.</p> + + <p>"By this short deduction of facts, I think it is demonstrably + proved, that, in the judgement of this nation, the most probable + way of humbling Spain, in case of a war, is to send a squadron + into the South Seas, and I will venture to say, that there is one + reason why this is now become more <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page206" id="page206"></a>[pg 206]</span> expedient than ever, + which is, that we are now no longer at liberty to send ships + thither in time of peace, as we were before the South Sea Company + was erected. It is not therefore at all strange, that as soon as + the present war broke out with Spain, the general voice of the + nation dictated such an expedition, or that, when they saw it + resolved on, and a squadron actually equipped for that service, + they very loudly testified their approbation of the scheme. I + believe also, my readers will readily give credit to the + assertion, when I affirm, that, during the time this squadron lay + at Portsmouth, there was a more general expectation of its + performing things of the highest consequence for the service of + Great Britain, and reducing the enemy to reason.</p> + + <p>"It was in the midst of summer, in the year 1740, that this + squadron was formed at Portsmouth, at the same time that a great + embarkation was preparing for the West Indies, by which the siege + of Carthagena was afterwards undertaken, which turned the eyes of + the whole world upon that sea-port. At London, every person spoke + of the intended expedition to the South Seas as a design that + must necessarily be attended with highly advantageous + consequences, if properly conducted; and of this there was not + made the least doubt, when it was known that Captain Anson was + named to the command, because he had shewn himself upon all + occasions equally vigilant in his duty, and moderate in the + exercise of power, more ready to correct by his own example than + by any other sort of reproof, and who, in the course of his + services, had acquired the respect of the officers, and the love + of the sailors; qualities that rarely meet in one person, and + qualities which, without the least contradiction, were ascribed + to him.<a id="footnotetag101" name="footnotetag101"></a><a href= + "#footnote101"><sup>2</sup></a></p> + + <p>"Though this expedition was not attended by so great success + in the South Seas as was expected, yet the nation in general was + far from believing that its comparative failure ought to deter us + from the thoughts of such expeditions for the future, since it + plainly appeared, that, if the whole squadron had got round along + with the commodore into the South <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page207" id="page207"></a>[pg 207]</span> Seas, he would have + been able to have performed much greater things than any of our + commanders had hitherto done in these parts. Neither is it at all + clear that the Spaniards are there in a better condition, their + coasts better fortified, their garrisons more numerous, or the + country in any respect better provided, than when our privateers + had formerly so great success in those parts. The sacking of + Payta in this expedition proves the contrary, since it was then + actually in a worse condition, and less capable of making any + resistance, than when formerly taken by Captain Shelvocke. If + this expedition had never taken place, we might have been told + that it was impracticable, that the Spaniards were grown wiser, + that all their ports were well fortified, and any attempt of this + kind would be only to sacrifice the lives of such as might be + employed in the expedition. But we now know the contrary, and + that the Spaniards remained as unguarded, and as little + apprehensive as ever; perhaps even the fate of this expedition + may have made them less so, insomuch, that were a new project of + the same kind to be put in execution, either at public or private + expence, there seems next to a moral certainty that it would + succeed. Another expedition might, and probably would be attended + by fewer difficulties; at least, it certainly might be undertaken + at much less expence; and, besides all the advantages resulting + to such private persons as became proprietors, this inestimable + advantage would accrue to the public, that we should once more + have a number of able marines, well acquainted with the + navigation of the South Seas, which we never can have by any + other means.</p> + + <p>"I would not be understood at all to lessen the miseries and + distresses of these who were employed in this voyage; and all I + would endeavour to aim at is to convince the reader that the + difficulties and discouragements met with in this voyage are not + sufficient to ground a decisive opinion by the few in opposition + to the sentiments of the many, that all attempts on this side + ought to be abandoned. And I really think that the setting the + difficulties and discouragements encountered by the Centurion in + the strongest light, will serve my purpose much better than + lessening or extenuating them. For, if after being ruined in a + manner by storms, diseases, and hardships, they landed rather + skeletons than men, on the island of Juan Fernandez; if, after + their long cruize in the South Seas, their distresses came to be + as great when they took shelter in the island of Tinian; if the + lying <span class="pagenum"><a name="page208" id= + "page208"></a>[pg 208]</span> at Macao was attended with many + inconveniences; if the taking of the Spanish galleon be a thing + almost incredible, considering the small number of men, and the + condition they were in, who attacked her in the Centurion; if the + difficulties they afterwards met with in the river of Canton, and + the hazards run by the commodore in visiting the viceroy, and + thereby putting himself into the hands of such a people as the + Chinese, who could not but be displeased with his proceedings, + are circumstances which aggravate the matter: If so perilous a + navigation as that from Canton, through the Straits of Sunda, and + thence to the Cape of Good Hope, with little or no refreshment, + with a crew that wanted it so much, is still more amazing; and if + the bringing the ship home from thence, with a crew composed of + so many different nations, in the midst of a French war, and + without the least assistance from home, swell the whole into a + kind of miracle, what does all this prove? Since all this, under + God, was entirely owing to the prudence, moderation, and wise + conduct of the commanding officer, it certainly proves, if a + right choice be made of commanders, that there are no + difficulties which may not be overcome, and therefore that the + adverse circumstances attending this voyage ought not at all to + discourage us.</p> + + <p>"For, with the help of the example afforded by Commodore + Anson, I presume that there are many officers who would undertake + and execute such an expedition, to the honour of their country, + and to the advantage of their employers, supposing them to be + employed by private persons. This is the right use that might be + made of this expedition: an expedition difficult, dangerous, and + in a manner impracticable, considered in one light, but equally + glorious and successful when considered in another point of view; + An expedition that has demonstrated to the whole world that a + train of unforeseen and most disastrous accidents may be + remedied, and even turned to advantage, by an honest, skilful, + brave, experienced, and well-meaning officer; An expedition which + shews that there are no hazards, no difficulties, no distresses + capable of depressing the courage of English seamen under a + proper commander; an expedition which makes it evident that + discontent, sedition, and mutiny, do not arise from the restless + tempers, intractable dispositions, and unruly behaviour of the + English sailors, but purely from the want of prudence, and right + management, and, in short, from the want of experience and + capacity of such as are entrusted with <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page209" id="page209"></a>[pg 209]</span> the + command of them; an expedition, in a word, that puts it beyond + all doubt that the British nation is, at this day, as capable of + undertaking as great things, and of performing them as + successfully, as ever were done by their ancestors; and, + consequently, an expedition that must convince not only us, but + all Europe, that if our maritime force be not employed in + undertakings of the most important nature, it is not owing to the + degeneracy or our seamen, nor to be imputed to our want of able + or daring commanders, which is not my business, and which indeed + surpasses my abilities, to discover.</p> + + <p>"We are now to close this general subject of + circumnavigations, which relates to the whole world. It is true, + that all the circumnavigators did not propose, and that several + of them did not make, any discoveries; yet all their voyages are + of great, though not of equal importance, down to this last. For, + by comparing that by Magellan, which was the first, with this by + Mr Anson, we shall find them to differ in many respects, + especially in the conclusion; that by Mr Anson being by far the + longer of the two. Some of them, also, took quite a different + route from others. As, for instance, Le Maire and Roggewein, who + never ran at all into the northern latitudes, but sailed directly + through the South Seas to the coast of New Guinea, and thence to + the island of Java; which is a much shorter course than by way of + California to the Philippines. From hence it very clearly + appears, that the passage to the East Indies by the South Seas is + shorter than that by the Cape of Good Hope;<a id="footnotetag102" + name="footnotetag102"></a><a href="#footnote102"><sup>3</sup></a> + of which the reader will be convinced by considering the + following particulars. Captain Woods Rogers, in the Duke, sailed + From the coast of Ireland and doubled Cape Horn in four months; + and Le Maire sailed from Juan Fernandez to New Guinea and the + Moluccas in three months; so that this voyage takes up but seven + months in the whole; whereas the Dutch, when the chief emporium + of their eastern commerce <span class="pagenum"><a name="page210" + id="page210"></a>[pg 210]</span> was fixed at Amboina, thought it + a good passage thither from Holland, if performed in ten or + eleven months.<a id="footnotetag103" name= + "footnotetag103"></a><a href="#footnote103"><sup>4</sup></a> It + is from these stupendous voyages, that not only the greatest + discoveries have been made in general geography, but from which + all future discoveries must be expected; and therefore this ought + to be considered as one of the strongest arguments for + encouraging such voyages.<a id="footnotetag104" name= + "footnotetag104"></a><a href= + "#footnote104"><sup>5</sup></a><i>Harris.</i></p> + <hr /> + + <p>George Anson, the commodore on this expedition, was born in + 1697, being the third son of William Anson, Esq. of Shuckborough, + in the county of Stafford. Taking an early inclination for the + naval service, and after passing through the usual inferior + steps, he was appointed second lieutenant of the Hampshire in + 1716. He was raised to the rank of master and commander in 1722, + and obtained the rank of post captain in 1724, with the command + of the Scarborough man-of-war. Between that time and the year + 1733, he made three voyages to North Carolina; and having + acquired considerable wealth, he appears to have purchased an + estate in that colony, where he erected a small town of his own + name, which gave the name of Anson County to the surrounding + district. In the years 1738 and 1739, he made another voyage to + America and the coast of Africa; and, without proceeding to + hostilities, removed certain obstructions under which the English + trade on the coast of Guinea had suffered from the French.</p> + + <p>In the <i>War of the Merchants</i>, as it was called by Sir + Robert Walpole, which broke out in 1739 between Britain and + Spain, Captain Anson was appointed to the command of the + expedition, the narrative of which forms the subject of the + present chapter. Immediately after his return to England from + this circumnavigation, Captain Anson was made rear-admiral of the + blue, and shortly afterwards, one of the commissaries of the + Admiralty. In 1746 he was farther promoted to the rank of + Vice-admiral; and in the winter of 1746-7, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page211" id="page211"></a>[pg 211]</span> was + entrusted with the command of the channel fleet. In May 1747, off + Cape Finisterre, he captured six French ships of the line under + the command of Admiral Jonquiere, which had been dispatched for + the protection of the merchant ships destined for the East and + West Indies. On this occasion, when Mons. St George, one of the + French captains, surrendered his sword to Admiral Anson, he + addressed him in the following terms: <i>Vous avez vaincu + L'Invincible, et La Gloire vous suit.</i>"You have defeated the + Invincible, and Glory follows you:" alluding to two of the French + ships, the Invincible and the Gloire, which had surrendered to + him.</p> + + <p>For this important service to his king and country, he was + created a peer of the realm, by the title of LORD ANSON; and, in + 1749, on the death of Admiral Norris, he was appointed + Vice-admiral of England. In 1751, he succeeded to Lord Sandwich, + as first Lord Commissioner of the Admiralty; but, incurring + censure for the loss of Minorca, he resigned this situation in + 1756. But, having been acquitted of all blame relative to that + disgraceful affair, after a parliamentary enquiry, he was + reinstated in that high office, which he continued to fill, with + honour to himself and advantage to his country, during the + remainder of his life. While attending upon the Duke of + Mecklenburgh Strelitz, brother to our present queen, to shew him + the naval arsenal at Portsmouth, and the fleet which was then + about to sail on the expedition against the Havannah, he caught a + violent cold, of which he died, at Moor-Park in Hertfordshire, on + the 6th of June 1762, in the sixty-fifth year of his age. Having + no issue by his lady, the daughter of Lord Hardwicke, whom he + married in 1748, he left the whole of his property to his + brother.</p> + + <p>Lord Anson appears to have been remarkable for the coolness + and equanimity of his temper. Amid all the dangers and successes + of his circumnavigation of the globe, he never expressed any + strong emotion, either of sorrow or joy, except when the + Centurion hove in sight of Tinian. He was a man of few words, and + was even reckoned particularly silent among English seamen, who + have never been distinguished for their loquacity. He introduced + a rigid discipline into the English navy, somewhat resembling + that of the Prussian army; and revived that bold and close method + of <span class="pagenum"><a name="page212" id="page212"></a>[pg + 212]</span> fighting, within pistol-shot, which had formerly been + so successfully employed by Blake and Shovel, and which has + fostered that daring courage and irresistible intrepidity in our + British seamen, which anticipate and secure success to the most + daring and hazardous enterprizes.</p> + + <p>In some reflexions, towards the conclusion of Betagh's + circumnavigation, Harris,<a id="footnotetag105" name= + "footnotetag105"></a><a href="#footnote105"><sup>6</sup></a> a + former editor of a collection of voyages and travels, breaks + forth in the following laudatory strain:</p> + + <p>"Happy, happy, for us, that we have still a SEAMAN left, who + has shewn that the race of heroes is not yet extinct among us, in + ADMIRAL ANSON, that great and fortunate commander; who enjoys the + singular felicity, in an age of sloth, luxury, and corruption, + that his <i>ease</i> is the result of his <i>labour</i>, his + <i>title</i> the reward of his <i>merit</i>, and that his + <i>wealth</i> does <i>honour</i> to his country."</p> + + <p>How much more happy is it for us in the present day, somewhat + more than half a century later, and while every energy is + required to the utmost stretch, that we still have a race of + transcendent heroes, who have annihilated the navy and trade and + colonies or our arch enemy, have vindicated and preserved our + glory and freedom and prosperity, and bid fair to restore the + honour and independence of the civilized world, threatened with + subversion by the modern AtillaEd.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote100" name="footnote100"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag100">(return)</a> + + <p>Voyage, &c. by George Anson, Esq. afterwards Lord Anson; + compiled from his papers and materials by Richard Walter, M.A. + chaplain of H.M.S. Centurion in that expedition<i>fifteenth + edition</i>, 4to, Lond. 1776.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote101" name="footnote101"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag101">(return)</a> + + <p>The sequel of these observations, by Harris, are extracted + from his supplementary reflections at the close of the + expedition, vol. 1, p. 364, <i>et sequ.</i> In these, however, + we have used much retrenchment, as the observations that may + have been exceedingly applicable in 1745, when Spain was in a + great manner identified with France, have now lost much of + their force, in consequence of the passing events, well known + to all, but which do not admit of being discussed in a + note.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote102" name="footnote102"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag102">(return)</a> + + <p>It is not easy to conceive how Harris should have fallen + into this enormous error. To say nothing of the greater length + and difficulty of passing round Cape Horn, rather than the Cape + of Good Hope, the difference in longitudes is sufficient to + establish the absolute contrary of the position in the text. + The longitude, for instance, of the island of Ceylon, by the + eastern passage, is only 80° E. whereas by the western + passage it is 280 W. an excess of 200 degrees. Even Canton in + China, is only in 113° E. but in 247° W. an + excess of 134 degrees.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote103" name="footnote103"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag103">(return)</a> + + <p>To say nothing of the absurdity of the partial instances + adduced, it may be mentioned that, only a few years ago, an + English East Indiaman performed the voyage from England to + Madras, delivered his outward-bound cargo, took on board a new + cargo, and returned to England, all within nine months.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote104" name="footnote104"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag104">(return)</a> + + <p>The remaining observations of Harris, supplementary to his + abbreviated account of this expedition, have no manner of + connection with the subject in hand, and are therefore + omitted.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote105" name="footnote105"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag105">(return)</a> + + <p>Harris, Voy. and Trav. I. 253.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>INTRODUCTION.</h3> + + <p>Notwithstanding the great improvement of navigation within the + last two centuries, a voyage round the world is still considered + as an enterprize of so very singular a nature, that the public + have never failed to be extremely inquisitive about the various + accidents and turns of fortune with which this uncommon attempt + is generally attended. And, though the amusement expected in + these narratives is doubtless one great source of that curiosity + with the bulk of readers, yet the more intelligent part of + mankind have always agreed, that, from accounts of this nature, + if faithfully executed, the more important purposes of + navigation, commerce, and national interest, may be greatly + promoted. For every authentic description of foreign coasts and + countries will contribute <span class="pagenum"><a name="page213" + id="page213"></a>[pg 213]</span> to one or more of these great + ends, in proportion to the wealth, wants, or commodities of these + countries, and our ignorance of these coasts; and therefore, a + voyage round the world promises a species of information, of all + others, the most desirable and interesting; since great part of + it is performed in seas with which we are, as yet, but very + imperfectly acquainted, and in the neighbourhood of a country + renowned for the abundance of its wealth; though it is, at the + same time, stigmatized for its poverty in the necessaries and + conveniences of a civilized life.</p> + + <p>These considerations have occasioned the compiling the ensuing + work; which, in gratifying the inquisitive disposition of + mankind, and contributing to the safety and success of future + navigators, and to the extension of our commerce, may doubtless + vie with any narration of this kind hitherto made public; since, + as to the first of these heads, it may well be supposed that the + general curiosity hath been strongly excited, by the + circumstances of this undertaking already known to the world; + for, whether we consider the force of the squadron sent on this + service, or the diversified distresses that each single ship was + separately involved in, or the uncommon instances of varying + fortune which attended the whole enterprize; each of these + articles must, I conceive, from its well-known rude outlines, + appear worthy of a completer and more finished delineation: And, + if this be allowed with respect to the narrative part of the + work, there can be no doubt about the more useful and instructive + parts, which are almost every where interwoven with it; for I can + venture to affirm, without fear of being contradicted, on a + comparison, that no voyage, hitherto published, furnishes such a + number of views of land, soundings, draughts of ports, charts, + and other materials, for the improvement of geography and + navigation, as are contained in the ensuing volume; which are the + more valuable too, as the greatest part of them relate to such + islands or coasts as have been hitherto not at all, or + erroneously described; and where the want of sufficient and + authentic information might occasion future enterprizes to prove + abortive, perhaps with the destruction of the ships and men + employed therein.</p> + + <p>Besides the number and choice of these marine drawings and + descriptions, there is another very essential circumstance + belonging to them, which much enhances their worth; and that is + the great accuracy with which they were executed. I <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page214" id="page214"></a>[pg 214]</span> + shall express my opinion of them, in this particular, very + imperfectly, when I say that they are not exceeded, and perhaps + not equalled, by any thing of this nature that hath, as yet, been + communicated to the world: For they were not copied from the + works of others, or composed at home from imperfect accounts + given by incurious and unskilful observers, a practice too + frequent in these matters; but the greatest part of them were + delineated on the spot, with the utmost exactness, by the + direction and under the eye of Mr Anson himself; and where, as is + the case in three or four of them, they have been done by less + skilful hands, or were found in possession of the enemy, and + consequently their justness could be less relied on, I have + always taken care to apprize the reader of it, and to put him on + his guard against giving entire credit to them; although I doubt + not but these less authentic draughts, thus cautiously inserted, + are to the full as correct as those which are usually published + upon these occasions. For, as actual surveys of roads and + harbours, and nice and critical delineations of views of land, + take up much time and attention, and require a good degree of + skill, both in planning and drawing, those who are defective in + industry and ability supply these wants by bold conjectures and + fictitious descriptions; and, as they can be no otherwise + confuted than by going on the spot, and running the risk of + suffering by their misinformation, they have no apprehension of + being detected; and therefore, when they intrude their + supposititious productions on the public, they make no conscience + of boasting, at the same time, with how much skill and care they + have been executed. But let not those who are unacquainted with + naval affairs imagine, that the impositions of this kind are of + an innocent nature; for, as exact views of land are the surest + guides to a seaman, on a coast where he has never been before, + all fictions, in so interesting a matter, must be attended with + numerous dangers, and sometimes with the destruction of those who + are thus unhappily deceived.<a id="footnotetag106" name= + "footnotetag106"></a><a href="#footnote106"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>Besides these draughts of such places as Mr Anson, or + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page215" id="page215"></a>[pg + 215]</span> the ships which he commanded, have touched at in the + course of this expedition, and the descriptions and directions + relating thereto, there is inserted, in the ensuing work, an + ample account, with a chart annexed to it, of a particular + navigation, of which hitherto little more than the name has been + known, except to those immediately employed in it: I mean the + tract described by the Manilla ship, in her passage to Acapulco, + through the northern part of the Pacific-ocean. This material + article is collected from the draughts and journals met with on + board the Manilla galleon, founded on the experience of more than + an hundred and fifty years practice, and corroborated in its + principal circumstances by the concurrent evidence of all the + Spanish prisoners taken in that vessel. And as many of their + journals; which I have examined, appear to have been not ill + kept, I presume the chart of that northern ocean, and the + particulars of their routes through it, may be very safely relied + on by future navigators. The advantages which may be drawn from + an exact knowledge of this navigation, and the beneficial + projects which may be formed thereon, both in war and peace, are + by no means proper to be discussed in this place; but they will + easily offer themselves to the skilful in maritime affairs. + However, as the Manilla ships are the only ones which have ever + traversed this vast ocean, except a French straggler or two, + which have been afterwards seized on the coast of Mexico; and as, + during near two ages, in which this trade has been carried on, + the Spaniards have secreted with the utmost care all accounts of + their voyages from the rest of the world; these reasons would + alone authorize the insertion of those papers, and would + recommend them to the inquisitive, as a very great improvement in + geography, and worthy of attention, from the singularity of many + circumstances therein recited.</p> + + <p>I must add what, in my opinion, is far from being the least + recommendation of these materials, that the observations of the + variations of the compass, which are laid down in the chart from + these Spanish journals, tend greatly to complete the general + system of the magnetic variation, of infinite importance to the + commercial and sea-faring part of mankind. These observations + were, though in vain, often publicly called for by our learned + countryman, the late Dr Halley, and to his immortal reputation + they confirm, as far as they extend, the wonderful hypothesis he + had entertained <span class="pagenum"><a name="page216" id= + "page216"></a>[pg 216]</span> on this head, and very nearly + correspond, in their quantity, to the predictions he published + about fifty years since, long before he was acquainted with any + one observation made in those seas. The ascertaining the + variation in that part of the world is just now of more than + ordinary consequence, as the editors of a new variation chart, + lately published, for want of proper information, have been + misled by an erroneous analogy, and have even mistaken the very + species of variation in that of the northern ocean; for they make + it westerly where it is easterly, and have laid it down + 12° or 13° different from its real + quantity.</p> + + <p>This much it has been thought necessary to premise, with + regard to the hydrographical and geographical part of the ensuing + work; which, it is hoped, the reader will find, on perusal, much + ampler and more important than this slight sketch can well + explain. But, as there are hereafter interspersed, occasionally, + some accounts of Spanish transactions, and many observations + relative to the dispositions of the American Spaniards, and to + the condition of the countries bordering on the South Seas; and + as herein I may appear to differ greatly from the opinions + generally established; I think it behoves me particularly to + recite the authorities I have been guided by in these matters, + that I may not be censured as having given way, either to a + thoughtless credulity on the one hand, or, what would be a much + more criminal imputation, to a wilful and deliberate + misrepresentation on the other.</p> + + <p>Mr Anson, before he set sail upon this expedition, besides the + printed journals to these parts, took care to furnish himself + with the best manuscript accounts he could procure of all the + Spanish settlements upon the coasts of Chili, Peru, and Mexico. + These he carefully compared with the examinations of his + prisoners, and the informations of several intelligent persons + who fell into his hands in the South Seas. He had likewise the + good fortune, in some of his captures, to possess himself of a + great number of letters and papers of a public nature, many of + them written by the viceroy of Peru to the viceroy of Santa Fee, + to the presidents of Panama and Chili, to Don Blass de Lezo, + admiral of the galleons, and to divers other persons in + considerable employments; and in these letters there was usually + inserted a recital of those they were intended to answer, so that + they contained no small part of the correspondence between these + officers, for some <span class="pagenum"><a name="page217" id= + "page217"></a>[pg 217]</span> time previous to our arrival on the + coast. We took, besides, many letters, sent from persons + entrusted by the Spanish government, to their friends and + correspondents, which were frequently filled with narrations of + public business, and sometimes contained undisguised + animadversions on the views and conduct of their superiors. From + these materials those accounts of the Spanish affairs ore drawn, + which may appear, at first sight, the most exceptionable. In + particular, the history of the various casualties which befel + Pizarro's squadron is, for the most part, composed from + intercepted letters; though, indeed, the relation of the + insurrection of Orellana and his followers is founded on rather a + less disputable authority; for it was taken from the mouths of an + English gentleman then on board Pizarro, who often conversed with + Pizarro; and it was, upon enquiry, confirmed in its principal + circumstances by others who were in the ship at the same time: so + that the fact, however extraordinary, is, I conceive, not to be + contested.</p> + + <p>And, on this occasion, I cannot but mention, that, though I + have endeavoured with my utmost care to adhere strictly to truth, + in every article of the ensuing narration, yet I am apprehensive + that, in so complicated a work, some oversights must have been + committed, by the inattention to which, at all times, all mankind + are liable. However, I am conscious, as yet, of none but literal + and insignificant mistakes; and if there are others more + considerable, which have escaped me, I flatter myself they are + not of moment enough to affect any material transaction; and + therefore I hope they may justly claim the reader's + indulgence.</p> + + <p>After this general account of the ensuing work, it might be + expected perhaps, that I should proceed to the work itself; but I + cannot finish this introduction without adding a few reflections + on a matter very nearly connected with the present subject, and, + as I conceive, neither destitute of utility nor unworthy the + attention of the public: I mean the animating my countrymen, both + in their public and private stations, to the encouragement of all + kinds of geographical and nautical observations, and of every + species of mechanical and commercial information. It is by a + settled attachment to these seemingly minute particulars, that + our ambitious neighbours have established some part of that power + with which we are now struggling: and as we have the means in our + hands of pursuing these subjects more effectually than + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page218" id="page218"></a>[pg + 218]</span> they can, it would be a dishonour to us longer to + neglect so easy and beneficial a practice. For, as we have a navy + much more numerous than theirs, great part of which is always + employed in very distant stations, either in the protection of + our colonies and commerce, or in assisting our allies against the + common enemy, this gives us frequent opportunities of furnishing + ourselves with such kind of materials as are here recommended, + and such as might turn greatly to our advantage either in war or + peace; since, not to mention what might be expected from the + officers of the navy, if their application to these subjects was + properly encouraged, it would create no new expence to the + government to establish a particular regulation for this purpose; + as all that would be requisite would be constantly to embark, in + some of our men of war which are sent on those distant cruizes, a + person who, with the character of an engineer, and the skill and + talents necessary to that profession, should be employed in + drawing such coasts, and planning such harbours, as the ship + should touch at, and in making such other observations, of all + kinds, as might either prove of advantage to future navigators, + or might any ways tend to promote the public service. Persons + habituated to these operations, which could not fail at the same + time of improving them in their proper business, would be + extremely useful in many other lights besides those already + mentioned, and might tend to secure our fleets from those + disgraces with which their attempts against places on shore have + been often attended. And, in a nation like ours, where all + sciences are more eagerly and universally pursued, and better + understood, than in any other part of the world, proper subjects + for these employments cannot long be wanting, if due + encouragement were given to them.</p> + + <p>This method, here recommended, is known to have been + frequently practised by the French, particularly in the instance + of Mons. Frezier, an engineer, who has published a celebrated + voyage to the South Seas: for this person was purposely sent by + the French king, in the year 1711, into that country, on board a + merchant ship, that he might examine and describe the coast, and + take plans of all the fortified places; the better to enable the + French to prosecute their illicit trade, or, on a rupture between + them and the court of Spain, to form their enterprizes in those + seas with more readiness and certainty. Should we pursue this + method, we might hope that the emulation amongst those who were + commissioned <span class="pagenum"><a name="page219" id= + "page219"></a>[pg 219]</span> for these undertakings, and the + experience which, even in the most peaceable intervals, they + would thereby acquire, might at length procure us a proper number + of able engineers, and might efface the national scandal which + our deficiency in that species of men has sometimes exposed us + to: and surely every step to encourage and improve them is of + greater moment to the public, as no persons, when they are + properly instructed, make better returns in war for the + distinctions and emoluments bestowed on them in times of peace: + of which, the advantages the French have reaped from their + dexterity, too numerous and recent to be soon forgot, are an + ample confirmation.</p> + + <p>Having mentioned engineers, or such as are skilled in drawing + and the other usual practices of that profession, as the + properest persons to be employed in these foreign enquiries, I + cannot but lament, as it offers itself so very naturally to the + subject in hand, how very imperfect many of our accounts of + distant countries are rendered by the relators being unskilled in + drawing, and in the general principles of surveying, even where + other abilities have not been wanting. Had more of our travellers + been initiated in these acquirements, and had there been added + thereto some little skill in the common astronomical + observations, all which a person of ordinary talents might attain + with a very moderate share of application, we should, by this + time, have seen the geography of the globe much correcter than we + now find it; the dangers of navigation would have been + considerably lessened, and the manners, arts, and produce of + foreign countries would have been better known to us than they + are. Indeed, when I consider the strong incitements that all + travellers have to pursue some part at least of these + qualifications, especially drawing; when I consider how much it + would facilitate their observations, assist and strengthen their + memories, and of how tedious, and often unintelligible, a load of + description it would rid them; I cannot but wonder that any + person who intends to visit distant countries, with a view of + informing either himself or others, should be wanting in so + necessary a piece of skill. And, to enforce this argument still + farther, I must add, that, besides the uses of drawing already + mentioned, there is one which, though not so obvious, is yet + perhaps of more consequence than all that has been hitherto + urged; I mean the strength and distinguishing power it adds to + some of our faculties. This appears from <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page220" id="page220"></a>[pg 220]</span> + hence, that those who are used to draw objects observe them with + more accuracy than others who are not habituated to that + practice. For we may easily find, by a little experience, that + when we view any object, however simple, our attention or memory + is scarcely at any time so strong as to enable us, when we have + turned our eyes away from it, to recollect exactly every part it + consisted of, and to recall all the circular stances of its + appearance; since, on examination, it will be discovered, that in + some we were mistaken, and others we had totally overlooked. But + he who is accustomed to draw what he sees, is, at the same time, + accustomed to rectify this inattention; for, by confronting his + ideas, copied on the paper, with the object he intends to + represent, he finds out what circumstance has deceived him in its + appearance; and hence he at length acquires the habit of + observing much more at one view than he could ever have done + without his practice and proficiency in drawing.</p> + + <p>If what has been said merits the attention of travellers of + all sorts, it is, I think, more particularly applicable to the + gentlemen of the navy, since, without drawing and planning, + neither charts nor views of land can be taken; and without these + it is sufficiently evident that navigation is at a full stand. It + is doubtless from a persuasion of the utility of these + qualifications, that his majesty has established a drawing-master + at Portsmouth, for the instruction of those who are presumed to + be hereafter entrusted with the command of his royal navy; and + though some have been so far misled as to suppose that the + perfection of sea officers consisted in a turn of mind and temper + resembling the boisterous element they have to deal with, and + have condemned all literature and science, as effeminate and + derogatory to that ferocity, which, they would falsely persuade + us, was the most unerring characteristic of courage, yet it is to + be hoped that such absurdities have not at any time been + authorized by the public opinion, and that the belief daily + diminishes. If those who adhere to these mischievous positions + were capable of being influenced by reason, or swayed by example, + I should think it sufficient for their conviction to observe, + that the most valuable drawings inserted in the following work, + though done with such skill that even professed artists can with + difficulty imitate them, were taken by Mr Piercy Bret, one of Mr + Anson's lieutenants, and since captain of the Lion man-of-war, + who, in his memorable engagement with the Elizabeth, [for the + importance <span class="pagenum"><a name="page221" id= + "page221"></a>[pg 221]</span> of the service, or the resolution + with which it was conducted, inferior to none this age has seen,] + has given ample proof that a proficiency in the arts I have been + recommending, is extremely consistent with the most exemplary + bravery, and the most distinguished skill in every function + belonging to a sea officer.</p> + + <p>Indeed, when the many branches of science are considered, of + which even the common practice of navigation is composed, and the + many improvements which men of skill have added to this practice + within these few years, it would induce one to believe that the + advantages of reflection and speculative knowledge were in no + profession more eminent than in that of a naval officer; for, not + to mention some expertness in geography, geometry, and astronomy, + which it would be dishonourable for him to be without, as his + journal and his estimate of the daily position of the ship are + founded on particular branches of these sciences, it may well be + supposed, that the management and working of a ship, the + discovery of her most eligible position in the water, usually + called her trim, and the disposition of her sails in the most + advantageous manner, are articles in which the knowledge of + mechanics cannot but be greatly assistant. And, perhaps, the + application of this kind of knowledge to naval subjects may + produce as great improvements in sailing and working a ship, as + it has already done in many other matters conducive to the ease + and convenience of human life; since, when the fabric of a ship + and the variety of her sails are considered, together with the + artificial contrivances for adapting them to her different + motions, as it cannot be doubted but these things have been + brought about by more than ordinary sagacity and invention; so + neither can it be doubted but that, in some conjunctures, a + speculative and scientific turn of mind may find out the means of + directing and disposing this complicated mechanism much more + advantageously than can be done by mere habit, or by a servile + copying of what others may have, perhaps erroneously, practised + in similar emergencies. But it is time to finish this digression, + and to leave the reader to the perusal of the ensuing work, + which, with how little art soever it may be executed, will yet, + from the importance of the subject, and the utility and + excellence of the materials, merit some share of the public + attention.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page222" id= + "page222"></a>[pg 222]</span> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote106" name="footnote106"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag106">(return)</a> + + <p>It must be quite obvious to all who are in the least degree + acquainted with the nature of these draughts and views of land, + in the nature of a coasting pilot, that it is utterly + impossible to reduce them within the compass of an octavo size, + and at the same time to render them of the smallest degree of + usefulness; while large plates must have been necessary, and + speedily destroyed by opening and refolding.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION I.</h3> + + <h4><i>Of the Equipment of the Squadron, and the Incidents + relating to it, from its first Appointment to its setting Sail + from St Helens.</i></h4> + + <p>The squadron under the command of Mr Anson, of which I here + propose to recite the most material proceedings, having undergone + many changes in its destination, its force, and its equipment, + during the ten months between its original appointment and its + final sailing from St Helens, I conceive the history of these + alterations is a detail necessary to be made public, both for the + honour of those who first planned and promoted this enterprize, + and for the justification of those who have been entrusted with + its execution; since it will from hence appear, that the + accidents the expedition was afterwards exposed to, and which + prevented it from producing all the national advantages the + strength of the squadron and the expectation of the public seemed + to presage, were principally owing to a series of interruptions, + which delayed the commander in the course of his preparations, + and which it exceeded his utmost industry either to avoid or get + removed.</p> + + <p>When, in the latter end of the summer 1739, it was foreseen + that a war with Spain was inevitable, it was the opinion of some + considerable persons, then trusted with the administration of + affairs, that the most prudent step the nation could take, on the + breaking out of the war, was attacking that crown in her distant + settlements; for by this means, as at that time there was the + greatest probability of success, it was supposed that we should + cut off the principal resources of the enemy, and should reduce + them to the necessity of sincerely desiring a peace, as they + would be deprived of the returns of that treasure by which alone + they could be enabled to carry on a war.</p> + + <p>In pursuance of these sentiments, several projects were + examined, and several resolutions were taken by the council. And, + in all these deliberations, it was from the first determined, + that George Anson, Esq. then captain of the Centurion, should be + employed as commander-in-chief of an expedition of this kind: + and, he at that time being absent on a <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page223" id="page223"></a>[pg 223]</span> + cruize, a vessel was dispatched to his station so early as the + beginning of September, to order him to return with his ship to + Portsmouth. And soon after he came there, that is, on the 10th + November following, he received a letter from Sir Charles Wager, + directing him to repair to London, and to attend the board of + Admiralty; where, when he arrived, he was informed by Sir + Charles, that two squadrons would be immediately fitted out for + two secret expeditions, which, however, would have some + connection with each other; and that he, Mr Anson, was intended + to command one of them; and that Mr Cornwall, who hath since lost + his life gloriously in defence of his country's honour, was to + command the other; that the squadron under Mr Anson was to take + on board three independent companies of an hundred men each, and + Bland's regiment of foot; that Colonel Bland was likewise to + embark with his regiment, and to command the land-forces; and + that, as soon as this squadron could be fitted for sea, they were + to sail, with express orders to touch at no place till they came + to Java-Head in the East-Indies; that they were there only to + stop to take in water, and thence to proceed directly to the city + of Manilla in Lu&#231;onia, one of the Philippine islands; + that the other squadron, of equal force with this commanded by Mr + Anson, was intended to pass round Cape Horn into the South Seas, + to range along that coast; and, after cruizing upon the enemy in + those parts, and attempting their settlements, this squadron, in + its return, was to rendezvous at Manilla, there to join the + squadron under Mr Anson, where they were to refresh their men, + and to refit their ships, and perhaps receive orders for other + considerable enterprizes.</p> + + <p>This scheme was doubtless extremely well projected, and could + not but have greatly advanced the public service, and the + reputation and fortune of those concerned in its execution; for, + had Mr Anson proceeded to Manilla at the time and in the manner + proposed by Sir Charles Wager, he would in all probability have + arrived there before they had received any advice of the war + between us and Spain, and consequently before they had been in + the least prepared for the reception of an enemy, or had any + apprehensions of their danger. The city of Manilla might well be + supposed to have been at that time in the same defenceless + condition with all the other Spanish settlements, just at the + breaking out of the war; that is, their fortifications neglected, + and in many places decayed; <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page224" id="page224"></a>[pg 224]</span> their cannon + dismounted, or rendered useless by the mouldering of their + carriages; their magazines both of military stores and + provisions, all empty; their garrisons unpaid, and consequently + thin, ill affected, and dispirited; and the royal chests of Peru, + whence alone all these disorders could receive redress, drained + to the very bottom. This, from the intercepted letters of their + viceroys and governors, is well known to have been the + defenceless state of Panama, and the other places on the coast of + the South Sea, for near a twelvemonth after our declaration of + war. And it cannot be supposed that the city of Manilla, removed + still farther by almost half the circumference of the globe, + should have experienced from the Spanish government a greater + share of attention for its security than Panama, and the other + important ports in Peru and Chili, on which their possession of + that immense empire depends. Indeed, it is now well known that + Manilla was at that time incapable of making any considerable + defence, and, in all probability, would have surrendered only on + the appearance of our squadron before it. The consequence of this + city, and the island it stands on, may, in some measure, be + estimated from the known healthiness of its air, the excellence + of its port and bay, the number and wealth of its inhabitants, + and the very extensive and beneficial commerce it carries on to + the principal ports in the East-Indies and China, and its + exclusive trade to Acapulco; the returns for which alone, being + made in silver, are, upon the lowest calculation, not less than + three millions of dollars yearly.</p> + + <p>On this scheme Sir Charles Wager was so intent, that, on the + 18th December, a few days only before this first conference, Mr + Anson received an order to take under his command the Argyle, + Severn, Pearl, Wager, and Tryal sloop; and other orders were + issued to him, in the same month and in December, relating to the + victualling of this squadron. But, on attending the Admiralty in + the beginning of January, 1740, Mr Anson was informed by Sir + Charles Wager, that, for reasons with which he was not + acquainted, the expedition to Manilla was laid aside. It may well + be conceived that Mr Anson was extremely chagrined at losing the + command of so infallible, so honourable, and in every respect so + desirable an enterprize; especially as he had already, at a very + great expence, made the necessary provision for his own + accommodation in this voyage, which he had reason to expect would + prove very long. However, to render this <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page225" id="page225"></a>[pg 225]</span> + appointment more tolerable, Sir Charles Wager informed him that + the expedition to the South Sea was still intended; and that he, + Mr Anson, and his squadron, as their first destination was now + countermanded, should be employed in that service. And, on the + 10th January, 1740, he received his commission, appointing him + Commander-in-chief of the before-mentioned squadron, the Argyle + being in the course of preparation exchanged for the Gloucester, + with which he sailed above eight months afterwards from St + Helens. On this change of destination, the equipment of the + squadron was still prosecuted with as much vigour as ever; and + the victualling, and whatever depended on the commodore, was soon + so far advanced, that he conceived the ships might be capable of + putting to sea the instant he should receive his final orders, of + which he was in daily expectation.</p> + + <p>At length, on the 28th June, 1740, the Duke of Newcastle, + principal secretary of state, delivered to him his majesty's + instructions, dated on the 31st of January preceding, with an + additional instruction from the lords justices, dated 19th June. + On the receipt of these, Mr Anson immediately repaired to + Spithead, with a resolution to sail with the first fair wind, + flattering himself that all his difficulties were now at an end: + for though he knew by the muster that his squadron wanted three + hundred men of their complement, a deficiency he had not, with + all his assiduity, been able to get supplied, yet as Sir Charles + Wager had informed him that an order from the board of Admiralty + was sent to Sir John Norris to spare him the numbers which he + wanted; he doubted not of its being complied with. But, on his + arrival at Portsmouth, he found himself greatly mistaken and + disappointed in this persuasion: for, on application, Sir John + Norris told him he could spare him none, as he wanted men for his + own fleet. This occasioned an inevitable and very considerable + delay, and it was the end of July before this deficiency was by + any means supplied, and all that was then done was extremely + short of his necessities and expectation; for Admiral Balchen, + who succeeded to the command at Spithead, after Sir John Norris + had sailed to the westward, instead of three hundred sailors + which Mr Anson wanted of his complement, ordered on board the + squadron an hundred and seventy men only, of which thirty-two + were from the hospital and sick-quarters, thirty-seven men from + the Salisbury, with three officers and ninety-eight marines of + Colonel Lowther's regiment; <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page226" id="page226"></a>[pg 226]</span> and these were all + that were ever granted to make up the forementioned + deficiency.</p> + + <p>But the commodore's mortification did not end here. It has + been already observed, that it was at first intended that Colonel + Bland's regiment, and three independent companies of an hundred + men each, should embark as land-forces on board the squadron. But + this disposition was now changed; and all the land-forces that + were to be allowed were five hundred invalids, to be collected + from the out-pensioners of Chelsea College. As these consisted of + soldiers, who, from their age, wounds, and other circumstances, + were incapable of serving in marching regiments, Mr Anson was + much chagrined at having such a decrepid detachment allotted to + him; for he was fully persuaded that the greatest part of them + would perish long before they could arrive at the scene of + action, since the delays he had already experienced necessarily + confined his passage round Cape Horn to the most rigorous season + of the year. Sir Charles Wager joined in opinion with the + commodore, that invalids were by no means proper for this + service, and strenuously solicited to have them, exchanged. But + he was told, that persons who were considered better judges of + soldiers than he or Mr Anson, thought them the properest men that + could be employed on this occasion; and, upon this determination, + they were ordered on board the squadron on the 5th of August. + But, instead of five hundred, there came no more on board than + two hundred and fifty-nine; for all those who had limbs and + strength to walk out of Portsmouth deserted, leaving only those + behind who were literally invalids, most of them being sixty + years of age, and some upwards of seventy. Indeed, it is + difficult to conceive a more moving scene than the embarkation of + these unhappy veterans: they were themselves extremely averse + from the service in which they were engaged, and fully apprized + of all the disasters they were afterwards exposed to, the + apprehensions of which were strongly marked by the concern which + appeared in their countenances, which was mixed with no small + degree of indignation to be thus hurried from their repose into a + fatiguing employ, to which neither the strength of their bodies, + nor the vigour of their minds, were any way proportioned; and in + which, without seeing the face of an enemy, or in the least + promoting the success of the enterprize, they would in all + probability uselessly perish by lingering and painful diseases; + and this, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page227" id= + "page227"></a>[pg 227]</span> too, after they had spent the + activity and strength of their youth in the service of their + country.</p> + + <p>I cannot but observe, on this melancholy incident, how + extremely unfortunate it was, both to this aged and diseased + detachment, and to the expedition in which they were engaged, + that, amongst all the out-pensioners of Chelsea College, which + were supposed to amount to two thousand men, the most crazy and + infirm only should be called out for so laborious and perilous an + undertaking; for it was well known, however unfit invalids in + general might be for this service, yet, by a prudent choice, + there might have been found amongst them five hundred men who had + some remains of vigour; and Mr Anson fully expected that the best + of them would have been allotted to him; whereas the whole + detachment sent seemed to be made up of the most decrepid and + miserable objects that could be collected out of the whole body; + and by the desertion already mentioned, even these were cleared + of the little strength and health which were to be found among + them, and he had to take up with such as were much fitter for an + infirmary than for any military duty.</p> + + <p>It is here also necessary to mention another material + particular in the equipment of this squadron. After it was + determined that Mr Anson should be sent to the South Sea, it was + proposed to Mr Anson to take with him two persons under the + denomination of agent-victuallers. Those mentioned for this + employment had been formerly in the Spanish American colonies, in + the service of the South-Sea Company, and it was supposed, that, + by their knowledge and intelligence on that coast, they might + often procure provisions for the squadron by compact with the + inhabitants, when they were not to be got by force of arms. These + agent-victuallers were, for this purpose, to be allowed to carry + to the value of fifteen thousand pounds in merchandize on board + the squadron, as they represented that it would be much easier to + procure provisions in exchange for goods, than for the value of + the same goods in money. Whatever colours were given to this + scheme, it was difficult to persuade the generality of mankind + that it was not principally intended for the enrichment of the + agents, by the beneficial commerce they proposed to carry on upon + that coast. From the beginning, Mr Anson objected both to the + appointment of agent-victuallers and to allowing them to carry a + cargo on board the squadron; for he conceived that in those few + amicable ports where the squadron <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page228" id="page228"></a>[pg 228]</span> might touch, he needed + not their assistance to contract for any provisions these places + afforded; and, when on the enemy's coast, he did not imagine they + could ever procure him the necessaries he should want, unless the + military operations of his squadron were to be regulated by the + ridiculous views of their trading projects, with which he was + resolved not to comply. All that he thought the government ought + to have done, of this kind, was to put on board, to the value of + two or three thousand pounds, of such goods only as were suitable + for the Indians, or the Spanish planters on the less cultivated + parts of the coast, as it was in such places only that he + considered it might be worth while to truck with the enemy for + provisions, and it was sufficiently evident that a very small + cargo would suffice for such places.</p> + + <p>Although the commodore objected both to the appointment of + these officers and to their project, of the ill success of which + he had no question, yet, as they had insinuated that their + scheme, besides victualling the squadron, might contribute to the + settling a trade on that coast which might afterwards be carried + on without difficulty, and might become of very considerable + national advantage, they were much listened to by several + considerable persons; and, of the fifteen thousand pounds, which + was to be the amount of their cargo, the government agreed to + advance them ten thousand pounds upon imprest, and the remaining + five thousand they raised on bottomry bonds, and the goods + purchased with this latter sum were all that were put on board + the squadron, how much soever their amount might be afterwards + magnified by common report. This cargo was shipped at first in + the Wager store-ship, and one of the victuallers, no part of it + being admitted on board the men-of-war; but, when the commodore + was at St Catharine's, he considered, in case the squadron might + be separated, that it might be pretended that some of the ships + were disappointed of provisions for want of a cargo to truck + with, wherefore he distributed some of the least bulky + commodities on board the men-of-war, leaving the remainder + principally on board the Wager, in which it was lost, and more of + the goods perishing, by various accidents to be recited + afterwards, and as no part of them being disposed of on the + coast, the few that came home to England, when sold, did not + produce above a fourth part of the original cost. So true was the + commodore's judgment of the event of this project, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page229" id="page229"></a>[pg 229]</span> + which had been considered by many as infallibly productive of + immense gain.</p> + + <p>We return to the transactions at Portsmouth. To supply the + place of the two hundred and forty invalids who had deserted, + there were ordered on board two hundred and ten marines, drafted + from different regiments. These were raw and undisciplined men, + just raised, and had scarcely any thing more of the soldier than + their regimentals, none of them having been so far trained as to + be permitted to fire. The last of these detachments came on board + on the 8th August, and on the 10th the squadron dropped down from + Spithead to St Helen's, there to wait for a wind to proceed on + the expedition. The delays we had already suffered had not yet + spent all their influence; for we were now advanced to that + season of the year when the westerly winds are usually very + prevalent and violent; and it was thought proper that we should + put to sea in company with the fleet commanded by Admiral + Balchen, and the expedition under Lord Cathcart. As we now made + up in all twenty-one sail of men-of-war, and one hundred and + twenty-four sail of merchant ships and transports, we had no + hopes of getting out of the channel with so large a fleet, + without the continuance of a fair wind for a considerable time, + and this was what we had every day less and less reason to + expect, as the time of the equinox drew near; wherefore our + golden dreams and ideal possession of the Peruvian treasures grew + every day more faint, and the difficulties and dangers of the + passage round Cape Horn, in the winter season, filled our + imaginations in their room. It was forty days from our arrival at + St Helens to our final departure from that place; and even then, + having orders to proceed without Lord Cathcart, we tided down the + channel with a contrary wind. But this interval of forty days was + not free from the displeasing fatigue of often setting sail, and + being as often obliged to return, nor exempt from dangers greater + than have been sometimes undergone in surrounding the globe. For + the wind coming fair for the first time on the 23d August, we got + under sail, and Admiral Balchen shewed himself truly solicitous + to have proceeded to sea; but the wind soon returned to its old + quarter, and obliged us to put back to St Helens, not without + considerable hazard, and some damage received by two of the + transports, which ran foul of each other when tacking. We made + two or three other attempts to sail, but without <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page230" id="page230"></a>[pg 230]</span> any + better success; and, on the 6th September, being returned to + anchor at St Helens, after one of those fruitless attempts, the + wind blew so fresh that the whole fleet had to strike yards and + topmasts to prevent drifting: Yet, notwithstanding this + precaution, the Centurion drove next evening, and brought both + cables a-head, when we were in no small danger of getting foul of + the Prince Frederick, a seventy-gun ship, which was moored only a + small distance under our stern, but we happily escaped, in + consequence of her drifting at the same time, by which she + preserved her distance, yet we did not think ourselves safe till + we at last let go our sheet anchor, which fortunately brought us + up.</p> + + <p>We were in some measure relieved from this lingering and + vexatious situation on the 9th September, by an order then + received by Commodore Anson, from the lords justices, to put to + sea on the first opportunity, with his own squadron only, if Lord + Cathcart should not be ready. Being thus freed from the + troublesome company of so large a fleet, our commodore resolved + to weigh and tide it down channel, as soon as the weather should + become sufficiently moderate, and this might easily have been + done by our squadron full two months sooner, had the orders of + the Admiralty for supplying us with seamen been punctually + complied with, and had we met with none of those other delays + mentioned in this narration. Even now, our hopes of a speedy + departure were somewhat damped, by a subsequent order which Mr + Anson received on the 12th September, by which he was required to + take under his convoy the St Albans and the Turkey fleet, and to + join the Dragon and the Winchester, with the Straits and American + trade, at Torbay or Plymouth, and to proceed with them to sea as + far as their way and ours lay together. This encumbrance of + convoy gave us some uneasiness, fearing it might lengthen our + passage to Madeira: However, having now the command to himself, + Mr Anson resolved to tide down channel with the first moderate + weather; and, that the junction of the convoy might occasion as + little loss of time as possible, he immediately sent directions + to Torbay that the fleet he was there to take charge of should be + in readiness to join him instantly on his approach. And at last, + on the 18th September, he weighed from St Helens, and, though the + wind was at first contrary, had the good fortune to get clear of + the channel in four days, as will be more particularly related in + the ensuing section.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page231" + id="page231"></a>[pg 231]</span> + + <p>Having thus gone through the respective steps taken in the + equipment of this squadron, it must be sufficiently obvious how + different an aspect the expedition bore at its first appointment + in the beginning of January, from what it did in the latter end + of September, when it left the channel, and how much its numbers, + its strength, and the probability of its success were diminished + by the various incidents which took place in that interval. For, + instead of having all our old and ordinary seamen exchanged for + such as were young and able, which the commodore was at first + promised, and having our complement complete to its full number, + we were obliged to retain our first crews, which were very + indifferent; and a deficiency of three hundred men in our numbers + was no otherwise made up than by sending on board an hundred and + seventy men, the greatest part of whom were discharged from + hospitals, or new-raised marines who had never been at sea + before. In the land-forces allotted to us, the change was still + more disadvantageous; as, instead of Bland's regiment of foot, + which was an old one, and three independent companies of an + hundred men each, we had only four hundred and seventy invalids + and marines, one part of whom were incapable of action, by their + age and infirmities, and the other part useless, by ignorance of + their duty. But the diminution of the strength of the squadron + was not the greatest inconveniency which attended these + alterations; for the contests, representations, and difficulties + which they continually produced, as we have seen above that the + authority of the Admiralty in these cases was not always + submitted to, occasioned a delay and waste of time, which, in its + consequences, was the source of all the disasters to which the + enterprize was afterwards exposed. For, owing to these + circumstances, we were forced to make our passage round Cape Horn + at the most tempestuous season of the year, whence proceeded the + separation of our squadron, the loss of numbers of our men, and + the imminent hazard of oar total destruction. By this delay also, + the enemy had been so well informed of our designs, that a person + who had been employed in the service of the South-Sea Company, + and arrived from Panama three or four days before we left + Portsmouth, was able to relate to Mr Anson most of the + particulars of the destination and strength of our squadron, from + what he had learnt from the Spaniards before he left them. This + was afterwards confirmed by a more extraordinary circumstance; + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page232" id="page232"></a>[pg + 232]</span> for we shall find, that when the Spaniards, fully + satisfied of our expedition being intended for the South Seas, + had fitted out a squadron before us, which had so far got the + start as to arrive before us at the island of Madeira, the + commander of this squadron was so well instructed in the form and + make of Mr Anson's broad pendant, and had imitated it so exactly, + that he thereby decoyed the Pearl, one of our squadron, within + gun-shot of him, before the captain of the Pearl was able to + discover the deception.</p> + + <h3>SECTION II.</h3> + + <h4><i>The Passage from St Helens to the Island of Madeira, with + a short Account of that Island, and of our Stay there.</i></h4> + + <p>As observed in the preceding section, the squadron weighed + from St Helens with a contrary wind on the 18th of September, + 1740, our commodore proposing to tide down the channel, as he + less dreaded the inconveniences we might have thereby to struggle + with, than the risk he should run of ruining the enterprize by an + uncertain, and, in all probability, a tedious attendance for a + fair wind. The squadron allotted for this expedition consisted of + five men-of-war, a sloop of war, and two victuallers. These were, + the Centurion of 60 guns, and 400 men, George Anson, Esq. + commander; the Gloucester, of 50 guns, and 300 men, Richard + Norris, commander; the Severn, of 50 guns, and 300 men, the + Honourable Edward Legg, commander; the Pearl, of 40 guns, and 250 + men, Matthew Mitchell, commander; the Wager, of 28 guns, and 160 + men, Dandy Kidd, commander; the Tryal sloop, of 8 guns, and 100 + men, the Honourable John Murray, commander. The two victuallers + were pinks, the largest of about four hundred tons burden; and + these were to attend us till the provisions we had on board were + so far consumed as to make room for the additional quantity they + carried, which was then to be taken into our ships, and they were + to be discharged. Besides the before-mentioned complements of men + borne by the ships as their crews, there were embarked in our + squadron about 470 invalids and marines, as particularly + mentioned in last section, under the denomination of land-forces, + which were commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel + Cracherode.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page233" id= + "page233"></a>[pg 233]</span> + + <p>With this squadron, together with the St Albans and Lark, and + the Turkey trade under their convoy, we tided down channel for + the first forty-eight hours. In the morning of the 20th, we + discovered the Dragon, Winchester, South-Sea Castle, and Rye, + with a number of merchantmen under their convoy, waiting for us + off the Ram-head. We joined there the same day about noon, the + commodore having orders to see them, together with the convoy of + the St Albans and Lark, as far as their course and ours lay + together. When we came in sight of this last-mentioned ship, Mr + Anson first hoisted his broad pendant, and was saluted by all the + men-of-war in company. After joining this last convoy, we made up + eleven men-of-war, and about 150 sail of merchant ships, + consisting of the Turkey, the Straits, and the American trades. + The same day Mr Anson made a signal for all captains of + men-of-war to come on board, when he delivered them their + fighting and sailing instructions, and then we all stood to the + S.W. with a fair wind; so that next day at noon, being the 21st, + we had run forty leagues beyond the Ram-head. Being now clear of + the land, our commodore, to render our view more extensive, + ordered Captain Mitchell, in the Pearl, to make sail two leagues + a-head of the fleet every morning, and to repair to his station + every evening. Thus we proceeded till the 25th, when the + Winchester, with the American convoy, made the concerted signal + for leave to separate, and this being answered by the commodore, + they left us, which, was done by the St Albans and the Dragon on + the 24th, with the Turkey and Straits convoys.</p> + + <p>There now remained only our own squadron and the two + victuallers, with which we stood on our course for the island of + Madeira. But the winds were so contrary, that we had the + mortification to be forty days on our passage to that island from + St Helens, though it is often known to be done in ten or twelve. + This delay was most unpleasant, and was productive of much + discontent and ill humour among our people, of which these only + can have an adequate idea who have experienced a similar + situation: For, besides the peevishness and despondency, which + foul and contrary winds, and a lingering voyage, never fail to + produce on all occasions, we in particular had substantial + reasons for being greatly alarmed at this unexpected impediment; + since, as we departed from England much later than we ought to + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page234" id="page234"></a>[pg + 234]</span> have done, we had placed almost all our hope of + success on the chance of retrieving in some measure at sea, the + time we had so unhappily wasted at Spithead and St Helens. At + last, on Monday the 25th October, at five in the morning, we made + the land to our great joy, and came to anchor in the afternoon in + Madeira road, in forty fathoms, the Brazen Head bearing from us + E. by S. the Loo N.N.W. and the Great Church N.N.E. We had hardly + let go our anchor when an English privateer sloop ran under our + stern, and saluted the commodore with nine guns, which we + returned with five. Next day the English consul visited the + commodore, and was saluted with nine guns on coming on board.</p> + + <p>The island of Madeira, where we now arrived, is famous through + all our American settlements for its excellent wines, which seem + designed by Providence for the refreshment of the inhabitants of + the torrid zone. It is situated in a fine climate, in lat. + 32° 27' N. and long. from London 18° 30' to + 19° 30' W. by our different reckonings, though laid down + in the charts in 47°.<a id="footnotetag107" name= + "footnotetag107"></a><a href="#footnote107"><sup>1</sup></a> The + whole island is composed of one continued hill of considerable + height, extending from east to west; the declivity of which, on + the south side, is cultivated and interspersed with vineyards. In + the middle of this slope the merchants have their country seats, + which contribute to form a very agreeable prospect. There is but + one considerable town, named Fonchiale, on the south part of the + island, situated at the bottom of a large bay. Towards the sea it + is defended by a high wall with a battery of cannon, besides a + castle on the Loo, which is a rock standing in the water at a + small distance from the shore. Tonchiale is the only place of + trade, and indeed the only place where it is possible for a boat + to land; and even there the beach is so covered with great + stones, and so violent a surf beats continually upon it, that the + commodore did not care to venture the long-boats of our ships in + fetching off water, and therefore ordered the captains to employ + Portuguese boats on that service.</p> + + <p>We continued about a week at this island, watering our ships, + and providing the squadron with wine and other refreshments. + While here, on the 3d November, Captain <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page235" id="page235"></a>[pg 235]</span> + Richard Norris signified to the commodore, by letter, his desire + to quit the command of the Gloucester, in order to return to + England for the recovery of his health. The commodore complied + with this request, and was pleased to appoint Captain Matthew + Mitchell to command the Gloucester in his room, to remove Captain + Kidd from the Wager to the Pearl, and Captain Murray from the + Tryal sloop to the Wager, giving the command of the Tryal to + Lieutenant Cheap. These promotions being settled, with other + changes in the lieutenancies, the commodore, on the 4th November, + gave to the captains their orders, appointing St Jago, one of the + Cape Verd islands, to be the first place of rendezvous in case of + separation; and, if they did not meet the Centurion there, + directing them to make the best of their way to the island of St + Catharine on the coast of Brazil. The water for the squadron + being that day completed, and each ship supplied with as much + wine and other refreshments as they could take in, we weighed + anchor in the afternoon, and took leave of Madeira. But, before + continuing the narrative of our transactions, I think it + necessary to give some account of the proceedings of the enemy, + and of the measures they had taken to render all our designs + abortive.</p> + + <p>On visiting the governor of Madeira, Mr Anson was informed by + him, that for three or four days in the latter end of October, + there had appeared to the westward of the island seven or eight + ships of the line and a <i>patache</i>, which last was sent close + in with the land every day. The governor assured our commodore, + upon his honour, that no person on the island had either given + them intelligence, or had any sort of communication with them. He + believed them to be either French or Spanish, but was rather + inclined to suppose the latter. On this intelligence, Mr Anson + sent an officer in a clean sloop eight leagues to the westwards, + to reconnoitre them, and, if possible, to discover what they + were: But the officer returned without having seen them, so that + we still remained in uncertainty; yet we could not but conjecture + that this fleet was intended to put a stop, if possible, to our + expedition; and, had they cruized to the eastward of the island, + instead of the westward, they could not have failed in doing so: + for, as in that case they must infallibly have fallen in with us, + we should have been under the necessity of throwing overboard + vast quantities of provisions, to clear our ships for action; and + this alone, independent <span class="pagenum"><a name="page236" + id="page236"></a>[pg 236]</span> of the event of the action, + would have effectually prevented our progress. This was so + obvious a measure, that we could not help imagining reasons which + might have prevented them from pursuing it. We supposed, + therefore, that this French or Spanish squadron, having advice + that we were to sail in company with Admiral Balchen and Lord + Cathcart's expedition, might not think it adviseable to meet with + us till we had parted company, from apprehension of being + over-matched, and supposed we might not separate before our + arrival at this island. These were our speculations at the time, + from which we had reason to suppose we might still fall in with + them, in our way to the Cape de Verd islands. We were afterwards + persuaded, in the course of our expedition, that this was the + Spanish squadron commanded by Don Joseph Pizarro, sent out + purposely to traverse the views and enterprizes of our squadron, + to which they were greatly superior in strength. As this Spanish + armament was so nearly connected with our expedition, and as the + catastrophe, if underwent, though not effected by our force, was + yet a considerable advantage to this nation produced in + consequence of our equipment; I have, in the following section, + given a summary account of their proceedings, from their first + setting out from Spain in 1740, till the Asia, the only ship of + the whole squadron that returned to Europe, got back to Corunna + in the beginning of the year 1746.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote107" name="footnote107"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag107">(return)</a> + + <p>The charts are however the most accurate, as that is the + long. of the centre of Madeira, in our best modern maps.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION III.</h3> + + <h4><i>History of the Spanish Squadron commanded by Don Joseph + Pizarro.</i></h4> + + <p>The squadron fitted out by the court of Spain, to attend our + motions, and traverse our projects, we supposed to have been the + ships seen off Madeira. As this force was sent out particularly + against our expedition, I cannot but imagine that the following + history of its casualties, so far as has come to my knowledge, by + intercepted letters and other information, is an essential part + of the present work. For it will from hence appear, that we were + the occasion of a considerable part of the Spanish naval power + being diverted from prosecuting the ambitious views of that court + in Europe; <span class="pagenum"><a name="page237" id= + "page237"></a>[pg 237]</span> and whatever men and ships were + lost by the enemy in this undertaking, were lost in consequence + of the precautions they took to secure themselves against our + expedition.</p> + + <p>This squadron, besides two ships bound for the West Indies, + which did not part company till after they left Madeira, was + composed of the following men-of-war, commanded by Don Joseph + Pizarro. The Asia of 66 guns and 700 men, the admiral's ship; the + Guipuscoa of 74 guns and 700 men; the Hermiona of 54 guns and 500 + men; the Esperanza of 50 guns and 450 men; the St Estevan of 40 + guns and 350 men; and a patache of 20 guns.</p> + + <p>Over and above their complements of sailors and marines, these + ships had on board an old Spanish regiment of foot, intended to + reinforce the garrisons on the coast of the South-Sea. Having + cruised some days to leeward of Madeira, as formerly mentioned, + they left that station in the beginning of November, and steered + for the Rio de la Plata, where they arrived on the 5th of January + O.S. and coming to anchor in the bay of Maldonado, at the mouth + of that river, their admiral sent immediately to Buenos Ayres for + a supply of provisions, having left Spain with only four months + provisions on board. While waiting this supply, they received + intelligence, by the treachery of the Portuguese governor of St + Catharines, of Mr Anson having arrived at that island on the 21st + December preceding, and that he was preparing to put to sea again + with the utmost expedition. Notwithstanding his superior force, + Pizarro had his reasons, and some say his orders, for avoiding + our squadron any where short of the South-Sea. He was, besides, + extremely desirous of getting round Cape Horn before us, + imagining that alone would effectually baffle all our designs; + wherefore, hearing that we were in his neighbourhood, and that we + should be soon ready to proceed for Cape Horn, he weighed anchor + with his five large ships, the Patache being disabled and + condemned, and the men taken out of her; and, after a stay of + seventeen days only, got under sail without his provisions, which + arrived at Maldonado within a day or two after his departure. + Notwithstanding this precipitation, we put to sea from St + Catharines four days before he did from Maldonado; and at one + part of our passage to Cape Horn the two squadrons were so near, + that the Pearl, one of our ships, being separated from the rest, + fell in with the Spanish fleet, and, mistaking the Asia for the + Centurion, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page238" id= + "page238"></a>[pg 238]</span> got within gun-shot of the Asia + before the mistake was discovered, and narrowly escaped being + taken.</p> + + <p>As it was the 22d January when the Spaniards weighed from + Maldonado, they could not expect to get into the latitude of Cape + Horn before the equinox; and, as they had reason to apprehend + very tempestuous weather in doubling it at that season, while the + Spanish sailors, for the most part accustomed to a fair-weather + country, might be supposed averse from so dangerous and fatiguing + a navigation, the better to encourage them, some part of their + pay was advanced to them in European goods, which they were to + have leave to dispose of in the South-Seas, that so the hopes of + the great profits they were to make of their ventures, might + animate them in their duty, and render them less disposed to + repine at the labours, hardships, and perils they might in all + probability meet with, before their arrival on the coast of + Peru.</p> + + <p>Towards the latter end of February, Pizarro and his squadron + got into the latitude of Cape Horn, and then stood to the + westwards in order to double that southern promontory. But, in + the night of the last of February O.S. while turning to windward + with this view, the Guipuscoa, Hermiona, and Espranza were + separated from the admiral. On the 6th March following, the + Guipuscoa was separated from the other two; and next day, being + that after we passed the Straits of Le Maire, there came on a + most furious storm at N.W. which, in spite of all their efforts, + drove the whole squadron to the eastward, and, after several + fruitless attempts, obliged them to bear away for the river of + Plate. Pizarro arrived there in the Asia about the middle of May, + and was followed a few days after by the Esperanza and Estevan. + The Hermiona was supposed to have foundered, as she was never + more heard of; and the Guipuscoa was run on shore and destroyed + on the coast of Brazil. The calamities of all kinds which this + squadron underwent in their unsuccessful attempt to double Cape + Horn, can only be paralleled by what we ourselves experienced in + the same climate, when buffeted by the same storms. There was + indeed some diversity in our distresses, rendering it difficult + to decide whose situation was most worthy of commiseration; for, + to all the miseries and misfortunes we experienced in common, as + shattered rigging, leaky ships, and the fatigues and despondency + necessarily attendant on these disasters, there <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page239" id="page239"></a>[pg 239]</span> was + superadded on board our squadron the ravages of a most + destructive and incurable disease; and in the Spanish squadron + the devastation of famine.</p> + + <p>It has been already observed, that this squadron left Spain + with only four months provisions on board, and even that, it is + said, at short allowance, either owing to the hurry of their + outfit, or presuming upon a supply at Buenos Ayres; so that, when + their continuance at sea was prolonged, by the storms they met + with off Cape Horn, a month or more beyond their expectation, + they were reduced to such infinite distress, that rats, when they + could be caught, sold for four dollars a-piece; and a sailor who + died in one of the ships, had his death concealed by his brother + for some days, who lay all that time in the hammock with the + corpse, that he might receive the dead man's allowance of + provisions. In this dreadful situation, if their horrors were + capable of augmentation, they were alarmed by discovering a + conspiracy among the marines on board the Asia, who proposed + massacring the officers and whole crew, their sole motive for + this bloody resolution appearing to be the desire of relieving + their hunger, by appropriating the whole provisions in the ship + to themselves. This design was prevented, when just on the point + of execution, by means of one of their confessors, and three of + the ringleaders were immediately put to death. By the complicated + distresses of fatigue, sickness, and famine, the three ships that + escaped lost the greatest part of their men. The admiral's ship, + the Asia, arrived at Monte Video in the Rio Plata with only half + her crew. The Estevan, when she anchored in the bay of Barragan + had also lost half her men. The Esperanza was still more + unfortunate, for of 450 hands she brought with her from Spain, + only 58 remained alive. The whole regiment of foot perished + except sixty men. To give a more distinct idea of what they + underwent upon this occasion, I shall present a short account of + the fate of the Guipuscoa, extracted from a letter written by Don + Joseph Mindinuetta, her captain, to a person of distinction at + Lima, a copy of which fell into our hands when in the + South-Sea.</p> + + <p>Having separated on the 6th March in a fog from the Hermiona + and Esperanza, being then, as I suppose, to the S.E. of States + Land, and plying to the westward, it blew a furious storm at N.W. + the succeeding night, which, at half past ten, split his + main-sail, and obliged him to bear away <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page240" id="page240"></a>[pg 240]</span> with + his foresail. The ship now went ten knots an hour with a + prodigious sea, and often ran her gangway under water. He + likewise sprung his main-mast, and the ship made so much water + that she could not be freed by four pumps assisted by bailing. On + the 9th the wind became calm, but the sea continued so high that + the ship, in rolling, opened all her upper works and seams, and + started the butt ends of her planks, and the greatest part of her + top-timbers, the bolts being drawn by the violence of the roll. + In this condition, with additional disasters to the hull and + rigging, they continued beating westward to the 12th, when they + were in lat. 60° S. and in great want of provisions, + numbers perishing daily by the fatigue of pumping, and the + survivors quite dispirited by labour, hunger, and the severity of + the weather, their decks being covered with snow above a foot in + depth. Finding the wind fixed in the west and blowing strong, and + their passage that way impossible, they resolved to bear away for + the Rio Plata. On the 22d they had to throw overboard all their + upper-deck guns and an anchor, and were obliged to take six turns + of the cable round the ship to prevent her from opening and + falling to pieces. On the 4th of April, in calm weather, but with + a very heavy sea, the ship rolled so much that her main-mast came + by the board, and was soon after followed by the fore and mizen + masts, after which they had to cut away the boltsprit, to + diminish, if possible, the leakage forwards. By this time two + hundred and fifty of the men had perished by hunger and fatigue. + Those who were capable of working at the pumps, at which every + officer took his turn without exception, were only allowed an + ounce and a half of biscuit daily; while those who were weak and + sickly, so that they could not assist in this necessary labour, + had no more than one ounce of wheat. It was common for the men to + fall down dead at the pumps, and all they could muster for duty, + including the officers, was from eighty to an hundred men.</p> + + <p>The S.W. wind blew so fresh for some days after they lost + their masts, that they could not set up jury-masts; so that they + were obliged to drive like a wreck, between the latitude of + 32° and 38° S. till the 24th of April, when + they made the coast of Brazil at Rio de Patas, ten leagues to the + southward of the island of St Catharines. They came here to an + anchor, the captain being very desirous of proceeding to St + Catharines, in order to save the hull of the ship, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page241" id="page241"></a>[pg 241]</span> with + her guns and stores: But the crew instantly left off pumping, and + all in one voice cried out, <i>On shore! on shore!</i> enraged at + the hardships they had suffered and the numbers they had lost, + there being at this time thirty dead bodies lying on the deck. + Thus the captain was obliged to run the ship directly to the + land, where she parted and sunk five days after, with all her + stores and furniture; but the remainder of the crew, whom hunger + and fatigue had spared, to the number of four hundred, got safe + on shore.</p> + + <p>From this account of the adventures and catastrophe of the + Guiapuscoa, we may form some conjecture of the manner in which + the Hermiona was lost, and of the distresses endured by the three + remaining ships of the squadron which got into the Rio Plata. + These last being in great want of masts, yards, rigging, and all + kinds of naval stores, and having no supply at Buenos Ayres or + any of the neighbouring settlements, Pizarro dispatched an + advice-boat with a letter of credit to Rio de Janeiro, to + purchase what was wanting from the Portuguese. He sent at the + same time an express across the continent to St Jago de Chili, to + be thence forwarded to the viceroy of Peru, informing him of the + disasters that had befallen his squadron, and desiring a + remittance of two hundred thousand dollars from the royal chest + at Lima, to enable him to refit and victual his remaining ships, + that he might be again in condition to attempt the passage to the + South-Sea as soon as the season of the year should be more + favourable. It is mentioned by the Spaniards, as a most + extraordinary circumstance, that, though then the depth of + winter, when the Cordilleras are esteemed impassable on account + of the snow, the Indian who was charged with this express was + only thirteen days on his journey from Buenos Ayres to St Jago in + Chili, though the distance is three hundred Spanish leagues, near + forty of which are among the snows and precipices of the + Cordilleras.</p> + + <p>The return to this dispatch of Pizarro from the viceroy was by + no means favourable. Instead of two hundred thousand dollars, the + sum demanded, the viceroy remitted him only one hundred thousand, + telling him that it was with great difficulty he was able to + procure even that sum. But the inhabitants of Lima, who + considered the presence of Pizarro as absolutely necessary to + their security, were much discontented at this procedure, and did + not scruple to assert, that it was not the want of money, but the + interested views <span class="pagenum"><a name="page242" id= + "page242"></a>[pg 242]</span> of some of the viceroy's + confidants, that prevented Pizarro from getting the whole + sum.</p> + + <p>The advice-boat sent to Rio Janeiro also executed her + commission but imperfectly; for, though she brought back a + considerable quantity of pitch, tar, and cordage, she could not + procure either masts or yards; and, as an additional misfortune, + Pizarro was disappointed of some masts he expected from Paraguay, + as a carpenter whom he entrusted with a large sum of money, and + sent there to cut masts, instead of prosecuting the business he + was sent upon, married in the country, and refused to return. + However, by removing the masts of the Esperanza into the Asia, + and using what spare masts and yards they had on board, they made + a shift to refit the Asia and Estevan: And, in the October + following, Pizarro was prepared to put to sea with these two + ships, in order to attempt the passage round Cape Horn a second + time; but, in coming down the Rio Plata, the Estevan ran upon a + shoal and beat off her rudder, and Pizarro proceeded to sea in + the Asia without her. Having now the antarctic summer before him, + and the winds favourable, no doubt was made of his having a + fortunate and speedy passage: But, when off Cape Horn and going + right before the wind, it being moderate weather, though in a + swelling sea, the ship rolled away her masts, by some misconduct + of the officer having the watch, and was a second time obliged to + put back in great distress to the Rio Plata.</p> + + <p>As the Asia had suffered considerably in this second + unfortunate expedition, the Esperanza was now ordered to be + refitted, the command of her being given to Mindinuetta, who was + formerly captain of the Guipuscoa. In November 1742, he sailed + from the Rio Plata for the south, and arrived safe on the coast + of Chili, where he was met by his commodore, Pizarro, who passed + over-land from Buenos Ayres. Great animosities and contests took + place between these two officers, owing to the claim of Pizarro + to command the Esperanza, which Mindinuetta had brought round, + and now refused to resign; insisting, as he had come round the + South Sea alone and under no superior, it was not now in the + power of Pizarro to resume the authority he had once parted with. + But, after a long and obstinate struggle, as the president of + Chili interposed and declared for Pizarro, Mindinuetta was + obliged to submit.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page243" id= + "page243"></a>[pg 243]</span> + + <p>Pizarro had not yet completed the series of his misfortunes. + When he and Mindinuetta returned over-land, in 1745, from Chili + to Buenos Ayres, they found the Asia still at Monte Video, and + resolved, if possible, to carry her to Europe. With this view + they refitted her in the best manner they could, but had great + difficulty in procuring a sufficient number of hands to navigate + her, as all the remaining sailors of the squadron, then to be met + with in the neighbourhood of Buenos Ayres, did not amount to an + hundred men. They endeavoured to supply this defect, by pressing + many of the inhabitants of Buenos Ayres, and putting on board all + the English prisoners then in their custody, together with a + number of Portuguese smugglers they had taken at different times, + and some of the Indians of the country. Among these last there + was a chief and ten of his followers, who had been surprised by a + party of Spanish soldiers about three months before. The name of + this chief was Orellana, and he belonged to a very powerful + tribe, which had committed great ravages in the neighbourhood of + Buenos Ayres. With this motley crew, all of them except the + European sailors averse from the voyage, Pizarro set sail from + Monte Video about the beginning of November 1745: and the native + Spaniards, being no strangers to the dissatisfaction of their + forced men, treated them, the English prisoners and the Indians, + with great insolence and barbarity, particularly the Indians; for + it was common in the meanest officers in the ship to beat them + cruelly on the slightest pretence, and often merely to shew their + superiority.</p> + + <p>Orellana and his followers, though in appearance sufficiently + patient and submissive, meditated a severe revenge for all these + inhumanities. As these Indians have great intercourse with Buenos + Ayres in time of peace, Orellana understood Spanish, and affected + to converse with such of the English prisoners as could speak + that language, seeming very desirous of being informed how many + Englishmen there were on board, and of having them pointed out to + him. As he knew the English were as much enemies to the Spaniards + as he was, he had doubtless an intention of disclosing his + purposes to them, and making them partners in the scheme he had + projected for revenging his wrongs and recovering his liberty; + but, having sounded them at a distance, and not finding them so + precipitate and vindictive as he expected, he proceeded no + farther with them, but resolved to trust alone <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page244" id="page244"></a>[pg 244]</span> to + the resolution of his ten faithful followers, who readily engaged + to observe his directions and to execute his commands. Having + agreed on the measures to be pursued, they contrived to provide + themselves with Dutch knives, sharp at the point, which, being + the common knives used in the ship, they procured without + difficulty. They also employed their leisure in secretly cutting + thongs from raw hides, of which there were great numbers on + board, and in fixing to each end of these thongs the + double-headed shot of the small quarter-deck guns; by which they + formed most mischievous weapons, in the use of which, by swinging + round the head, the Indians about Buenos Ayres are extremely + expert, being trained to it from their infancy. When these things + were in good forwardness, the execution of their scheme was + perhaps precipitated by a particular outrage committed upon + Orellana, who was ordered aloft by one of the officers, and being + incapable of doing so, the officer, who was a brutal fellow, beat + him with such violence, under pretence of disobedience, that he + left him bleeding on the deck, and quite stupified with wounds + and bruises. This certainly increased his thirst of revenge, so + that within a day or two he and his followers began to execute + their desperate resolves in the following manner.</p> + + <p>About nine in the evening, when many of the principal officers + were on the quarter-deck indulging in the freshness of the night + air, the forecastle being manned with its customary watch, + Orellana and his companions, having prepared their weapons, and + thrown off their trowsers and other cumbrous parts of their + dress, came all together on the quarter-deck, and drew towards + the door of the great cabin. The boatswain reprimanded them for + their presumption, and ordered them to be gone; on which Orellana + spoke to his followers in their native language, when four of + them drew off, two towards each gangway, and the chief and six + remaining Indians seemed to be slowly quitting the quarter-deck. + When the detached Indians had taken possession of the gangways, + Orellana placed his hands hollow to his mouth, and bellowed out + the war-cry of the savages, said to be the harshest and most + terrifying of sounds. This hideous yell was the signal for + beginning the massacre; upon which all the Indians drew their + knives and brandished their prepared double-headed shot. The + chief, and the six who remained with him on the quarter-deck, + fell immediately on <span class="pagenum"><a name="page245" id= + "page245"></a>[pg 245]</span> the Spaniards with whom they were + intermingled, and in a very short space laid forty of them at + their feet, above twenty of whom were killed on the spot, and the + rest disabled.</p> + + <p>In the beginning of the tumult, many of the officers rushed + into the great cabin, where they put out the lights and + barricadoed the door; while of the others, who had escaped the + first fury of the Indians, some endeavoured to escape along the + gangways to the forecastle, where the Indians, placed there on + purpose, stabbed the greater part of them as they attempted to + pass, or forced them off the gangways into the waste of the ship, + which was filled with live cattle. Some threw themselves + voluntarily over the barricades into the waste, and thought + themselves fortunate to lie concealed among the cattle; but the + greatest part escaped up the main-shrouds, and took shelter in + the tops and rigging of the ship. Although the Indians only + attacked the quarter-deck, yet the watch in the forecastle, + finding their communication cut off, and terrified by a few of + the wounded who had been able to force their passage, and not + knowing either who were their enemies, or what were their + numbers, they also gave all over for lost, and in great confusion + ran up into the rigging of the foremast and boltsprit.</p> + + <p>Thus these eleven Indians, with a resolution perhaps without + example, possessed themselves almost in an instant of the + quarter-deck of a ship mounting sixty-six guns, and manned by + near five hundred hands, and even continued in peaceable + possession of this part for some time. During a considerable + space, the officers in the great cabin, among whom were Pizarro + and Mindinuetta, the crew between decks, and those who had + escaped into the tops and rigging, were merely anxious for their + own safety, and were incapable of forming any project for + suppressing the insurrection and recovering the possession of the + ship. The yells of the Indians, the groans of the wounded, and + the confused clamours of the crew, all heightened by the darkness + of the night, had at first greatly magnified the danger, and + filled them with imaginary terrors. The Spaniards were sensible + of the dissatisfaction of their impressed hands, and were + conscious of their barbarity to their prisoners, wherefore they + concluded that the conspiracy was general, and considered their + own destruction as infallible; insomuch, that some are said to + have designed to leap into the sea, but were prevented by their + companions.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page246" id= + "page246"></a>[pg 246]</span> + + <p>When the Indians had entirely cleared the quarter-deck, the + tumult in a great measure subsided; for those who had escaped + were kept silent by their fears, and the Indians were incapable + of pursuing them. Orellana, when master of the quarter-deck, + broke open the arm-chest, which had been ordered there a few days + before, on a slight suspicion of mutiny. He there expected to + find cutlasses wherewith to arm himself and his followers, who + were all well skilled in the use of that weapon, and with these + it is imagined they proposed to have forced the great cabin: But + on opening the chest, there appeared nothing but fire-arms, which + to them were of no use. There were indeed abundance of cutlasses + in the chest, but they were hidden by the fire-arms being laid + uppermost. This was a sensible disappointment to Orellana and his + Indians. By this time Pizarro and his companions in the great + cabin had been able to communicate with those below in the + gun-room and between decks, by conversing aloud through the cabin + windows; by which means they learnt that the English prisoners, + whom they chiefly suspected, were all safe below, and had not + participated in the mutiny; and by other circumstances they were + at last made sensible that Orellana and his people only were + concerned in it. Upon this information, Pizarro and the officers + resolved to attack them on the quarter-deck, before any of the + discontented on board had so far recovered from their surprise as + to reflect on the facility of seizing the ship by joining with + the Indians. With this view, Pizarro collected what arms were in + the cabin and distributed them to those who were with him. There + were no fire-arms except pistols, and for these they had neither + powder nor ball; but having now a correspondence with the + gun-room, they lowered a bucket from the cabin window, into which + the gunner put a quantity of pistol cartridges out of one of the + gun-room ports. Having thus procured ammunition, and loaded their + pistols, they partly opened the cabin door, and fired several + shots among the Indians on the quarter-deck, though at first + without effect. At last Mindinuetta had the good fortune to shoot + Orellana dead; on which his faithful companions, abandoning all + thoughts of farther resistance, instantly leaped into the sea, + where they all perished. Thus was this insurrection quelled, and + possession of the quarter-deck regained, after it had been fully + two hours in the power of this <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page247" id="page247"></a>[pg 247]</span> great and daring + chief, and his small band of gallant unhappy countrymen.</p> + + <p>Having thus escaped from imminent peril, Pizarro continued his + voyage for Europe, and arrived safely on the coast of Gallicia in + the beginning of the year 1746, after an absence of between four + and five years, and having, by attendance on our expedition, + diminished the royal power of Spain by above three thousand of + their prime sailors, and by four considerable ships of war and a + patache. For we have seen that the Hermione foundered at sea, the + Guipuscoa was stranded and destroyed on the coast of Brazil, the + St Estevan was condemned and broken up in the Rio Plata, and the + Esperanza, being left in the South Sea, is doubtless by this time + incapable of returning to Spain: So that the Asia alone, with + less than an hundred hands, may be considered as all that remains + of the squadron with which Pizarro put forth to sea; and whoever + considers the very large proportion which this squadron bore to + the whole navy of Spain, will no doubt confess that, even if our + undertaking had been attended with no other advantages, than that + of ruining so great a part of the naval force of so dangerous an + enemy, this alone would be a sufficient equivalent for our + equipment, and an incontestable proof of the service which the + nation has thence received. Having thus given a summary of + Pizarro's adventures, I return to the narrative of our own + transactions.</p> + + <h3>SECTION IV.</h3> + + <h4><i>Passage from Madeira to St Catharines.</i></h4> + + <p>I have already mentioned that we weighed from Madeira on the + 3d November, after orders being given to rendezvous at St Jago, + one of the Cape Verd islands, in case of a separation. But next + day, when we were got to sea, the commodore, considering that the + season was far advanced, and that touching at St Jago would + create additional delay, thought proper for this reason to alter + the rendezvous, and appointed the island of St Catharines, on the + coast of Brazil, to be the first place to which the ships of the + squadron were to repair, in case of separation.</p> + + <p>In our passage to the island of St Catharines, we found the + direction of the trade winds to differ considerably from what + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page248" id="page248"></a>[pg + 248]</span> we had reason to expect, both from the general + histories given of these winds, and the experience of former + navigators. For the learned Dr Halley, in his account of the + trade-winds which prevail in the Ethiopic and Atlantic Oceans, + tells us that, from the lat. of 28° N. to 10° + N. there is generally a fresh gale of N.E. wind, which, towards + the African coasts, rarely comes to the eastward of E.N.E. or + passes to the northward of N.N.E. but on the American side the + wind is somewhat more easterly; though even there it is commonly + a point or two to the northward of east; that from 10° + N. to 4° N. the calms and tornadoes take place; and from + 4° N. to 30° S. the winds are generally and + perpetually between the south and east. We expected to find this + account of the matter confirmed by our experience; but we found + considerable variations from it, both in regard to the steadiness + of the winds, and the quarters from whence they blew. For though + we met with a N.E. wind about lat. 28° N. yet, from lat. + 25° N. to 18° N the wind was never once to the + northward of E. but almost constantly to the southward of it. + From thence, however, to 6° 20' N. we had it usually to + the northward of E. though not always, as it changed for a short + time to E.S.E. From 6° 20' N. to about 4° 46' + N. the weather was very unsettled, the wind being sometimes N.E. + then changing to S.E. and sometimes we had a dead calm, with + small rain and lightning. After this, to the lat. of 7° + 30' S. the wind continued almost invariably between S. and E. and + then again as invariably between N. and E. till we came to + 15° 30' S. then E. and S.E. to 21° 37' S. After + this, even to 27° 44' S. the wind was never once between + S. and E. though we had it in all the other quarters of the + compass; though this last circumstance may be in some measure + accounted for from our approach to the coast of Brazil.</p> + + <p>I do not mention these particulars with a view of cavilling at + the received accounts of these trade-winds, which, I doubt not, + are sufficiently accurate; but I thought it worthy of public + notice, that such deviations from the established rules do + sometimes take place. This observation may not only be of service + to navigators, by putting them on their guard against these + hitherto unexplained and unnoticed irregularities, but it is also + a circumstance that requires to be attended to in the solution of + the great question about the causes of trade-winds and monsoons; + a question which, in my opinion, has not been hitherto discussed + with that clearness and accuracy <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page249" id="page249"></a>[pg 249]</span> which its importance + demands, whether it be considered in a naval or a philosophical + point of view.</p> + + <p>On the 16th November, one of our victuallers made a signal to + speak with the commodore, and we shortened sail for her to come + up with us. The master came on board, and represented to Mr + Anson, that, having complied with the terms of his charter-party, + he now desired to be unloaded and discharged. On consulting the + captain of the squadron, it was found all the ships had still + such quantities of provisions between their decks, and were also + so deep, that they could only take in their proportions of brandy + from the Industry pink, one of the victuallers; and consequently + the commodore had to continue the other, the Ann pink, in the + service of attending the squadron. Accordingly, a signal was made + next day for the ships to bring to, and the long-boats were + employed that and the three following days, till the 19th in the + evening, to take their proportions of the brandy in the Industry + to the several ships of the squadron. Being then unloaded, she + parted company, intending for Barbadoes; and there to take in a + freight for England. Most of the officers in the squadron took + the opportunity of this ship, to write to their friends at home; + but I have been informed she was taken by the Spaniards.</p> + + <p>On the 20th November, the captains of the squadron represented + to the commodore, that their ships companies were very sickly; + and that, both in their own opinions and of their surgeons, it + would tend to the health of the men to let in more air between + decks; but that the ships were so deep in the water, that the + lower-deck ports could not possibly be opened. On this + representation, the commodore ordered six air-scuttles to be cut + in each ship, in such places as had least tendency to weaken + them. On this occasion, I cannot but observe how much it is the + duty of all who have any influence in the direction of our naval + affairs, to attend to the preservation of the lives and health of + our seamen. If it could be supposed that motives of humanity were + insufficient for this purpose, yet policy, a regard to the + success of our arms, and the honour and interest of each + individual commander, all should lead to a careful and impartial + examination of every probable method proposed for preserving the + health and vigour of seamen. But hath this been always done? Have + the late invented, plain, and obvious methods for keeping our + ships sweet and clean, by a constant supply <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page250" id="page250"></a>[pg 250]</span> of + fresh air, been considered with that candour and temper which the + great benefits they promise to produce ought naturally to have + inspired? On the contrary, have not these salutary schemes been + often treated with neglect and contempt? And have not some, who + have been entrusted with experimenting their effects, been guilty + of the most indefensible partiality in the accounts they have + given of these trials? It must, however, be confessed, that many + distinguished persons, both in the direction and command of our + fleets, have exerted themselves on these occasions with a + judicious and dispassionate examination, becoming the interesting + nature of the enquiry: But the wonder is, that any one should + have been found so irrational as to act a contrary part, in + despite of the strongest dictates of prudence and humanity. I + cannot, however, believe this conduct to have arisen from such + savage motives as the first reflection seems naturally to + suggest; but am apt rather to impute it to an obstinate, and, as + it were, superstitious attachment to long-established practices, + and to a settled contempt and hatred to all innovations, + especially such as are projected by landsmen, or persons residing + on shore.</p> + + <p>We crossed the equinoctial, with a fine fresh gale at N.E. on + Friday, the 28th November, at four in the morning, being thus, by + estimation, in long. 27° 59' W. from London. In the + morning of the 2d December, we saw a sail in the N.W. and made + the Gloucester's and Tryal's signals to chase; and half an hour + after, let out our reefs, and chased with the rest of the + squadron. About noon a signal was made for the Wager to take our + remaining victualler, the Ann pink, in tow; but, at seven in the + evening, finding we did not near the chase, and that the Wager + was very far astern, we shortened sail, and recalled the chasing + ships. Next day but one we again discovered a sail, which, on a + nearer approach, we judged to be the same vessel. We chased her + the whole day, and though we rather gained upon her, night came + on before we could overtake her, which obliged us to give over + the chase, to collect the scattered squadron. We were much + chagrined at the escape of this vessel, supposing her to have + been an advice-boat from Old Spain to Buenos Ayres, sent to give + notice of our expedition: But we have since learnt that it was + our East-India Company's packet, bound to St Helena.</p> + + <p>On the 10th December, being by our reckoning in lat. + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page251" id="page251"></a>[pg + 251]</span> 20° S. and long. 36° 30' W. from + London, the Tryal fired a gun to denote soundings. We immediately + tried, and found sixty fathoms, the bottom coarse ground with + broken shells. The Tryal, which was a-head of us, had at one time + thirty-seven fathoms, which afterwards increased to ninety, after + which she had no bottom; which happened to us also at our second + trial, though we sounded with a line of 150 fathoms. This is the + shoal laid down in most charts by the name of the + <i>Abrollos</i>,<a id="footnotetag108" name= + "footnotetag108"></a><a href="#footnote108"><sup>1</sup></a> and + it appeared we were upon its verge; perhaps farther in it may be + extremely dangerous. We were then, by our different accounts, + from sixty to ninety leagues east of the coast of Brazil. Next + day but one we spoke a Portuguese brigantine from Rio Janeiro + bound to <i>Bahia de todos los Santos</i>, by which we learnt + that we were thirty-four leagues from Cape St Thomas, and forty + from Cape Frio; which latter bore from us W.S.W. By our own + accounts we were nearly eight leagues from Cape Frio; and though, + on the information of this brig, we altered our course, standing + more southerly, yet, by our coming in with the land afterwards, + we were fully convinced that our own reckoning was more correct + than that of the Portuguese. After passing lat. 16° S. + we found a considerable current setting to the southward. The + same took place all along the coast of Brazil, and even to the + southward of the Rio Plata, amounting sometimes to thirty miles + in twenty-four hours, and once to above forty miles. If, as is + most probable, this current be occasioned by the running off of + the water which is accumulated on the coast of Brazil by the + constant sweeping of the eastern trade-wind over the Ethiopic + Ocean, it were then most natural to suppose that its general + course must be determined by the bearings of the adjacent shores. + Perhaps in every instance of currents the same may hold true, as + I believe there are no examples of any considerable currents at + any great distance from land. If this could be ascertained as a + general principle, it might be easy by their assistance and the + observed latitude, to correct the reckoning. But it were much to + be wished, for the general interests of navigation, that the + actual settings of the different currents in various parts of the + world were examined more frequently and more accurately than + appears to have been done hitherto.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page252" id="page252"></a>[pg 252]</span> + + <p>We began now to grow impatient for a sight of land, both for + the recovery of our sick, and for the refreshment and security of + those who still continued in health. When we left. St Helens, we + were in so good a condition that we only lost two men in the + Centurion in our long run to Madeira. But in this run, from + Madeira to St Catharines, we were remarkably sickly, so that many + died, and great numbers were confined to their hammocks, both in + our ship and the others, and several of these past all hopes of + recovery. The disorders they in general laboured under were those + common to hot climates, and which most ships bound to the south + experience in a greater or less degree. These were the fevers + usually called <i>calentures</i>, a disease not only terrible in + its first instance, but of which the remains often proved fatal + to those who considered themselves as recovered; for it always + left them in a very weak and helpless condition, and usually + afflicted with fluxes or tenesmus. By our continuance at sea all + these complaints were every day increasing; so that it was with + great joy we discovered the coast of Brazil on the 18th December, + at seven in the morning.</p> + + <p>The coast of Brazil appeared high and mountainous, extending + from W. to W.S.W. and when we first saw it, the distance was + about seventeen leagues. At noon we could perceive a low double + land, bearing W.S.W. about ten leagues distant, which we took to + be the island of St Catharines. That afternoon and the next + morning, the wind being N.N.W. we gained very little to windward, + and were apprehensive of being driven to leeward of the island: + But next day, a little before noon, the wind came about to the + southward, and enabled us to steer in between the N. point of St + Catharines and the neighbouring island of Alvoredo. As we stood + in for the land we had regular soundings, gradually decreasing + from thirty-six to twelve fathoms, all muddy ground. In this last + depth of water we let go our anchor at five in the evening of the + 18th,<a id="footnotetag109" name="footnotetag109"></a><a href= + "#footnote109"><sup>2</sup></a> the N.W. part of St Catharines + bearing S.S.W. three miles off; and the island of Alvoredo N.N.E. + distant two leagues. Here we found the tide to set S.S.E. and + N.N.W. at the rate of two knots, the tide of flood coming from + the southward.</p> + + <p>We could perceive from our ships two fortifications at a + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page253" id="page253"></a>[pg + 253]</span> considerable distance from us, which seemed intended + to prevent the passage of an enemy between the island of St + Catharines and the main. We could also soon see that our squadron + had alarmed the coast, as the two forts hoisted their colours and + fired several guns, signals, as we supposed, for assembling the + inhabitants. To prevent any confusion, the commodore immediately + sent an officer to compliment the governor, and to request a + pilot to conduct our ships into the road. The governor returned a + very civil answer, and ordered us a pilot. On the morning of the + 20th we weighed and stood in, and the pilot came aboard of us + about noon, and the same afternoon brought us to anchor in five + and a half fathoms, in a commodious bay on the continent, called + by the French Bon-port. From our last anchorage to this, we found + every where an oozy bottom, the water first regularly decreasing + to five fathoms, and then increasing to seven, after which we had + five and six fathoms alternately. The squadron weighed again next + morning, in order to run above the two fortifications formerly + mentioned, which are called the castles of Santa Cruiz and St + Joam. Our soundings between the island and the main were four, + five, and six fathoms, with muddy ground. We saluted the castle + of Santa Cruiz in passing with eleven guns, and were answered + with an equal number. At one in the afternoon of the 21st + December, the squadron came to anchor in five fathoms and a half, + Governor's Isle bearing N.N.W. St Joam's castle N.E. 1/2 E. and + the island of St Antonio S. At this time the squadron was sickly, + and in great want of refreshments, both of which we hoped to have + speedily remedied at this settlement, celebrated by former + navigators for its healthiness and abundance of provisions, and + for the freedom, indulgence, and friendly assistance given here + to all the ships of nations in amity with the crown of + Portugal.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote108" name="footnote108"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag108">(return)</a> + + <p>In the map of the world by Arrowsmith, the Abrolhos are made + a cluster of islands off the coast of Brazil, in lat. + 18° 10' S. long. 39° W. from Greenwich.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote109" name="footnote109"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag109">(return)</a> + + <p>There is an error in date here, as it has been already said + they first got sight of the coast of Brazil on the 18th, + obviously two days before. Hence, if the former date be right, + this ought to be the 20th.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION V.</h3> + + <h4><i>Proceedings at St Catharines, and a Description of that + Place, with a short Account of Brazil.</i></h4> + + <p>Our first care after mooring the ships was to get our sick men + on shore; preparatory for which each ship was ordered by the + commodore to erect two tents, one for the reception <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page254" id="page254"></a>[pg 254]</span> of + the sick, and the other for the surgeon and his assistants. We + sent eighty sick on shore from the Centurion, and I believe the + other ships sent as many in proportion to the number of their + hands. As soon as this necessary duty was performed, we scraped + our decks, and gave our ship a thorough cleansing, then smoaked + it between decks, and lastly washed every part with vinegar. + These operations were extremely necessary for correcting the + noisome stench on board, and destroying the vermin; for, from the + number of our men and the heat of the climate, both these + nuisances had increased upon us to a very loathsome degree, and, + besides being most intolerably offensive, were doubtless in some + sort productive of the sickness we had laboured under for a + considerable time before our arrival at this island.<a id= + "footnotetag110" name="footnotetag110"></a><a href= + "#footnote110"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>Our next employment was wooding and watering the squadron, + caulking the sides and decks of the ships, overhawling the + rigging, and securing our masts against the tempestuous weather + we were, in all probability, to meet with in going round Cape + Horn at so advanced and inconvenient a season. Before proceeding + in the narrative of our voyage, it may be proper to give some + account of the present state of the island of St Catharines and + the neighbouring country; both because the circumstances of the + place have materially changed from what they were in the time of + former writers, and as these changes laid us under many more + difficulties and perplexities than we had reason to expect, or + than other British ships, bound hereafter to the South Sea, may + perhaps think it prudent to struggle with.</p> + + <p>This island is nine leagues from N. to S. and two from E. to + W. It extends from lat. 27° 35' to 28° both S. + and is in long. 49° 45' W. from London.<a id= + "footnotetag111" name="footnotetag111"></a><a href= + "#footnote111"><sup>2</sup></a> Although of considerable height, + it is scarcely discernible at the distance of ten leagues, being + obscured under the continent of Brazil, the mountains of which + are exceedingly high; but on a nearer approach is easily + distinguished, and may be readily known by having a <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page255" id="page255"></a>[pg 255]</span> + number of small islands at each end.<a id="footnotetag112" name= + "footnotetag112"></a><a href="#footnote112"><sup>3</sup></a> + Frezier has given a draught of the island of St Catharines and + the neighbouring coast, with the smaller adjacent isles; but has, + by mistake, called the island of Alvoredo St Gal; whereas the + true island of St Gal is seven or eight miles northward of + Alvoredo, and much smaller. He has also called an island to the + southward of St Catharines Alvoredo, and has omitted the island + of Masaquara. In other respects his plan is sufficiently exact. + The best entrance to the harbour is between the N.E. point of the + island of St Catharines and the island of Alvoredo, where ships + may pass under the guidance of the lead, without the least + apprehensions of danger. The north entrance is about five miles + broad, the distance from thence to the island of St Antonio is + eight miles, and the coarse to that island is S.S.W. 1/2 W. About + the middle of the island the harbour is contracted to a narrow + channel by two points of land, not more than a quarter of a mile + separate, and at this time a battery was erecting on the point on + the island side to defend this passage. This seemed, however, a + very useless work, as this channel had only two fathoms water, + and is consequently only navigable for barks and boats, wherefore + an enemy could have no inducement to attempt this passage, more + especially as the northern one is so broad and safe that no + squadron can be prevented from coming in by any fortifications + whatever, when the sea-breeze makes. The brigadier Don Jose Sylva + de Paz, who is governor of this settlement, has a different + opinion; for, besides the above-mentioned battery, there were + three other forts carrying on for the defence of the harbour, + none of which were completed when we were there. The first of + these, called St Joam, was building on a point of the island of + St Catharines, near Parrot Island. The second, in form of a + half-moon, was on the island of St Antonio; and the third, which + seemed the chief, and had some appearance of a regular + fortification, is on an island near the continent, where the + governor resides. Don Jose Sylva de Paz was esteemed an expert + engineer; and he doubtless understood one branch of his business + very well, which is the advantages which new works bring to those + who have charge of their erection.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page256" id="page256"></a>[pg 256]</span> + + <p>The soil of this island is truly luxuriant, producing many + kinds of fruits spontaneously, and is covered over with one + continued forest of trees, in perpetual verdure, and which, from + the exuberant fertility of the soil, are so entangled with + thorns, briars, and underwood, as to form an absolutely + impenetrable thicket, except by some narrow paths which the + inhabitants have opened for their own convenience; and these, + with a few spots cleared for plantations, along that side of the + island which faces the continent, are the only uncovered parts of + the island. The woods are extremely fragrant, from the many + aromatic trees and shrubs with which they abound, and here the + fruits and vegetables of all climates thrive, almost without + culture, and are to be had in great plenty, so that there is no + want of pine-apples, peaches, grapes, oranges, lemons, citrons, + melons, apricots, and plantains; there is also abundance of + onions and potatoes, two productions of no small consideration + for sea-stores. The flesh provisions are, however, much inferior + to the vegetables. There are, indeed, small wild cattle to be + purchased, something like buffaloes, but these are very + indifferent food, their flesh being of a loose texture, and + generally of a disagreeable flavour, probably owing to their + feeding on wild calabash. There are also abundance of pheasants, + but they are not to be compared in taste to those we have in + England. The other provisions of the place are monkeys, parrots, + and, above all, fish of various sorts: These abound in the + harbour, and are both exceedingly good and easily caught, as + there are numerous sandy bays, very convenient for haling the + seyne.</p> + + <p>The water, both on the island and the opposite continent, is + excellent, and preserves at sea as well as that of the Thames. + After it has been a day or two in the cask, it begins to purge + itself, stinks most abominably, and is soon covered over with a + green scum, which subsides in a few days to the bottom, leaving + the water perfectly sweet, and as clear as crystal. The French + first brought this place into repute during their South-Sea trade + in the reign of Queen Anne, and usually wooded and watered in + Bon-port, on the continental side of the harbour, where they + anchored in great safety in six fathoms, and this is doubtless + the most commodious station for ships that are meant only for a + short stay. We watered on the St Catharine's side, at a + plantation opposite to the island of St Antonio.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page257" id="page257"></a>[pg 257]</span> + + <p>Such are the advantages of this island; but it has its + inconveniences also, partly proceeding from its climate, but more + particularly from its new regulations and the form of its + government, as lately established. In regard to the climate, it + must be remembered that the woods and hills which surround the + harbour prevent a free circulation of air, and the continual + vigorous vegetation furnishes such a prodigious quantity of + vapour, that a thick fog covers the whole country all night, and + a great part of the morning, continuing till either the sun + gathers strength to dissipate it, or it is dispersed by a brisk + sea-breeze. This renders the place close and humid, and probably + occasioned the many fevers and fluxes we were there afflicted + with. I must not omit to add, that we were pestered all day by + vast numbers of mosquetoes, which are not much unlike the gnats + in England, but much more venomous in their stings. At sunset, + when the musquetoes retired, they were succeeded by an infinity + of sand-flies, which made a mighty buzzing, though scarcely + discernable by the naked eye; wherever these bite, they raise a + small lump attended by painful itching, like that arising from + the bite of an English harvest bug. The only light in which this + place deserves our consideration is its favourable situation for + supplying and refreshing our cruizers bound for the South Sea, + and in this view its greatest inconveniences remain to be + related, to do which more distinctly, it may not be amiss to + consider the changes which it has lately undergone, both in its + inhabitants, its police, and its governor.</p> + + <p>In the time of Frazier and Shelvocke, this place served only + as a retreat to vagabonds and outlaws, who fled hither from all + parts of Brazil. It is true, that they acknowledged their + subjection to the crown of Portugal, and had a person among them + whom they called their captain, and who was considered as a kind + of governor; but both their allegiance to their king, and their + obedience to the captain, were merely verbal; for, as they had + plenty of provisions and no money, they were in a condition to + support themselves without aid from any neighbouring settlements, + and had nothing among them to tempt any neighbouring governor to + interpose his authority among them. In this situation they were + extremely hospitable and friendly to such foreign ships as came + among them; for, as these ships wanted only provisions, of which + the natives had great store, while the natives wanted clothes, + for they often despised money, and refused to <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page258" id="page258"></a>[pg 258]</span> take + it, the ships furnished them with apparel in exchange for their + provisions, both sides finding their account in this traffic, and + their captain had neither interest nor power to tax or restrain + it.</p> + + <p>Of late, for reasons which will afterwards appear, these + honest vagabonds have been obliged to receive a new colony among + them, and to submit to new laws and a new form of government. + Instead of their former ragged and bare-legged captain, whom they + took care, however, to keep innocent, they have now the honour of + being governed by Don Jose Sylva de Paz, a brigadier of the + armies of Portugal, who is accompanied by a garrison of soldiers, + and has consequently a more extensive and better supported power + than any of his predecessors: And as he wears better cloaths, + lives more splendidly, and has a much better knowledge of the + importance of money than any of them could ever pretend to, so he + puts in practice certain methods for procuring it with which they + were utterly unacquainted; yet it may be much doubted if the + inhabitants consider these methods as tending to promote either + their interests, or that of their sovereign, the king of + Portugal. This much is certain, that his behaviour cannot but be + extremely embarrassing to such British ships as touch here in + their way to the South Seas.</p> + + <p>One of his practices was, that he placed centinels at all the + avenues, to prevent the people from selling us any refreshments, + except at such exorbitant rates as we could not afford to give. + His pretence for this extraordinary stretch of power was, that he + was obliged to preserve their provisions for upwards of an + hundred families, which were daily expected as a reinforcement to + the colony. Thus he seems no novice in his profession, by his + readiness at inventing a plausible pretence for his interested + management. This circumstance, however, though sufficiently + provoking, was far from being the most exceptionable part of his + conduct; for, as by the neighbourhood of the Rio Plata, a + considerable smuggling trade is carried on between the Portuguese + and Spaniards, especially in exchanging gold for silver, by which + both princes are defrauded of their fifths; and as Don Jose was + deeply engaged in this prohibited commerce, in order to + ingratiate himself with his Spanish correspondents, he + treacherously dispatched an express to Buenos Ayres, where + Pizarro then lay, with an account of our arrival, our strength, + the number, of our ships, guns, men, and every circumstance + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page259" id="page259"></a>[pg + 259]</span> he could suppose our enemy desirous of being + acquainted with.</p> + + <p>This much, and what we shall have to relate in the course of + our own proceedings, may suffice as to the present state of St + Catharines and the character of its governor. But as the reader + may wish to know the reasons for the late new modelling of this + settlement, it will require, to explain this circumstance, to + give a short account of the adjacent continent of Brazil, and of + the wonderful discoveries which have been made within the last + forty years, which, from a country of but mean estimation, has + rendered it now perhaps the most considerable colony on the face + of the earth.</p> + + <p>This country was first discovered by Americus Vesputio, a + Florentine, who had the good fortune to be honoured by giving his + name to the immense continent found out some time before by + Columbus. As Vesputio was in the service of Portugal, this + discovery was settled and planned by that nation, and afterwards + devolved to the crown of Spain along with the rest of the + Portuguese dominions. During the long war between Spain and the + states of Holland, the Dutch possessed themselves of the + northermost parts of Brazil, and kept it for some years; but, + when the Portuguese revolted from the Spanish government, this + country took part in the revolt, and the Dutch were soon driven + out of their acquisitions; since which time it has continued + without interruption under the crown of Portugal. Till the + beginning of the present century, it was only productive of sugar + and tobacco, and a few other commodities of very little + importance; but has been lately discovered to abound in the two + mineral productions, gold and diamonds, which mankind hold in the + highest estimation, and which they exercise their utmost art and + industry in acquiring.</p> + + <p>Gold was first found in the mountains adjacent to the city of + Rio Janeiro. The occasion of its discovery is variously related, + but the most common account is, that the Indians dwelling on the + back of the Portuguese settlements were observed, by the soldiers + employed in an expedition against them, to use this metal for + fish-hooks; and, on enquiry into their manner of procuring this + precious metal, it appeared that great quantities of it were + annually washed from the hills, and left among the sand and + gravel which remained in the vallies after the running off or + evaporation of the water. It is now [in 1740] little more than + forty years since any quantities <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page260" id="page260"></a>[pg 260]</span> of gold, worth notice, + have been imported from Brazil to Europe; but, since that time, + the annual imports have been continually augmented by the + discovery of places in other provinces, where it is to be met + with as plentifully as at first about Rio Janeiro. It is alleged + that a <i>slender vein</i><a id="footnotetag113" name= + "footnotetag113"></a><a href="#footnote113"><sup>4</sup></a> of + gold spread through all the country, at about twenty-four feet + below the surface, but that this vein is too thin and poor to + answer the expence of digging.<a id="footnotetag114" name= + "footnotetag114"></a><a href="#footnote114"><sup>5</sup></a> + However, where the rivers or rains have had any course for a + considerable time, there gold is always to be collected, the + water having separated the metal from the earth, and deposited it + in the sands, thereby saving the expence of digging; hence it is + esteemed an infallible gain to be able to divert a stream from + its channel, and ransack its bed. From this account of the manner + of gathering gold, it should follow that there are no mines of + this metal in Brazil, and this the governor of Rio Grande, who + happened to be at St Catharines, and frequently visited Mr Anson, + did most confidently affirm, assuring us that all the gold was + collected from rivers, or from the beds of torrents after floods. + It is indeed asserted that large rocks are found in the mountains + abounding in gold, and I have seen a fragment of one of these + rocks having a considerable lump of gold entangled in it; but, + even in this case, the workmen only break off the rocks, and do + not properly mine into them; and the great expence of subsisting + among these mountains, and in afterwards separating the metal + from the stone, occasions this method of procuring gold to be but + rarely put in practice.</p> + + <p>The examining the bottom of rivers and beds of torrents, and + the washing the gold there found, from the sand and dirt with + which it is always mixed, are performed by slaves, who are + principally negroes, kept in great numbers by the Portuguese for + this purpose. The regulation of the duty of these slaves is + singular, as they are each of them obliged to furnish their + master with the eighth part of an ounce of gold daily.<a id= + "footnotetag115" name="footnotetag115"></a><a href= + "#footnote115"><sup>6</sup></a> <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page261" id="page261"></a>[pg 261]</span> If they are either so + fortunate or industrious as to collect a greater quantity, the + surplus becomes their own property, and they may dispose of it as + they think fit; so that some negroes, who have accidentally + fallen upon rich washing-places, are said to have themselves + purchased slaves, and to have lived afterwards in great + splendour, their original master having no other demand upon them + than the daily supply of the before-mentioned eighths; which, as + the Portuguese ounce is somewhat lighter than our troy ounce, may + amount to about nine shillings sterling.</p> + + <p>The quantity of gold thus collected in the Brazils and + returned annually to Lisbon, may be estimated, in some degree, + from the amount of the royal fifth. This has been of late + computed, one year with another, at one hundred and fifty + <i>aroues</i>, of thirty-two Portuguese pounds each, which, + valued at L. 4 sterling the troy ounce, make very nearly three + hundred thousand pounds sterling; and consequently the capital, + of which this is the fifth, is about a million and a half + sterling. It is obvious that the annual return of gold to Lisbon + cannot be less than this, though it may be difficult to guess how + much more it may be. Perhaps we may not be much mistaken in + conjecturing that the gold exchanged with the Spaniards at Buenos + Ayres for silver, and what is privately brought to Europe without + paying the duty, may amount to near half a million more, which + will make the entire yearly produce of Brazilian gold nearly two + millions sterling; a prodigious sum to be found in a country + which only a few years since was not known to furnish a single + grain.</p> + + <p>Besides gold, this country also affords diamonds, as already + mentioned. The discovery of these valuable stones is much more + recent even than that of gold, as it is scarcely twenty years + since the first were brought to Europe.<a id="footnotetag116" + name="footnotetag116"></a><a href="#footnote116"><sup>7</sup></a> + They are found in the same manner as gold, in the gullies of + torrents and beds of rivers, but only in particular places, and + by no means so universally spread throughout the country. They + were often found while washing for gold, before they were known + to be diamonds, and were consequently thrown away along with the + sand and gravel; and it is well remembered that numbers of very + large stones, which would have made <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page262" id="page262"></a>[pg 262]</span> the + fortunes of the possessors, have passed unregarded through the + hands of those who now impatiently support the mortifying + reflection. However, about twenty years since, [that is, in + 1720,] a person acquainted with the appearance of rough diamonds, + conceived that these pebbles, as they were then called, were of + the same kind; yet it is said there was a considerable interval + between the first stating of this opinion and its confirmation, + by proper examination, as it was difficult to persuade the + inhabitants that what they had been long accustomed to despise, + could be of such amazing importance; and in this interval, as I + was told, a governor of one of these places procured a good + number of these stones, which he pretended to make use of as + markers at cards. The truth of the discovery was at last + confirmed by skilful jewellers in Europe, who were consulted on + the occasion, and who declared that these Brazilian pebbles were + true diamonds, many of which were not inferior in lustre, or + other qualities, to those of the East Indies. On this being made + known, the Portuguese in the neighbourhood of the places where + these had been first discovered, set themselves to search for + diamonds with great assiduity, and were hopeful of discovering + them in considerable quantities, as they found large rocks of + crystal in many of the mountains whence the streams proceeded + that washed down the diamonds.</p> + + <p>Soon after this discovery, it was represented to the king of + Portugal, that if diamonds should be met with in such abundance + as their sanguine expectations seemed to indicate, their value + and estimation would be so debased as to ruin all the Europeans + who had any quantity of East India diamonds in their possession, + and would even render the discovery itself of no importance, and + prevent his majesty from deriving any advantages from it. On + these considerations, his majesty thought proper to restrain the + general search for diamonds, and erected a diamond company, with + an exclusive charter for this purpose; in which company, in + consideration of a sum of money paid to the king, the property of + all diamonds found in Brazil is vested: But, to hinder them from + collecting too large quantities, and thereby reducing their value + in the market, they are prohibited from employing above eight + hundred slaves in this search. To prevent any of his other + subjects from continuing the search, and to secure the company + against interlopers, a large town, and considerable surrounding + district, has been depopulated; and <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page263" id="page263"></a>[pg 263]</span> all + the inhabitants, said to have amounted to six thousand, have been + obliged to remove to another part of the country: For as this + town and district were in the neighbourhood of the diamonds, it + was thought impossible to prevent such a number of people from + frequently smuggling, if allowed to reside on the spot.</p> + + <p>In consequence of these important discoveries in Brazil, new + laws, new governments, and new regulations, have been established + in many parts of the country. Not long ago there was a + considerable track of country possessed by a set of inhabitants + called Paulists, from the name of their principal settlement, who + were almost independent of the crown of Portugal, to which it + scarcely ever acknowledged a nominal allegiance. These Paulists + are said to be descendants from the Portuguese who retired from + the northern part of Brazil when it was invaded and possessed by + the Dutch. Being long neglected by their superiors, owing to the + confusions of the times, and obliged to provide for their own + security and defence, the necessity of their affairs produced a + kind of government among themselves, which sufficed for their + mode of life. Thus habituated to their own regulations, they + became fond of independence, so that, rejecting the mandates of + the court of Lisbon, they were often engaged in a state of + downright rebellion; and, owing to the mountains surrounding + their country, and the difficulty of clearing the few passes + leading towards it, they were generally able to make their own + terms before they submitted. But as gold was found in this + country of the Paulists, the present king of Portugal, in whose + reign almost all these great discoveries have been made, thought + it necessary to reduce this province, now become of great + importance, under the same dependence and obedience with the rest + of the country, which was at length effected, though, as I was + informed, with great difficulty.</p> + + <p>The same motives which induced his majesty to reduce the + Paulists, have also occasioned the changes which I have mentioned + as having taken place at the island of St Catharines: For, as we + were assured by the governor of Rio Grande, there are + considerable rivers in this neighbourhood that are found to be + extremely rich in gold, for which reason a military governor with + a garrison have been placed here, along with a new colony; and, + as the harbour at this island is by much the largest and most + secure of any on the coast, it is not improbable, if the riches + of the neighbourhood <span class="pagenum"><a name="page264" id= + "page264"></a>[pg 264]</span> answer their present expectation, + that it may become in time the principal settlement in Brazil, + and the most considerable port in all South America.</p> + + <p>This much I thought necessary to insert, in relation to the + present state of Brazil and of the island of St Catharines; for, + as this last place has been generally recommended as the most + eligible place for our cruizers to refresh at when bound to the + South Sea, I believed it to be my duty to instruct my countrymen + in the hitherto unsuspected inconveniences which attend that + place. And, as the Brazilian gold and diamonds are subjects of + novelty, of which very few particulars have hitherto been + published, I considered that the account I have been able to + collect respecting them might not be regarded either a trifling + or useless digression.</p> + + <p>When we first arrived at St Catharines, we were employed in + refreshing our sick on shore, in wooding and watering the + squadron, in cleaning our ships, and in examining and securing + our masts and rigging, as formerly mentioned. At the same time Mr + Anson gave orders that the ships companies should be supplied + with fresh meat, and have a full allowance of all kinds of + provisions. In consequence of these orders we had fresh meat sent + on board continually for our daily expenditure; and every thing + else that was wanting to make up our allowances, was received + from the Anna Pink, our victualler, in order to preserve the + provisions on board the ships of the squadron as entire as + possible for future service. As the season of the year grew every + day less favourable for our passage round Cape Horn, Mr Anson was + very anxious to leave St Catharines as soon as possible, and we + were at first in hopes that all our business would be concluded, + and we should be in readiness to sail, in about a fortnight from + our arrival; but, on examining the masts of the Tryal, we found, + to our no small vexation, inevitable employment for twice that + time; for, on a survey, her main-mast was sprung at the upper + woulding, though that was thought capable of being secured by + means of two fishes; but the fore-mast was reported entirely + unfit for service, on which the carpenters were sent into the + woods in search of a stick proper for a new foremast. After a + search of four days, nothing could be found fit for the purpose; + wherefore, on a new consultation, it was agreed to endeavour to + secure the mast by three fishes, in which work the carpenters + were employed till within a <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page265" id="page265"></a>[pg 265]</span> day or two of our + departure. In the meantime, thinking it necessary to have a clean + vessel, on our arrival in the South Sea, the commodore ordered + the Tryal to be hove down, which occasioned no loss of time, as + it might be completed while the carpenters were refitting her + masts on shore.</p> + + <p>A sail being discovered in the offing on the 27th December, + and not knowing but she might be Spanish, the eighteen-oared boat + was manned and armed, and sent under the command of our second + lieutenant, to examine her before she got within the protection + of the forts. She proved to be a Portuguese brigantine from Rio + Grande; and, though our officer behaved with the utmost civility + to the master, and even refused to accept a calf which the master + pressed him to accept, the governor took great offence at the + sending our boat, talking of it in a high strain, as a violation + of the peace subsisting between the crowns of Great Britain and + Portugal. We thus attributed this blustering to no deeper cause + than the natural insolence of Don Jose; but when he charged our + officer with behaving rudely, and attempting to take by violence + the calf which he had refused as a present, we had reason to + suspect that he purposely sought this quarrel, and had more + important objects in view than the mere captiousness of his + temper. What these motives might be we had then no means of + determining, or even guessing at; but we afterwards found, by + letters which fell into our hands when in the South-Seas, that he + had dispatched an express to Pizarro, who then lay in the Rio + Plata, with an account of our arrival at St Catharines, together + with a most ample and circumstantial account of our force and + condition. We then conceived, that Don Jose had raised this + groundless clamour on purpose to prevent us from visiting the + brigantine when she should go away again, lest we might have + found proofs of his perfidy, and perhaps have discovered the + secret of his smuggling correspondence with his neighbouring + governors, and with the Spaniards at Buenos Ayres.</p> + + <p>It was near a month before the Tryal was refitted; for not + only were her lower-masts defective, but her main-topmast and + fore-yard were likewise found rotten. While this work was going + on, the other ships of the squadron set up new standing-rigging, + together with a sufficient number of preventer shrowds to each + mast, to secure them in the most effectual manner. Also, in order + to render the ships stiffer, <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page266" id="page266"></a>[pg 266]</span> to enable them to + carry more sail abroad, and to prevent them from straining their + upper works in hard gales of wind, the several captains were + ordered to put some of their great guns into their holds. These + precautions being complied with, and all the ships having taken + in as much wood and water as there was room for, the Tryal was at + last completed, and the whole squadron was ready for sea: On + which the tents on shore were struck, and all the sick removed on + board. We had here a melancholy proof how much the healthiness of + this place was over-rated by former writers; for, though the + Centurion had alone buried no less than twenty-eight of her men + since our arrival, yet, in the same interval, the number of her + sick had increased from eighty to ninety-six.</p> + + <p>All being embarked, and every thing prepared for our + departure, the commodore made the signal for all captains, and + delivered them their orders, containing the successive places of + rendezvous from hence to the coast of Chili. Next day, being the + 18th of January, 1741, the signal was made for weighing, and the + squadron put to sea; leaving this island of St Catharines without + regret, as we had been extremely disappointed in our + accommodations and expectatations of refreshment, and in the + humane and friendly offices we had been taught to look for, in a + place so much celebrated for its hospitality, freedom, and + convenience.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote110" name="footnote110"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag110">(return)</a> + + <p>This matter is now infinitely better regulated in the + British navy, and with most admirable and infinitely important + advantages. By the most minute, sedulous, and perpetual + attention to cleanliness, all noisome stench and all vermin are + prevented, by which doubtless diseases are in a great measure + lessened.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote111" name="footnote111"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag111">(return)</a> + + <p>This account of the matter is very erroneous. The latitudes + are between 28° 5' and 28° 30' both S. and + the longitude is 49° 10' W. from Greenwich.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote112" name="footnote112"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag112">(return)</a> + + <p>The more elaborate nautical description of this island is + necessarily omitted, as referring to two extensive views, + without which the description would be unintelligible.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote113" name="footnote113"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag113">(return)</a> + + <p>The author ought here to have said, <i>a thin layer</i>, or + <i>stratum</i>, to express the obvious meaning intended in the + text.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote114" name="footnote114"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag114">(return)</a> + + <p>The editor was informed, many years ago, by an intelligent + native of Rio Janeiro, that the search for gold is confined by + law to certain districts, on purpose to secure the royal fifth; + and that all over the country round Rio Janeiro, where the + search is prohibited, gold, emeralds, and aqua-marines are + found in small quantities, on every occasion of digging to any + depth into the earth, as for the purpose of a pit-well.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote115" name="footnote115"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag115">(return)</a> + + <p>On the data of the text, and allowing sixty-five days in the + year for Sundays and high festivals, the yearly profit of one + slave to his master would be L. 135 sterling.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote116" name="footnote116"></a><b>Footnote 7:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag116">(return)</a> + + <p>The author writes as of the year 1740.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION VI.</h3> + + <h4><i>The Run from St Catharines to Port St Julian; with some + Account of that Port, and of the Country to the South of the Rio + Plata.</i></h4> + + <p>In quitting St Catharines, we left the last amicable port we + proposed to touch at, and were now proceeding to a hostile, or at + best a desert and inhospitable coast. As we were to expect a more + boisterous climate to the southward than any we had yet + experienced, not only our danger of separation would by this + means be much augmented, but other accidents of a more + mischievous nature were also to be apprehended, and as much as + possible provided against. Mr Anson, therefore, in appointing the + various stations at which the ships of the squadron were to + rendezvous, had <span class="pagenum"><a name="page267" id= + "page267"></a>[pg 267]</span> considered that his own ship might + be disabled from getting round Cape Horn, or might be lost, and + gave therefore proper directions, that, even in that case, the + expedition might not be abandoned. The orders delivered to the + captains, the day before sailing from St Catharines, were, in + case of separation, which they were to endeavour to avoid with + the utmost care, that the first place of rendezvous was to be + Port St Julian, describing the place from Sir John Narborough's + account of it. They were there to provide as much salt as they + could take on board, both for their own use and that of the other + ships of the squadron; and, if not joined by the commodore after + a stay of ten days, they were then to pass through the straits of + Le Maire and round Cape Horn into the South-Seas, where the next + place of rendezvous was to be the island of Nostra Senora del + Socoro, in lat. 45° S. long. 71° 12' W. from + the Lizard.<a id="footnotetag117" name= + "footnotetag117"></a><a href="#footnote117"><sup>1</sup></a> They + were to bring this island to bear E.N.E. and to cruize from five + to twelve leagues distance from it, as long as their store of + wood and water would permit, both of which they were directed to + expend with the utmost frugality. When under the necessity of + procuring a fresh supply, they were to stand in, and endeavour to + find an anchorage; and in case they could not, and the weather + made it dangerous to supply the ships by standing off and on, + they were then to make the best of their way to the island of + Juan Fernandez in lat. 33° 37' S. at which island, after + recruiting their wood and water, they were to cruize off the + anchorage for fifty-six days; and, if not joined by the commodore + in that time, they were to conclude that some accident had + befallen him, and were forthwith to put themselves under the + command of the senior officer, who was to use his utmost + endeavour to annoy the enemy both by sea and land. In this view, + the new commander was urged to continue in these seas as long as + provisions lasted, or as they could be supplied by what could be + taken from the enemy, reserving only a sufficiency to carry the + ships to Macao, at the entrance of the river of Canton on the + coast of China; whence, being supplied with a new stock of + provisions, they were to make the best of their way to England. + As it was found still impossible <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page268" id="page268"></a>[pg 268]</span> to unload the Anna + Pink, our victualler, the commodore gave her master instructions + for the same rendezvouses, and similar orders to put himself + under the command of the remaining senior officer.</p> + + <p>Under these orders, the squadron sailed from St Catharines on + Sunday the 18th of January, 1741. Next day we had very squally + weather, attended with rain, lightning, and thunder; but it soon + cleared up again, with light breezes, and continued so to the + evening of the 21st, when it again blew fresh, and, increasing + all night, it became a most violent storm by next morning, + accompanied by so thick a fog that it was impossible for us to + see to the distance of two ships lengths, and we consequently + lost sight of all the squadron. On this a signal was made, by + firing guns, to bring to with the larboard tacks, the wind being + due east. We in the Centurion handed the top-sails, bunted the + main-sail, and lay to under a reefed-mizen till noon, when the + fog dispersed, and we soon discovered all the ships of the + squadron, except the Pearl, which did not join till near a month + afterwards. The Tryal was a great way to leeward, having lost her + main-mast in the squall, and having been obliged to cut away the + wreck, for fear of bilging. We therefore bore down with the + squadron to her relief, and the Gloucester was ordered to take + her in tow, as the weather did not entirely abate till next day, + and even then a great swell continued from the eastward, in + consequence of the preceding storm. After this accident we + continued to the southward with little interruption, finding the + same setting of the current we had observed before our arrival at + St Catharines; that is, we generally found ourselves about twenty + miles to the southward of our reckoning by the log every day. + This, with some inequality, lasted till we had passed the + latitude of the Rio Plata, and even then the same current, + however difficult to be accounted for, undoubtedly continued; for + we were not satisfied in attributing this appearance to any error + in our reckoning, but tried it more than once, when a calm + rendered it practicable.</p> + + <p>Immediately on getting to the south of the latitude of the Rio + Plata we had soundings, which continued all along the coast of + Patagonia. These soundings, when well ascertained, being of great + use in determining the position of a ship on this coast, and as + we tried them more frequently, in <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page269" id="page269"></a>[pg 269]</span> greater depths, and + with more attention, than I believe had ever been done before, I + shall recite our observations on this subject as succinctly as I + can. In lat. 36° 52' S. we had 60 fathoms on a bottom of + fine black and grey sand: From thence to 39° 55' S. we + varied our depths from 50 to 80 fathoms, but always with the same + bottom: Between the last-mentioned latitude and 43° 16' + S. we had only fine grey sand with the same variation of depths, + except that we once or twice lessened the water to 40 fathoms. + After this we continued in 40 fathoms for about half a degree, + having a bottom of coarse sand and broken shells, at which time + we were in sight of land at not above seven leagues distance. As + we edged from the land we had a variety of soundings; first black + sand, then muddy, and soon after rough ground with stones: But + when we had increased our depth to forty-eight fathoms, we had a + muddy bottom to the lat. of 46° 10' S. Hence drawing + near the shore, we had at first thirty-six fathoms, and still + kept shoaling till we came into twelve fathoms, having constantly + small stones and pebbles at the bottom.</p> + + <p>Part of this time we had a view of Cape Blanco, in about lat. + 47° 10' S. and long. 69° W. from London.<a id= + "footnotetag118" name="footnotetag118"></a><a href= + "#footnote118"><sup>2</sup></a> Steering from hence S. by E. + nearly, we deepened our water to fifty fathoms in a run of about + thirty leagues, without once altering the bottom; and then + drawing towards the shore, with a S.W. course, varying rather + westward, we had constantly a sandy bottom till we came to thirty + fathoms, when we had again a sight of land in about lat. + 48° 31' S. We made this land on the 17th February, and + came to anchor at five that afternoon in lat. 48° 58' S. + with the same soundings as before; the southermost land then in + view bearing S.S.W. the northermost N.E. a small island N.W. and + the westermost hummock W.S.W. At this anchorage we found the tide + to set S. by W.</p> + + <p>We weighed anchor at five next morning, and an hour afterwards + descried a sail, which was soon found to be the Pearl, which had + separated from us a few days after leaving St Catharines. Yet she + increased her sail and stood away from the Gloucester; and when + she came up, the people of <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page270" id="page270"></a>[pg 270]</span> the Pearl had their + hammocks in their netting, and every thing ready for an + engagement. The Pearl joined us about two in the afternoon, and + running up under our stern, Lieutenant Salt informed the + commodore that Captain Kidd had died on the 31st of January. He + likewise said that he had seen five large ships on the 10th of + this month, which he for some time imagined had been our + squadron, insomuch that he suffered the commanding ship, which + wore a red broad pendant exactly resembling that of our commodore + at the main top-mast head, to come within gun-shot of the Pearl + before he discovered the mistake; but then, finding it was not + the Centurion, he haled close upon a wind and crowded from theirs + with all sail; and standing across a rippling, where they + hesitated to follow, he happily escaped. He had made them out to + be five Spanish ships of war, one of which was so exceedingly + like the Gloucester that he was under great apprehension when + chased now by the Gloucester. He thought they consisted of two + seventy-gun ships, two of fifty, and one of forty; the whole of + which squadron chased him all that day, but at night, finding + they could not get near, they gave over the chase and stood away + to the southward.</p> + + <p>Had we not been under the necessity of refitting the Tryal, + this intelligence would have prevented our making any stay at St + Julians; but as it was impossible for that sloop to proceed round + Cape Horn in her present condition, some stay there became + inevitable; and therefore we came to an anchor again the same + evening in twenty-five fathoms, the bottom a mixture of mud and + sand, a high hummock bearing from us S.W. by W. Weighing at nine + next morning, we sent the cutters of the Centurion and Severn in + shore to discover the harbour of St Julian, while the ships kept + standing along the coast about a league from the land. At six in + the evening we anchored in the bay of St Julian, in nineteen + fathoms, the bottom muddy ground with sand, the northermost land + in sight bearing N. by E. the S. 1/2 E. and the high hummock, + called Wood's Mount by Sir John Narborough, W.S.W. The cutters + returned soon after, having discovered the harbour, which did not + appear to us where we lay, the northermost point shutting in upon + the southermost, and closing the entrance in appearance.</p> + + <p>Our principal object in coming to anchor in this bay was to + refit the Tryal, in which business the carpenters were + immediately employed. Her main-mast had been carried away + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page271" id="page271"></a>[pg + 271]</span> about twelve feet below the cap, but they contrived + to make the remainder of the mast serve. The Wager was directed + to supply her with a spare main-top-mast, which the carpenters + converted into a new fore-mast. And I cannot help observing, that + this accident to the Tryal's masts, which gave us so much + uneasiness at the time on account of the delay it occasioned, was + the means, in all probability, of preserving this sloop and all + her crew. For her masts before this were much too lofty for the + high southern latitudes we were proceeding into, so that, if they + had weathered the preceding storm, it would have been impossible + for them to have stood against the seas and tempests we + afterwards encountered in passing round Cape Horn; and the loss + of masts, in that boisterous climate, would scarcely have been + attended with less than the loss of the vessel and all on board, + as it would have been impracticable for the other ships to have + given them any assistance whatever, during the continuance of + these impetuous storms.</p> + + <p>While at this place, the commodore appointed the honourable + Captain Murray to succeed to the Pearl, and Captain Cheap to the + Wager. He promoted Mr Charles Saunders, first lieutenant of the + Centurion, to the command of the Tryal sloop; but, as Mr Saunders + lay dangerously ill of a fever in the Centurion, and the surgeons + considered his removal to his own ship might hazard his life, Mr + Saumarez had orders to act as commander of the Tryal during the + illness of Captain Saunders.</p> + + <p>At this place, the commodore held a consultation with his + captains about unloading and discharging the Anna pink; but they + represented that, so far from being in a condition for taking her + loading on board, their ships still had great quantities of + provisions in the way of their guns between decks, and that their + ships were so deep and so lumbered that they would not be fit for + action without being cleared. It was therefore necessary to + retain the pink in the service; and, as it was apprehended that + we should meet with the Spanish squadron in passing the cape, Mr + Anson ordered all the provisions that were in the way of the guns + to be put on board the Anna pink, and that all the guns which had + been formerly lowered into the holds, for the ease of the ships, + should be remounted.</p> + + <p>As this bay and harbour of St Julian is a convenient + rendezvous, in case of separation, for all cruizers bound to the + southwards, or to any part of the coast of Patagonia, from + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page272" id="page272"></a>[pg + 272]</span> the Rio Plata to the Straits of Magellan, as it lies + nearly parallel to their usual route, a short account of the + singularity of this country, with a particular description of + Port St. Julian, may perhaps be neither unacceptable to the + curious, nor unworthy the attention of future navigators, as some + of them, by unforeseen accidents, may be obliged to run in with + the land and to make some stay on this coast; in which case a + knowledge of the country, and of its productions and inhabitants, + cannot fail to be of the utmost consequence to them.</p> + + <p>The tract of country usually called Patagonia, or that + southern portion of South America, not possessed by the + Spaniards, extends from their settlements to the Straits of + Magellan. This country on its eastern side, along the Atlantic + ocean, from the Rio Plata southwards, is remarkable for having no + trees of any kind, except a few peach trees planted by the + Spaniards in the neighbourhood of Buenos Ayres; so that the whole + eastern coast of Patagonia, extending near four hundred leagues + from north to south, and as far back into the interior as any + discoveries have yet been made, contains nothing that can be + called by the name of wood, and only a few insignificant shrubs + in some places. Sir John Narborough, who was sent out expressly + by Charles II to examine this country, wintered upon this coast + in Port St Julian and Port Desire, in the year 1670, and declares + that he did not see a stick in the whole country large enough to + make the handle of a hatchet. But, although this country be + destitute of wood, it abounds in pasture, as the whole land seems + made up of downs of a light dry and gravelly soil, producing + great quantities of long grass, which grows in tufts, + interspersed with large spots of barren gravel. In many places + this grass feeds immense herds of cattle, all derived from a few + European cattle brought over by the Spaniards at their first + settling, which have thriven and multiplied prodigiously, owing + to the abundance of herbage which they every where met with, and + are now so increased and extended so far into different parts of + Patagonia, that they are not considered as private property; + thousands of them being slaughtered every year by the hunters, + only for their hides and tallow.</p> + + <p>The manner of killing these cattle, being peculiar to that + part of the world, merits a circumstantial description. Both + Spaniards and Indians in that country are usually most excellent + horsemen; and accordingly the hunters employed on this occasion + are all mounted on horseback, armed with a kind of spear, which, + instead of the usual point or blade in <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page273" id="page273"></a>[pg 273]</span> the + same line with the shaft, has its blade fixed across. Armed with + this instrument, they ride at a beast and surround him, when the + hunter that is behind hamstrings him, so that he soon falls, and + is unable to rise from the ground, where they leave him and + proceed against others, whom they serve in the same manner. + Sometimes there is a second party attending the hunters, on + purpose to skin the cattle as they fall; but it is said that the + hunters sometimes prefer to leave them to languish in torment + till next day, from an opinion that the lengthened anguish bursts + the lymphatics, and thereby facilitates the separation of the + skin from the carcass. Their priests have loudly condemned this + most barbarous practice, and have even gone so far, if my memory + do not deceive me, as to excommunicate such as persist to follow + it, yet all their efforts to put an entire stop to it have + hitherto proved ineffectual.</p> + + <p>Besides great numbers of cattle which are slaughtered every + year in this manner, for their hides and tallow, it is often + necessary, for the uses of agriculture, and for other purposes, + to catch them alive, and without wounding them. This is performed + with a most wonderful and most incredible dexterity, chiefly by + means of an implement or contrivance which the English who have + resided at Buenos Ayres usually denominate a lash. This consists + of a very strong thong of raw hide, several fathoms in length, + with a running noose at one end. This the hunter, who is on + horseback, takes in his right hand, being properly coiled up, and + the other end fastened to the saddle: Thus prepared, the hunters + ride at a herd of cattle, and when arrived within a certain + distance of a beast, they throw their thong at him with such + exactness, that they never fail to fix the noose about his horns. + Finding himself thus entangled, the beast usually endeavours to + run away, but the hunter attends his motions, and the horse being + swifter, the thong is prevented from being so much straitened as + to break, till another hunter throws another noose about one of + his hind-legs. When this is done, the horses being trained to the + sport, instantly turn in opposite directions, straining the two + thongs contrary ways, by which the beast is overthrown. The + horses then stop, keeping both thongs on the stretch, so that the + beast remains on the ground incapable of resistance; and the two + hunters alight from their horses and secure the beast in such a + manner that they afterwards easily convey him to wherever they + please.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page274" id= + "page274"></a>[pg 274]</span> + + <p>They catch horses by means of similar nooses, and are even + said to catch tigers in the same manner, which, however strange + it may appear, is asserted by persons of credit. It must be + owned, indeed, that the address both of Spaniards and Indians in + this part of the world, in the use of this lash or noose, and the + certainty with which they throw and fix it on any intended part + of a beast, even at a considerable distance, is so wonderful as + only to be credited and repeated on the concurrent testimony of + all who have frequented this country. The cattle killed in the + before-mentioned manner are slaughtered only for their hides and + tallow, and sometimes their tongues also are taken out; but the + rest of the flesh is left to putrify, or to be devoured by birds + of prey and wild beasts. The greatest part of it falls to the + share of the wild-dogs, of which there are immense numbers to be + found in the country. These are all supposed to be descended of + Spanish dogs from Buenos Ayres, which had left their masters, + allured by the great quantity of carrion, and had run wild where + they had such facility of subsisting, for they are plainly of the + European breed of dogs. Although these dogs are said to prowl in + vast packs, even some thousands together, they do not diminish + the number, nor prevent the increase of the cattle, as they dare + not attack the herds, by reason of the vast numbers that feed + together, but content themselves with the carrion left by the + hunters, and perhaps now and then meet with a few stragglers, + separated accidentally from the herds to which they belong.</p> + + <p>This country, to the southward of Buenos Ayres, is also + stocked with great numbers of wild-horses, brought also + originally from Spain, and prodigiously increased, and extending + to a much greater distance than the cattle. Though many of these + are excellent, their numbers make them of very little value, the + best of them being sold in the neighbouring settlements, where + money is plenty and commodities very dear, for not more than a + dollar a piece. It is not certain how far to the southwards these + herds of wild cattle and horses extend; but there is reason to + believe that stragglers of both are to be met with very near the + Straits of Magellan, and they will doubtless in time fill all the + southern part of the continent with their breeds, which cannot + fail to be of vast advantage to such ships as may touch on the + coast. The horses are said to be very good eating, and are even + preferred by some of the Indians before the cattle. But however + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page275" id="page275"></a>[pg + 275]</span> plentiful Patagonia may hereafter become in regard to + flesh, this eastern coast of that extensive country seems very + defective in regard to fresh water; for as the land is generally + of a nitrous and saline nature, the ponds and streams are + frequently brackish. However, as good water has been found, + though in small quantities, it is not improbable but this + inconvenience may be removed, on a farther search.</p> + + <p>There are also in all parts of this country a good number of + <i>Vicunnas</i>, or Peruvian sheep, but these, by reason of their + swiftness, are very difficultly killed. On the eastern coast, + also, there are immense quantities of seals, and a vast variety + of sea-fowl, among which the most remarkable are the penguins. + These are, in size and shape, like a goose, but have short stumps + like fins instead of wings, which are of no use to them except + when in the water. Their bills are narrow, like that of the + albatross, and they stand and walk quite erect, from which + circumstance, and their white bellies, Sir John Narborough has + whimsically likened them to little children standing up in white + aprons.</p> + + <p>The inhabitants of this eastern coast, to which hitherto I + confine my observations, appear to be but few, and rarely have + more than two or three of them been seen at a time by any ships + that have touched here. During our stay at Port St Julian we did + not see any. Towards Buenos Ayres, however, they are sufficiently + numerous, and are very troublesome to the Spaniards: But there + the greater breadth and variety of the country, and a milder + climate, yield them greater conveniences. In that part the + continent is between three and four hundred leagues in breadth, + while at Port St Julian it is little more than one hundred. I + conceive, therefore, that the same Indians who frequent the + western coast of Patagonia, and the northern shore of the Straits + of Magellan, often ramble to this eastern side. As the Indians + near Buenos Ayres are more numerous than those farther south, + they also greatly excel them in spirit and activity, and seem + nearly allied in their manners to the gallant Chilese Indians, + [Araucanians] who have long set the whole Spanish power at + defiance, have often ravaged their country, and remain to this + hour independent. The Indians about Buenos Ayres have learned to + be excellent horsemen, and are extremely expert in the management + of all cutting weapons, though ignorant of fire-arms, which the + Spaniards are exceedingly solicitous to keep from them. Of the + vigour and <span class="pagenum"><a name="page276" id= + "page276"></a>[pg 276]</span> resolution of these Indians, the + behaviour of Orellana and his followers, formerly mentioned, is a + memorable instance.</p> + + <p>This much may suffice respecting the eastern coast of + Patagonia. The western coast is of less extent; and, by reason of + the Andes which skirt it, and stretch quite down to the sea side, + the shore is very rocky and dangerous. As I shall hereafter have + occasion to take farther notice of that coast, I shall not + enlarge any farther respecting it in this place, but shall + conclude this account with a short description of the harbour of + St Julian, the general form of which may be conceived from the + annexed sketch. It must however be noticed, that the bar there + marked at the entrance has many holes in it, and is often + shifting. The tide flows here N. and S. and at full and change + rises four fathoms. On our first arrival, an officer was sent on + shore to the salt pond marked D. in the sketch, in order to + procure a quantity of salt for the use of the squadron; for Sir + John Narborough had observed, when he was here, that the salt was + very white and good, and that in February there was enough to + have loaded a thousand ships. But our officer returned with a + sample which was very bad, and said that even of this very little + was to be had: I suppose the weather had been more rainy this + year than ordinary, and had destroyed the salt, or prevented its + fermentation.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote117" name="footnote117"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag117">(return)</a> + + <p>The centre of the island of Socoro, or Guayteca, on the + western coast of Patagonia, is in lat. 43° 10' S. and + long. 73° 40' W. from Greenwich.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote118" name="footnote118"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag118">(return)</a> + + <p>Cape Blanco is in lat 47° 20' S. long. 64° + 30' W. from Greenwich. At this place, instead of a description + of Cape Blanco, the original gives two views of the coast in + different directions, as seen from sea; here omitted for + reasons already assigned.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION VII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Departure from the Bay of St Julian, and Passage from + thence to the Straits of Le Maire.</i></h4> + + <p>The Tryal being nearly refitted, which was our principal + occupation at this bay, and sole occasion of our stay, the + commodore thought it necessary to fix the plan of his first + operations, as we were now directly bound for the South Seas and + the enemy's coasts; and therefore, on the 24th February, a signal + was made for all captains, and a council of war was held on board + the Centurion. There were present on this occasion the Honourable + Edward Legg, Captain Matthew Mitchell, the Honourable George + Murray, Captain David Cheap, and Colonel Mordaunt Cracherode, + commander of the land-forces. At this council, it was proposed by + Commodore Anson, that their first attempt, after arriving + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page277" id="page277"></a>[pg + 277]</span> in the South Seas, should be against the town and + harbour of Baldivia, the principal frontier place in the south of + Chili, informing them, as an inducement for this enterprize, that + it formed part of his majesty's instructions to endeavour to + secure some port in the South Seas where the ships of the + squadron might be careened and refitted. The council readily and + unanimously agreed to this proposal; and, in consequence of this + resolution, new instructions were issued to the captains, by + which, though still directed, in case of separation, to make the + best of their way to the island of Socoro, they were only to + cruize off that island for ten days; from whence, if not then + joined by the commodore, they were to proceed off Baldivia, + making the land between the latitudes of 40° and + 40° 30' S. and taking care to keep to the southward of + the port. If not there joined in fourteen days by the rest of the + squadron, they were then to direct their course for the island of + Juan Fernandez; after which they were to regulate their farther + proceedings by the former orders given out at St Catharines. The + same orders were also given to the master of the Anna pink, who + was enjoined to answer and obey the signals made by any ship of + the squadron, in absence of the commodore; and, if he should be + so unfortunate as to fell into the hands of the enemy, he was + directed to destroy his orders and papers with the utmost care. + Likewise, as the separation of the squadron might prove highly + prejudicial to the service, each captain was ordered to give it + in charge to the respective officers of the watch, on all + occasions, never to keep their respective ships at a greater + distance from the Centurion than two miles, as they should answer + at their peril; and if any captain should find his ship beyond + the specified distance, he was to acquaint the commodore with the + name of the officer who thus neglected his duty.</p> + + <p>These necessary regulations established, and the repairs of + the Tryal sloop completed, the squadron weighed from Port St + Julians on Friday the 27th February, 1741, at seven in the + morning, and stood to sea. The Gloucester found such difficulty + in endeavouring to purchase her anchor, that she was left a great + way astern, so that we fired several guns in the night as signals + for her to make more sail: But she did not rejoin us till next + morning, when we learnt that she had been obliged to cut her + cable, leaving her best bower anchor behind. At ten in the + morning of the 28th, Wood's Mount, <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page278" id="page278"></a>[pg 278]</span> the high land over + Port St Julian, bore from us N. by W. distant ten leagues, and we + had fifty-two fathoms water. Standing now to the southward, we + had great expectations of falling in with the Spanish squadron + under Pizarro; as, during our stay at Port St Julian, there had + generally been hard gales between W.N.W. and S.W. so that we had + reason to conclude that squadron, had gained no ground upon us in + that interval. Indeed, it was the prospect of meeting them that + had occasioned our commodore to be so very solicitous to prevent + the separation of our ships; for, had he been solely intent on + getting round Cape Horn in the shortest time, the most proper + method for this purpose would have been, to order each ship to + make the best of her way to the rendezvous, without waiting for + the rest.</p> + + <p>From the time of leaving Port St Julian to the 4th March, we + had little wind with thick hazy weather and some rain, and our + soundings were generally from forty to fifty fathoms, with a + bottom of black and gray sand, sometimes mixed with pebble + stones. On the 4th March we were in sight of Cape Virgin Mary, + and not more than six or seven leagues distant, the northern + boundary of the eastern entrance of the Straits of Magellan, in + lat 52° 21' S. long. 71° 44' W. from + London.<a id="footnotetag119" name="footnotetag119"></a><a href= + "#footnote119"><sup>1</sup></a> It seemed a low flat land, ending + in a point.<a id="footnotetag120" name= + "footnotetag120"></a><a href="#footnote120"><sup>2</sup></a> Off + this cape the depth of water was from thirty-five to forty-eight + fathoms. The afternoon of this day was bright and clear, with + small breezes of wind, inclining to a calm; and most of the + captains took the opportunity of this fine weather to visit the + commodore. While all were on board the Centurion, they were + greatly alarmed by a sudden flame bursting out in the Gloucester, + followed by a cloud of smoke; but were soon relieved of their + apprehensions, by receiving information that the blast had been + occasioned by a spark of fire from the forge lighting on some + gun-powder, and other combustibles, which an officer was + preparing for use, in case of falling in with the Spanish + squadron, and which had exploded without any damage to the + ship.</p> + + <p>We here found, what was constantly the case in these high + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page279" id="page279"></a>[pg + 279]</span> southern latitudes, that fair weather was always of + exceedingly short continuance, and that when remarkably fine it + was a certain presage of a succeeding storm: For the calm and + sunshine of this afternoon ended in a most turbulent night; the + wind freshening from the S.W. as the night came on; and + increasing continually in violence till nine next morning. It + then blew so hard that we were forced to bring to with the + squadron, and to continue under a reefed mizen till eleven at + night, having in that time from forty-three to fifty-seven + fathoms water on black sand and gravel; and, by an observation we + had at noon, we concluded that a current had set us twelve miles + to the southward of our reckoning. Toward midnight the wind + abated, and we again made sail, steering S. In the morning we + discovered the southern land beyond the Straits of Magellan, + called Terra del Fuego, stretching from S. by W.S.E. 1/2 E. This + country afforded a very uncomfortable prospect, appearing of + stupendous height, every where covered with snow, and shewing at + its southern extremity the entrance into the Straits of Le Maire + at Cape St Diego.<a id="footnotetag121" name= + "footnotetag121"></a><a href="#footnote121"><sup>3</sup></a> We + steered along this uncouth and rugged coast all day, having + soundings from forty to fifty fathoms, on stones and gravel.</p> + + <p>Intending to pass through the straits of Le Maire next day, we + lay to at night that we might not overshoot them, and took this + opportunity to prepare ourselves for the tempestuous climate in + which we were soon to be engaged, with which view we were + employed good part of the night in bending an entire new suit of + sails to the yards. At four next morning, being the 7th of March, + we made sail, and at eight saw land, and soon after began to open + the straits, at which time Cape St Diego bore E.S.E. Cape St + Vincent S.E. 1/2 E. the middlemost of the Three Brothers, hills + so called on Terra del Fuego S. by W. Montegorda, a high land up + the country appearing over the Three Brothers; S. and Cape St + Bartholomew, the southernmost point of Staten Land, E.S.E. I must + observe here that, though Frezier has given a very correct view + of that part of Terra del Fuego which borders on these straits to + the westwards, he has omitted the draught of Staten Land, which + forms the opposite shore of these straits, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page280" id="page280"></a>[pg 280]</span> + whence we found it difficult to determine exactly where the + straits lay until they began to open upon our view; and hence, + had we not coasted a considerable way along the shore of Terra + del Fuego, we might have missed the straits, and have gone to the + eastward of Staten Land before discovering it. This has happened + to many ships; particularly, as mentioned by Frezier, to the + Incarnation and Concord, which, intending to pass through the + Straits of Le Maire, were deceived by three hills on Staten Land, + and some creeks, resembling the Three Brothers and coves of Terra + del Fuego, so that they overshot the straits.</p> + + <p>Though Terra del Fuego presented an aspect exceedingly barren + and desolate, yet this island of Staten Land far surpasses it in + the wildness and horror of its appearance, seeming to be entirely + composed of inaccessible rocks, without the smallest apparent + admixture of earth or mould, upon or between them. These rocks + terminate in a vast number of rugged points, which spire up to a + prodigious height, and are all covered with everlasting snow; + their pointed summits or pinnacles being every way surrounded by + frightful precipices, and often overhanging in a most astonishing + manner. The hills which are crowned by the rugged rocks, are + generally separated from each other by narrow clifts, appearing + as if the country had been frequently rent by earthquakes; for + these chasms are nearly perpendicular, and extend through the + substance of the main rocks almost to their bases; so that + nothing can be imagined more savage and gloomy than the whole + aspect of this coast.</p> + + <p>Having opened the Straits of Le Maire on the morning of the + 7th March, as before mentioned, the Pearl and Tryal, about ten + o'clock, were ordered to keep a-head of the squadron and lead the + way. We accordingly entered the straits with fair weather and a + brisk gale, and were hurried through by the rapidity of the tide + in about two hours, though they are between seven and eight + leagues in length. As these straits are often esteemed the + boundary between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, and as we + presumed that we had nothing now before us but an open sea, till + we should arrive on the opulent coasts where all our hopes and + wishes centered, we could not help flattering ourselves that the + greatest difficulty of our voyage was now at an end, and that our + most sanguine dreams were on the point of being realized. We + indulged ourselves, therefore, in the romantic imaginations which + the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page281" id="page281"></a>[pg + 281]</span> fancied possession of the gold of Chili and silver of + Peru might readily be conceived to inspire. These joyous ideas + were considerably heightened, by the brightness of the sky and + serenity of the weather, which indeed were both most remarkably + delightful: For, though the antarctic winter was now advancing + with hasty strides, the morning of this day, in mildness and even + brilliancy, gave place to none that we had seen since our + departure from England. Thus, animated by these flattering + delusions, we passed those memorable straits, ignorant of the + dreadful calamities then impending, and ready to burst upon us; + ignorant that the moment was fast approaching when our squadron + was to be separated, never again to unite; and that this day of + our passage was the last cheerful day that the greatest part of + us was ever to enjoy in this world.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote119" name="footnote119"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag119">(return)</a> + + <p>The longitude of Cape Virgin Mary, is only 67° 42' + W. from Greenwich.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote120" name="footnote120"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag120">(return)</a> + + <p>By the draught in the original, omitted here for substantial + reasons already repeatedly stated, the coast at this southern + extremity of Patagonia is represented as a high bluff flat on + the top, and ending abruptly at this cape.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote121" name="footnote121"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag121">(return)</a> + + <p>The western side of the entrance into the Straits of Le + Maire is formed by the Capes of St Vincent and St Diego; the + former in lat. 54° 30', the latter in 54° + 40', both S. and long. 65° 40' W.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION VIII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Course from the Straits of Le Maire to Cape Noir.</i></h4> + + <p>We had scarcely reached the southern extremity of the Straits + of Le Maire, when our flattering hopes were almost instantly + changed to the apprehension of immediate destruction. Even before + the sternmost ships of the squadron were clear of the straits, + the serenity of the sky was suddenly obscured, and we observed + all the presages of an impending storm. The wind presently + shifted to the southward, and blew in such violent squalls that + we had to hand our top-sails and reef our main-sail; while the + tide, which had hitherto favoured us, turned furiously adverse, + and drove us to the eastward with prodigious rapidity, so that we + were in great anxiety for the Wager and Anna pink, the two + sternmost vessels, fearing they might be dashed to pieces upon + the shore of Staten Land; nor were our apprehensions without + foundation, as they weathered that coast with the utmost + difficulty. Instead of pursuing our intended course to the S.W. + the whole squadron was now drifted to the eastward, by the united + force of the storm and current; so that next morning we found + ourselves nearly seven leagues eastward of the straits, which + then bore from us N.W.</p> + + <p>The violence of the current, which had set us with so much + precipitation to the eastward, together with the fierceness + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page282" id="page282"></a>[pg + 282]</span> and constancy of the westerly winds, soon taught us + to consider the doubling of Cape Horn as an enterprize that might + prove too mighty for all our efforts; though some among us had so + lately treated the difficulties which former voyagers were said + to have encountered in this undertaking as little better than + chimerical, and had supposed them to have arisen from timidity + and unskilfulness, rather than from the real embarrassments of + the winds and seas. But we were now convinced, from severe + experience, that these censures were rash and ill founded; for + the distresses with which we struggled during the three + succeeding months, will not be easily paralleled in the relation + of any former naval expedition; which, I doubt not, will be + readily allowed by those who shall carefully peruse the ensuing + narration.</p> + + <p>From this storm, which came on before we were well clear of + the straits of Le Maire, we had a continual succession of such + tempestuous weather as surprised the oldest and most experienced + mariners on board, and obliged them to confess, that what they + had hitherto called storms were inconsiderable gales, when + compared with those winds we now encountered; which raised such + short, and at times such mountainous waves, as greatly surpassed + in danger all seas known in other parts of the globe, and, not + without reason, this unusual appearance filled us with continual + terror; for, had any one of these waves broken fairly over us, it + must almost inevitably have sent us instantly to the bottom. + Neither did we escape with terror only: for the ship, rolling + incessantly gunwale-to, gave us such quick and violent jerking + motions, that the men were in perpetual danger of being dashed to + pieces against the decks and sides of the ship; and, though we + were extremely careful to secure ourselves against these shocks, + by grasping some fixed body, yet many of our people were forced + from their holds, some of whom were actually killed, and others + greatly injured. In particular, one of our best seamen was canted + overboard and drowned; another dislocated his neck; a third was + thrown down the main hatchway into the hold and broke his thigh; + one of our boatswain's mates broke his collar-bone twice; not to + mention many other similar accidents.</p> + + <p>These tempests, so dreadful in themselves, though unattended + by any other unfavourable circumstances, were yet rendered more + mischievous to us by their inequality, and by the deceitful + intervals that at times occurred; for, although <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page283" id="page283"></a>[pg 283]</span> we + had often to lie-to for days together under a reefed mizen, and + were frequently reduced to drive at the mercy of the winds and + waves under bare poles, yet now and then we ventured to make sail + under double-reefed courses; and occasionally, the weather + proving more moderate, were perhaps encouraged to set our + top-sails; after which, without any previous notice, the wind + would return with redoubled force, and would in an instant tear + our sails from the yards. And, that no circumstance might be + wanting which could aggravate our distress, these blasts + generally brought with them a great quantity of snow and sleet, + which cased our rigging in ice, and froze our sails, rendering + them and our cordage so brittle as to tear and snap with the + least strain; adding thereby great difficulty and labour to the + working of the ship, benumbing the hands and limbs of our people, + and rendering them incapable of exerting themselves with their + accustomed activity, and even disabling many of them, by inducing + mortification of their toes and fingers. It were, indeed, endless + to enumerate the various disasters of different kinds which befel + us, and I shall only mention the most material, which will + sufficiently evince; the calamitous condition of the whole + squadron, during this part of our navigation.</p> + + <p>As already observed, it was on the 7th of March that we passed + the Straits of Le Maire, and were immediately afterwards driven + to the eastwards, by a violent storm, and by the force of the + current setting in that direction. During the four or five + succeeding days, we had hard gales of wind from the same western + quarter, attended by a most prodigious swell; insomuch that, + although we stood all that time towards the S.W. we had no reason + to imagine we had made any way to the westwards. In this interval + we had frequent squalls of rain and snow, and shipped great + quantities of water. After this, for three or four days, though + the sea ran mountains high, yet the weather was rather more + moderate; but, on the 18th; we had again strong gales of wind + with excessive cold, and at midnight the main top-sail split, and + one of the straps of the main dead-eyes broke. From the 18th to + the 23d the weather was more moderate, though, often intermixed + with rain and sleet and some hard gales; but, as the waves did + not subside, the ship, by labouring sore in this lofty sea, + became so loose in her upper-works that she let in water at every + seam, so that every part of her within <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page284" id="page284"></a>[pg 284]</span> + board was constantly exposed to the sea-water, and scarcely any + even of the officers ever lay dry in their beds. Indeed, hardly + did two nights pass without many of them being driven from their + beds by deluges of water.</p> + + <p>On the 23d we had a most violent storm of wind, hail, and + rain, with a prodigious sea; and, though we handed the main-sail + before the height of the squall, yet we found the yard spring; + and soon after, in consequence of the foot-rope of the main-sail + breaking, the main-sail itself split instantly into rags, and + much the greater part of it was blown away, in spite of every + endeavour to save it. On this the commodore made the signal for + the squadron to bring to; and as the storm lulled into a calm, we + had an opportunity to lower the main-yard, and set the carpenters + to work upon it, while we also repaired our rigging; after which, + having bent a new main-sail, we got again under way with a + moderate breeze. But, in less than twenty-four hours, we had + another storm, still more furious than the former, which blew a + perfect hurricane, and obliged us to lie-to under bare poles. As + our ship kept the wind better than any of the rest, we were + obliged in the afternoon to wear, in order to join the squadron + to leeward, as otherwise we had been in danger of parting from + them in the night. On this occasion, as we dared not venture to + show any sail to the gale, we had to use an expedient, which + answered the purpose: This was putting the helm a-weather and + manning the fore-shrouds: But, though this answered the end in + view, yet in its execution one of our ablest seamen was canted + overboard. Notwithstanding the prodigious agitation of the waves, + we could perceive that he swam very vigorously, yet we found + ourselves, to our excessive concern, incapable of giving him the + smallest assistance; and were the more grieved at his unhappy + fate, as we lost sight of him struggling with the waves, and + conceived that he might continue long sensible of the horror of + his irretrievable situation.</p> + + <p>Before this storm was quite abated, we found that two of our + main-shrouds and one of our mizen-shrouds were broken, all of + which we knotted and replaced immediately. After this we had an + interval of three or four days less tempestuous than usual, but + accompanied by so thick a fog, that we had to fire guns almost + every half hour to keep our squadron together. On the 31st we + were alarmed by a gun from the Gloucester, and a signal to speak + the commodore. We immediately <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page285" id="page285"></a>[pg 285]</span> bore down to her, + prepared to learn some terrible disaster, of which we were + apprised before we came down, by seeing that her main-yard was + broken in the slings. This was a grievous misfortune to us all, + at this juncture, as it was evident that it must prove a + hinderance to our sailing, and would detain us the longer in + these inhospitable latitudes. Our future safety and success was + not to be promoted by repining, but by resolution and activity; + and therefore, that this unhappy incident might delay us as short + as possible, the commodore ordered several carpenters to be put + on board the Gloucester from the other ships of the squadron, in + order to repair her damage with the utmost expedition. At this + time also, the captain of the Tryal represented that his pumps + were so bad, and his ship made so much water, that he was + scarcely able to keep her free; wherefore the commodore ordered + him a pump, ready fitted, from the Centurion. It was very + fortunate, both for the Gloucester and Tryal, that the weather + proved more favourable that day, than for many days both before + and after; since by this means they were enabled to receive the + assistance which seemed so essential for their preservation, and + which they could scarcely have procured at any other time, as it + would have been extremely hazardous to have ventured a boat on + board.</p> + + <p>Next day, being the 1st of April, the weather returned to its + customary bias; the sky looking dark and gloomy, and the wind + beginning to freshen and to blow in squalls; yet it was not so + boisterous as to prevent us carrying our top-sails close reefed, + but its appearance evidently prognosticated that a still more + severe tempest was at hand. Accordingly, on the 3d of April, + there came on a storm, which, both in its violence and duration, + for it lasted three days, exceeded all we had hitherto + experienced. In its first onset, we received a furious shock from + a sea, which broke upon our larboard quarter, where it stove in + the quarter gallery, and rushed into the ship like a deluge. Our + rigging suffered also extremely from the blow; among the rest, + one of the straps of the main dead-eyes was broken, as were + likewise a main shroud and a puttock shroud; so that, to ease the + stress upon the masts and shrouds, we had to lower both our main + and fore yards, and to furl all our sails. We lay in this posture + for three days, when, the storm somewhat abating, we ventured to + make sail under our courses only. Even this would not avail us + long; for next day, being the 7th, we had another <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page286" id="page286"></a>[pg 286]</span> hard + gale, accompanied with lightning and rain, which obliged as to + lie-to all night.</p> + + <p>It was really wonderful, notwithstanding the severe weather we + endured, that no extraordinary accident had happened to any of + the squadron since the Gloucester broke her main-yard. But this + good fortune now no longer attended us, for, at three next + morning, several guns were fired to leeward as signals of + distress, on which the commodore made the signal for the squadron + to bring to. At day-break we saw the Wager a considerable way to + leeward of any of the other ships, and soon perceived that she + had lost her mizen-mast, and main topsail-yard. We immediately + bore down towards her, and found that this disaster had arisen + from the badness of her iron-work, as all the chain plates to + windward had given way, in consequence of her having fetched a + deep roll. This accident proved the more unfortunate for the + Wager, as her captain had been on board the Gloucester ever since + the 31st March, and the weather was now too severe to permit of + his return. Nor was the Wager the only ship in the squadron that + suffered in this tempest; for next day, a signal of distress was + made by the Anna pink, and on speaking her, we found she had + broken her fore-stay and the gammon of her boltsprit, and was in + no small danger of all her masts coming by the board; so that the + whole squadron had to bear away to leeward till she made all + fast, after which we again hauled upon a wind.</p> + + <p>After all our solicitude, and the numerous ills of every kind, + to which we had been incessantly exposed for near forty days, we + now had great consolation in the hope that our fatigues were + drawing to a close, and that we should soon arrive in a more + hospitable climate, where we should be amply rewarded for all our + past toils and sufferings; for, towards the latter end of March, + by our reckoning, we had advanced near ten degrees to the west of + the westermost point of Terra del Fuego; and, as this allowance + was double what former navigators had thought necessary to + compensate the drift of the western current, we esteemed + ourselves to be well advanced within the limits of the Southern + Pacific, and had been, ever since then, standing to the + northward, with as much expedition as the turbulence of the + weather and our frequent disasters would permit. On the 13th of + April, in addition to our before-mentioned westing, we were only + one degree of latitude to the southward of the western + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page287" id="page287"></a>[pg + 287]</span> entrance into the Straits of Magellan, so that we + fully expected in a very few days to experience the celebrated + tranquillity of the Pacific Ocean. But these were only delusions, + which served to render our disappointment more terrible. On the + morning of the 14th, between two and three o'clock, the weather, + which till then had been hazy, fortunately cleared up, and the + pink made a signal for seeing the land right a-head; and, as it + was only two miles distant, we were all under the most dreadful + apprehensions of running on shore; which, had either the wind + blown from its usual quarter, with its wonted violence, or had + not the moon suddenly shone out, not a ship of the whole squadron + could possibly have avoided. But the wind, which some hours + before blew in squalls from the S.W. had fortunately shifted to + W.N.W. by which we were enabled to stand to the southward, and to + clear ourselves of this sudden and unexpected danger, and were + fortunate enough by noon to have gained an offing of near twenty + leagues.</p> + + <p>By the latitude of this land we fell in with, it was agreed to + be that part of Terra del Fuego, near the south-western outlet of + the Straits of Magellan, described in Frezier's chart, and was + supposed to be that point which he calls Cape Noir.<a id= + "footnotetag122" name="footnotetag122"></a><a href= + "#footnote122"><sup>1</sup></a> It was indeed wonderful that the + current should have driven us to the eastward with so much + strength, for the whole squadron computed that we were ten + degrees to the westward of this land; so that in turning, by our + reckoning, about nineteen degrees of longitude, we had not in + reality advanced half that distance: And now, instead of having + our labours and anxieties relieved by approaching a warmer + climate, and more tranquil seas, we were forced again to steer + southwards, and had again to combat those western blasts which + had already so often terrified us; and this too, when we were + greatly enfeebled by our men falling sick and dying apace, and + when our spirits, dejected by long continuance at sea and by this + severe disappointment, were now much less capable of supporting + us through the various difficulties and dangers, which we could + not but look for in this new and arduous undertaking. Added to + all this, we were sore discouraged by the diminution in the + strength of the squadron; for, three days before this, we had + lost sight of the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page288" id= + "page288"></a>[pg 288]</span> Severn and Pearl in the morning, + and, though we spread our ships, and beat about for them for some + time, we never saw them more; whence we apprehended that they + also had fallen in with this land in the night, and being less + favoured by the wind and the moon, might have perished by running + on shore. Full of these desponding thoughts and gloomy presages, + we stood away to the S.W. prepared, by our late disappointment, + how large an allowance soever we made in our westing for the + drift of the current from the westward, that we might still find + it insufficient upon a second trial.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote122" name="footnote122"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag122">(return)</a> + + <p>Cape Noir, is a small island off the western coast of Terra + del Fuego, is in lat. 54° 28' S. long, 78° + 40' W.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION IX.</h3> + + <h4><i>Observations and Directions for facilitating the Passage + of future Navigators round Cape Horn.</i></h4> + + <p>The improper season of the year in which we attempted to + double Cape Horn, and to which is to be imputed the + before-recited disappointment, in falling in with Terra del + Fuego, when we reckoned ourselves above an hundred leagues to the + westward of that coast, and consequently well advanced into the + Pacific Ocean, to which we were necessitated by our too late + departure from England, was the fatal source of all the + misfortunes we afterwards experienced. For, from hence proceeded + the separation of our ships, the destruction of so many of our + people, the ruin of our project against Baldivia, and of all our + other views on the Spanish settlements, and the reduction of our + squadron, from the formidable condition in which it passed the + Straits of Le Maire, to a couple of shattered half-manned + cruizers and a sloop, so exceedingly disabled that, in many + climates, they scarcely durst have put to sea. To prevent, + therefore, as much as in me lies, the recurrence of similar + calamities to all ships bound hereafter to the South Seas, I + think it my duty to insert in this place such observations and + directions, as either my own experience and reflection, or the + conversation of the most skilful navigators on board the + squadron, could furnish me with, as to the most eligible manner + of doubling Cape Horn, whether in regard to the season of the + year, the course proper to be steered, or the places of + refreshment both on the eastern and western sides of South + America.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page289" id= + "page289"></a>[pg 289]</span> + + <p>To begin with the proper place for refreshment on the eastern + side of South America. For this purpose the island of St + Catharines has been usually recommended by former writers, and on + their authority we put in there; but the treatment we + experienced, and the small store of refreshments we could procure + their are sufficient reasons to render all ships very cautious in + future how they trust to the government of Don Jose Sylva de Paz; + for they may assuredly depend on having their strength, + condition, and designs betrayed to the Spaniards, as far as the + knowledge the governor can procure of these particulars may + enable him. As this treacherous conduct was inspired by the views + of private gain, in the illicit commerce carried on to the river + Plate, rather than by any natural affection between the + Portuguese and Spaniards, the same perfidy may perhaps be + expected from most of the governors on the coast of Brazil, since + these smuggling engagements are doubtless very general and + extensive; and, though the governors themselves should detest so + faithless a procedure, yet, as ships are perpetually passing from + one or other of the Brazilian ports to the Rio Plata, the + Spaniards could scarcely fail of receiving intelligence, by this + means, of any British ships being on the coast; and, however + imperfect such intelligence might be, it might prove injurious to + the views and interests of cruizers thus discovered.</p> + + <p>As the Spanish trade in the South Seas is all in one + direction, from north to south, or the direct reverse, with very + little deviation to the eastward or westward, it is in the power, + of two or three cruisers, properly stationed on different parts + of this track, to possess themselves of every ship that puts to + sea. This, however, can only be the case so long as they continue + concealed from the neighbouring coast; for, the moment that an + enemy is known to be in these seas, all navigation is prohibited, + and all chance of capture is consequently at an end; as the + Spaniards, well aware of these advantages to an enemy, send + expresses all along the coast, and lay a general embargo on all + trade; which measure they know will not only prevent their + vessels from being taken, but must soon oblige all cruisers, that + have not sufficient strength to attempt their settlements on + shore, to quit these seas for want of provisions. Hence the great + importance of carefully concealing all expeditions of this kind + is quite evident; and hence too it is obvious how extremely + prejudicial <span class="pagenum"><a name="page290" id= + "page290"></a>[pg 290]</span> such intelligence must prove as + that communicated by the Portuguese to the Spaniards in our case, + in consequence of touching at the ports of Brazil. Yet it will + often happen that ships, bound beyond Cape Horn, may be obliged + to call there for wood, water, and other refreshments; in which + case, St Catharines is the very last place I would recommend; + both because the proper animals for a live stock at sea, as hogs, + sheep, and fowls, are not to be procured there, for want of which + we found ourselves greatly distressed, being reduced to live + almost entirely on salt provisions; and because, from that port + being nearer the Rio Plata than many others of the Portuguese + settlements, the inducements and conveniences for betraying us to + the Spaniards were so much the stronger. The place I would + recommend is Rio Janeiro, where two of our squadron put in, after + separating from us in passing Cape Horn. At this place, as I was + informed by a gentleman on board one of these ships, any quantity + of hogs and poultry can be procured; and as it is more distant + from the Rio Plata, the difficulty of sending intelligence to the + Spaniards is somewhat increased, and consequently the chance of + continuing there undiscovered is so much the greater. Other + measures, which may effectually obviate all these embarrassments, + will be considered more at large hereafter.</p> + + <p>I proceed, in the next place, to consider of the proper + measures to be pursued for doubling Cape Horn: And here, I think + I am sufficiently authorized, by our own fatal experience, and by + a careful comparison and examination of the journals of former + navigators, to give the following advice, which ought never, in + prudence, to be departed from: Which is, That all ships bound to + the South Seas, instead of passing through the Straits of Le + Maire, should constantly pass by the eastward of Staten-Land, and + should be invariably bent on running as far as the latitude of + 61° or 62° S. before they endeavour to stand to + the westwards; and ought then to make sure of a sufficient + westing in or about that latitude, before commencing a northern + course. But, since directions diametrically opposite to these + have been formerly given by other writers, it is incumbent on me + to produce my reasons for each part of this maxim.</p> + + <p>First then, as to the propriety of passing to the eastward of + Staten-Land. Those who have attended to the risk we ran in + passing the Straits of Le Maire, the danger we were in of + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page291" id="page291"></a>[pg + 291]</span> being driven upon Staten-Land by the current, when, + though we happily escaped being driven on shore, we were yet + carried to the eastward of that island: those, I say, who reflect + on this and the like accidents which have happened to other + ships, will surely not esteem it prudent to pass through these + straits and run the risk of shipwreck, and find themselves, after + all, no farther to the westward, the only reason hitherto given + for this practice, than they might have been, in the same time, + by a more secure navigation in an open sea. And next, as to the + directions I have given for running into the latitude of + 61° or 62° S. before any endeavour is made to + stand to the westward. The reasons for this precept are, that, in + all probability, the violence of the current setting from the + westward will be thereby avoided, and the weather will prove less + tempestuous and uncertain. This last circumstance we experienced + most remarkably; for after we had unexpectedly fallen in with the + land at Cape Noir, we stood away southward to get clear of it; + and were no sooner advanced into the lat. of 60° S. or + upwards, than we met with much better weather and smoother water + than in any other part of this whole passage. The air indeed was + very sharp and cold, and we had strong gales, but they were + steady and uniform, and we had at the same time sunshine and a + clear sky: whereas in the lower latitudes, the wind every now and + then intermitted, as it were, to recover new strength, and then + returned suddenly in the most violent gusts, threatening at every + blast to blow away our masts, which must have proved our + inevitable destruction.</p> + + <p>Also, that the currents in this high latitude would be of much + less efficacy than nearer the land, seems to be evinced by these + considerations: That all currents run with greater violence near + the shore than out at sea, and that at great distances from the + land they are scarcely perceptible. The reason of this seems + sufficiently obvious, if we consider that constant currents, in + all probability, are produced by constant winds; the wind, though + with a slow and imperceptible motion, driving a large body of + water continually before it, which, being accumulated on any + coast that it meets with in its course, must escape along the + shore by the endeavours of the surface to reduce itself to the + level of the rest of the ocean. It is likewise reasonable to + suppose, that those violent gusts of wind which we experienced + near the shore, so very different from what we found in the lat. + of 60° S. and upwards, may be owing to a similar cause; + for a westerly <span class="pagenum"><a name="page292" id= + "page292"></a>[pg 292]</span> wind almost perpetually prevails in + the southern part of the Pacific Ocean, and this current of air + being interrupted by the enormously high range of the Andes, and + by the mountains on Terra del Fuego, which together bar up the + whole country as far south as Cape Horn, a part only of the wind + can force its way over the top of these prodigious precipices, + while the rest must naturally follow the direction of the coast, + and must range down the land to the southward, and sweep with an + impetuous and irregular blast round Cape Horn, and the + southermost part of Terra del Fuego. Without placing too much + reliance on these speculations, we may assume, I believe, as + incontestable facts, that both the rapidity of the currents, and + the violence of the western gales, are less sensible in lat. + 61° or 62° S. than nearer the coasts of Terra + del Fuego.</p> + + <p>Though satisfied, both from our own experience and the + relations of other navigators, of the importance of the precept + here insisted on, of proceeding to lat. 61° or + 62° S. before any endeavours are made to stand to the + westwards, yet I would also advise all ships hereafter not to + trust so far to this management as to neglect another most + essential maxim: Which is, to make this passage in the height of + the <i>antarctic summer</i>, or, in other words, in the months of + December and January, which correspond exactly to the months of + June and July in our northern or arctic hemisphere: and the more + distant the time of passing may be from this season, so much the + more disastrous the passage may reasonably be expected to prove. + Indeed, if the mere violence of the western winds be considered, + the time of our passage, which was about the antarctic autumnal + equinox, was perhaps the most favourable period of the whole + year. But then it must be considered that there are, independent + of the winds, many other inconveniences to be apprehended in the + depth of winter, which are almost insuperable. For, at that + season, the severity of the cold, and the shortness of the days, + would render it impracticable to run so far to the southward as + is here recommended. The same reasons would also greatly augment + the danger and alarm of sailing, at that season, in the + neighbourhood of an unknown shore, dreadful in its appearance, + even in the midst of summer, and would render a winter navigation + on this coast, beyond all others, most dismaying and terrible. As + I would, therefore, advise all ships to make their passage, if + possible, in December and <span class="pagenum"><a name="page293" + id="page293"></a>[pg 293]</span> January, so I would warn them + never to attempt doubling Cape Horn, from the eastward, after the + month of March, which is equivalent to our August. As to the + remaining consideration, in regard to the most proper place for + cruizers to refit at, on their first arrival in the South Seas, + there is scarcely any choice, the island of Juan Fernandez being + the only place that can be prudently recommended for that + purpose. For, although there are many ports on the western side + of Patagonia, between the Straits of Magellan, one of which I + shall particularly notice in the sequel, in which ships may ride + in great safety, and may also recruit their wood and water, and + procure some few refreshments, yet that coast is in itself so + extremely dangerous, owing to its numerous rocks and breakers, + and to the violence of the western winds, which blow upon it + continually, that it is by no means advisable to fall in with + that coast, at least till the roads, channels, and anchorages in + each part of it have been accurately surveyed, and both the + perils and shelters with which it abounds are more distinctly + known.</p> + + <p>Having thus given the best directions in my power, for the + success of our cruizers that may be hereafter bound to the South + Seas, it might be expected that I should now resume the narrative + of our voyage. Yet as, both in the preceding and subsequent parts + of this work, I have thought it my duty not only to recite all + such facts, and to inculcate such maxims, as had even the least + appearance of proving beneficial to future navigators, and also + to recommend such measures to the public as seemed adapted to + promote the same laudable purpose, I cannot desist from the + present subject without beseeching those persons to whom the + conduct of our naval affairs is confided, to endeavour to remove + the many perplexities and embarrassments with which the + navigation to the South Sea is at present encumbered. An effort + of this kind could not fail of proving highly honourable to + themselves, and extremely beneficial to their country; for it is + sufficiently evident, that whatever improvements navigation shall + receive, either by the invention of methods by which its practice + may be rendered less hazardous, or by the more accurate + delineation of the coasts, roads, and harbours already known, or + by the discovery of new countries and nations, or of new species + and sources of commerce, the advantages thence arising must + ultimately redound to the emolument <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page294" id="page294"></a>[pg 294]</span> of + Great Britain. Since, as our fleets are at present superior to + those of the whole world united, it must be a matchless degree of + supineness or meanness of spirit, if we permit any of the + advantages deriveable from new discoveries, or from a more + extended navigation, to be ravished from us.</p> + + <p>Since it appears, from what has been already said, that all + our future expeditions to the South Seas must run a considerable + risk of proving abortive, while we remain under the necessity of + touching at Brazil in our passage thither, the discovery of some + place more to the southward, where ships might refresh, and + supply themselves with the necessary sea stock for their passage + round Cape Horn, would relieve us from this embarrassment, and + would surely be a matter worthy of the attention of the public. + Neither does this seem difficult to be effected, as we already + have an imperfect knowledge of two places, which might perhaps + prove, on examination, extremely convenient for this purpose. One + of these is Pepy's Island, in the latitude of 47° S. and + laid down by Dr Bailey about eighty leagues to the eastward of + Cape Blanco, on the coast of Patagonia.<a id="footnotetag123" + name="footnotetag123"></a><a href="#footnote123"><sup>1</sup></a> + The other is Falkland's Islands, in lat. 51° 30' + S.<a id="footnotetag124" name="footnotetag124"></a><a href= + "#footnote124"><sup>2</sup></a> nearly south of Pepy's + Island.</p> + + <p>The first of these was discovered by Captain Cowley in 1683, + during his voyage round the world, and is represented by that + navigator as a commodious place for ships to wood and water at, + being provided with a good and capacious harbour, where a + thousand sail of ships might ride at anchor in great safety, + being also the resort of vast numbers of fowls; and as its shores + consist of either rocks or sands, it seems to promise great + plenty of fish. Falkland's Islands have been seen by many + navigators, both French and English. It is laid down by Frezier, + in his chart of the extremity of South America, under the name of + the New Islands. Woods Rogers, who ran along the N.E. coasts of + these islands in 1708, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page295" + id="page295"></a>[pg 295]</span> says they extend about two + degrees in length,<a id="footnotetag125" name= + "footnotetag125"></a><a href="#footnote125"><sup>3</sup></a> and + appeared with gentle descents from hill to hill, seeming to be + good ground, interspersed with woods, and not destitute of + harbours.</p> + + <p>Either of these places, being islands at a considerable + distance from the continent, may be supposed, from their + latitude, to be situated in a sufficiently temperate climate. + They are both, it is true, too little known at present to be + recommended as the most eligible places of refreshment for ships + bound to the South Seas: But, if the admiralty should think + proper to order them to be surveyed, which might be done at a + very small expence, by a vessel fitted out on purpose; and if, on + examination, either one or both should appear proper for serving + the end in view, it is scarcely possible to conceive how + exceedingly important so convenient a station might prove, so far + to the southward, and so near Cape Horn. The Duke and Duchess of + Bristol, under Woods Rogers, were only thirty-five days from + losing sight of Falkland's Islands to their arrival at Juan + Fernandez, in the South Sea; and, as the return back is much + facilitated by the western winds, a voyage might doubtless be + made from Falkland's Islands to Juan Fernandez and back again in + little more than two months. Even in time of peace, this station + might be of great consequence to the nation; and in time of war, + would render us masters of those seas.</p> + + <p>As all discoveries of this kind, though extremely honourable + to those who direct and promote them, may yet be carried on at an + inconsiderable expence, since small vessels are much the most + proper to be employed in this service, it were greatly to be + wished that the whole coasts of Patagonia, Terra del Fuego, and + Staten-Land, were carefully surveyed, and the numerous channels, + roads, harbours, and islands, in which they abound, accurately + examined, described, and represented. This might open to us vast + facilities for passing into the South Seas, such as hitherto we + have no knowledge of, and would render the whole of that southern + navigation greatly more secure than it is at present: + Particularly as exact draughts of the western coast of Patagonia, + from the Straits of Magellan to the Spanish settlements, might + furnish <span class="pagenum"><a name="page296" id= + "page296"></a>[pg 296]</span> us with better and more convenient + ports for refreshment, and better situated, both for the purposes + of war and commerce, than Juan Fernandez, as being above a + fornight's sail nearer to Falkland's Islands.</p> + + <p>The discovery of this coast was formerly thought of so much + importance, by reason of its neighbourhood to the <i>Araucos</i> + and other Indians of Chili, who are generally at war, or at least + on ill terms, with the Spaniards, that, in the reign of Charles + II. Sir John Narborough was purposely fitted out to survey the + Straits of Magellan, the neighbouring coast of Patagonia, and the + Spanish ports on that frontier, with directions, if possible, to + procure some intercourse with the Chilese Indians, and to + establish a commerce and lasting correspondence with them. His + majesty's views, on this occasion, were not solely directed to + the advantage he might hope to receive from an alliance with + these savages, in restraining and intimidating the king of Spain, + but he even conceived, independent of these considerations, that + an immediate traffic with these Indians might prove highly + advantageous to the nation; for it is well known that Chili, at + its first discovery by the Spaniards, abounded in vast quantities + of gold, much beyond what it has ever produced since it came into + their possession. Hence it has been generally believed, that the + richest mines are carefully concealed by the Indians, as well + knowing that their discovery would excite in the Spaniards a + greater thirst for conquest and tyranny, and would render their + own independence more precarious. But, in regard to their + commerce with the English, could that be established, these + reasons would no longer influence them; since it would be in our + power to supply them with arms and ammunition of all kinds, + together with many other conveniences, which their intercourse + with the Spaniards has taught them to relish. They would then, in + all probability, open their mines, and gladly embrace a traffic + of such mutual advantage to both nations: For their gold, instead + of proving an incitement to enslave them, would then procure them + weapons with which to assert their liberty, to chastise their + tyranny, and to secure themselves for ever from falling under the + Spanish yoke; while, with our assistance, and under our + protection, they might become a considerable people, and might + secure to us that wealth, which was formerly most mischievously + lavished by the house of Austria, and <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page297" id="page297"></a>[pg 297]</span> + lately by the house of Bourbon, in pursuit of universal + monarchy.</p> + + <p>It is true, that Sir John Narborough did not succeed in + opening this commerce, which promised, in appearance, so many + advantages to the nation: But his disappointment was merely + accidental; and his transactions on that coast, besides the many + advantages he furnished to geography and navigation, are rather + an encouragement for future trials of this kind, than any + objection against them. His principal misfortune was in losing a + small bark that accompanied him, and having some of his people + trepanned at Baldivia. It even appeared, by the fears and + precautions of the Spaniards, that they were fully convinced of + the practicability of the scheme he was sent to execute, and were + extremely alarmed with apprehensions for its consequences. It is + said that Charles II. was so far prepossessed with the belief of + the advantages that might redound to the public from this + expedition, and was so eager to be informed of the event, on + receiving intelligence of Sir John Narborough passing through the + Downs on his return, that he had not patience to wait till his + arrival at court, but went himself in his barge to meet him at + Gravesend.</p> + + <p>The two most famous charts hitherto published, [i.e. in 1745,] + of the southern parts of South America, are those of Dr Halley, + in his General Chart of the Magnetic Variation, and of Frezier, + in his Voyage to the South Seas. Besides these, there is a chart + of the Straits of Magellan and some parts of the adjacent coast, + by Sir John Narborough, which is doubtless infinitely more exact + in that part than Frezier's, and even in some parts superior to + Halley's, particularly in regard to the longitudes of different + places in these straits. We were in some measure capable of + correcting, by our own observations, the coast from Cape Blanco + to Terra del Fuego, and thence to the Straits of Le Maire, as we + ranged along that coast, generally in sight of land. The position + of the land to the northward of the Straits of Magellan, on the + western side of Patagonia, is doubtless laid down very + imperfectly in our charts; and yet I believe it to be much nearer + the truth than any hitherto published; as it was drawn from the + information of some of the crew of the Wager, which was + shipwrecked on that coast; and as it pretty nearly agrees with + what I have seen in some Spanish manuscripts. The channel, called + Whale Sound, dividing Terra <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page298" id="page298"></a>[pg 298]</span> del Fuego, towards the + western extremity of the Straits of Magellan, was represented by + Frezier; but Sir Francis Drake, who first discovered Cape Horn, + and the south-west parts of Terra del Fuego, observed that the + whole coast was indented by a great number of inlets, all of + which he conceived to communicate with the Straits of Magellan: + And I do not doubt, when this country shall be thoroughly + examined, that this conjecture will be verified, and that Terra + del Fuego will be found to consist of several islands.</p> + + <p>I must not omit warning all future navigators against relying + on the longitude of the Straits of Le Maire, or of any part of + that coast, as laid down by Frezier; the whole being from eight + to ten degrees too far to the eastward, if any faith can be given + to the concurrent evidences of a great number of journals, + verified, in some particulars, by astronomical observations. For + instance, Sir John Narborough places Cape Virgin Mary in long. + 65° 42' W. from the Lizard, or about 71° 20' + from London. The ships of our squadron, taking their departure + from St Catharines, where the longitude was rectified by an + observation of an eclipse of the moon, found Cape Virgin Mary to + be from 70° 15' to 72° 30' W. from London, + according to their different reckonings; and, as there were no + circumstances in our run that could Tender it considerably + erroneous, it cannot be estimated in less than 71° W. + from London;<a id="footnotetag126" name= + "footnotetag126"></a><a href="#footnote126"><sup>4</sup></a> + whereas Frezier makes it only 66° W. from Paris, which + is little more than 63° from London. Again, our squadron + found the difference of longitude between Cape Virgin Mary and + the Straits of Le Maire to be not more than 2° 30', + while Frezier makes the difference nearly 4°,<a id= + "footnotetag127" name="footnotetag127"></a><a href= + "#footnote127"><sup>5</sup></a> by which he enlarged the coast, + from the Straits of Magellan to the Straits of Le Maire, to near + double its real extent.<a id="footnotetag128" name= + "footnotetag128"></a><a href="#footnote128"><sup>6</sup></a></p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote123" name="footnote123"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag123">(return)</a> + + <p>Isla Grande, supposed to be the Pepy's Island discovered by + Cowley, is in lat. 46° 34' S. and is placed by Mr + Dalrymple in long. 46° 40' W. while the illustrious + navigator Cook makes its long. 35° 40' W. a difference + of longitude of no less than eleven degrees.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote124" name="footnote124"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag124">(return)</a> + + <p>The centre of Falkland's Islands is in 51° 45' S. + Janson's Islands, the most north-westerly of the group, or the + Sebaldines, is in 51°; and Beauchene's Isle, the most + southerly, in 53° S.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote125" name="footnote125"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag125">(return)</a> + + <p>The west extremity of this group is in long. 62° W. + and the east extremity in 56° 43' W. so that their + extent is 5° 12' in difference of longitude.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote126" name="footnote126"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag126">(return)</a> + + <p>Only 67° 40' W. from Greenwich.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote127" name="footnote127"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag127">(return)</a> + + <p>The Straits of Le Maire are in long. 65° 30' W. so + that the difference is 2° 10'.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote128" name="footnote128"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag128">(return)</a> + + <p>Some farther critical observations on the geographical + positions, as laid down by Frezier, Sir John Narborough, and Dr + Halley, are here omitted, as tending to no use or information; + these things having been since ascertained with much more + accuracy.E.</p> + </blockquote><span class="pagenum"><a name="page299" id= + "page299"></a>[pg 299]</span> + + <h3>SECTION X.</h3> + + <h4><i>Course from Cape Noir to the Island of Juan + Fernandez.</i></h4> + + <p>After the mortifying disappointment of falling in with the + coast of Terra del Fuego, at Cape Noir, when we reckoned + ourselves ten degrees to the westward of it, as formerly + mentioned to have happened on the 14th of April, we stood away to + the S.W. till the 22d of that month, when we were in upwards of + 60° S. and, by our reckoning, 6° westwards of + Cape Noir. In this run, we had a series of as favourable weather + as could well be expected in that part of the world, even in a + better season of the year; so that this interval, setting aside + our disquietudes on various accounts, was by far the most + eligible of any we had enjoyed since passing the Straits of Le + Maire. This moderate weather continued, with little variation, + till the evening of the 24th, when the wind began to blow fresh, + and soon increased to a prodigious storm. About midnight, the + weather being very thick, we lost sight of the other ships of the + squadron, which had hitherto kept us company, notwithstanding the + violence of the preceding storms. Neither was this our sole + misfortune, for next morning, while endeavouring to hand the + top-sails, the clew-lines and bunt-lines broke, and the sheets + being half flown, every seam in the top-sails was soon split from + top to bottom. The main top-sail shook so violently in the wind, + that it carried away the top lanthorn, and even endangered the + head of the mast. At length, however, some of the boldest of our + men ventured upon the yard, and cut the sail away close to the + reefs, with the utmost hazard of their lives. At the same time, + the fore top-sail beat about the yard with so much fury, that it + was soon blown to pieces. The main-sail also blew loose, which + obliged us to lower down the yard to secure the sail; and the + fore-yard also being lowered, we lay-to under a mizen. In this + storm, besides the loss of our top-sails, we had much of our + rigging broken, and lost a main studding-sail boom out of the + chains.</p> + + <p>The weather became more moderate on the 25th at noon, which + enabled us to sway up our yards, and to repair our shattered + rigging in the best manner we could; but still we had no sight of + the rest of our squadron, neither did any of <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page300" id="page300"></a>[pg 300]</span> them + rejoin us till after our arrival at Juan Fernandez; nor, as we + afterwards learnt, did any two of them continue in company + together. This total, and almost instantaneous separation was the + more wonderful, as we had hitherto kept together for seven weeks, + through all the reiterated tempests of this turbulent climate. It + must be owned, indeed, that we had hence room to expect we might + make our passage in a shorter time than if we had continued + together, because we could now make the best of our way, without + being retarded by the misfortunes of the other ships; but then we + had the melancholy reflection, that we were thereby deprived of + the assistance of others, and our safety depended solely on our + single ship; so that, if a plank started, or any other important + accident occurred, we must all irrecoverably perish. Or, should + we happen to be driven on shore, we had the uncomfortable + prospect of ending our days on some desolate coast, without any + reasonable hope of ever getting off again; whereas, with another + ship in company, all these calamities are much less formidable, + as in every kind of danger there would always be some probability + that one ship at least might escape, and be capable of preserving + or relieving the crew of the other.</p> + + <p>During the remainder of April, we had generally hard gales, + though every day, since the 22d, edging to the northward. On the + last day of the month, however, we flattered ourselves with the + expectation of soon terminating our sufferings, as we then found + ourselves in lat. 52° 13' S. which, being to the + northward of the Straits of Magellan, we were now assured that we + had completed our passage, and were arrived on the confines of + the South Sea: And, as this ocean is denominated the + <i>Pacific</i>, from the equability of the seasons said to + prevail there, and the facility and security with which + navigation is there carried on, we doubted not that we should be + speedily cheered with the moderate gales, the smooth water, and + the temperate air, for which that portion of the globe is so + renowned. Under the influence of these pleasing circumstances, we + hoped to experience some compensation for the complicated + sufferings, which had so constantly beset us for the last eight + weeks. Yet here we were again miserably disappointed; for, in the + succeeding month of May, our sufferings rose even to a much + higher pitch than they had ever yet done, whether we consider the + violence of the storms, the shattering of our sails and rigging, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page301" id="page301"></a>[pg + 301]</span> or the diminution and weakening of our crew by deaths + and sickness, and the even threatening prospect of our utter + destruction. All this will be sufficiently evident, from the + following circumstantial recital of our diversified + misfortunes.</p> + + <p>Soon after we had passed the Straits of Le Maire, the scurvy + began to make its appearance among us, and our long continuance + at sea, the fatigue we underwent, and the various disappointments + we met with, had occasioned its spreading to such a degree, that + there were but few on board, by the latter end of April, that + were not afflicted with it in some degree; and in that month no + less than forty-three died of it in the Centurion. Although we + thought the distemper had then risen to an extraordinary height, + and were willing to hope that its malignity might abate as we + advanced to the northward, we yet found, on the contrary, that we + lost near double that number in the month of May; and, as we did + not get to land till the middle of June, the mortality went on + increasing, and so prodigiously did the disease extend, that, + after the loss of above 200 men, we could not muster at the last + above six foremast-men in a watch that were capable of duty.</p> + + <p>This disease, so frequent in long voyages, and so particularly + destructive to us, is surely the most singular and unaccountable + of any that affects the human body. Its symptoms are innumerable + and inconstant, and its progress and effects singularly + irregular, for scarcely have any two persons complaints exactly + resembling each other; and where there have been, some conformity + in the symptoms, the order of their appearance has been totally + different. Though it frequently puts on the form of many other + diseases, and is not therefore to be described by any exclusive + and infallible criterions, yet there are some symptoms which are + more general than the rest, and of more frequent and constant + occurrence, and which therefore deserve a more particular + enumeration. These common appearances are large discoloured spots + dispersed over the whole surface of the body, swelled legs, + putrid gums, and, above all, an extraordinary lassitude of the + whole body, especially after any exercise, however inconsiderable + and this lassitude at last degenerates into a proneness to swoon, + and even to die, on the least exertion of strength, or even on + the least motion. This disease is usually attended, also, by a + strange dejection of spirits, with shiverings, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page302" id="page302"></a>[pg 302]</span> + tremblings, and a disposition to be seized with the most dreadful + terrors on the slightest accident. Indeed it was most remarkable, + in all our reiterated experience of this malady, that whatever + discouraged our people, or at any time damped their hopes, never + failed to add new vigour to the distemper, for such usually + killed those who were in the last stages of the disease, and + confined those to their hammocks who were before capable of some + kind of duty, so that it seemed as if alacrity of mind and + sanguine hopes were no small preservatives from its fatal + malignity.</p> + + <p>But it is not easy to complete the long roll of the various + concomitants of this disease; for it often produced putrid + fevers, pleurisies, jaundice, and violent rheumatic pains, and + sometimes occasioned obstinate costiveness, which was generally + attended with a difficulty of breathing, and this was esteemed + the most deadly of all the scorbutic symptoms. At other times the + whole body, but more especially the legs, were subject to ulcers + of the worst kind, attended by rotten bones, and such a + luxuriance of fungous flesh as yielded to no remedy. The most + extraordinary circumstance, and which would scarcely be credible + upon any single evidence, was, that the scars of wounds that had + been healed for many years, were forced open again by this + virulent distemper. There was a remarkable instance of this in + the case of one of the invalid soldiers on board the Centurion, + who had been wounded above fifty years before, at the battle of + the Boyne; and though he was cured soon after, and had continued + well for a great many years, yet, on being attacked by the + scurvy, his wounds broke out afresh in the progress of the + disease, and appeared as if they had never been healed. What is + even still more extraordinary, the callus of a broken bone, which + had been completely formed for a long time, was dissolved in the + course of this disease, and the fracture seemed as if it had + never been consolidated. The effects, indeed, of this disease, + were in almost every instance wonderful, for many of our people, + though confined to their hammocks, appeared to have no + inconsiderable share of health, as they eat and drank heartily, + were even cheerful, talking with much seeming vigour with a loud + strong voice; and yet, on being in the least moved, though only + from one part of the ship to another, and that too in their + hammocks, they would instantly expire. Others, who have confided + in their seeming strength, and have resolved to get out of their + hammocks, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page303" id= + "page303"></a>[pg 303]</span> have died before they could well + reach the decks; neither was it uncommon for such as were able to + walk the deck, and even to perform some kind of duty, to drop + down dead in an instant, on any attempt to act with their utmost + effort; many of our people having perished in this manner in the + course of our voyage.</p> + + <p>We struggled under this terrible disease during the greatest + part of the time of our beating round Cape Horn; and though it + did not then rage with its utmost violence, yet we buried no less + than forty-three men in the month of April, as formerly observed. + We were still, however, in hopes of seeing a period to this cruel + malady, and to all the other evils which had so constantly + pursued us, when we should have secured our passage round the + Cape: but we found, to our heavy misfortune, that the (so-called) + Pacific Ocean was to us less hospitable even than the turbulent + neighbourhood of Terra del Fuego and Cape Horn. On the 8th of + May, being arrived of the island of Socoro, on the western coast + of Patagonia, [in lat. 44° 50' S. long. 73° 45' + W.] the first rendezvous appointed for the squadron, and where we + hoped to have met with some of our consorts, we cruized for them + in that station several days. We were here not only disappointed + in our expectations of meeting our friends, which induced the + gloomy apprehensions of their having all perished, but were also + perpetually alarmed with the fear of being driven on this coast, + which appeared too craggy and irregular to give us the least + prospect, in such a case, that any of us could possibly escape + immediate destruction. The land, indeed, had a most tremendous + aspect. The most distant part, far within the country, being the + mountains of the Andes, or Cordelieras, was extremely high, and + covered with snow; while the coast seemed quite rocky and barren, + and the edge of the water skirted with precipices. In some + places, indeed, we observed several deep bays running; into the + land; but their entrances were generally blocked up by numbers of + small islands; and though it was not improbable but there might + be convenient shelter in some of the bays, and proper channels + leading to them, yet, as we were utterly ignorant of the coast, + had we been driven ashore by the westerly winds, which blew + almost incessantly we could not well have avoided the loss both + of the ship and of our lives.</p> + + <p>This continued peril which lasted above a fortnight, was + greatly aggraved by the difficulties we found in working the + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page304" id="page304"></a>[pg + 304]</span> ship; as the scurvy, by this time, had destroyed so + great a number of our hands, and had in some degree infected + almost the whole crew. Neither did we, as we hoped, find the + winds less violent as we advanced to the northward; for we had + often prodigious squalls of wind, which split our sails, greatly + damaged our rigging, and endangered our masts. Indeed, during + much the greatest part of the time we were upon this coast, the + wind blew so hard that, in any other situation where we had + sufficient sea-room, we should certainly have lain-to; but, in + the present exigency, we were necessitated to carry both our + courses and top-sails, in order to keep clear of this lee-shore. + In one of these squalls, which was attended by several violent + claps of thunder, a sudden flash of fire darted along our decks, + which dividing, exploded with a report like that of several + pistols, and wounded many of our men and officers, marking them + in different parts of their bodies. This flame was attended by a + strong, sulphurous stench, and was doubtless of the same nature + with the larger and more violent flashes of lightning which then + filled the air.</p> + + <p>It were endless to recite minutely the various disasters, + fatigues, and terrors, which we encountered on this coast, all of + which went on increasing till the 22d of May; at which time the + fury of all the storms we had hitherto encountered seemed to have + combined for our destruction. In this hurricane almost all our + sails were split, and a great part of our standing rigging + broken. About eight in the evening, an overgrown mountainous wave + took us upon our star-board quarter, and gave us so prodigious a + shock that several of our shrouds broke with the jerk, to the + great danger of our masts giving way, and our ballast and stores + were so strangely shifted, that the ship heeled afterwards two + streaks to port. This was a most tremendous blow, and we were + thrown into the utmost consternation, having the dismal + apprehension of instantly foundering. Though the wind abated in a + few hours, yet, having no sails left in a condition to bend to + the yards, the ship laboured exceedingly in a hollow sea, rolling + gunwale too, for want of sail to keep her steady, so that we + every moment expected that our masts, now very slenderly + supported, would have come by the board. We exerted ourselves, + however, the best we could, to stirrup our shrouds, to reeve new + lanyards, and to mend our sails: But, while these necessary + operations were going on, we ran great risk of being <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page305" id="page305"></a>[pg 305]</span> + driven ashore on the island of Chiloe, which was not far from us. + In the midst of our peril, the wind happily shifted to the + southward, and we steered off the land with the main-sail only; + at which time the master and I undertook the management of the + helm, while every one else, capable of acting, were busied in + securing the masts, and bending the sails as fast as they could + be repaired. This was the last effort of that stormy climate; + for, in a day or two after, we got clear of the land, and found + the weather more moderate than we had yet experienced since + passing the Straits of Le Maire.</p> + + <p>Having now cruized in vain, for the other ships of the + squadron, during more than a fortnight, it was resolved to take + advantage of the present favourable weather, and the offing we + had made from this terrible coast, and to make the best of our + way for the island of Juan Fernandez. It is true that our next + rendezvous was appointed off Baldivia; yet, as we had seen none + of our companions at this first rendezvous, it was not to be + supposed that any of them would be found at the second, and + indeed we had the greatest reason to suspect that all but + ourselves had perished. Besides, we were now reduced to so low a + condition, that, instead of pretending to attack the settlements + of the enemy, our utmost hopes could only suggest the possibility + of saving the ship, and some part of the remaining crew, by a + speedy arrival at Juan Fernandez; as that was the only place, in + this part of the world, where there was any probability of + recovering our sick or refitting our ship, and consequently our + getting thither was the only chance we had left to avoid + perishing at sea.</p> + + <p>Our deplorable situation allowing no room for deliberation, we + stood for the island of Juan Fernandez; and, to save time, which + was now extremely precious, as our men were dying by four, five, + and six of a day, and likewise to avoid being again engaged on a + lee shore, we resolved to endeavour to hit that island upon a + meridian. On the 28th of May, being nearly in the parallel on + which it is laid down, we had great expectations of seeing that + island; but, not finding it in the position laid down in our + charts, we began to fear that we had got too far to the westward; + and therefore, though the commodore was strongly persuaded that + he saw it in the morning of the 28th, yet his officers believing + it to have been only a cloud, to which opinion the haziness of + the weather gave some countenance, it was resolved, on + consultation, to stand to the eastward in the parallel of the + island; as, by <span class="pagenum"><a name="page306" id= + "page306"></a>[pg 306]</span> this course, we should certainly + fall in with the island, if we were already to the westward of + it, or should at least make the main land of Chili, whence we + could take a new departure, so as not to miss it a second time in + running to the westward.</p> + + <p>Accordingly, on the 30th May, we had sight of the continent of + Chili, distant about twelve or thirteen leagues, the land + appearing very low and uneven, and quite white; what we saw being + doubtless a part of the Cordilleras, which are always covered + with snow. Though by this view of the land we ascertained our + position, yet it gave us great uneasiness to find that we had so + needlessly altered our course, when we had been, in all + probability, just upon the point of making the island: For the + mortality among us was now increased to a most frightful degree, + and those who remained were utterly dispirited by this new + disappointment, and the prospect of their longer continuance at + sea. Our water, too, began to grow scarce, and a general + dejection prevailed among us, which added much to the virulence + of the disease, and destroyed numbers of our best men. To all + these calamities, there was added this vexatious circumstance, + after getting sight of the main land, that we were so much + delayed by calms and contrary winds, while tacking westwards in + quest of the island, that it took us nine days to regain the + westing, which we ran down in two when standing to the + eastward.</p> + + <p>In this desponding condition, and under these disheartening + circumstances, we stood to the westward, with a crazy ship, a + great scarcity of fresh water, and a crew so universally + diseased, that there were not above ten foremast men in a watch + capable of doing duty, and even some of these lame and unable to + go aloft. At last, at day-break on the 9th of June, we discovered + the long-wished-for island of Juan Fernandez. Owing to our + suspecting ourselves to be to the westward of this island on the + 28th of May, and in consequence of the delay occasioned by our + standing in for the main and returning, we lost between seventy + and eighty of our men, whom we had doubtless saved, if we had + made the island on that day, which we could not have failed to + do, if we had kept on our course only for a few hours + longer.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page307" id= + "page307"></a>[pg 307]</span> + + <h3>SECTION XI.</h3> + + <h4><i>Arrival of the Centurion at Juan Fernandez, with a + Description of that Island.</i></h4> + + <p>As mentioned in the preceding section, we descried the island + of Juan Fernandez at day-break on the 9th June, bearing N. by E. + 1/2 E. distant eleven or twelve leagues. Though on this first + view it appeared very mountainous, ragged, and irregular, yet it + was land, and the land we sought for, and was therefore a most + agreeable sight: because here only we could hope to put a period + to those terrible calamities with which we had so long struggled, + which had already swept away above half of our crew, and which, + had we continued only a few days longer at sea, must inevitably + have completed our destruction. For we were now reduced to so + helpless a condition, that, out of two hundred and odd men who + remained alive, taking all our watches together, we could not + muster hands now to work the ship on any emergency, even + including the officers, the servants, and the boys.</p> + + <p>The wind being northerly when we first made the island, we + kept plying to windward all that day, and the ensuing night, in + order to get in with the land; and, while wearing ship in the + middle watch, we had a melancholy instance of the almost + incredible debility of our people; for the lieutenant could + muster no more than two quarter-masters and six foremast men + capable of working; so that, without the assistance of the + officers, servants, and boys, it might have been impossible for + us to have reached the island after we got sight of it; and even + with their assistance, we were two hours in trimming the sails; + to so wretched a condition were we reduced, in a sixty-gun ship, + which had passed the Straits of Le Maire only three months before + with between four and five hundred men, most of them then in + health and vigour.</p> + + <p>In the afternoon of the 10th, we got under the lee of the + island, and kept ranging along its coast at the distance of about + two miles, in order to look out for the proper anchorage, which + was described to be in a bay on its north side. Being now so near + the shore, we could perceive that the broken craggy precipices, + which had appeared so very unpromising from a distance, were far + from barren, being in <span class="pagenum"><a name="page308" id= + "page308"></a>[pg 308]</span> most places covered by woods; and + that there were every where the finest vallies interspersed + between them, cloathed with a most beautiful verdure, and watered + by numerous streams and cascades, every valley of any extent + being provided with its own rill; and we afterwards found that + the water was constantly clear, and not inferior to any we had + ever met with. The aspect of a country thus beautifully + diversified would at any time have been extremely delightful; + but, in our distressed situation, languishing as we were for the + land and its vegetable productions, an indication constantly + attending every stage of the sea-scurvy, it is scarcely credible + with what eagerness and transport we viewed the shore, and with + how much impatience we longed for the greens and other + refreshments which were in sight. We were particularly anxious + for the water, as we had been confined to a very sparing + allowance for a considerable time, and had then only five tons + remaining on board. Those only who have endured a long series of + thirst, and who can readily recall the desire and agitation which + even the ideas alone of springs and brooks have at that time + raised in their minds, can judge of the emotion with which we + viewed a large cascade of the purest water, which poured into the + sea at a short distance from the ship, from a rock near a hundred + feet high. Even those of the sick who were not in the very last + stage of the distemper, though they had been long confined to + their hammocks, exerted their small remains of strength, and + crawled up to the deck, to feast their eyes with this reviving + prospect.</p> + + <p>We thus coasted along the island, fully occupied in + contemplating this enchanting landscape, which still improved as + we proceeded. But at last the night closed upon us, before we + could determine upon the proper bay in which to anchor. It was + resolved, therefore, to keep in soundings all night, having then + from sixty-four to seventy fathoms, and to send our boat next + morning to discover the road. The current shifted, however, in + the night, and set us so near the land that we were obliged to + let go our best bower in fifty-six fathoms, not half a mile from + shore. At four next morning, the cutter was dispatched, under our + third-lieutenant, to find out the bay of which we were in search. + The boat returned at noon, full of seals and grass; for though + the island abounded with better vegetables, the boat's crew, + during their short stay, had not met any other, and thought even + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page309" id="page309"></a>[pg + 309]</span> this would be acceptable as a dainty, and indeed it + was all speedily and eagerly devoured. The seals, too, were + considered as fresh provision, but were not much admired, though + they afterwards came into more repute; but we had taken a + prodigious quantity of excellent fish during the absence of the + boat, which rendered the seals less valuable at this time.</p> + + <p>The cutter had discovered the bay in which we intended to + anchor, which was to the westward of our present station; and + next morning, the weather proving favourable, we endeavoured to + weigh, in order to proceed thither, mustering all the strength we + could, obliging even the sick, who could hardly stand on their + legs, to assist; yet the capstan was so weakly manned, that it + was near four hours before we could heave the cable right up and + down: after which, with our utmost efforts, though with many + surges and some additional purchases to increase our strength, we + found it utterly impossible to start the anchor out of the + ground. At noon, however, as a fresh gale blew towards the bay, + we were induced to set the sails, which fortunately tripped the + anchor. We then steered along shore, till we came abreast of the + point forming the eastern part of the bay: But on opening the + bay, the wind, which had hitherto favoured us, chanced to shift, + and blew from the bay in squalls; yet, by means of the head-way + we had got, we luffed close in, till the anchor, which still hung + at our bow, brought us up in fifty-six fathoms.</p> + + <p>Soon after we had thus got to anchor in the mouth of the bay, + we discovered a sail making toward us, which we had no doubt was + one of our squadron, and which, on a nearer approach, we found to + be the Tryal sloop; whereupon, we immediately dispatched some of + our hands to her assistance, by whose means she was brought to + anchor between us and the land. We soon learnt that she had by no + means been exempted from the same calamities by which we had been + so severely afflicted; for Captain Saunders, her commander, + waiting on the commodore, informed him, that he had buried + thirty-four men out of his small complement, and those that + remained alive were so universally afflicted with the scurvy, + that only himself, his lieutenant, and three of the men were able + to stand by the sails.</p> + + <p>It was on the 12th about noon that the Tryal came to anchor + within us, when we carried our hawsers on board her, in order to + warp our ship nearer the shore; but the wind <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page310" id="page310"></a>[pg 310]</span> + coming off the land in violent gusts, prevented our mooring in + the intended birth. Indeed our principal attention was now + devoted to a business of rather more importance, as we were now + anxiously employed in sending on shore materials to erect tents + for the reception of the sick, who died rapidly on board. + Doubtless the distemper was considerably augmented by the stench + and filthiness in which they lay; for the number of the sick was + so great, and so few of them could be spared from the necessary + duty of the sails to look after them, that it was impossible to + avoid a great relaxation in regard to cleanliness, so that the + ship was extremely loathsome between decks. Notwithstanding our + desire to free the sick from their present hateful situation, and + their own extreme eagerness to get on shore, we had not hands + enough to prepare the tents for their reception sooner than the + 16th; but on that and the two following days we got them all on + shore, to the number of an hundred and sixty-seven persons, + besides twelve or fourteen who died in the boats on being exposed + to the fresh air. The greatest part of our sick were so infirm, + that we had to carry them out of the ship in their hammocks, and + to convey them afterwards in the same manner from the water-side + to the tents, over a stony beach. This was a work of considerable + fatigue to the few who remained healthy; and therefore our + commodore, according to his accustomed humanity, not only + assisted in this himself, but obliged all his officers to give + their helping-hand.</p> + + <p>The extreme weakness of our sick may be collected, in some + measure, from the numbers that died after they got on shore. It + has generally been found that the land, and the refreshments it + affords, very soon produce recovery in most stages of the scurvy, + and we flattered ourselves that those who had not perished on + their first exposure to the open air, but had lived to be placed + in the tents, would have been speedily restored to health and + vigour. Yet to our great mortification, it was nearly twenty days + after they landed, before the mortality entirely ceased, and for + the first ten or twelve days we rarely buried less than six each + day, and many of those who survived recovered by very slow and + insensible degrees. Those, indeed, who had sufficient strength, + at their first getting on shore, to creep out of the tents, and + to crawl about, were soon relieved, and speedily recovered their + health and strength: But, in the <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page311" id="page311"></a>[pg 311]</span> rest, the disease + seemed to have attained a degree of inveteracy altogether without + example.</p> + + <p>Before proceeding to any farther detail of our proceeding, I + think it necessary to give a distinct account of this island of + Juan Fernandez, including its situation, productions, and + conveniences. We were well enabled to be minutely instructed in + these particulars, during our three months stay at this island; + and its advantages will merit a circumstantial description, as it + is the only commodious place in these seas, where British + cruizers can refresh and recover their men, after passing round + Caps Horn, and where they may remain for some time without + alarming the Spanish coast. Commodore Anson, indeed, was + particularly industrious, in directing the roads and coasts of + this island to be surveyed, and other observations of all kinds + to be made; knowing, from his own experience, of how great + benefit these materials might prove hereafter, to any British + cruizers in these seas. For the uncertainty we were in of its + position, and our standing in for the main on the 28th May, as + formerly related, cost us the lives of between seventy and eighty + of our men; from which fatal loss we might have been saved, had + we possessed such an account of its situation as we could have + fully depended upon.</p> + + <p>The island of Juan Fernandez is in lat. 33° 40'S. + [long. 77° 30' W.] one hundred marine leagues or five + degrees of longitude from the continent of Chili. It is said to + have received its name from a Spaniard who formerly procured a + grant of it, and resided there for some time with the view of + forming a settlement, but abandoned it afterwards.<a id= + "footnotetag129" name="footnotetag129"></a><a href= + "#footnote129"><sup>1</sup></a> On approaching its northern side + from the east, it appears a large congeries of lofty peaked + mountains, the shore in most places being composed of high + precipitous rocks, presenting three several bays, East bay, + Cumberland bay, and West bay, the second only being of any + extent, and is by far the best, in which we moored. The island + itself is of an irregular triangular figure; one side of which, + facing the N.E. contains these three bays. Its greatest extent is + between four and five leagues, and its greatest breadth something + less than two. The only safe anchorage is on the N.E. + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page312" id="page312"></a>[pg + 312]</span> side, where, as already mentioned, are the three + bays; the middlemost of which, named Cumberland bay, is the + widest and deepest, and in all respects by much the best; for the + other two, named East and West bays, are scarcely more than good + landing places, where boats may conveniently put casks on shore + for water. Cumberland bay is well secured to the southward, and + is only exposed from the N. by W. to the E. by S. and as the + northerly winds seldom blow in that climate, and never with any + violence, the danger from that quarter is not worth attending to. + This last-mentioned bay is by far the most commodious road in the + island, and it is advisable for all ships to anchor on its + western side, within little more than two cables length of the + beach, where they may ride in forty fathoms, and be sheltered, in + a great measure, from a large heavy sea which comes rolling in, + whenever the wind blows from eastern or western quarters. It is + expedient, however, to <i>cackle</i> or arm the cables with an + iron chain, or with good rounding, for five or six fathoms from + the anchor, to secure them from being rubbed by the foulness of + the ground.<a id="footnotetag130" name= + "footnotetag130"></a><a href="#footnote130"><sup>2</sup></a></p> + + <p>I have already observed that a northerly wind, to which alone + this bay is directly exposed, very seldom blew while we were + there; and, as it was then winter, such may be supposed less + frequent in other seasons. In those few instances when the wind + was in that quarter, it did not blow with any great force, which + might be owing to the high lands, south of the bay, giving a + check to its force; for we had reason to believe that it blew + with considerable force a few leagues out at sea, since it + sometimes drove a prodigious sea before it into the bay, during + which we rode forecastle in. Though the northerly winds are never + to be apprehended in this bay, yet the southerly winds, which + generally prevail here, frequently blow off the land in violent + gusts and squalls, which seldom lasted, however, longer than two + or three minutes. This seems to be owing to the high hills, in + the neighbourhood of the bay, obstructing the southern gale; as + the wind, collected by this means, at last forces its passage + through the narrow <span class="pagenum"><a name="page313" id= + "page313"></a>[pg 313]</span> vallies; which, like so many + funnels, both facilitate its escape, and increase its violence. + These frequent and sudden guests make it difficult for a ship to + work in with the wind offshore, or to keep a clear hawse, when + anchored.</p> + + <p>The northern part of this island is composed of high craggy + hills, many of them inaccessible, though generally covered with + trees. The soil of this part is loose and shallow, so that very + large trees in the hills frequently perish for want of root, and + are then easily overturned. This circumstance occasioned the + death of one of our men, who, being on the hills in search of + goats, caught hold of a tree upon a declivity to assist him in + his ascent, and this giving way, he rolled down the hill; and + though, in his fall, he fastened on another tree of considerable + bulk, this also gave way, and he fell among the rocks, where he + was dashed to pieces. Mr Brett, also, having rested his back + against a tree, near as large about as himself, which grew on a + slope, it gave way with him, and he fell to a considerable + distance, though without receiving any injury. Our prisoners, + whom, as will appear in the sequel, we afterwards brought to this + island, remarked that the appearance of the hills in some parts + resembled that of the mountains in Chili where gold is found; so + that it is not impossible that mines might be discovered here. In + some places we observed several hills of a peculiar red earth, + exceeding vermillion in colour, which perhaps, on examination, + might prove useful for many purposes. The southern, or rather + S.W. part of the island, is widely different from the rest; being + destitute of trees, dry, stony, and very flat and low, compared, + with the hills on the northern part. This part of the island is + never frequented by ships, being surrounded by a steep shore, and + having little or no fresh water; besides which, it is exposed to + the southerly winds, which generally blow here the whole year + round, and with great violence in the antarctic winter.</p> + + <p>The trees, of which the woods in the northern part of the + island are composed, are mostly aromatic, and of many different + sorts. There are none of them of a size to yield any considerable + timber, except those we called myrtle-trees, which are the + largest on the island, and supplied us with all the timber we + used; yet even these would not work to a greater length than + forty feet. The top of the myrtle is circular, and as uniform and + regular as if clipped round by art. It bears an excrescence like + moss on its bark, having <span class="pagenum"><a name="page314" + id="page314"></a>[pg 314]</span> the taste and smell of garlic, + and was used instead of it by our people. We found here the + pimento, and the cabbage-tree, but in no great quantity. Besides + these, there were a great number of plants of various kinds, + which we were not botanists enough to describe or attend to. We + found here, however, almost all the vegetables that are usually + esteemed peculiarly adapted to the cure of those scorbutic + disorders which are contracted by salt diet and long voyages, as + we had great quantities of water-cresses and purslain, with + excellent wild sorrel, and a vast profusion of turnips and + Sicilian radishes, which two last, having a strong resemblance to + each other, were confounded by our people under the general name + of turnips. We usually preferred the tops of the turnips to the + roots, which we generally found stringy, though some of them were + free from that exception, and remarkably good. These vegetables, + with the fish and flesh we got here, to be more particularly + described hereafter, were not only exceedingly grateful to our + palates after the long course of salt diet to which we had been + confined, but were likewise of the most salutary consequence in + recovering and envigorating our sick, and of no mean service to + us who were well, by destroying the lurking seeds of the scurvy, + from which none of us, perhaps, were totally exempted, and in + refreshing and restoring us to our wonted strength and activity. + To the vegetables already mentioned, of which we made perpetual + use, I must add that we found many acres of ground covered with + oats and clover. There were some few cabbage-trees, as before + observed, but these grew generally on precipices and in dangerous + situations, and as it was necessary to cut down a large tree to + procure a single cabbage, we were rarely able to indulge in this + dainty.</p> + + <p>The excellence of the climate, and the looseness of the soil, + renders this island extremely proper for all kinds of + cultivation: for, if the ground be any where accidentally turned + up, it becomes immediately overgrown with turnips and Sicilian + radishes. Our commodore, therefore, having with him garden-seeds + of all kinds, and stones of different kinds of fruits, sowed here + lettuces, carrots, and other garden-plants, and set in the woods + great numbers of plumb, apricot, and peach-stones, for the better + accommodation of our countrymen who might hereafter touch at this + island. These last have since thriven most remarkably, as has + been since learnt by Mr Anson. For some Spanish gentlemen having + been <span class="pagenum"><a name="page315" id="page315"></a>[pg + 315]</span> taken on their passage from Lima to Spain, and + brought to England, having procured leave to wait upon him, to + thank him for his generosity and humanity to his prisoners, some + of whom were their relations, and foiling into discourse about + his transactions in the South Seas, asked if he had not planted a + great number of fruit-stones on the island of Juan Fernandez, as + their late navigators had discovered there a great many peach and + apricot trees, which, being fruits not observed there before, + they supposed to have been produced from kernels set by him.</p> + + <p>This may suffice in general as to the soil and vegetable + productions of Juan Fernandez; but the face of the country, at + least of its northern part, is so extremely singular as to + require a particular consideration. I have already noticed the + wild and inhospitable appearance of it to us at first sight, and + the gradual improvement of its uncouth landscape as we drew + nearer, till we were at last captivated by the numerous beauties + we discovered on landing. During our residence, we found the + interior to fall no ways short of the sanguine prepossessions we + at first entertained. For the woods, which covered most of even + the steepest hills, were free from all bushes and underwood, + affording an easy passage through every part of them; and the + irregularities of the hills and precipices, in the northern part + of the island, traced out, by their various combinations, a great + number of romantic vallies, most of which were pervaded by + streams of the purest water, which tumbled in beautiful cascades + from rock to rock, as the bottoms of the vallies happened to be + broken into sudden descents by the course of the neighbouring + hills. Some particular spots occurred in these vallies where the + shade and fragrance of the contiguous woods, the loftiness of the + overhanging rocks, and the transparency and frequent cascades of + the streams, presented scenes of such elegance and dignity, as + would with difficulty be rivalled in any other part of the globe. + Here, perhaps, the simple productions of unassisted nature may be + said to excel all the fictitious descriptions of the most fertile + imagination.</p> + + <p>The piece of ground which the commodore chose in which to + pitch his tent, was a small lawn on a gentle ascent, about half a + mile from the sea. In front of the tent was a large avenue, + opening through the woods to the shore, and sloping with a gentle + descent to the water, having a prospect of the bay and the ships + at anchor. This lawn was screened behind <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page316" id="page316"></a>[pg 316]</span> by a + wood of tall myrtle trees, sweeping round in a crescent form, + like a theatre, the slope on which the wood grew rising more + rapidly than the open lawn, yet not so much but that the hills + and precipices of the interior towered considerably above the + tops of the trees, and added greatly to the beauty and grandeur + of the view. There were also two streams of water, pure as the + finest crystal, which ran to the right and left of the tent + within the distance of an hundred yards, and which, shaded by + trees skirting either side of the lawn, completed the symmetry of + the whole.</p> + + <p>It only now remains that we should mention the animals and + provisions which we met with at this island. Former writers have + related that this island abounded with vast numbers of goats, and + their accounts are not to be questioned, as this place was the + usual resort of the buccaneers and privateers who used formerly + to frequent these seas. There are two instances, one of a + <i>musquito</i> Indian, and the other of Alexander Selkirk, a + Scotsman, who were left here by their respective ships, and lived + alone upon the island for some years, and were consequently no + strangers to its productions. Selkirk, who was here the last, + after a stay of between four and five years, was taken off by the + Duke and Duchess privateers, of Bristol, as may be seen at large + in the journal of their voyage. His manner of life, during his + solitude, was very remarkable in most particulars; but he relates + one circumstance, which was so strongly verified by our own + experience, that it seems worthy of being mentioned. He tells us, + as he often caught more goats than he had occasion for, that he + sometimes marked their ears, and let them go. This was about + thirty-two years before our arrival, yet it happened that the + first goat killed by our people after they landed, had its ears + slit; whence we concluded that it had doubtless been formerly + caught by Selkirk. This was indeed an animal of a most venerable + aspect, dignified with a most majestic beard, and bearing many + other marks of great age. During our residence, we met with + others marked in the same manner, all the males being + distinguished by exuberant beards, with every other + characteristic of extreme age.</p> + + <p>The great number of goats, which former writers describe as + having been found on this island, were very much diminished + before our arrival. For the Spaniards, aware of the advantages + derived by the buccaneers and pirates from the goats-flesh they + here procured, have endeavoured to extirpate <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page317" id="page317"></a>[pg 317]</span> the + breed, on purpose to deprive their enemies of this resource. For + this purpose, they put on shore great numbers of large dogs, + which have greatly increased, and have destroyed all the goats in + the accessible pans of the country; so that there were only, when + we were there, a few among the crags and precipices, where the + dogs cannot follow them. These remaining goats are divided into + separate flocks, of twenty or thirty each, which inhabit distinct + fastnesses, and never mingle with each other, so that we found it + exceedingly difficult to kill them; yet we were so desirous of + their flesh, which we all agreed resembled venison, that we came, + I believe, to the knowledge of all their haunts and flocks; and, + by comparing their numbers, it was conceived that they scarcely + exceeded two hundred on the whole island. I once witnessed a + remarkable contest between a flock of goats and a number of dogs. + Going in our boat into the East bay, we perceived some dogs + running very eagerly upon the foot, and willing to see what game + they were in pursuit of, we rested some time on our oars to + observe them, when at last they took to a hill, on the ridge of + which we saw a flock of goats drawn up for their reception. There + was a very narrow path leading to the ridge, skirted on each side + by precipices; and here the master he-goat of the flock posted + himself fronting the enemy, the rest of the goats being all + behind him, on more open ground. As the ridge was inaccessible by + any other path, except where this champion stood, though the dogs + ran up the hill with great alacrity, yet, when they came within + twenty yards, not daring to encounter him, as he would infallibly + have driven them down the precipice, they gave over the chase, + and lay down at that distance, panting at a great rate.</p> + + <p>These dogs, which are masters of all the accessible parts of + the island, are of various kinds, some of them very large, and + have multiplied to a prodigious degree. They sometimes came down + to our habitations under night, and stole our provisions; and + once or twice they set upon single persons, but, assistance being + at hand, they were driven away, without doing any mischief. As it + is now rare for any goats to fall in their way, we conceived that + they lived principally on young seals; and some of our people, + having the curiosity to kill dogs sometimes, and dress them, + seemed to agree that they had a fishy taste.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page318" id="page318"></a>[pg 318]</span> + + <p>Goats-flesh being scarce, as we were rarely able to kill above + one in a day, and our people growing tired of fish, which + abounded at this place, they at last condescended to eat seals, + which they came by degrees to relish, calling it <i>lamb</i>. As + the seal, of which numbers haunt this island, has been often + mentioned by former writers, it seems unnecessary to say any + thing particular respecting that animal in this place. There is, + however, another amphibious animal to be met with here, called + the <i>sea-lion</i>, having some resemblance to a seal, but much + larger, which I conceive may merit a particular description. This + too we eat, under the denomination of beef. When arrived at full + size, the sea-lion is between twelve and twenty feet in length, + and from eight to fifteen feet in circumference. They are + extremely fat, so that, below the skin, which is an inch thick, + there is at least a foot deep of fat, before coming to the lean + or bones, and we experienced more than once, that the fat of some + of the largest afforded us a butt of oil. They are also very full + of blood; for, if deeply wounded in a dozen places, there will + instantly gush out as many fountains of blood, spouting to a + considerable distance. To try what quantity of blood one of them + might contain, we shot one first, and then cut its throat, + measuring the blood which flowed, and found that we got at least + two hogsheads, besides a considerable quantity remaining in the + vessels of the animal.</p> + + <p>Their skins are covered with short hair of a light dun colour; + but their tails and fins, which serve them for feet on shore, are + almost black. These fore-feet, or fins, are divided at the ends + like fingers, the web which joins them not reaching to the + extremities, and each of these fingers is furnished with a nail. + They have a distant resemblance to an overgrown seal; though in + some particulars there are manifest differences between these two + animals, besides the vast disproportion in size. The males + especially are remarkably dissimilar, having a large snout, or + trunk, hanging down five or six inches beyond the extremity of + the upper jaw, which renders the countenances of the male and + female easily distinguishable from each other. One of the largest + of these males, who was master of a large flock of females, and + drove off all the other males, got from our sailors the name of + the bashaw, from that circumstance. These animals divide their + time between the sea and the land, continuing at sea all summer, + and coming on shore at the setting in of winter, during + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page319" id="page319"></a>[pg + 319]</span> all which season they reside on the land. In this + interval they engender and bring forth their young, having + generally two at a birth, which are suckled by the dams, the + young at first being as large as a full-grown seal.</p> + + <p>During the time they continue on shore, they feed on the grass + and other plants which grow near the banks of fresh-water + streams; and, when not employed in feeding, sleep in herds in the + most miry places they can find. As they seem of a very lethargic + disposition, and are not easily awakened, each herd was observed + to place some of their males at a distance, in the nature of + centinels, who never failed to alarm them when any one attempted + to molest, or even to approach them. The noise they make is very + loud, and of different kinds; sometimes grunting like hogs, and + at other times snorting like horses in full vigour. Especially + the males have often furious battles, principally about their + females; and we were one day extremely surprised at seeing two + animals, which at first appeared quite different from any we had + before observed; but on a nearer approach, they proved to be two + sea-lions, which had been goring each other with their teeth, and + were all covered over with blood. The bashaw, formerly mentioned, + who generally lay surrounded by a seraglio of females, to which + no other male dared approach, had not acquired that envied + pre-eminence without many bloody contests, of which the marks + remained in numerous scars in every part of his body.</p> + + <p>We killed many of these animals for food, particularly for + their hearts and tongues, which we esteemed exceeding good + eating, and preferable even to those of bullocks. In general + there was no difficulty in killing them, as they are incapable + either of flight or resistance, their motion being the most + unwieldy that can be imagined, and all the time they are in + motion, their blubber is agitated in large waves under the skin. + One day, a sailor being carelessly employed in skinning a young + sea-lion, the female from whom he had taken it, came upon him + unperceived, and getting his head into her mouth, scored his + skull in notches with her teeth in many places, and wounded him + so desperately that he died in a few days, though all possible + care was taken of him.<a id="footnotetag131" name= + "footnotetag131"></a><a href= + "#footnote131"><sup>3</sup></a></p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page320" id="page320"></a>[pg 320]</span> + + <p>These are the principal animals which we found upon the island + of Juan Fernandez. We saw very few birds, and these were chiefly + hawks, blackbirds, owls, and hummingbirds. We saw not the + <i>paradela</i>,<a id="footnotetag132" name= + "footnotetag132"></a><a href="#footnote132"><sup>4</sup></a> + which burrows in the ground, and which former writers mention to + be found here; but as we often met with their holes, we supposed + that the wild dogs had destroyed them, as they have almost done + the cats; for these were very numerous when Selkirk was here, + though we did not see above two or three during our whole stay. + The rats, however, still keep their ground, and continue here in + great numbers, and were very troublesome to us, by infesting our + tents in the night.</p> + + <p>That which furnished us with the most delicious of our + repasts, while at this island, still remains to be described. + This was the fish, with which the whole bay was most abundantly + stored, and in the greatest variety. We found here cod of + prodigious size; and by the report of some of our crew, who had + been formerly employed in the Newfoundland fishery, not less + plentiful than on the banks of that island. We had also + cavallies, gropers, large breams, maids, silver-fish, congers of + a particular kind; and above all, a black fish which we esteemed + most, called by some the chimney-sweeper, in shape somewhat + resembling a carp. The beach, indeed, was every where so full of + rocks and loose stones, that there was no possibility of hauling + the seyne; but with hooks and lines we caught what numbers we + pleased, so that a boat with only two or three lines, would + return loaded with fish in two or three hours. The only + interruption we ever met with arose from great quantities of + dog-fish and large sharks, which sometimes attended our boats, + and prevented our sport.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page321" id="page321"></a>[pg 321]</span> + + <p>Besides these fish, we found one other delicacy in greater + perfection, both as to size, quantity, and flavour, than is to be + met with perhaps in any other part of the world. This was sea + craw-fish, usually weighing eight or nine pounds each, of a most + excellent taste, and in such vast numbers near the edge of the + water, that our boat-hooks often struck into them in putting the + boats to and from the shore.</p> + + <p>These are the most material articles relating to the + accommodations, soil, vegetables, animals, and other productions + of the island of Juan Fernandez, by which it will distinctly + appear how admirably this place was adapted for recovering us + from the deplorable situation to which we had been reduced by our + tedious and unfortunate navigation round Cape Horn. Having thus + given the reader some idea of the situation and circumstances of + this island, in which we resided for six months, I shall now + proceed to relate all that occurred to us in that period, + resuming the narrative from the 18th of June, on which day the + Tryal sloop, having been driven out by a squall three days + before, came again to her moorings, on which day also we finished + sending our sick on shore, being about eight days after our first + anchoring at this island.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote129" name="footnote129"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag129">(return)</a> + + <p>In the original, the description given of this island refers + to large engraved views, which could not be inserted in our + octavo form, so as to be of the smallest utility.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote130" name="footnote130"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag130">(return)</a> + + <p>Cumberland bay is called <i>La Baya</i> by the Spaniards, + who seem now to have established a fort here. East bay is by + them called <i>Puerta de Juan Fernandez</i>. There is yet a + fourth bay, or small indentation of the coast, with a landing + place and stream of water, named <i>Puerta Ingles</i>, or + Sugar-loaf bay, between West bay and the north point of the + island.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote131" name="footnote131"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag131">(return)</a> + + <p>There are two species of the seal tribe which have received + the name of sea-lion; the phoca leonina, or bottle-nosed seal, + which is that of the text; and the phoca jubata, or maned seal, + which is the sea-lion of some other writers. These two species + are remarkably distinguishable from each other, especially the + moles: The bottle-nosed seal having a trunk, snout, or long + projection, on the upper jaw; while the male of the maned seal + has his neck covered with a long flowing mane. The latter is + also much larger, the males sometimes reaching twenty-five feet + in length, and weighing fifteen or sixteen hundred weight. + Their colour is reddish, and their voice resembles the + bellowing of bulls. The former are chiefly found in the + Southern Pacific; while the latter frequent the northern parts + of the same ocean.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote132" name="footnote132"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag132">(return)</a> + + <p>This name is inexplicable; but, from the context, appears to + refer to some animal of the cavia genus, resembling the rabbit: + Besides, a small islet, a short way S.W. of Juan Fernandez, is + named Isla de Conejos, or Rabbit Island.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Separate Arrivals of the Gloucester, and Anna Pink, at + Juan Fernandez, and Transactions at that Island during the + Interval.</i></h4> + + <p>The arrival of the Tryal sloop at this island, so soon after + we came there ourselves in the Centurion, gave us great hopes of + being speedily joined by the rest of the squadron; and we were + accordingly for some days continually looking out, in expectation + of their coming in sight. After near a fortnight had elapsed + without any of them appearing, we began to despair of ever + meeting them again, knowing, if our ship had continued so much + longer at sea, that we should every man of us have perished, and + the vessel, occupied only by dead bodies, must have been left to + the caprice of the winds and waves; and this we had great reason + to fear was the fate of our consorts, as every hour added to the + probability of these desponding suggestions. But, on the 21st of + June, some of our people, from an eminence on shore, discerned + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page322" id="page322"></a>[pg + 322]</span> a ship to leeward, with her courses even with the + horizon. They could, at the same time, observe that she had no + sails aboard, except her courses and main-topsail. This + circumstance made them conclude that it must be one of our + squadron, which had probably suffered as severely in her sails + and rigging as we had done. They were prevented, however, from + forming more definite conjectures concerning her; for, after + viewing her a short time, the weather grew thick and hazy, and + she was no longer to be seen.</p> + + <p>On this report, and no ship appearing for some days, we were + all under the greatest concern, suspecting that her people must + be under the utmost distress for want of water, and so weakened + and diminished in numbers by sickness, as to be unable to ply up + to windward, so that we dreaded, after having been in sight of + the island, that her whole crew might yet perish at sea. On the + 21st, at noon, we again discerned a ship at sea in the N.E. + quarter, which we conceived to be the same that had been seen + before, and our conjecture proved true. About one o'clock she had + come so near that we could plainly distinguish her to be the + Gloucester; and as we had no doubt of her being in great + distress, the commodore immediately ordered out his boat to our + assistance, laden with fresh water, fish, and vegetables, which + was a most comfortable relief to them; for our apprehensions of + their calamitous situation were only too well founded, as there + never was, perhaps, a crew in greater distress. They had already + thrown two-thirds of their complement overboard; and of those who + remained alive, scarcely any were capable of doing duty, except + the officers and their servants. They had been a considerable + time at the small allowance of a pint of water to each man in + twenty-four hours, and yet had so very little left, that they + must soon have died of thirst, had it not been for the supply + sent them by our commodore.</p> + + <p>The Gloucester plied up within three miles of the bay, but + could not reach the road, both wind and currents being contrary. + She continued, however, in the offing next day; and as she had no + chance of being able to come to anchor, the commodore repeated + his assistance, sending off the Tryal's boat, manned with the + people of the Centurion, with a farther supply of water, and + other refreshments. Captain Mitchell of the Gloucester was under + the necessity of detaining both this boat and that sent the + preceding day, as he had no longer strength to navigate his ship + without the aid <span class="pagenum"><a name="page323" id= + "page323"></a>[pg 323]</span> of both their crews. The Gloucester + continued near a fortnight in this tantalizing situation, without + being able to fetch the road, though frequently making the + attempt, and even at times bidding fair to effect the object in + view. On the 9th July, we observed her stretching away to the + eastward, at a considerable distance, which we supposed was with + a design to get to the southward of the island; but, as she did + not again appear for near a week, we were prodigiously alarmed + for her safety, knowing that she must be again in extreme + distress for want of water. After great impatience about her, we + again discovered her on the 16th, endeavouring to come round the + eastern point of the island, but the wind still blowing directly + from the bay, prevented her from getting nearer than within four + miles of the land.</p> + + <p>Captain Mitchell now made signals of distress, and our + long-boat, was sent off with a good supply of water, and plenty + of fish and other refreshments: And, as the long-boat could not + be wanted, the cockswain had positive orders from the commodore + to return immediately. But next day proving stormy, and the boat + not appearing, we much feared she was lost, which would have been + an irretrievable misfortune to us all. We were relieved, however, + from this anxiety on the third day after, by the joyful + appearance of her sails on the water, on which the cutter was + sent to her assistance, and towed her alongside in a few hours, + when we found that the long-boat had taken in six of the + Gloucester's sick men, to bring them on shore, two of whom had + died in the boat. We now learnt that the Gloucester was in a most + dreadful condition, having scarcely a man in health on board, + except the few she had received from us. Numbers of their sick + were dying daily, and it appeared, had it not been for the last + supply sent by our long-boat, that both the healthy and diseased + must all have perished for want of water. This calamitous + situation was the more terrifying, as it appeared to be without + remedy; for the Gloucester had already spent a month in fruitless + endeavours to fetch the bay, and was now no farther advanced than + when she first made the island. The hopes of her people of ever + succeeding were now worn out, by the experience of its + difficulty; and, indeed, her situation became that same day more + desperate than ever, as we again lost sight of her, after + receiving our last supply of refreshments, so that we universally + despaired of her ever coming to anchor.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page324" id="page324"></a>[pg 324]</span> + + <p>Thus was this unhappy vessel bandied about, within a few + leagues of her intended harbour, while the near neighbourhood of + that place, and of these circumstances which could alone put an + end to the calamities under which her people laboured, served + only to aggravate their distress, by torturing them with a view + of the relief they were unable to reach. She was at length + delivered from this dreadful situation at a time when we least + expected it: For, after having lost sight of her for several + days, we were joyfully surprised, in the morning of the 23d July, + to see her open the N.W. point of the bay with a flowing sail, + when we immediately dispatched what boats we had to her + assistance, and within an hour from our first perceiving her, she + anchored safe within us in the bay.</p> + + <p>We were now more particularly convinced of the importance of + the assistance and refreshments we had repeatedly sent her, and + how impossible it must have been for a single man of her crew to + have survived, had we given less attention to their wants. For, + notwithstanding the water, vegetables, and fresh provisions with + which we had supplied them, and the hands we had sent to assist + in navigating the ship, by which the fatigue of her own people + had been greatly diminished, their sick relieved, and the + mortality abated; notwithstanding this provident care of our + commodore, they yet buried above three-fourths of their crew, and + a very small proportion of the survivors remained capable of + assisting in the duty of the ship. On getting to anchor, our + first care was to assist them in mooring, and the next to get + their sick on shore. These were now reduced, by numerous deaths, + to less than fourscore, of which we expected the greatest part to + have died; but whether it was that those farthest advanced in the + cruel distemper had already perished, or that the vegetables and + fresh provisions we had sent had prepared those who remained + alive for a more speedy recovery, it so happened, contrary to our + fears, that their sick, in general, were relieved and restored to + health in a much shorter time than our own had been when we first + came to the island, and very few of them died on shore.</p> + + <p>Having thus given an account of the principal events relating + to the arrival of the Gloucester, in one continued narration, I + shall only add, that we were never joined by any other of our + ships, except our victualler, the Anna pink, which came in about + the middle of August, and whose history I <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page325" id="page325"></a>[pg 325]</span> + shall defer for the present, as it is now high time, to return to + our own transactions, both on board and ashore, during the + anxious interval of the Gloucester making frequent and + ineffectual attempts to reach the island.</p> + + <p>Our next employment, after sending our sick on shore from the + Centurion, was cleansing our ship, and filling our water casks. + The former of these measures was indispensably necessary to our + future health, as the number of our sick, and the unavoidable + negligence arising from our deplorable situation at sea, had + rendered the decks most intolerably loathsome. The filling our + water was also a caution that appeared essential to our security, + as we had reason to apprehend that accidents might intervene + which would oblige us to quit the island at a very short warning, + as some appearances we had discovered on shore, at our first + landing, gave us grounds to believe that there were Spanish + cruizers in these seas, which had left the island only a short + time before our arrival, and might possibly return again, either + for a supply of water, or in search of us. For we could not doubt + that the sole purpose they had at sea was to intercept us, and we + knew that this island was the likeliest place, in their opinion, + to meet with us. The circumstances which gave rise to these + reflections, in part of which we were not mistaken, as will + appear more at large hereafter, were our finding on shore several + pieces of earthen jars, made use of in these seas for holding + water and other liquids, which appeared fresh broken. We saw also + many heaps of casks, near which were fish bones and pieces of + fish, besides whole fish scattered here and there, which plainly + appeared to have been only a short time out of the water, as they + were but just beginning to decay.</p> + + <p>These were infallible indications that there had been a ship + or ships at this place only a short time before our arrival; and, + as all Spanish merchant ships are instructed to avoid this + island, on account of its being the common rendezvous of their + enemies, we concluded that those which had touched here must have + been ships of force; and, as we knew not that Pizarro had + returned to the Rio Plata, and were ignorant what strength might + have been fitted out at Calao, we were under considerable + apprehensions for our safety, being in so wretched and enfeebled + a condition, as, notwithstanding the rank of our ship, and the + sixty guns with which she was armed, there was hardly a privateer + sent to sea that was not an <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page326" id="page326"></a>[pg 326]</span> overmatch for us. Our + fears on this head, however, fortunately proved imaginary, and we + were not exposed to the disgrace which must unavoidably have + befallen us, had we been reduced to the necessity, by the + appearance of an enemy, of fighting our sixty-gun ship with no + more than thirty hands.</p> + + <p>While employed in cleaning our ship, and filling our water + casks, we set up a large copper oven on shore, near the sick + tents, in which fresh bread was baked every day for the ship's + company, as, being extremely desirous of recovering our sick as + soon as possible, we believed that new bread, added to their + green vegetables and fresh fish, might prove powerfully conducive + to their relief. Indeed, we had all imaginable inducements to + endeavour at augmenting our present strength, as every little + accident, which to a full crew would have been insignificant, was + extremely alarming in our present helpless condition. Of this we + had a troublesome instance, on the 30th of June, at five in the + morning, when we were alarmed by a violent gust of wind directly + off shore, which instantly parted our small bower cable, about + ten fathoms from the ring of the anchor. The ship at once swung + off to the best bower, which happily stood the violence of the + jerk, and brought us up, with two cables on end, in eighty + fathoms.</p> + + <p>At this time we had not above a dozen seamen in the ship, and + were apprehensive, if the squall continued, that we might be + driven out to sea in this helpless condition. We sent, therefore, + the boat on shore, to bring off all who were capable of acting; + and the wind soon abating of its fury, gave us an opportunity of + receiving the boat back with a reinforcement. With this + additional strength, we went immediately to work, to have in what + remained of the broken cable, which we suspected to have received + some injury from the ground before it parted, and accordingly we + found that seven fathoms and a half had been chaffed and rendered + unserviceable. In the afternoon, we bent this cable to the spare + anchor, and got it over the bows. Next morning, the 1st of July, + being favoured by the wind in gentle breezes, we warped the ship + in again, and let go the anchor in forty-one fathoms; the eastern + point of the bay now bearing from us E. 1/2 S. the western point + N.W. by W. and the bottom of the bay S.S.W. as before. We were, + however, much concerned for the loss of our anchor, and swept + frequently to <span class="pagenum"><a name="page327" id= + "page327"></a>[pg 327]</span> endeavour its recovery; but the + buoy having sunk at the instant when the cable parted, we could + never find it again.</p> + + <p>As the month of July advanced, and some of our sick men were + tolerably recovered, the strongest of them were set to cut down + trees, and to split them into billets, while others, too weak for + this work, undertook to carry the billets, by one at a time, to + the water side. This they performed, some by the help of + crutches, and others supported by a single stick. We next set up + the forge on shore, and employed our smith, who was just capable + of working, to repair our chain-plates, and other broken and + decayed iron-work. We began also the repair of our rigging; but + as we had not enough of junk to make spun-yarn, we deferred the + general overhaul in the daily hope of the Gloucester arriving, + which was known to have a great quantity of junk on board. That + we might dispatch our refitting as fast as possible, we set up a + large tent on the beach for the sail-makers, who were employed + diligently in repairing our old sails and making new ones. These + occupations, with cleansing and watering our ship, now pretty + well completed, together with attending our sick, and the + frequent relief sent to the Gloucester, were the principal + transactions of our infirm crew, till the arrival of the + Gloucester at anchor in the bay.</p> + + <p>Captain Mitchell immediately waited on the commodore, whom he + informed, that, in his last absence, he had been forced as far as + the small island of <i>Masefuero</i>, nearly in the same latitude + with the larger island of Juan Fernandez, and thirty leagues + farther W. That he had endeavoured to send his boat on shore + there for water, of which he observed several streams; but the + wind blew so strong upon the shore, and caused so great a surf, + that it was impossible to get to land. The attempt, however, was + not entirely useless, as the boat came back loaded with fish. + This island had been represented, by former navigators, as a mere + barren rock, but Captain Mitchell assured the commodore, that it + was almost every where covered with trees and verdure, and was + nearly four miles in length. He believed also, that some small + bay might possibly be found in it which might afford sufficient + shelter to any ship desirous of procuring refreshments.</p> + + <p>As four ships of our squadron were still missing, this + description of Masefuero gave rise to a conjecture, that some of + them might possibly have fallen in with that island, mistaking it + for the true place of rendezvous. This suspicion <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page328" id="page328"></a>[pg 328]</span> was + the more reasonable, that we had no draught of either island that + could be relied upon; wherefore the commodore resolved to send + the Tryal sloop thither, as soon as she could be made ready for + sea, in order to examine all its creeks and bays, that it might + be ascertained whether any of our missing ships were there or + not. For this purpose, some of our best hands were sent on board + the Tryal next morning, to overhaul and fix her rigging, and our + long-boat was employed to complete her water; what stores and + necessaries she wanted, being immediately supplied from the + Centurion and Gloucester. It was the 4th of August before the + Tryal was in readiness to sail. When, having weighed, it soon + after fell calm, and the tide set her very near the eastern shore + of the bay. Captain Saunders immediately hung out lights, and + fired several guns, to apprise us of his danger; upon which all + the boats were sent to his aid, which towed the sloop into the + bay, where she anchored till next morning, and then proceeded + with a fair breeze.</p> + + <p>We were now busily employed in examining and repairing our + rigging, and that of the Gloucester; but, in stripping our + fore-mast, we were alarmed by discovering that it was sprung just + above the partners of the upper deck. This spring was two inches + in depth and twelve in circumference; but the carpenters, on + inspection, gave it as their opinion, that fishing it with two + leaves of an anchor-stock would render it as secure as ever. + Besides this defect in our mast, we had other difficulties in + refitting, from the want of cordage and canvass; for, although we + had taken to sea much greater quantities of both than had ever + been done before, yet the continued bad weather we had met with, + after passing the straits of Le Maire, had occasioned so great a + consumption of these stores, that we were reduced to great + straits; as, after working up all our junk and old shrouds, to + make twice laid cordage, we were at last reduced to the necessity + to unlay a cable, to work up into running rigging; and, with all + the canvass and remnants of old sails, that could be mustered, we + could only make up one complete suit.</p> + + <p>Towards the middle of August, our men being indifferently + recovered, they were permitted to quit the sick tents, and to + build separate huts for themselves; as it was imagined, by living + apart, that they might be much cleanlier, and consequently likely + to recover their strength the sooner: But strict orders were + given, at the same time, that they <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page329" id="page329"></a>[pg 329]</span> were instantly to + repair to the water-side, on the firing of a gun from the ship. + Their employment now on shore, was either the procurement of + refreshments, the cutting of wood, or the procurement of oil from + the blubber of sea-lions. This oil served for several purposes; + as burning in lamps, mixing with pitch to pay the sides of our + ships, or, when worked up with wood-ashes, to supply the place of + tallow, of which we had none left, to give the ship boat-hose + tops. Some of the men were also occupied in salting cod; for, + having two Newfoundland fishermen in the Centurion, the commodore + set them to work in providing a considerable quantity of salted + cod for sea-store; though very little of it was used, as it was + afterwards thought to be equally productive of scurvy with any + other kind of salted provisions.</p> + + <p>It has been before mentioned, that we set up a copper oven on + shore, to bake bread for the sick: But it happened that the + greatest part of the flour, for the use of the squadron, was on + board the Anna pink. It should also have been mentioned, that the + Tryal sloop informed us, on her arrival, that she had fallen in + with our victualler, on the 9th of May, not far from the coast of + Chili, and had kept company with her for four days, when they + were parted in a gale of wind. This gave us some room to hope + that she was safe, and might rejoin us: But, all June and July + having passed without any news of her, we gave her over for lost; + and the commodore, at the end of July, ordered all the ships on a + short allowance of bread. Neither was it in bread alone that we + feared a deficiency: For, since our arrival at Juan Fernandez, it + was discovered that our former purser had neglected to take on + board large quantities of several kinds of provisions, which the + commodore had expressly ordered him to receive; so that the + supposed loss of our victualler was, on all accounts, a most + mortifying circumstance.</p> + + <p>About noon on Thursday the 16th of August, after we had given + over all hopes of the Anna pink, a sail was espied in the + northern quarter, on which a gun was immediately fired from the + Centurion, to call off the people from the shore, who readily + obeyed the summons, by repairing to the beach, where the boats + waited to fetch them on board. Being now prepared for the + reception of the ship in view, whether friend or enemy, we had + various speculations respecting her, many supposing at first, + that it was the Tryal <span class="pagenum"><a name="page330" id= + "page330"></a>[pg 330]</span> sloop returning from the + examination of Masefuero. As she drew nearer, this opinion was + confuted, by observing that she had three masts, when other + conjectures were eagerly canvassed; some judging the vessel in + sight to be the Severn and others the Pearl, while several + affirmed that she did not belong to our squadron. But, about + three in the afternoon, all speculations were ended by the + unanimous persuasion that it was our victualler, the Anna pink. + And, though, this ship had fallen in with the island to the + northward like the Gloucester, she yet had the good fortune to + come to anchor in the bay at five in the afternoon. Her arrival + gave us all the utmost satisfaction, as the ship's companies were + immediately restored to their full allowance of bread, and we + were now relieved from the apprehensions of our provisions + falling short before we could reach some friendly port,a + calamity, in these seas, of all others the most irretrievable. + This was the last ship that joined us; and, as the dangers she + encountered, and the good fortune she afterwards experienced, are + worthy of a separate narration, I shall refer them, together with + a short account of the other missing ships, to the ensuing + section.</p> + + <h3>SECTION XIII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Short Account of what befell the Anna Pink before she + rejoined; with an Account of the Loss of the Wager, and the + putting back of the Severn and Pearl.</i></h4> + + <p>On the first recognition of the Anna pink, it seemed quite + wonderful to us how the crew of a vessel, which had thus come to + the rendezvous two months after us, should be capable of working + their ship in the manner they did, and with so little appearance + of debility and distress. This difficulty, however, was soon + solved after she came to anchor; for we then found that she had + been in harbour since the middle of May, near a month before our + arrival at Juan Fernandez, so that their sufferings, excepting + the risk they had run of being shipwrecked, were greatly short of + what had been undergone by the rest of the squadron.</p> + + <p>They fell in with the land on the 16th of May, in lat. + 45° 15' S. being then about four leagues from shore. On + the first sight of it, they wore ship and stood to the southward; + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page331" id="page331"></a>[pg + 331]</span> but their fore-sail splitting, and the wind being + strong at W.S.W. they drove towards the shore. The captain, + either unable to clear the land, or, as others say, resolved to + keep the sea no longer, steered now for the coast, in order to + look out for some shelter among the many islands which appeared + in sight, and had the good fortune to bring the ship to anchor to + the eastward of the island of <i>Inchin</i><a id="footnotetag133" + name="footnotetag133"></a><a href= + "#footnote133"><sup>1</sup></a>. But, as they did not run + sufficiently near the east shore of that island, and had not + hands enough to veer away the cable briskly, they were soon + driven to the eastwards, deepening their water from twenty-five + to thirty-five fathoms. Still continuing to drive, they next day, + being the 17th May, let go their sheet anchor, which brought them + up for a short time: but on the 18th they drove again, till they + came into sixty-five fathoms; and, being now within a mile of the + land, they expected every moment to be forced on shore in a place + where the coast was so very high and steep, that there was not + the smallest prospect of saving the ship and cargo. As their + boats were very leaky, and there was no appearance of a landing + place, the whole crew, consisting of sixteen men and boys, gave + themselves up for lost, believing, if even any of them happened + to get on shore by some extraordinary chance, that they would be + almost certainly massacred by the savages; as these people, + knowing no other Europeans except Spaniards, might be expected to + treat all strangers with the same cruelty which they have so + often, and so signally, exercised against their Spanish + neighbours.</p> + + <p>Under these terrifying circumstances, the Anna continued to + drive towards the rocks which formed the shore; and at last, when + expecting every instant to strike, they perceived a small opening + in the land, which raised their hopes of safety. Wherefore, + immediately cutting away their two anchors, they steered for this + opening, which they found to be a narrow opening between an + island and the main, which led them into a most excellent + harbour; which, for its security against all winds and swells, + and the consequent smoothness of its water, may perhaps vie with + any in the known world: And this place being scarcely two miles + from the spot where they deemed their destruction inevitable, the + horrors of shipwreck <span class="pagenum"><a name="page332" id= + "page332"></a>[pg 332]</span> and immediate death, with which + they had been so long and strongly possessed, vanished almost in + an instant, giving place to the most joyous ideas of security, + refreshment, and repose.</p> + + <p>In this harbour, discovered almost by miracle, the Anna came + to anchor in twenty-five fathoms, with only a hawser and small + anchor of about three hundred weight. Here she continued for near + two months, and her people, who were many of them ill of the + scurvy, were soon restored to perfect health by the fresh + provisions, which they procured in abundance, and the excellent + water which they found in plenty on the adjacent shore. As this + place may prove of the greatest importance to future navigators + forced upon this coast by the western winds, which are almost + perpetual in that part of the world, it may be proper to give the + best account that could be collected of this port, as to its + situation, conveniences, and productions, before continuing the + adventures of the Anna pink. To facilitate, also, the knowledge + of this place, to such as may be desirous hereafter of using it, + there is annexed a plan both of the harbour and the large bay + before it, through which the Anna drifted. This plan, perhaps, + may not be in all respects as accurate as could be wished, being + composed from the memorandums and rude sketches of the master and + surgeon, who were not the most able draughtsmen; but, as the + principal parts were laid down by their estimates of their + distances from each other, in which kind of computation seamen + are commonly very dextrous, the errors are probably not very + considerable.</p> + + <p>The latitude, which certainly is a very material point, was + not very accurately ascertained, as the Anna had no observation + either on the day she got there, or within a day of leaving the + bay; but is supposed to be not very distant from 45° 30' + S.<a id="footnotetag134" name="footnotetag134"></a><a href= + "#footnote134"><sup>2</sup></a> But the large extent of the bay, + at the bottom of which the harbour is situated, renders this + uncertainty of the less importance. The island lying before this + bay, called <i>Inchin</i> by the Indians, is supposed to be one + of the islands named <i>Chonos</i> by the Spanish accounts, and + said to spread along all this coast,<a id="footnotetag135" name= + "footnotetag135"></a><a href="#footnote135"><sup>3</sup></a> + being inhabited by a barbarous people, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page333" id="page333"></a>[pg 333]</span> + famous for their hatred to the Spaniards, and their cruelty to + such of that nation as have fallen into their hands. It is even + possible that the land in which this harbour is situated may be + one of these islands, while the continent may be considerably to + the eastward. This harbour, besides its depth of water and + complete shelter, has two coves, where ships may very + conveniently be hove down, as the water is constantly smooth. + There are also several fine runs of excellent fresh water, which + fall into the harbour, some so conveniently situated that the + casks may be filled in the long-boat by means of a hose. The most + remarkable of these is a stream in the N.E. part of the harbour, + being a fresh-water river, where the crew of the Anna caught a + few mullets of excellent flavour, and they were persuaded that it + would be found to have plenty of fish in the proper season, it + being winter when they were there.</p> + + <p>The principal refreshments of green vegetables met with at + this port were wild cellery, nettle-tops, and the like, which, + after so long a continuance at sea, were highly acceptable. We + got abundance of shell-fish, as cockles and muscles of great size + and delicious flavour, with plenty of geese, shags, and penguins. + Though in the depth of winter the climate was by no means + extremely rigorous, neither were the trees or the face of the + country destitute of verdure; whence it may be concluded, that + many other kinds of fresh provisions would doubtless be found + there in summer. Notwithstanding the relations of the Spaniards + respecting the violence and barbarity of the inhabitants, it does + not appear that their numbers are sufficient to excite any + apprehensions in the crew of a ship of any size, or that their + dispositions are by any means so mischievous or merciless as has + been represented. With all these advantages, this place is so far + from the frontiers of the Spanish settlements, and so little + known to the Spaniards themselves, that, with proper precautions, + there is reason to believe a ship might remain here a long time + undiscovered. It is also capable of being made a very defensible + port; as, by possessing the island that closes tip the port or + inner harbour, which island is only accessible in a very few + places, a small force might easily secure this port against all + the force which the Spaniards could muster in that part of the + world. For this island is so steep towards the harbour, having + six fathoms close to the shore, that the Anna anchored within + forty yards of its coast; whence it is <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page334" id="page334"></a>[pg 334]</span> + obvious how difficult it would prove, either to board or cut out + any vessel protected by a force posted on shore within + pistol-shot, and where those thus posted could not be themselves + attacked. All these circumstances seem to render this port worthy + of a more accurate examination; and it is to be hoped that this + rude attempt to suggest, may hereafter recommend it to the + consideration of the public, and the attention of those who are + more immediately entrusted with the conduct of our naval + affairs.</p> + + <p>After this account of the place where the Anna lay for two + months, it may be expected that I should relate the discoveries + made by her crew upon the adjacent coast, and the principal + incidents that occurred during their stay here. But, as they were + only a few in number, they durst not venture to detach any of + their people on distant searches, being under continual + apprehensions of being attacked either by the Spaniards or + Indians, so that their excursions were generally confined to the + tract of land surrounding the port, where they were never out of + view of the ship: Even if they had known from the first how + little grounds there were for these fears, yet the neighbouring + country was so overgrown with wood, and so traversed by + mountains, that it appeared impracticable to penetrate to any + distance, so that no account of the interior could be expected. + They were, however, in a condition to disprove the relations + given by Spanish writers, who have represented this coast as + inhabited by a fierce and powerful people, as no such inhabitants + were to be found, at least in the winter season; for, during the + whole time of their continuance here, they never saw any more + than one small Indian family, which came into the harbour in a + periagua, or canoe, about a month after the arrival of the Anna, + and consisted only of one Indian man, near forty years of age, + his wife, and two children, one about three years of age, and the + other still on the breast. They seemed to have with them all + their property, consisting of a dog and cat, a fishing net, a + hatchet, a knife, a cradle, some bark of trees, intended for + covering a hut, a reel with some worsted, a flint and steel, and + a few roots of a yellow hue, and very disagreeable taste, which + served them for bread.</p> + + <p>As soon as these were perceived, the master of the Anna sent + his yawl and brought them on board; and, lest they might discover + him to the Spaniards if permitted to go away, he took proper + precautions, as he conceived, for securing <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page335" id="page335"></a>[pg 335]</span> + them, but without violence or ill usage, as they were permitted + to go about the ship where they pleased in the day time, but were + locked up in the forecastle at night. As they were fed in the + same manner with the crew, and were often indulged with brandy, + which they seemed greatly to relish, it did not appear at first + that they were much dissatisfied with their situation. The master + took the Indian on shore when he went to shoot, and he seemed + always much delighted on seeing the game killed. The crew also + treated them with great humanity; but it was soon apparent, + though the woman continued easy and cheerful, that the man grew + pensive and discontented at his confinement. He seemed to have + good natural parts, and though utterly unable to converse with + our people otherwise than by signs, was yet very curious and + inquisitive, and showed great dexterity in his manner of making + himself understood. Seeing so few people on board so large a + ship, he seemed to express his opinion that they had once been + more numerous, and, by way of representing what he imagined had + become of their companions, he laid himself on the deck, closing + his eyes, and stretching himself out motionless, as if to imitate + the appearance of a dead body.</p> + + <p>The strongest proof of his sagacity was the manner of his + getting away. After having been on board the Anna for eight days, + the scuttle of the forecastle, where he and his family were + locked up every night, happened to be left unnailed, and on the + following night, which was extremely dark and stormy, he + contrived to convey his wife and children through the scuttle, + and then over the ship's side into the yawl, and immediately + rowed on shore, using the precaution to cut away the long-boat + and his own periagua, which were towing astern, to prevent being + pursued. He conducted all this with so much silence and secrecy, + that, though there was a watch on the quarter-deck with loaded + arms, he was not discovered by them till the noise of his oars in + the water gave notice of his escape, after he had put off from + the ship, when it was too late either to prevent or pursue him. + Besides, as their boats were all adrift, it was some time before + they could contrive the means of getting on shore to search for + their boats. By this effort, besides regaining his liberty, the + Indian was in some measure revenged on those who had confined + him, both by the perplexity they were in for the loss of their + boats, and by the terror occasioned by his departure; + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page336" id="page336"></a>[pg + 336]</span> for, on the first alarm of the watch, who cried, "The + Indians," the whole crew were in the utmost confusion, believing + that the ship had been boarded by a whole fleet of armed + canoes.</p> + + <p>Had the resolution and sagacity with which this Indian behaved + on this occasion, been exerted on a more extensive object, it + might have immortalized the exploit, and given him a rank among + the illustrious names of antiquity. The people of the Anna, + indeed, allowed that it was a most gallant enterprise, and were + grieved at having thus been under the necessity, from attention + to their own safety, to abridge the liberty of one who had now + given so distinguished a proof of courage and prudence. As he was + supposed still to continue in the woods near the port, where he + might suffer for want of provisions, they easily prevailed on the + master to leave a quantity of such food as they thought would be + most agreeable to him in a place where he was likely to find it, + and there was reason to believe this was not altogether without + its use, for, on visiting the place afterwards, the provisions + were gone, and in a manner that made them conclude they had + fallen into his hands.</p> + + <p>Although many of the crew of the Anna believed that this + Indian still continued in the neighbourhood, there were some who + strongly suspected he might have gone off to the island of + Chiloe, where they feared he would alarm the Spaniards, and would + soon return with a force sufficient to surprise or overpower the + Anna. The master was therefore prevailed upon to discontinue + firing the evening gun, and there is a particular reason for + attending to this circumstance, to be explained hereafter; for he + had hitherto, from an ostentatious imitation of the men-of-war, + fired a gun every evening at setting the night watch. This, as he + pretended, was to awe the enemy, if there were any within + hearing, and to convince them that his ship was always on her + guard. The crew being now well refreshed, and their wood and + water sufficiently replenished, he put to sea a few days after + the escape of the Indian, and had a fortunate passage to the + rendezvous at Juan Fernandez, where he arrived on the 16th of + August, as already mentioned.</p> + + <p>The remaining ships of the squadron, none of which rejoined + the commodore, were the Severn, Pearl, and Wager, of the fate of + which it may be proper to make mention. The Severn and Pearl + parted company from the commodore off <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page337" id="page337"></a>[pg 337]</span> Cape + Voir; and, as we afterwards learnt, put back to Brazil. The Wager + had on board a few field-pieces, and some coehorn-mortars, + mounted for land service, with several kinds of artillery stores + and pioneers tools, intended for operations on shore. And, as an + enterprise had been planned against Baldivia, for the first + operation of the squadron, Captain Cheap was extremely solicitous + that these articles might be forthcoming, and determined to use + his endeavours for that purpose, that no delay or disappointment + might be imputed to him, not knowing the state the squadron was + reduced to. While making the best of his way, with these views, + to the first appointed rendezvous, off Socoro, whence he proposed + to proceed for Baldivia, the Wager made the land on the 14th of + May, about the latitude of 47° S. and while Captain + Cheap was exerting himself in order to get clear of the land, he + had the misfortune to fall down the after-ladder, by which he + dislocated his shoulder, and was rendered incapable of acting. + This accident, together with the crazy condition of the ship, + which was little better than a wreck, prevented her from getting + off to sea, and entangled her more and more with the land; + insomuch, that at day-break next morning, the 15th May, she + struck on a sunken rock, and soon afterwards bilged, and grounded + between two small islands, about musket-shot from the shore.</p> + + <p>In this situation the ship continued entire a long time, so + that all the crew might have got safe on shore. But a general + confusion ensued; many of them, instead of consulting their + safety, or reflecting on their calamitous condition, fell to + pillaging the ship, arming themselves with the first weapons that + came to hand, and threatening to murder all who should oppose + their proceedings. This frenzy was greatly heightened by the + liquors they found on board, with which they made themselves so + excessively intoxicated, that some fell down into the hold, where + they were drowned, as the water flowed into the wreck. Having + done his utmost, ineffectually, to get the whole crew on shore, + the captain was at last obliged to leave the mutineers behind, + and to follow his officers on shore, with such few men as he + could prevail upon to accompany him; but did not fail to send + back the boats, with a message to those who remained, entreating + them to have some regard to their own preservation. All his + efforts, however, were for some time in vain; but next day, the + weather proving stormy, and there being great danger of the + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page338" id="page338"></a>[pg + 338]</span> ship going to pieces, the refractory part of the crew + began to be afraid of perishing, and were desirous of getting to + land; and, in their madness, as the boat did not come to fetch + them off so soon as they wished, they pointed a four-pounder from + the quarter-deck, against the hut in which the captain resided on + shore, and fired two shots, which passed just over its roof.</p> + + <p>From this specimen of the behaviour of part of the crew, some + idea may be formed of the disorder and anarchy which prevailed + when they at length got all on shore. For the men conceived that + the authority of their officers was at an end, in consequence of + the loss of the ship; and, as they were now upon an inhospitable + coast, where scarcely any other provisions could be got beyond + what could be saved from the wreck, this was another + insurmountable source of discord: for the working upon the wreck, + and securing the provisions on shore, so that they might be + preserved as much as possible for future exigencies, and that + they might be sparingly and equally distributed for present + subsistence, were matters, however important, that could not be + brought about unless by means of discipline and subordination. At + the same time, the mutinous disposition of the people, stimulated + by the immediate impulses of hunger, rendered every regulation + attempted for these indispensable purposes, quite unavailing; so + that there were continual frauds, concealments, and thefts, which + animated every one against his neighbour, and produced infinite + contentions and perpetual quarrels. Hence a perverse and + malevolent disposition was constantly kept up among them, which + rendered them utterly ungovernable.</p> + + <p>Besides these heart-burnings, occasioned by petulance and + hunger, there was another important point which set the greatest + part of the people at variance with the captain. This was their + difference in opinion from him, on the measures proper to be + pursued on the present emergency; for the captain was determined, + if possible, to fit out the boats in the best manner he could, + and to proceed with them to the northward, as, having above two + hundred men in health, and having saved some fire-arms and + ammunition from the wreck, he had no doubt of being able to + master any Spanish, vessel they might fall in with in these seas, + and he thought that he could not fail of meeting with one in the + neighbourhood of Chiloe or Baldivia, in which, when taken, he + proposed to proceed to the rendezvous at Juan Fernandez. He + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page339" id="page339"></a>[pg + 339]</span> also insisted, should they even meet with no prize by + the way, that the boats alone could easily carry them to Juan + Fernandez. But this scheme, however prudent and practicable, was + by no means relished by the generality of the people; for, quite + jaded and disgusted with the fatigues, dangers, and distresses + they had already encountered, they could not be persuaded to + prosecute an enterprize which had hitherto proved so disastrous. + The common resolution, therefore, was to lengthen the long-boat, + and, with her and the other boats, to steer to the southwards, to + pass through the Straits of Magellan, and to range along the + eastern coast of South America, till they came to Brazil, where + they had no doubt of being well received, and procuring a passage + to Britain.</p> + + <p>This project was evidently a vast deal more tedious, and + infinitely more hazardous, than that proposed by the captain; + but, as it had the air of returning home, and flattered them with + the hope of getting once more to their native country, that + circumstance rendered them blind to all its inconveniences, and + made them adhere to it with insurmountable obstinacy. The captain + was therefore obliged to give way to the torrent, though he never + changed his opinion, and had, in appearance, to acquiesce in this + resolution, though he gave it all the obstruction he could, + particularly in regard to lengthening the long-boat, which he + contrived should be of such a size, as, though it might carry + them to Juan Fernandez, he yet hoped might appear incapable of so + long a navigation as that to the coast of Brazil. But the + captain, by his steady opposition at first to this favourite + project, had much embittered the people against him, to which, + also, the following unhappy accident greatly contributed.</p> + + <p>A midshipman, named Cozens, had appeared the foremost in all + the refractory proceedings of the crew, had involved himself in + brawls with most of the officers who had adhered to the authority + of the captain, and had even treated the captain himself with + much insolence and abuse. As his turbulence and brutality grew + every day more and more intolerable, it was not in the least + doubted that some violent measures were in agitation, in which + Cozens was engaged as the ringleader; for which reason the + captain, and those about him, constantly kept themselves on their + guard. One day the purser having stopped, by order of the + captain, the allowance of a fellow who would not work, Cozens, + though the man had not complained to him, intermeddled in the + affair <span class="pagenum"><a name="page340" id= + "page340"></a>[pg 340]</span> with great bitterness, and grossly + insulted the purser, who was then delivering out the provisions + close by the captain's tent, and was himself sufficiently + violent. Enraged by his scurrility, and perhaps piqued by former + quarrels, the purser cried out, <i>A mutiny</i>; adding, <i>the + dog has pistols</i>, and then immediately fired himself a pistol + at Cozens, but missed him. On hearing this outcry, and the report + of the pistol, the captain rushed out from his tent, and not + doubting that it had been fired by Cozens as the commencement of + a mutiny, immediately shot him in the head without farther + enquiry. Though he did not die on the spot, the wound proved + mortal in about a fortnight.</p> + + <p>Though this accident was sufficiently displeasing to the + people, it yet awed them for a considerable time to their duty, + and rendered them more submissive to the authority of the + captain. But at last, towards the middle of October, when, the + long-boat was finished, and they were preparing to put to sea, + the additional provocation given them, by covertly traversing + their project of proceeding through the Straits of Magellan, and + their fears that he might at length engage a sufficient party to + overturn this favourite measure, made them resolve to take + advantage of the death of Cozens as a reason for depriving him of + his command, under pretence of carrying him a prisoner to England + to be tried for murder, and he was accordingly confined under a + guard. Yet they never meant to carry him with them, as they too + well knew what they might expect on their return to England, if + their commander should be present to confront them; and + therefore, when just ready to depart, they set him at liberty, + leaving him, and the few who chose to take their fortunes along + with him, no other embarkation but the yawl, to which the barge + was afterwards added, by the people on board her being prevailed + upon to turn back.</p> + + <p>When the ship was wrecked, there were about one hundred and + thirty persons alive on board; above thirty of whom died on the + place where they landed, and nearly eight went off in the + long-boat and cutter to the southward; after whose departure, + there remained no more than nineteen persons along with the + captain, which were as many, however, as the barge and yawl could + well carry, these being the only embarkations left them. It was + on the 13th of October, five months after the shipwreck, that the + long-boat, converted into a schooner, weighed and sailed to the + southwards, giving <span class="pagenum"><a name="page341" id= + "page341"></a>[pg 341]</span> three cheers at their departure to + the captain and Lieutenant Hamilton of the land-forces, and the + surgeon, who were then standing on the beach. On the 29th of + January, 1742, they arrived at Rio Grande, on the coast of + Brazil; but having, by various accidents, left about twenty of + their people on shore at the different places where they touched, + and a still greater number having perished of famine in the + course of their navigation, there were not more than thirty of + them remaining, when they arrived at that port. This undertaking + was certainly most extraordinary in itself; for, not to mention + the great length of the voyage, the vessel was scarcely able to + contain the number that first put to sea in her; and their stock + of provisions, being only what they saved from the ship, + diminished by five months expenditure on shore, was extremely + slender. They had also this additional misfortune, that the + cutter, the only boat they had along with them, broke loose from + their stern, and was staved to pieces, so that, when their + provisions and water failed, they had frequently no means of + getting on shore in search of a supply.</p> + + <p>The captain and those who remained with him, now proposed to + proceed to the northward in the barge and yawl; but the weather + was so bad, and the difficulty of subsisting so great, that it + was two months after the departure of the long boat, before they + were able to put to sea. It seems that the place where the Wager + was lost, was not a part of the continent, but an island at some + distance from the main, affording no other sort of provisions + besides shell-fish, and a few herbs; and, as the greatest part of + what they had saved out of the wreck had been carried off in the + long-boat, the captain and his people were often in extreme want + of food, especially as they chose to preserve what little + remained to them of the ship's provisions, to serve them as + sea-store, when they should proceed to the northward. During + their residence at this place, which was called Wager Island by + the seamen, they were now and then visited by a straggling canoe + or two of Indians, who came and bartered their fish and other + provisions with our people. This was some little relief to their + necessities, and might perhaps have been greater at another + season; for there were several Indian huts on the shore, whence + it was supposed that, in some years, many of these savages might + resort thither in the height of summer, to catch fish. Indeed, + from what has <span class="pagenum"><a name="page342" id= + "page342"></a>[pg 342]</span> been related in the account of the + Anna pink, it would seem to be the general practice of these + Indians, to frequent this coast in the summer season, for the + purpose of fishing, and to retire more to the northwards in + winter, into a better climate.</p> + + <p>It is worthy of remark, how much it is to be lamented that the + people of the Wager had no knowledge of the Anna pink being so + near them on the coast;<a id="footnotetag136" name= + "footnotetag136"></a><a href="#footnote136"><sup>4</sup></a> for, + as she was not above thirty leagues from them at the most, and + came into that neighbourhood about the same time that the Wager + was lost, and was a fine roomy ship, she could easily have taken + them all on board, and have carried them to Juan Fernandez. + Indeed, I suspect that she was still nearer them than is here + estimated; for, at different times, several of the people + belonging to the Wager heard the report of a cannon, which could + be no other than the evening gun fired by the Anna, as formerly + mentioned, more especially as the gun heard at Wager Island was + at that time of the day.</p> + + <p>Captain Cheap and his people embarked in the barge and yawl, + on the 14th of December, in order to proceed to the northward, + taking on board along with them all the provisions they could + gather from the wreck of the ship; but they had scarcely been an + hour at sea, when the wind began to blow hard, and the sea to run + so high, that they were obliged to throw the greatest part of + their provisions overboard, to avoid immediate destruction. This + was a terrible misfortune, in a part of the world where food was + so difficult to be got; yet they persisted in their design, going + on shore as often as they could, in search of subsistence. About + a fortnight after their departure from Wager island, another + dreadful accident befel them, as the yawl sunk at an anchor, and + one of her hands was drowned; and, as the barge was incapable of + carrying the whole company, they were reduced to the hard + necessity of leaving four marines behind them, on that desolate + coast. They still, however, kept their course to the northward; + though greatly delayed by cross winds, and by the frequent + interruptions occasioned by the necessity <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page343" id="page343"></a>[pg 343]</span> of + searching for food on shore, and constantly struggling with a + series of the most sinister events. At length, about the end of + January, 1742, having made three unsuccessful attempts to double + a head-land, which they supposed to be that called Cape <i>Tres + Montes</i> by the Spaniards, and finding the difficulty + insurmountable, they unanimously resolved to return to Wager + Island, which they effected about the middle of February, quite + disheartened and desponding, through their reiterated + disappointments, and almost perishing with hunger and + fatigue.</p> + + <p>On their return, they had the good fortune to fall in with + several pieces of beef, swimming in the sea, which had been + washed out of the wreck, which afforded them a most seasonable + relief, after the hardships they had endured. To complete their + good fortune, there came shortly afterwards to the place two + canoes with Indians, among whom there happened to be a native of + Chiloe, who spoke a little Spanish. The surgeon who accompanied + Captain Cheap understood that language, and made a bargain with + the Chiloe Indian, that, if he would carry the captain and his + people in the barge to Chiloe, he should have her and all her + furniture for his reward. Accordingly, on the 6th of March, the + eleven persons, to which the company was now reduced, embarked + again in the barge on this new expedition. After having proceeded + a few days, the captain and four of his principal officers being + on shore, the six, who remained in the barge along with an + Indian, shoved her off and put to sea, and never returned + again.</p> + + <p>Captain Cheap, together with Mr Hamilton, lieutenant of + marines, the honourable Mr Byron and Mr Campbell, midshipmen, and + Mr Elliot, the surgeon, were thus left on shore in the most + deplorable situation imaginable. It might be thought that their + distresses, long before this time, were hardly capable of being + increased: Yet they found their present situation much more + dismaying than any thing they had hitherto experienced; being + left on a desert coast, far from the haunts of men, without + provisions, or the means of procuring any, and with no visible + prospect of relief; for their arms and ammunition, and every + convenience that had hitherto remained to them, except the few + tattered garments they had on, were all carried away in the + barge. While revolving the various circumstances of this new and + unlooked-for calamity, and sadly persuaded that they had no + possible <span class="pagenum"><a name="page344" id= + "page344"></a>[pg 344]</span> relief to hope for, they perceived + a canoe at a distance, which proved to be that belonging to the + Indian of Chiloe, who had undertaken to convey them to that + island. He it seems had left Captain Cheap and his people, only a + little before, to go a fishing in his canoe, accompanied by his + family, leaving the barge in the mean time under the care of the + other Indian, whom the sailors had carried with them to sea. When + he came on shore, and found the barge and his companion gone, he + was much concerned, and was with difficulty persuaded that his + companion had not been murdered; yet, being at last satisfied + with the account that was given him by Mr Elliot, he still + undertook to carry them to the Spanish settlements, and, being + well skilled in fishing and fowling, he undertook also to provide + them in provisions by the way.</p> + + <p>About the middle of March, Captain Cheap and his four + remaining companions set out for Chiloe; their Indian conductor + having provided several canoes, and gathered many of his + countrymen together for that purpose. Mr Elliot, the surgeon, + soon afterwards died, so that there now only remained four of the + whole company. At last, after a very complicated passage, partly + by sea and partly by land, Captain Cheap, Mr Byron, and Mr + Campbell, arrived at the island of Chiloe, where they were + received by the Spaniards with great humanity; but, on account of + some quarrel among the Indians, Mr Hamilton did not get there + till two months later. It was thus above a twelvemonth, from the + loss of the Wager, before this fatiguing peregrination + terminated. The four who now remained were brought so extremely + low, by their fatigues and privations, that in all probability + none of them would have survived, had their distresses continued + only a few days longer. The captain was with difficulty + recovered; and the rest were so reduced by labour, the severity + of the weather, scantiness of food, and want of all kinds of + necessaries, that it was wonderful how they had supported + themselves so long.</p> + + <p>After some stay at Chiloe, the captain and the other three who + were with him, were sent to Valparaiso, and thence to St Jago, + the capital of Chili, where they continued above a year, and + where they were joined by Mr Hamilton. News arriving that a + cartel had been settled between Great Britain and Spain, Captain + Cheap, Mr Byron, and Mr Hamilton, were permitted to return to + Europe in a French ship. Mr Campbell, the other midshipman, + having changed his religion <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page345" id="page345"></a>[pg 345]</span> while at St Jago, + chose to go from thence to Buenos Ayres along with Pizarro and + his officers, overland, and went with them afterwards to Spain in + the Asia: But failing in his endeavours to procure a commission + from the court of Spain, he returned to England, and attempted in + vain to get reinstated in the British navy. He has since + published a narration of his adventures in which he complains of + the injustice that has been done him and strongly disavows having + ever been in the Spanish service: but, as the change of his + religion and his offering himself to the court of Spain, though + he was not accepted, are matters which he must be conscious can + be incontestably proved, he has been entirely silent on these two + heads.<a id="footnotetag137" name="footnotetag137"></a><a href= + "#footnote137"><sup>5</sup></a></p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote133" name="footnote133"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag133">(return)</a> + + <p>The island of Inchin and the bay in which the Anna pink took + shelter is in lat. 46° 30' S. long. 74° 30' + in what is called the Peninsula de tres Montes, to the N. of + the Golfo de Penas.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote134" name="footnote134"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag134">(return)</a> + + <p>This has already, on the authority of Arrowsmith, been + stated at 46° 30' S.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote135" name="footnote135"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag135">(return)</a> + + <p>The gulf and archipelago of Chonos, or Guaytecas, one of the + islands of which is Socora, or Guayteca, is considerably to the + N. of Inchin, between the peninsula de tres Montes and the + island of Chiloe, the centre of that archipelago being in lat. + 45° S.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote136" name="footnote136"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag136">(return)</a> + + <p>Inchin island, where the Anna pink lay, has been formerly + stated to be in lat. 46° 30' S. the supposed latitude + in which the Wager was lost, stated in the text at 47° + S. is only <i>ten</i> marine leagues to the southward, instead + of <i>thirty</i>, and must therefore have been on some one of + the islands toward the southern coast of the peninsula de Tres + Montes, on the north of the Golfo de Penas.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote137" name="footnote137"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag137">(return)</a> + + <p>The circumstances connected with the loss of the Wager, and + of the separation of the Severn and the Pearl, will be given + more at large, by way of supplement to the circumnavigation. + The incidents which occur to bold and unfortunate navigators + are certainly curious and interesting; but the author of + Anson's Voyage seems to have forgotten, that the circumstances + respecting the countries they visited, especially such of these + which are so little known, are of infinitely greater + utility.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XIV.</h3> + + <h4><i>Conclusion of Proceedings at Juan Fernandez, from the + Arrival of the Anna Pink, to our final Departure from + thence.</i></h4> + + <p>About a week after the arrival of the Anna pink, the Tryal + sloop, which had been sent to examine the island of Masefuero, + returned to an anchor at Juan Fernandez, having gone entirely + round that island, without seeing any one of our squadron. As, on + this occasion, the island of Masefuero was more particularly + examined, I have no doubt, than it had ever been before, or + perhaps ever may be again, and as the knowledge of it may be of + great consequence hereafter, under peculiar circumstances, I + think it incumbent to insert the accounts given of it by the + officers of the Tryal.</p> + + <p>The Spaniards have generally mentioned two islands, under the + same of Juan Fernandez, naming them the greater and the + less;<a id="footnotetag138" name="footnotetag138"></a><a href= + "#footnote138"><sup>1</sup></a> the greater being that island, + where we <span class="pagenum"><a name="page346" id= + "page346"></a>[pg 346]</span> anchored, and the less that we are + now about to describe; which, because it is more distant from the + continent, they call Masefuero. The Tryal found that it bore from + the greater Juan Fernandez, W. by S. about twenty-two leagues + distant. It is much larger and better than has been usually + represented, being reported by former writers as a small barren + rock, destitute of wood and water, and altogether inaccessible. + Whereas our people found that it was covered with trees, and that + there were several fine falls of water pouring down its sides + into the sea. They found, also, that there is a place on its + north side, where a ship might come to an anchor, though indeed + the anchorage be inconvenient; for the bank is steep, and extends + only a little way, and has very deep water, so that she must + anchor very near the shore, and be there exposed to all winds, + except those from the southward. Besides the inconvenience of the + anchorage, there is also a reef of rocks, about two miles in + length, running off the eastern point of the island, though these + are little to be feared, because always to be seen, by the sea + breaking over them. This island has at present one advantage + beyond Juan Fernandez, as it abounds in goats; and as these are + not accustomed to be disturbed, they were no way shy till they + had been frequently fired at. These animals reside here in great + tranquillity, as the Spaniards, not thinking this island + sufficiently considerable to be frequented by their enemies, have + not been solicitous to destroy the provisions it contains, so + that no dogs have hitherto been put on shore there. Besides + goats, the people of the Tryal found there vast numbers of seals + and sea lions; and upon the whole, though they did not consider + it as the most eligible place for ships to refresh at, yet, in + case of necessity, it might afford some sort of shelter, and + prove of considerable use, especially to a single ship, + apprehensive of meeting an enemy at Juan Fernandez.</p> + + <p>The latter end of the month of December was spent in unloading + the provisions from the Anna pink; when we had the mortification + to find, that great quantities of our provisions, as bread, rice, + groats, &c. were decayed and unfit for use. This had been + occasioned by the Anna taking in water, by her working and + straining in bad weather; owing to <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page347" id="page347"></a>[pg 347]</span> which several of her + casks had rotted, and many of her bags were soaked through. + Having now no farther occasion for her services, the commodore, + pursuant to his orders from the admiralty, sent notice to her + master, Mr Gerard, that he now discharged the Anna pink from + attending the squadron, and gave him a certificate at the same + time, specifying how long she had been employed. In consequence + of this dismission, her master was left at liberty, either to + return directly to England, or to make the best of his way to any + port where he thought he could take in such a cargo as might + serve the interest of his owners. But, sensible of the bad + condition of his ship, and her unfitness for any such voyage, the + master wrote next day to the commodore, stating, that he had + reason to apprehend the bottom of the Anna to be very much + decayed, from the great quantity of water she had let in on her + passage round Cape Horn, and ever since, in the tempestuous + weather she had experienced on the coast of Patagonia; that her + upper decks were rotten abaft; that she was extremely leaky; that + her fore-beam was broken; and, in short, that, in his opinion, it + was impossible to proceed with her to sea, unless she were + thoroughly repaired. He therefore requested of the commodore, + that the carpenters of the squadron might be directed to survey + her, so that their judgment of her condition might be known. In + compliance with this request, the carpenters were ordered to make + a careful and accurate survey of the Anna, and to give in a + faithful report to the commodore of her condition; directing them + to proceed with such circumspection, that they might be able, if + hereafter called upon, to confirm the veracity of their report + upon oath. Pursuant to these orders, the carpenters immediately + set about the examination, and made their report next day. This + was in substance, That the Anna had no less than fourteen knees + and twelve beams broken, and decayed; one breast-hook broken, and + another decayed; her water-ways open and decayed; two standards + and several clamps broken, besides others much rotten; all her + iron-work greatly decayed; her spirkiting and timbers very + rotten; that, having ripped off part of her sheathing, her wales + and outside planks were extremely defective; and her bows and + decks were very leaky. From all these defects and decays, they + certified that, in their opinion, the vessel could not depart + from Juan Fernandez, without great hazard, unless previously + thoroughly repaired.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page348" + id="page348"></a>[pg 348]</span> + + <p>In our present situation, this thorough repair was + impracticable, all the plank and iron in the squadron being + insufficient for that purpose. Wherefore, the opinion of the + master being confirmed by this report, he presented a petition to + the commodore, in behalf of his owners, praying, as his vessel + was incapable of leaving the island, that her hull, materials, + and furniture, might be purchased for the use of the squadron. + The commodore, therefore, ordered an inventory to be taken of + every thing belonging to the pink, with its just value; and as + many of her stores might become useful in repairing the other + ship, these articles having become very scarce, in consequence of + the great quantities already expended, he agreed with Mr Gerard + to purchase the whole for £300. The pink was now broken up, + Mr Gerard and her hands being sent on board the Gloucester, as + that ship had buried the greatest number of men in proportion to + her complement. Two or three of them were afterwards received + into the Centurion on their petition, as they were averse from + sailing in the same ship with their old master, on account of + some ill usage they alledged to have suffered from him.</p> + + <p>This transaction brought us down to the beginning of + September, by which time our people were so far recovered from + the scurvy, that there was little danger of burying any more for + the present. I shall therefore now sum up the whole of our loss + since our departure from England, the better to convey some idea + of our past sufferings and our then remaining strength. In the + Centurion, since leaving St Helens, we had buried 292 men, and + had 214 remaining. This will doubtless appear a most + extraordinary mortality, yet that in the Gloucester had been much + greater; as, out of a much smaller crew than ours, she had lost + the same number, and had only 82 remaining alive. It might have + been expected that the mortality would have been the most + terrible in the Tryal, as her decks were almost constantly knee + deep in water: But it happened otherwise, for she escaped more + favourably than the other two, having only buried 42, and had 39 + remaining alive. The havoc of this cruel disease had fallen still + more severely on the invalids and marines, than on the sailors. + For, in the Centurion, out of 50 invalids and 79 marines, there + only remained four invalids, including officers, and 11 marines. + In the Gloucester every invalid perished; and of 48 marines, only + two escaped. It appears <span class="pagenum"><a name="page349" + id="page349"></a>[pg 349]</span> from this account, that the + three ships departed from England with 961 men on board, of whom + 626 were dead, and 335 men and boys only remained alive; a number + greatly insufficient for manning the Centurion alone, and barely + capable of navigating all the three with the utmost exertion of + their strength and vigour.</p> + + <p>This prodigious reduction of our men was the more alarming, as + we were hitherto unacquainted with the fate of the squadron under + Pizarro, and had reason to suppose that some part of it, at + least, had got round into the South Seas. We were, indeed, much + of opinion, from our own sad experience, that they must have + suffered greatly in the passage: but then every port in the South + Sea was open to them, and the whole power of Peru and Chili would + be exerted for their refreshment and repair, and for recruiting + their loss of men. We had, also, some obscure information of a + force to be fitted out against us from Paluo; and, however + contemptible the ships and sailors of this part of the world may + have been generally esteemed, it was hardly possible for any + thing bearing the name of a ship of war, to be feebler or less + considerable than ourselves. Even if there had been nothing to + apprehend from the naval power of the Spaniards in these seas, + yet our enfeebled situation necessarily gave us great uneasiness, + as we were incapable of making an attempt against any of their + considerable places; for, in our state of weakness, the risking + even of twenty men, would have put the safety of the whole in + hazard. We conceived, therefore, that we should be forced to + content ourselves with what prizes we might be able to fall in + with at sea, before we were discovered, and then to depart + precipitately, and esteem ourselves fortunate to regain our + native country; leaving our enemies to triumph on the + inconsiderable mischief they had suffered from a squadron which + had filled them with such dreadful apprehensions. We had reason + to imagine the Spanish ostentation would remarkably exert itself + on this subject, though our disappointment and their security + neither originated in their valour nor our misconduct. Such were + the desponding reflections which at this time arose, on the + review and comparison of our remaining weakness with our original + strength: And, indeed, our fears were far from being groundless, + or disproportionate to our feeble and almost desperate condition: + For, though the final event proved more honourable than we + foreboded, yet the intermediate calamities did likewise + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page350" id="page350"></a>[pg + 350]</span> surpass our most gloomy apprehensions; and, could + these have been predicted to us while at Juan Fernandez, they + would doubtless have appeared insurmountable.</p> + + <p>In the beginning of September, as already mentioned, our men + being tolerably well recovered, and the season of navigation in + these seas drawing nigh, we exerted ourselves in getting our + ships ready for sea. We converted the foremast of the Anna into a + new main-mast for the Tryal; and, still flattering ourselves with + the possible hope of some other ships of our squadron arriving, + we intended to leave the main-mast of the Anna, to make a new + mizen-mast for the Wager. All hands being thus employed in + preparing for our departure, we espied a sail to the N.E. about + eleven a.m. of the 18th September, which continued to approach us + till her courses appeared even with the horizon. While advancing, + we had great hopes that this might prove one of our squadron; but + she at length steered away to the eastward, without hauling in + for the island, on which we concluded that she must be Spanish. + Great differences of opinion now took place, as to the + possibility of her people having discovered our tents on shore; + some of us strongly insisting, that she certainly had been near + enough to have seen something that had given them a jealousy to + an enemy, which had occasioned her standing away to the + eastwards. Leaving these contests to be settled afterwards, it + was resolved to pursue her; and, as the Centurion was in the + greatest forwardness, all her hands were got immediately on + board, her rigging set up, and her sails bent with all possible + expedition, and we got under sail by five in the evening.</p> + + <p>At this time we had so very little wind, that all the boats + were employed to tow us out of the bay, and what wind there was + lasted only long enough to give us an offing of two or three + leagues, when it fell dead calm. As night came on we lost sight + of the chase, and were extremely impatient for the return of + light, in hopes to find that she had been becalmed, as well as + we; yet her great distance from the land was 3 reasonable ground + for suspecting the contrary, as we actually found in the morning, + to our great mortification; for, though the weather was then + quite clear, we had no sight of the chase from the mast-head. + But, being now quite satisfied that she was an enemy, and the + first we had seen in these seas, we resolved not to give over the + chase lightly; and, on a small breeze springing up from the + W.N.W. we got up our top-gallant <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page351" id="page351"></a>[pg 351]</span> masts and yards, set + all the sails, and steered S.E. in hopes of retrieving the chase, + which we imagined might be bound for Valparaiso. We continued on + this course all that day and the next; and then, seeing nothing + of the chase, gave over the pursuit, believing that she had, in + all probability, reached her port.</p> + + <p>Resolving to return to Juan Fernandez, we hauled up to the + S.W. having very little wind till the 12th, at three a.m. when a + gale sprung up at W.S.W. which obliged us to tack and stand to + the N.W. At day-break, we were agreeably surprised by the + appearance of a sail on our weather-bow, between four and five + leagues distant, on which we crowded all sail and stood towards + her, soon perceiving she was a different vessel from that we had + chased before. She at first bore down towards us, shewing Spanish + colours, and making a signal as to a consort; but, seeing we did + not answer her signal, she instantly loofed close to the wind and + stood to the southward. Our people were now all in high spirits, + and put about ship with great briskness; and, as the chase + appeared a large ship, and had mistaken us for her consort, we + imagined that she must be a man of war, and probably belonged to + the squadron of Pizarro. This induced the commodore to order all + the officers cabins to be knocked down and thrown overboard, + along with several casks of water and provisions, that stood + between the guns; so that we had a clear ship, ready for action. + About nine a.m. it came on thick hazy weather, with a shower of + rain, during which we lost sight of the chase, and were + apprehensive, if this weather should continue, she might escape + us, by going on the other tack, or some other device. The weather + cleared up, however, in less than an hour, when we found that we + had both weathered and fore-reached upon her considerably, and + were then near enough to perceive that she was only a merchant + ship, without a single tire of guns. About half an hour after + twelve noon, being within reasonable distance, we fired four shot + among her rigging; on which they lowered their top-sails and bore + down to us, but in very great confusion, their top-gallant-sails + and stay-sails all fluttering in the wind. This was owing to + their having let run their sheets and halyards, just as we fired + at them; after which not a man among them would venture aloft to + take them in, as our shot had passed there just before.</p> + + <p>As soon as the vessel came within hail of us, the commodore + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page352" id="page352"></a>[pg + 352]</span> ordered her to bring to under his lee quarter; and + having the boat hoisted out, sent our first lieutenant, Mr + Saumarez, to take possession of the prize, with orders to send + all the prisoners on board the Centurion, the officers and + passengers first. When Mr Saumarez boarded the prize, he was + received by her people at the side with the most abject tokens of + submission; as they were all, especially the passengers, who were + twenty-five in number, extremely terrified, and under the + greatest apprehensions of meeting with very severe and cruel + usage. But the lieutenant endeavoured, with great courtesy, to + dissipate their terror, assuring them that their fears were + altogether groundless, and that they would find a generous enemy + in the commodore, who was no less remarkable for his lenity and + humanity, than for courage and resolution. The prisoners who were + first sent on board the Centurion, informed us, that the prize + was called <i>Neustra Lenora del Monte Carmelo</i>, and her + commander Don Manuel Zamorra. Her cargo consisted chiefly of + sugar, and a great quantity of blue cloth, made in the province + of Quito, somewhat resembling our coarse English broad cloth, but + inferior. They had also several bales of a coarser cloth, of + different colours, somewhat like Colchester baize, called by them + <i>Panniada Tierra</i>; with a few bales of cotton, and some + tolerably well-flavoured tobacco, though strong. These were her + principal goods; but we found besides, what was much more + valuable than the rest of her cargo, some trunks full of wrought + silver plate, and twenty-three serons of dollars, each weighing + upwards of two hundred pounds.<a id="footnotetag139" name= + "footnotetag139"></a><a href="#footnote139"><sup>2</sup></a> This + ship was of about 450 tons burden, having on board 53 sailors, + including whites and blacks. She came from Calao, bound for + Valparaiso, and had been twenty-seven days at sea. Her return + cargo from Chili was to have been corn and Chili wine, with some + gold, dried beef, and small cordage, which is afterwards + converted at Calao into larger rope. This vessel had been built + thirty years before; yet, as they lie in harbour all winter, and + the climate is remarkably favourable, she was not considered as + very old. Her rigging and sails were very indifferent, the latter + being of cotton. She had only three <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page353" id="page353"></a>[pg 353]</span> + four-pounders, which were quite unserviceable, as their carriages + could scarcely support them; and they had no small arms on board, + except a few pistols belonging to the passengers. They had sailed + from Callao in company with two other ships, which they had + parted from a few days before, and had at first taken our ship + for one of their consorts; and, by the description we gave of the + ship we had chased from Juan Fernandez, they assured us that she + was one of their number; although the coming in sight of that + island is directly contrary to the merchant's instructions, as + knowing, if any English ships should be in these seas, that this + island is most likely to be their place of rendezvous.</p> + + <p>We met with very important intelligence in this prize, partly + from the prisoners, and partly from letters and papers that fell + into our hands. By these we first learnt with certainty the force + and destination of that squadron which cruised off Madeira at our + arrival there, and had afterwards chased the Pearl in our passage + to Port St Julian. This squadron we now knew to be composed of + five large Spanish ships, commanded by Admiral Pizarro, and + purposely fitted out to traverse our designs, as has been already + more amply related in our third section. We had now the + satisfaction to find, that Pizarro, after his utmost endeavours + to get round into these seas, had been forced back to the Rio + Plata, after losing two of his largest ships; which, considering + our great weakness, was no unacceptable intelligence. We also + learnt, that, though an embargo had been laid on all shipping in + the ports of South America, by the viceroy of Peru, in the + preceding month of May, on the supposition that we might then + arrive on the coast, yet it now no longer subsisted: For, on + receiving the account overland of the distresses of Pizarro, part + of which they knew we must also have suffered; and, on hearing + nothing of us for eight months after we were known to have left + St Catharines, they were fully satisfied we must either have been + shipwrecked, have perished at sea, or have been obliged to put + back again; as they conceived it impossible for any ships to have + continued at sea for so long an interval, and therefore, on the + application of the merchants, and the persuasion that we had + miscarried, the embargo had been lately taken off.</p> + + <p>This intelligence made us flatter ourselves, as the enemy was + still ignorant of our having got round Cape Horn, and as + navigation was restored, that we might meet with some valuable + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page354" id="page354"></a>[pg + 354]</span> captures, and might indemnify ourselves in that way, + of our incapacity to attempt any of their considerable + settlements on shore. This much at least we were certain of, from + the information of our prisoners, that, whatever might be our + success in regard to prizes, we had nothing to fear, weak even as + we were, from the Spanish force in that part of the world, though + we discovered that we had been in most imminent peril, when we + least apprehended any, when our other distresses were at the + greatest height. As we found, by letters in the prize, that + Pizarro, in the dispatch he sent by express to the viceroy of + Peru overland, after his own return to the Rio Plata, had + intimated the possibility of some part of our squadron getting + round; and as, from his own experience, he was certain any of our + ships that might arrive in the South Seas must be in a very weak + and defenceless condition, he advised the viceroy to send what + ships of war he had to the southwards, in order to be secure at + all events, where, in all probability, they would intercept us + singly, before we had an opportunity of touching any where for + refreshment; in which case he had no doubt of our proving an easy + conquest. The viceroy approved this advice, and as he had already + fitted out four ships of force at Callao, one of 50 guns, two of + 40 each, and one of 24, which were intended to have joined + Pizarro, three of these were stationed off the port of + Conception, and one at the island of Juan Fernandez, where they + continued cruising for us till the 6th of June; and then, + conceiving it impossible that we could have kept the sea so long, + they quitted this station and returned to Callao, fully persuaded + we must either have perished, or been driven back.</p> + + <p>Now, as the time when they left Juan Fernandez was only a few + days before our arrival at that island, it is evident, if we had + made it on our first search, without hauling in for the main to + secure our easting, a circumstance we then considered as very + unfortunate, on account of the many men we lost by our long + continuance at sea; had we made the island 28th of May, when we + first expected to see it, and were in reality very near to have + so done, we had inevitably fallen in with some part of the + squadron from Callao; and in our then distressed condition, the + encounter of a healthy and well-provided enemy might have proved + fatal, not only to us in the Centurion, but also to the Tryal, + Gloucester, and Anna pink, which separately joined us, and were + each less capable to have resisted than we. I may also add, that + these Spanish <span class="pagenum"><a name="page355" id= + "page355"></a>[pg 355]</span> ships, sent out to intercept us, + had been greatly shattered by a storm during their cruise, and + had been laid up after their return to Callao; and we were + assured by our prisoners, that, when intelligence might be + received at Lima of our being in the South Seas, it would require + two months at least, before this armament could be refitted for + going to sea. The whole of this intelligence was as favourable as + we, in our reduced circumstances, could wish for; and we were now + at no loss to account for the broken jars, ashes, and fish bones, + which we had observed at Juan Fernandez on our first landing; + these things having been doubtless the relics of the cruisers + stationed at that island. Having thus satisfied ourselves in the + most material articles of our enquiry, got all the silver on + board the Centurion, and most of the prisoners, we made sail to + the northward at eight that same evening, in company with our + prize. We got sight of Juan Fernandez at six next morning, and + the day following both we and our prize got safe there to anchor. + When the prize and her crew came into the bay, in which the rest + of our squadron lay, the Spaniards, who had been sufficiently + informed of the distresses we had gone through, and were + astonished we had been able to surmount them, were still more + surprised when they saw the Tryal sloop, that, after all our + fatigues, we should have had the industry to complete such a + vessel in so short a time, besides refitting our other ships, as + they concluded we had certainly built her there; nor was it + without great difficulty they could be brought to believe that + she came from England with the rest of the squadron; for they + long insisted, that it was impossible for such a bauble as she + was to have passed round Cape Horn, when the best ships of Spain + were forced to put back.</p> + + <p>By the time of our arrival at Juan Fernandez, the letters + found on board our prize were more minutely examined, and it + appeared from them, and from the examination of our prisoners, + that several other merchant-ships were bound from Callao to + Valparaiso. Whereupon, the commodore dispatched the Tryal sloop, + the very next morning, to cruise off the port of Valparaiso, + reinforcing her crew with ten men from the Centurion. The + commodore resolved also, on the above intelligence, to employ the + ships under his command in separate cruises, as by this means he + might increase the chance of taking prizes, and should run less + risk of being discovered, and alarming the coast. The spirits of + our people <span class="pagenum"><a name="page356" id= + "page356"></a>[pg 356]</span> were now greatly raised, and their + despondency dissipated, by this earnest of success, so that they + forgot all their past distresses, resumed their wonted alacrity, + and laboured incessantly in completing our water, receiving our + lumber, and preparing to leave the island.</p> + + <p>These necessary occupations took us up four or five days, with + all our industry and exertions; and in this interval, the + commodore directed the guns of the Anna pink, being four + six-pounders and four four-pounders, with two swivels, to be + mounted in the Carmelo, our prize. He sent also on board the + Gloucester, six Spanish passengers and twenty-three captured + seamen, to assist in navigating that ship, and directed Captain + Mitchell to leave the island as soon as possible, the service + demanding the utmost despatch, giving him orders to proceed to + the latitude of 5° S. and there to cruise off the + high-land of Payta, at such distance from shore as should prevent + his being discovered. He was to continue on this station till + joined by the Centurion; which was to be whenever it should be + known that the viceroy had fitted out the ships of war at Callao, + or on the commodore receiving any other intelligence that should + make it necessary to divide our strength. These orders being + delivered to Captain Mitchell of the Gloucester, and all our + business completed, we weighed anchor in the Centurion, on + Saturday the 19th of September, in company with our prize the + Carmelo, and got out of the bay, taking our last leave of Juan + Fernandez, and steering to the eastward, with the intention of + joining the Tryal sloop, on her station off Valparaiso, leaving + the Gloucester still at anchor.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote138" name="footnote138"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag138">(return)</a> + + <p>They also distinguish the greater by the name of Isla de + Tierra, as being nearer the main land of Chili. There is yet a + third and smallest island, a little way from the S.W. extremity + of the largest, called J. de Cabras or Conejos, Goat or Rabbit + island.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote139" name="footnote139"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag139">(return)</a> + + <p>A seron is a species of package made and used in Spanish + America, consisting of a piece of raw bullock's hide with the + hair on, formed while wet into the shape of a small trunk, and + sewed together. The quantity of dollars taken on this occasion + may have been between seventy and eighty thousand.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XV.</h3> + + <h4><i>Our Cruise, from leaving Juan Fernandez, to the taking of + Payta.</i></h4> + + <p>Although we left the bay on the 19th of September, yet, by the + irregularity and fluctuation of the wind in the offing, it was + the 22d of that month, in the evening, before we lost sight of + Juan Fernandez; after which we continued our course to the + eastward, in order to join the Tryal off Valparaiso. Next night + the weather proved squally, and we <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page357" id="page357"></a>[pg 357]</span> split our main + top-sail, which we then handed; but got it repaired and set again + by next morning. In the evening, a little before sunset, we saw + two sail to the eastward, on which our prize stood directly from + us, to avoid any suspicion of our being cruisers, while we made + ready for an engagement, and steered with all our canvass towards + the two ships we had descried. We soon perceived, that one of + them, which seemed a very stout ship, stood directly for us, + while the other kept at a great distance. By seven o'clock we + were within pistol-shot of the nearest, and had a broadside ready + to pour into her, the gunners having their lighted matches in + their hands, only waiting orders to fire. But, as the commodore + knew that she could not now escape, he ordered the master to hail + the ship in Spanish; on which her commanding officer, who + happened to be Mr Hughes, lieutenant of the Tryal, answered us in + English, that she was a prize, taken by the Tryal a few days + before, and that the other vessel at a distance was the Tryal, + disabled in her masts.</p> + + <p>We were soon after joined by the Tryal, when her commander, + Captain Saunders, came on board the Centurion. He acquainted the + commodore, that he had taken this ship on the 18th, being a prime + sailor, which had cost him thirty-six hours chase before he could + get up with her, and that for some time he gained so little upon + her, that he almost despaired of ever making up with the chase. + The Spaniards were at first alarmed, by seeing nothing but a + cloud of sail in pursuit of them, as the hull of the Tryal lay so + low in the water, that no part of it appeared; yet knowing the + goodness of their ship, and finding how little the Tryal neared + them, they at last laid aside their fears, and, recommending + themselves to the protection of the blessed Virgin, they began to + think themselves quite secure. Indeed, their success was near + doing honour to their <i>Ave Marias</i>; for, altering their + course in the night, and shutting close their cabin windows to + prevent any of their lights from being seen, they had some chance + of escaping: But a small crevice in one of their shutters + rendered all their invocations of no avail; as the people of the + Tryal perceived a light through this crevice, which they chased + till they got within gun-shot; and then Captain Saunders alarmed + them with a broadside, when they flattered themselves they were + beyond his reach. For some time, however, the chase still kept + the same sail abroad, and it was not observed that this first + salute had made any impression; <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page358" id="page358"></a>[pg 358]</span> but, just as the Tryal + was about to repeat her broadsides the Spaniards crept from their + holes, lowered their sails, and submitted without opposition. She + was named the <i>Arranzazu</i>, being one of the largest + merchantmen employed in these seas, of about 600 tons burden, + bound from Calao to Valparaiso, having much the same cargo with + the Carmelo, our former prize, except that her silver amounted + only to about 5000<i>l.</i> sterling.</p> + + <p>To balance this success, we found that the Tryal had sprung + her main-mast, and that her main-top-mast had come by the board; + and next morning, as we were all standing to the eastward in a + fresh gale at S. she had the additional misfortune to spring her + fore-mast, so that now she had not a mast left on which she could + carry sail. These unhappy circumstances were still further + aggravated, by the impossibility of our being then able to assist + her, for the wind blew so hard, and raised such a hollow sea, + that we could not venture to hoist out a boat, and consequently + could not have any communication with her; so that we were + obliged to lie-to for the greatest part of forty-eight hours to + attend upon her, as we could not possibly leave her in such a + condition of distress. It was no small addition to our + misfortunes, on this occasion, that we were all the while driving + to leeward of our intended station, and at the very time, when, + by our intelligence, we had reason to expect several of the + enemy's ships would appear on the coast, and would now get into + the port of Valparaiso unobstructed; and, I am convinced, the + embarrassment we suffered by the dismasting of the Tryal and our + consequent absence from our intended station, deprived, us of + some very considerable captures.</p> + + <p>The weather proved somewhat more moderate on the 27th, when we + sent our boat for Captain Saunders, who came on board the + Centurion, where he produced an instrument, signed by himself and + all his officers, representing that the Tryal, besides being + dismasted, was so very leaky in her hull, that it was necessary + to ply the pumps continually, even in moderate weather, and that + they were then scarcely able to keep her free; insomuch that, in + the late gale, though all the officers even had been engaged in + turns at the pumps, yet the water had increased upon them; and + that, on the whole, they apprehended her present condition to be + so defective, that they must all inevitably perish if they met + with much bad weather: For all which reasons, he petitioned the + commodore <span class="pagenum"><a name="page359" id= + "page359"></a>[pg 359]</span> to take measures for their safety. + The refittal of the Tryal, and the repair of her defects, were + utterly beyond our power on the present conjuncture, for we had + no masts to spare, no stores to complete her rigging, and no port + in which she could be hove down, to examine and repair her + bottom. Even had we possessed a port, and proper requisites for + the purpose it would yet have been extremely imprudent, in so + critical a conjuncture to have loitered away so much time as + would have been necessary for these operations. The commodore, + therefore, had no choice left, but was under the necessity of + taking out her people and destroying her. Yet, as he conceived it + expedient to keep up the appearance of our force, he appointed + the Tryal's prize, which had often been employed by the viceroy + of Peru as a man-of-war, to be a frigate in his majesty's + service, manning her with the crew of the Tryal, and giving + commissions to the captain and all the inferior officers + accordingly. This new frigate, when in the Spanish service, had + mounted thirty-two guns; but she was now to have only twenty, + which were the twelve that belonged to the Tryal and eight that + had been on board the Anna pink.</p> + + <p>This affair being resolved on, the commodore gave orders to + Captain Saunders to carry it into execution, directing him to + take all the arms, stores, ammunition, and every thing else that + could be of use from the sloop, and then to scuttle and sink her. + After all this was done, Captain Saunders was to proceed with his + new frigate, now called the <i>Tryal's prize</i>, to cruise off + the high-land of Valparaiso, keeping it from him N.N.W. at the + distance of twelve or fourteen leagues: for, as all ships from + Valparaiso bound to the northward, steer that course, the + commodore proposed, by this means, to stop any intelligence that + might be dispatched to Callao, of two of their ships being + amissing, which might give them apprehensions of the English + squadron being in their neighbourhood. The Tryal's prize was to + continue on this station for twenty-four days, and, if not joined + by the commodore before the expiration of that time, was then to + proceed along the coast to Pisco, or Nasca, where she would be + certain to find the Centurion. The commodore also ordered + Lieutenant Saumarez, who commanded the Centurion's prize, to keep + company with Captain Saunders, both to assist in unloading the + Tryal, and that, by spreading in their cruise off Valparaiso, + there might be less danger of any ships of the enemy slipping + past unobserved. These orders being dispatched, the Centurion + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page360" id="page360"></a>[pg + 360]</span> parted from the other vessels at eleven at night of + the 27th September, directing her course towards Valparaiso, with + the view of cruising for some days to windward of that port. By + this distribution of our ships, we flattered ourselves that we + had taken all the advantages we possibly could of the enemy with + our small force, as our disposition was certainly the most + prudent that could be devised: For, as we might suppose the + Gloucester to be now drawing nigh the high-land of Payta, we were + thus enabled, by our separate stations, to intercept all vessels + employed either between Peru and Chili to the southward, or + between Panama and Peru to the northward, since the principal + trade from Peru to Chili being carried on with the port of + Valparaiso, the Centurion, cruising to windward of that port, + would probably meet with them, as it is the constant practice of + these ships to fall in with land to windward of that place. The + Gloucester, also, would be in the way of all ships bound from + Panama, or any other place to the northward, to any port in Peru, + since the highland, off which she was ordered to cruise, is + constantly made by every ship on that voyage. While the Centurion + and Gloucester were thus conveniently situated for intercepting + the trade of the enemy, the Tryal's prize, and Centurion's prize, + were as conveniently stationed for preventing the communication + of intelligence, by intercepting all vessels bound from + Valparaiso to the northward; as by such vessels it was to be + feared that some account of us might be transmitted to Peru.</p> + + <p>But the most judicious dispositions only produce a probability + of success, and cannot command certainty; since those chances, + which may reasonably enough be overlooked in deliberation, are + sometimes of most powerful influence in execution. Thus, in the + present instance, the distress of the Tryal, and our necessary + quitting our station to assist her, which were events that no + degree of prudence could either foresee or obviate, gave an + opportunity to all the ships bound for Valparaiso to reach that + port without molestation during this unlucky interval: so that, + after leaving Captain Saunders, we used every expedition in + regaining our station, which we reached on the 29th at noon; yet, + in plying on and off till the 6th of October, we had not the good + fortune to fall in with a sail of any sort. Having lost all hope + of meeting with any better fortune by longer stay, we then made + sail to leeward of the port, in order to rejoin our prizes; but + when we arrived off the high-land, where they were directed + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page361" id="page361"></a>[pg + 361]</span> to cruise, we did not find them, though we continued + there three or four days. It was supposed, therefore, that some + chase had occasioned them to quit their station, wherefore we + proceeded to the northward to the high-land of Nasca, in lat. + 15° 20' S. being the second rendezvous appointed for + Captain Saunders to join us. We got there on the 21st of October, + and were in great expectation of falling in with some of the + enemy's vessels, as both the accounts of former voyagers, and the + information of our prisoners, assured us, that all ships bound to + Callao consequently make this land to prevent the danger of + falling to leeward of the port.</p> + + <p>Notwithstanding the advantages of this station, we saw no sail + whatever till the 2d November, when two ships appeared together, + to which we immediately gave chase, and soon perceived that they + were the Tryal's and Centurion's prizes. As they were to + windward, we brought to and waited their coming up; when Captain + Saunders came on board the Centurion, and acquainted the + commodore that he had cleared and scuttled the Tryal according to + his orders, and remained by her till she sunk. It was, however, + the 4th of October before this could be effected; for there ran + so large and hollow a sea that the sloop, having neither masts + nor sails to steady her, rolled and pitched so violently, that, + for the greatest part of the time, it was impossible for a boat + to lie alongside of her; and, during this attendance on the + sloop, they were all driven so far to the N.W. that they were + afterwards obliged to stretch a long way to the westward, in + order to regain the ground they had lost, which was the reason we + had not met them on their station. They had met with no better + fortune on their cruise than ourselves, never having seen a + single vessel since we left them.</p> + + <p>This want of success, and our certainty if any ships had been + stirring in these seas for some time past, that we must have + fallen in with them, made us believe that the enemy at + Valparaiso, on missing the two ships we had taken, had suspected + us to be in these seas, and had consequently laid an embargo on + all trade in the southern parts. We likewise apprehended they + might, by this time, be fitting out the ships of war at Callao; + as we knew that it was not uncommon for an express to reach Lima + from Valparaiso in twenty-nine or thirty days, and it was now + more than fifty since we had taken the first prize. These + apprehensions of an embargo on the coast, and of the equipment of + the Spanish squadron at <span class="pagenum"><a name="page362" + id="page362"></a>[pg 362]</span> Callao, determined the commodore + to hasten down to the leeward of Callao, to join the Gloucester + as soon as possible off Payta, that, our strength being united, + we might be prepared to give the ships from Callao a warm + reception, if they dared to put to sea. With this view we bore + away that same afternoon, taking particular care to keep at such + a distance from the shore that there might be no danger of our + being discovered from thence; for we knew that all the ships of + that country were commanded, under the severest penalties, not to + sail past the harbour of Callao without stopping: as this order + is always complied with, we should undoubtedly be known for + enemies if we were seen to act contrary to that regulation. In + this new navigation, being uncertain if we might not meet the + Spanish squadron on the way, the commodore took back a part of + the crew of the Centurion which had been for some time on board + the Carmelo.</p> + + <p>While standing to the northward, we had sight of the small + island of St Gallan<a id="footnotetag140" name= + "footnotetag140"></a><a href="#footnote140"><sup>1</sup></a> + before night, bearing from us N. N.E. 1/2 E. about seven leagues + distant. This island lies in about the latitude of 14° + S. and about five miles to the northward of a high-land called + Morro Viejo, or the Old-man's Head, which island and high-land + near it are here more particularly mentioned, because between + them is perhaps the most eligible station on all this coast for + cruising against the enemy, as hereabouts all ships bound for + Callao, whether from the northward or southward, run well in with + the land. By the 5th November, at 3 p.m. we were within sight of + the high-land of <i>Barranca</i>, in lat. 10° 36' S. + bearing from us N.E. by E. eight or nine leagues distant; and an + hour and a half afterwards we had the satisfaction, so long + wished for, of seeing a sail. She appeared to leeward, and we all + immediately gave chase; but the Centurion so much outsailed the + two prizes that we soon ran them both out of sight, and gained + considerably upon the chase. Night, however, came on before we + could make up with her, and about seven o'clock the darkness + concealed her from our view, and we were in some perplexity what + course to steer; but our commodore resolved, being then before + the wind, to keep all his sails set and not to change his course: + For, although there was no doubt the chase would alter her course + in the night, as it was <span class="pagenum"><a name="page363" + id="page363"></a>[pg 363]</span> quite uncertain what tack she + might go upon, he thought it more prudent to continue the same + course, rather than change it on conjecture, as, should we + mistake, she would certainly get away. Continuing the chase about + an hour and a half after dark, one or other of our people + constantly believing they saw her sails right a-head of us, our + second lieutenant, Mr Brett, at length actually discovered her + about four points on the larboard bow, steering off to seawards, + on which we immediately clapped the helm a-weather, standing + right towards her, and came up with her in less than an hour, + and, having fired fourteen shots at her, she struck. Mr Dennis, + our third lieutenant, was sent in the boat with sixteen men to + take possession of the prize, and to shift the prisoners to our + ship.</p> + + <p>This vessel was named the <i>Santa Teresa de Jesus</i>, built + at Guayaquil, of about 300 tons burden, commanded by Bartolome + Urrunaga, a Biscayan. She was bound from Guayaquil to Callao, her + loading consisting of timber, cocoa, cocoa-nuts, tobacco, hides, + <i>Pito</i> thread, (which is made of a kind of grass and is very + strong,) Quito cloth, wax, and various other articles; but the + specie on board was very inconsiderable, being principally small + silver coin, not exceeding 170<i>l.</i> sterling in value. Her + cargo, indeed, was of great value, if we could have sold it; but + the Spaniards have strict orders never to ransom their ships, so + that all the goods we captured in the South Seas, except what + little we had occasion for ourselves, were of no advantage to us; + yet it was some satisfaction to consider, that it was so much + real loss to the enemy, and that despoiling them was no + contemptible part of the service in which we were employed, and + was so far beneficial to our country. Besides her crew of + forty-five hands, she had on board ten passengers, consisting of + four men and three women, who were natives of the country, but + born of Spanish parents, together with three negro slaves who + attended them. The women were a mother and two daughters, the + elder about twenty-one, and the younger about fourteen. It is not + to be wondered that women of these years should be excessively + alarmed at falling into the hands of an enemy whom they had been + taught to consider as the most lawless and brutal of all mankind, + owing to the former excesses of the buccaneers, and by the artful + insinuations of their priests. In the present instance these + apprehensions were much augmented by the singular beauty of the + youngest of the women, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page364" + id="page364"></a>[pg 364]</span> and the riotous disposition they + might naturally enough expect to find in a set of sailors who had + not seen a woman for near a twelvemonth.</p> + + <p>Full of these terrors, the women all hid themselves on the + lieutenant coming on board, and, when found out, it was with + difficulty he could persuade them to come to the light. But he + soon satisfied them, by the humanity of his conduct, and by his + assurances of their future safety and honourable treatment, that + they had nothing to fear. The commodore, also, being informed of + their fears, sent directions that they should continue in their + own ship, with the use of the same apartments and all other + conveniences they had before enjoyed, giving strict orders that + they should experience no inquietude or molestation; and, that + they might be the more certain of having these orders complied + with, or having the means of complaining if they were not, the + commodore appointed the pilot, who is generally the second person + in Spanish ships, to remain with them as their guardian and + protector. He was particularly chosen on this occasion, as he + seemed extremely interested in all that concerned these women, + and had at first declared that he was married to the youngest; + though it afterwards appeared that he had asserted this merely + with the view of securing them from the insults they dreaded on + falling into our hands. By this compassionate and indulgent + behaviour of the commodore, the consternation of our female + prisoners entirety subsided, and they continued easy and cheerful + during the time they were with us.</p> + + <p>I have before mentioned that the Centurion ran her two + consorts out of sight at the commencement of this chase, on which + account we lay to for them all the night after we had taken the + prize, firing guns and shewing false fires every half hour, to + prevent them from passing us unobserved. But they were so far + astern, that they neither heard nor saw any of our signals, and + were not able to come up with us till broad day. When they had + joined, we proceeded together to the northward, being now four + sail in company. We here found the sea for many miles of a + beautiful red colour, owing, as we found upon examination, to an + immense quantity of spawn floating on its surface: For, taking + some of the water in a glass, it soon changed from a dirty aspect + to be perfectly clear, with some red globules of a slimy nature + floating on the top. Having now a supply of timber in our new + prize, the commodore ordered all our boats to be repaired, and a + swivel-stock to be fitted in the bow of the barge and pinnace, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page365" id="page365"></a>[pg + 365]</span> in order to increase their force, in case we should + have occasion to use them in boarding ships, or making any + attempt on shore.</p> + + <p>Continuing our course to the northward, nothing remarkable + occurred for two or three days, though we spread our ships in + such a manner that it was not probable any vessel of the enemy + should escape us. During our voyage along this coast, we + generally observed that a current set us to the northward, at the + rate of ten or twelve miles every day. When in about the latitude + of 8° S. we began to be attended by vast numbers of + flying fish and bonitos, which were the first we had seen after + leaving the coast of Brazil. It is remarkable that these fish + extend to a much higher latitude on the east side of America than + on the west, as we did not lose them on the coast of Brazil till + near the southern tropic. The reason, doubtless, of this + diversity, is owing to the different degrees of heat obtaining on + different sides of the continent in the same latitude; and, on + this occasion, I use the freedom to make a short digression on + the heat and cold of different climates, and on the variations + which occur in the same places at different times of the year, + and in different places in the same degree of latitude.</p> + + <p>The ancients conceived that of the five zones into which they + divided the surface of the globe, two only were habitable; + supposing that the heat between the tropics, and the cold within + the polar circles, were too intense to be supported by mankind. + The falsehood of this idea has been long established; but the + particular comparison of the heat and cold of these various + climates have as yet been very imperfectly considered. Enough is + known, however, safely to determine this position, that all the + places within the tropics are far from being the hottest on the + globe, as many within the polar circle are far from enduring that + extreme degree of cold to which their situation seems to subject + them; that is to say, that the temperature of a place depends + much more upon other circumstances, than upon its distance from + the pole, or its proximity to the equinoctial line.</p> + + <p>This proposition relates to the general temperature of places + taking the whole year round, and, in this sense, it cannot be + denied that the city of London, for instance, enjoys much warmer + seasons than the bottom of Hudson's Bay, which is nearly in the + same latitude, but where the severity of the winter is so great + as scarcely to permit the hardiest of <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page366" id="page366"></a>[pg 366]</span> our + garden plants to live. If the comparison be made between the + coast of Brazil and the western shore of South America, as, for + example, between Bahia and Lima, the difference will be found + still more considerable; for, though the coast of Brazil is + extremely sultry, yet the coast of the South Sea, in the same + latitude, is perhaps as temperate and tolerable as any part of + the globe; since we, in ranging it along, did not once meet with + such warm weather as is frequently felt in a summer day in + England, which was still the more remarkable, as there never fell + any rain to refresh and cool the air.</p> + + <p>The causes of this lower temperature in the South Sea are not + difficult to be assigned, and shall be mentioned hereafter. I am + now only solicitous to establish the truth of this assertion, + that the latitude of a place alone is no rule by which to judge + of the degree of heat and cold which obtains there. Perhaps this + position might be more briefly confirmed by observing that on the + tops of the Andes, though under the equator, the snow never melts + the whole year round; a criterion of cold stronger than is known + to take place in many parts far within the polar circle.</p> + + <p>Hitherto I have considered the temperature of the air all the + year through, and the gross estimations of heat and cold which + every one makes from his own sensations. But if this matter be + examined by means of thermometers, which are doubtless the most + unerring evidences in respect to the absolute degrees of heat and + cold, the result will be indeed most wonderful; since it will + appear that the heat in very high latitudes, as at Petersburgh + for instance, is, at particular times, much greater than any that + has been hitherto observed between the tropics. Even at London in + the year 1746, there was a part of one day considerably hotter + than was at any time felt in one of the ships of our squadron in + the whole voyage out and home, though four times passing under + the equator; for, in the summer of that year, the thermometer in + London, graduated according to the scale of Fahrenheit, stood at + 78°, and the greatest observed heat, by a thermometer of + the same kind in the same ship, was 76°, which was at St + Catharines in the latter end of December, when the sun was within + about 3° of the vertex. At St Petersburgh, I find by the + acts of the Academy, in the year 1734, on the 20th and 25th of + July, that the thermometer rose to 98° in the shade, or + 22° higher than it was found to be at St Catharines; + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page367" id="page367"></a>[pg + 367]</span> which extraordinary degree of heat, were it not + authenticated by the regularity and circumspection with which the + observations appear to have been conducted, would appear + altogether incredible.</p> + + <p>If it should be asked, how it comes then to pass, that the + heat, in many places between the tropics, is esteemed so violent + and insufferable, when it appears, by these instances, that it is + sometimes rivalled, and even exceeded, in very high latitudes, + not far from the polar circle? I shall answer, That the + estimation of heat, in any particular place, ought not to be + founded upon that particular degree of it which may now and then + obtain there; but is rather to be deduced from the medium + observed during a whole season, or perhaps in a whole year; and + in this light, it will easily appear how much more intense the + same degree of heat may prove, by being long continued without + remarkable variation. For instance, in comparing together St + Catharines and St Petersburg, we shall suppose the summer heat at + St Catharines to be 76°, and the winter heat to be only + 56°. I do not make this last supposition upon sufficient + authority, but am apt to suspect the allowance is full large. + Upon this supposition, therefore, the medium heat all the year + round will be 66°; and this perhaps by night as well as + by day, with no great variation. Now, those who have attended to + thermometrical observation will readily allow, that a continuance + of this degree of heat for a length of time, would be found + violent and suffocating by the generality of mankind. But at + Petersburg, though the heat, as measured by the thermometer, may + happen to be a few times in the year considerably higher than at + St Catharines, yet, at other times, the cold is intensely + sharper, and the medium for a year, or even for one season only, + would be far short of 60°. For I find, that the + variation of the thermometer at Petersburgh, is at least five + times greater, from its highest to its lowest point, than I have + supposed it to be at St Catherines.<a id="footnotetag141" name= + "footnotetag141"></a><a href="#footnote141"><sup>2</sup></a></p> + + <p>Besides this estimation of the heat of a place, by taking the + medium for a considerable time together, there is another + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page368" id="page368"></a>[pg + 368]</span> circumstance which will still farther augment the + apparent heat of the warmer climates, and diminish that of the + colder, though I do not remember to have seen it remarked by any + author. To explain myself more distinctly upon this head, I must + observe, that the measure of absolute heat, marked by the + thermometer, is not the certain criterion of the sensation of + heat with which human bodies are affected; for, as the presence + and perpetual succession of fresh air is necessary to our + respiration, so there is a species of tainted or stagnated air + often produced by the continuance of great heats, which, being + less proper for respiration, never fails to excite in us an idea + of sultriness and suffocating warmth, much beyond what the heat + of the air alone would occasion, supposing it pure and agitated. + Hence it follows, that the mere inspection of the thermometer + will never determine the heat which the human body feels from + this cause; and hence also, the heat, in most places between the + tropics, must be much more troublesome and uneasy, than the same + degree of absolute heat in a high latitude. For the equability + and duration of the tropical heat contribute to impregnate the + air with a multitude of steams and vapours from the soil and + water; and many of these being of an impure and noxious kind, and + being not easily removed, by reason of the regularity of the + winds in those parts, which only shift the exhalations from place + to place, without dispersing them, the atmosphere is by this + means rendered less capable of supporting the animal functions, + and mankind are consequently affected by what they call a most + intense and stifling heat. Whereas, in the higher latitudes, + these vapours are probably raised in smaller quantities, and are + frequently dispersed by the irregularity and violence of the + winds; so that the air, being in general more pure and less + stagnant, the same degree of absolute heat is not attended by + that uneasy and suffocating sensation.</p> + + <p>This may suffice, in general, with respect to the present + speculation; but I cannot help wishing, as it is a subject in + which mankind are very much interested, especially travellers of + all sorts, that it were more thoroughly and accurately examined, + and that all ships bound to the warmer climates were furnished + with thermometers of a known fabric, and would observe them + daily, and register their observations. For, considering the turn + to philosophical enquiries <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page369" id="page369"></a>[pg 369]</span> which has obtained in + Europe since the beginning of the eighteenth century, it is + incredible how very rarely any thing of this kind has been + attended to. For my own part, I do not remember to have ever seen + any observations of the heat and cold, either in the East or West + Indies, which were made by marines or officers of vessels, + excepting those made by order of Commodore Anson on board the + Centurion, and those by Captain Legg on board the Severn, another + ship of our squadron.</p> + + <p>I have been in some measure drawn into this digression, by the + consideration of the fine weather we experienced on the coast of + Peru, even under the equinoctial, but I have not yet described + the particularities of this weather. I shall now therefore + observe, that every circumstance concurred, in this climate, that + could render the open air and the day-light desirable: For, in + other countries, the scorching heat of the sun in summer renders + the greater part of the day unapt either for labour or amusement, + and the frequent rains are not less troublesome in the more + temperate parts of the year: But, in this happy climate, the sun + rarely appears. Not that the heavens have at any time a dark or + gloomy aspect; for there is constantly a cheerful gray sky, just + sufficient to screen the sun, and to mitigate the violence of its + perpendicular rays, without obscuring the air, or tinging the + light of day with an unpleasant or melancholy hue. By this means, + all parts of the day are proper for labour or exercise in the + open air; nor is there wanting that refreshing and pleasing + refrigeration of the air which is sometimes produced by rains in + other climates; for here the same effect is brought about by the + fresh breezes from the cooler regions to the southward. It is + reasonable to suppose, that this fortunate complexion of the + heavens is principally owing to the neighbourhood of those vast + mountains called the Andes, which, running nearly parallel to the + shore, and at a small distance from it, and extending immensely + higher than any other mountains upon the globe, form upon their + sides and declivities a prodigious tract of country, where, + according to the different approaches to the summit, all kinds of + climates may be found at all seasons of the year.</p> + + <p>These mountains, by intercepting great part of the eastern + winds, which generally blow over the continent of South America, + and by cooling that part of the air which forces <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page370" id="page370"></a>[pg 370]</span> its + way over their tops, and by keeping besides a large portion of + the atmosphere perpetually cool, from its contiguity to the snows + by which they are always covered, and thus spreading the + influence of their frozen crests to the neighbouring coasts and + seas of Peru, are doubtless the cause of the temperature and + equability which constantly prevail there. For, when we had + advanced beyond the equinoctial to the north, where these + mountains left us, and had nothing to screen us to the eastward + but the high lands on the Isthmus of Darien, which are mere + mole-hills compared to the Andes, we then found that we had + totally changed our climate in a short run; passing, in two or + three days, from the temperate air of Peru, to the sultry and + burning atmosphere of the West Indies.</p> + + <p>To return to our narration. On the 10th of November we were + three leagues south of the southern island, of <i>Lobos</i>, in + lat. 6° 27' S. This is called <i>Lobos de la Mar</i>; + and another, which is to the northward of it, and resembles it so + much in shape and appearance as to be often mistaken for it, is + called <i>Lobos de Tierra</i>.<a id="footnotetag142" name= + "footnotetag142"></a><a href="#footnote142"><sup>3</sup></a> We + were now drawing near the station that had been appointed for the + Gloucester, and fearing to miss her, we went under easy sail all + night. At day-break next morning, we saw a ship in shore and to + windward, which had passed us unseen in the night, and soon + perceiving that she was not the Gloucester, we got our tacks on + board and gave her chase. But as there was very little wind, so + that neither we nor the chase had made much way, the commodore + ordered his barge and pinnace, with the pinnace of the Tryal's + prize, to be manned and armed, and to pursue and board the chase. + Lieutenant Brett, who commanded our barge, came up with her first + about nine o'clock, a.m. and, running alongside, fired a volley + of small shot between her masts, just over the heads of her + people, and then instantly boarded with the greatest part of his + men. But the enemy made no resistance, being sufficiently + intimidated by the dazzling of the cutlasses, and the volley they + had just received. Lieutenant Brett now made the sails of the + prize be trimmed, and bore down towards the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page371" id="page371"></a>[pg 371]</span> + commodore, taking up the other two boats in his way. When within + about four miles of us, he put off in the barge, bringing with + him a number of the prisoners, who had given him some material + intelligence, which he was desirous of communicating to the + commodore as soon as possible. On his arrival, we learnt that the + prize was called <i>Nuestra Senora del Carmin</i>, of about 270 + tons burden, commanded by Marcos Moreno, a native of Venice, + having on board forty-three mariners. She was deeply laden with + steel, iron, wax, pepper, cedar plank, snuff, <i>rosarios</i>, + European bale-goods, powder-blue, cinnamon, papal indulgences, + and other kinds of merchandize; and, though this cargo was of + little value to us, in our present circumstances, it was the most + considerable capture we had made, in respect to the Spaniards, as + it amounted to upwards of 400,000 dollars, prime cost at Panama. + This ship was bound from Panama to Callao, and had stopped at + Payta on her way, to take on board a recruit of water and + provisions, and had not left that place above twenty-four hours + when she fell into our hands.</p> + + <p>The important intelligence received by Mr Brett, which he was + so anxious to communicate to the commodore, he had learnt from + one John Williams, an Irishman, whom he found in the prize, and + which was confirmed by examination of the other prisoners. + Williams was a papist, who had worked his passage from Cadiz, and + had travelled over the whole of the kingdom of Mexico as a + pedlar. He pretended that, by this business, he had at one time + cleared four or five thousand dollars, but at length got + entangled by the priests, who knew he had money, and was stripped + of every thing. At present he was all in rags, having just got + out of Payto gaol, where he had been confined for some + misdemeanour. He expressed great joy in thus meeting his + countrymen, and immediately informed them, that a vessel had come + into Payta, only a few days before, the master of which had + informed the governor, that he had been chased in the offing by a + very large ship, which he was persuaded, from her size and the + colour of her sails, must be one of the English squadron. This we + conjectured to have been the Gloucester, as we found afterwards + was the case. On examining the master, and being fully satisfied + of his account, the governor sent off an express with all + expedition to the viceroy at Lima; and the royal officer residing + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page372" id="page372"></a>[pg + 372]</span> at Payta, apprehensive of a visit from the English, + had been busily employed, from his first hearing of this news, in + removing the king's treasure and his own to Piura, a town in the + interior, about fourteen leagues distant.<a id="footnotetag143" + name="footnotetag143"></a><a href="#footnote143"><sup>4</sup></a> + We learnt farther, from our prisoners, that there was at this + time a considerable sum of money in the custom-house of Payta, + belonging to some merchants of Lima, which was intended to be + shipped on board a vessel, then in the harbour of Payta, and was + preparing to sail for the bay of <i>Sansonnate</i>, on the coast + of Mexico, in order to purchase a part of the cargo of the + Manilla ship.</p> + + <p>As the vessel in which this money was to be shipped was + reckoned a prime sailer, and had just received a new coat of + tallow on her bottom, and might, in the opinion of the prisoners, + be able to sail the succeeding morning, we had little reason to + expect that our ship, which had been nearly two years in the + water, could have any chance to get up with her, if she were once + allowed to escape from the port. Wherefore, and as we were now + discovered, and the whole coast would soon be alarmed, and as our + continuing to cruise any longer in these parts would now answer + no purpose, the commodore determined to endeavour to take Payta + by surprise, having in the first place informed himself minutely + of its strength and condition, by examining the prisoners, and + being fully satisfied that there was little danger of losing many + of our men in the attempt.</p> + + <p>This attack on Payta, besides the treasure it promised, and + its being the only enterprise in our power to undertake, had also + several other probable advantages. We might, in all probability, + supply ourselves with great quantities of live provisions, of + which we were in great want; and we should also have an + opportunity of setting our prisoners on shore, who were now very + numerous, and made a greater consumption of our food than our + remaining stock was capable of furnishing much longer. In all + these lights, the attempt was most eligible, and to which our + situation, our necessities, and every prudential consideration, + strongly prompted. How it succeeded, and how far it answered our + expectations, shall be the subject, of the succeeding + section.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page373" id= + "page373"></a>[pg 373]</span> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote140" name="footnote140"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag140">(return)</a> + + <p>This island of San Gallan is in lat. 14° S. long. + 76° W. about twelve miles S.W. of Pisco.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote141" name="footnote141"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag141">(return)</a> + + <p>On his own principles, the lowest heat of Petersburg ought + to be -2°, and the medium temperature of the year + 48°; but the data are loosely expressed and quite + unsatisfactory, as indeed is the whole reasoning on the + subject.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote142" name="footnote142"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag142">(return)</a> + + <p>The Southern Lobos, or Lobos de la Mar, is in fact two + contiguous islands, N. and S. from each other, in lat. + 6° 57' S. and long. 80° 43' W. <i>Lobos de + Tierra</i>, called also <i>Inner Lobos</i>, from being nearer + the land, lying in the same longitude, is in lat. 6° + 28' S. There is still a third, or Northern Lobos, in lat. + 5° 10' S. long. 81° W.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote143" name="footnote143"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag143">(return)</a> + + <p>San Migual de Piura is about 50 English miles E. by S. from + Payta, and nearly the same distance from the mouth of the Piura + river.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XVI.</h3> + + <h4><i>Capture of Payta, and Proceedings at that Place.</i></h4> + + <p>The town of Payta is in lat 50° 12' S. [long. + 81° 15' W.] being situated in a most barren soil, + composed only of sand and slate. It is of small extent, being + about 275 yards in length along the shore of the bay, and 130 + yards in breadth, containing less than two hundred families. The + houses are only ground floors, their walls composed of split + canes and mud, and the roofs thatched with leaves. Though thus + extremely slight, these edifices are abundantly sufficient for a + climate where rain is considered as a prodigy, and is not seen in + many years: Insomuch that, a small quantity of rain falling in + the year 1728, is said to have ruined a great number of + buildings, which mouldered away, and melted as it were before it. + The inhabitants are chiefly Indians and black slaves, or of mixed + breed, the whites being very few. The port of Payta, though + little more than a bay, is reckoned the best on this coast, and + is indeed a very secure and commodious anchorage, and is + frequented by all vessels coming from the north, as here only the + ships from Acapulco, Sonsonnate, Realejo, and Panama, can touch + and refresh in their passage to Callao; and the length of these + voyages, the wind for the greatest part of the year being full + against them, renders it indispensably necessary for them to call + in here for a recruit of fresh water. Payta itself, however, is + situated in so parched a spot, that it does not furnish a drop of + fresh water, neither any kind of vegetables or other provisions, + except fish and a few goats. But, from an Indian town named + Colan, two or three leagues to the northward, water, maize, + vegetables, fowls, and other provisions, are conveyed to Payta on + <i>balsas</i> or floats, for the supply of ships which touch + there; and cattle are sometimes brought from Piura, a town about + thirty miles up the country. The water brought from Colan is + whitish and of a disagreeable appearance, but is said to be very + wholesome; for it is pretended by the inhabitants that it runs + through large tracks overgrown with sarsaparilla, with which it + is sensibly impregnated. Besides furnishing the trading ships + bound from the north for Callao with water and other necessary + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page374" id="page374"></a>[pg + 374]</span> refreshments this port of Payta is the usual place + where passengers from Acapulco and Panama, bound to Lima, + disembark; as the voyage from hence to Callao, the port of Lima, + is two hundred leagues, and is extremely tedious and fatiguing, + owing to the wind being almost always contrary; whereas there is + a tolerably good road by land, running nearly parallel to the + coast, with many stations and villages for the accommodation of + travellers.</p> + + <p>Payta is merely an open town, unprovided with any defence, + except a small fort or redoubt near the shore of the bay. It was + of much consequence to us to be well informed of the fabric and + strength of this fort; which, we learnt from our prisoners, had + eight pieces of cannon, but neither ditch nor outwork, being + merely surrounded by a plain brick wall; and that the garrison + consisted of one weak company, though the town might possibly be + able to arm three hundred men. Having informed himself of the + strength of the place, the commodore determined upon making an + attempt for its capture that very night, the 12th November. We + were then about twelve leagues from shore; a sufficient distance + to prevent being discovered, yet not so far but that, by making + all the sail we could carry; we might arrive in the bay long + before day-break. The commodore considered, however, that this + would be an improper manner of proceeding, as our ships, being + large bodies, might easily be seen at a distance, even in the + night, and might alarm the inhabitants, so as to give them an + opportunity of removing their most valuable effects. He resolved + therefore, as the strength of the place did not require the + employment of our whole force, to make the attempt with the boats + only, ordering our eighteen-oared barge, with our own and the + Tryal's pinnaces, on this service. Fifty-eight men, well + furnished with arms and ammunition, were picked out to man them, + and the command of the expedition was entrusted to Lieutenant + Brett, to whom the commodore gave the necessary orders and + instructions.</p> + + <p>The better to prevent the disappointment and confusion which + might arise in the darkness of the night, and from the ignorance + of our people of the streets and passages of the place, two of + the Spanish pilots were appointed to attend Mr Brett, to conduct + him to the most convenient landing-place, and afterwards to be + his guides on shore. Likewise, that we might have the greater + security for their fidelity on this occasion, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page375" id="page375"></a>[pg 375]</span> the + commodore publicly assured all our prisoners, that they should be + set on shore and released at this place, provided the pilots + acted faithfully: But, in case of any misconduct or treachery, + the pilots were threatened with being instantly shot, and all the + rest were assured of being carried prisoners to England. Thus the + prisoners were themselves interested in our success, and we had + no reason to suspect our guides of negligence or perfidy. It is + worthy of remark, on this occasion, as a singular circumstance, + that one of these pilots, as we afterwards learnt, had been taken + by Captain Clipperton above twenty years before, and had then + been obliged to guide Captain Clipperton and his people to the + surprizal of Truxillo, a town to the southward of Payta; where, + however, he contrived to alarm and save his countrymen, though + the place was carried and pillaged. It is certainly an + extraordinary incident, that the only two attempts on shore, and + at so long an interval, should have been guided by the same + person, a prisoner both times, and forced upon, the service + contrary to his inclination.</p> + + <p>During our preparation, the ships continued to stand for the + port with all the sail they could carry, secure that we were + still at too great a distance to be seen. About ten at night, + being then within five leagues of Payta, Lieutenant Brett put off + with the boats under his command, and arrived at the mouth of the + bay undiscovered. He had no sooner entered the bay, than some of + the people in a ship riding there at anchor perceived him, and + getting instantly into their boat, rowed towards the fort, + shouting and crying, <i>The English! the English dogs!</i> By + this the whole town was suddenly alarmed, and our people soon + observed several lights hurrying backwards and forwards in the + fort, and other indications of the inhabitants being all in + motion. On this, Mr Brett encouraged his men to pull briskly, + that they might give the enemy as little time as possible to + prepare for defence. Yet, before our boats could reach the shore, + the people in the fort had got some of their cannons ready, and + pointed them towards the landing-place; and though, in the + darkness of the night, chance may be supposed to have had a + greater share in their direction than skill, yet the first shot + passed extremely near one of our boats, whistling just over the + heads of the crew. This made our people redouble their efforts, + so that they had reached the shore, and were in part landed, by + the time the second shot was fired.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page376" id="page376"></a>[pg 376]</span> + + <p>As soon as our men were landed, they were conducted by one of + the pilots to the entrance of a narrow street, not above fifty + yards from the beach, where they were covered from the fire of + the fort; and being here formed as well as the shortness of the + time would allow, they marched immediately for the parade, a + large square at the other end of this street, on one side of + which stood the fort, while the governor's house formed another + side of the same square. In this march, though performed with + tolerable regularity, the shouts and clamours of nearly + threescore sailors, who had been so long confined on ship board, + and who were now for the first time on shore of an enemy's + country, joyous as seamen always are when they land, and animated + on the present occasion with the hopes of immense pillage, joined + with the noise of their drums, and favoured by the night, had + augmented their numbers, in the opinion of the astonished enemy, + to at least three hundred; by which estimation, the inhabitants + were so greatly intimidated, that they were infinitely more + solicitous about the means of flight than of resistance. Hence, + though upon entering the parade, our people received a volley + from the merchants to whom the treasure then in the town + belonged, who were ranged in a gallery that went round the + governor's house, yet that post was immediately abandoned on the + first fire made by our people, who were thereby left in quiet + possession of the parade.</p> + + <p>Mr Brett now divided his men into two parties, ordering one of + them to surround the governor's house, and if possible to secure + the governor, while he went himself at the head of the other + party, with the intention of forcing possession of the fort. But + the enemy abandoned it on his approach, making their escape over + the walls, and he entered it without opposition. Thus the place + was mastered in less than a quarter of an hour after landing, and + with no other loss on our side than one man killed and two + wounded. One of these was the Spanish pilot of the Teresa, who + received a slight bruise by a ball, which grazed his wrist. The + honourable Mr Keppell, son to the Earl of Albemarle, had on this + occasion a narrow escape. He wore a jockey-cap, one side of the + peak of which was shaved off by a ball, close to his temple, yet + did him no other injury.</p> + + <p>Having thus far happily succeeded, Mr Brett placed a guard at + the fort, and another in the governor's house, and fixed + centinels at all the avenues of the town, both to prevent + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page377" id="page377"></a>[pg + 377]</span> any surprise from the enemy, and to secure the + effects in the place from being embezzled. His next care was to + seize upon the custom-house, in which the treasure was lodged, + and to examine if any of the inhabitants remained in the town, + that he might know what farther precautions were necessary. He + soon found that the numbers remaining were no ways formidable; + for by far the greatest part of them, being in bed when the place + was surprised, had run away with so much precipitation, that they + had not taken time to put on their clothes. The governor was not + the last to secure himself in this general rout; for he fled + betimes half-naked, leaving his wife behind, a young lady of + about seventeen, to whom he had only been married three or four + days; yet she also was carried off half-naked, by a couple of + centinels, just as our detachment, ordered to invest the house, + arrived for that purpose. This escape of the governor was an + unpleasant circumstance, as the commodore had particularly + recommended to Mr Brett to secure him if possible, as by that + means he might have treated for the ransom of the place; but his + alacrity in flight rendered this impracticable. The few + inhabitants who remained were confined in one of the churches + under a guard, except some stout negroes, who were employed the + remaining part of the night in carrying the treasure, from the + custom-house and other places, to the fort, each party of them + being attended by a file of musketeers. This transportation of + the treasure was the chief employment of Mr Brett's people after + getting possession of the place; yet the sailors, while thus + busied, could not be prevented from entering the houses in their + way, in search of private pillage; when the first things that + occurred to them, were the clothes left by the Spaniards, and + which were mostly embroidered or laced, according to the fashion + of the country. Our people eagerly seized these glittering + dresses, and put them on over their own dirty trowsers and + jackets, not forgetting the tye or bag-wigs, and laced hats, + which were generally found along with the clothes. When this had + once begun, there was no possibility of preventing the whole + detachment from imitating the example; but those who came latest + into the fashion, not finding men's clothes sufficient to equip + them, were forced to take up with women's gowns and petticoats, + which, provided these were fine enough, they made no scruple of + putting on and blending with their own greasy dress: So that, + when a party of them first made they <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page378" id="page378"></a>[pg 378]</span> + appearance in that guise before Mr Brett, he was extremely + surprised at their grotesque exhibition, and could hardly believe + they were his own men.</p> + + <p>While these transactions were going on at Payta, we lay-to + till one in the morning, from the time when our boats pushed off; + and then, supposing the detachment to be near landing, we went on + under easy sail for the bay. This we began to open about seven + a.m. of the 13th, and soon after had a view of the town. Though + we had no reason to doubt the success of the enterprise, yet we + saw with much joy an infallible sign of its being effected, as, + by means of our telescope, we could see the English flag hoisted + on the flag-staff of the fort. We plied into the bay with as much + expedition as the wind, which then blew from the shore, would, + allow; and at eleven a.m. the Tryal's pinnace came on board us, + laden with dollars and church plate, when the officer who + commanded her gave an account of the transactions of the + preceding night. About two p.m. we anchored in ten and a half + fathoms, about a mile and half from the town, and were + consequently near enough to have direct intercourse; with the + shore.</p> + + <p>Mr Brett had hitherto gone on, collecting and removing the + treasure, without interruption; but the enemy had now + rendezvoused from all parts of the country, on a hill at the back + of the town, where they made no inconsiderable appearance; as, + among the rest of their force, there were two hundred horse, + seemingly well armed and mounted, and, as we conceived, properly + trained and regimented, as they were furnished with trumpets, + drums, and standards. These troops paraded about the hill with + much ostentation, sounding their military music; and, as our + small force on shore was by this time known to them, practising + every art to intimidate us, in hopes we might be induced, by our + fears of them, to abandon the place before completing its + pillage. We were not, however so ignorant as to believe that this + body of horse, which seemed to be what they chiefly depended on, + would dare to venture themselves among the streets and houses, + even had they been three times more numerous; and we went on + calmly, as long as day-light lasted, in sending off the treasure, + and carrying on board refreshments, such as hogs, poultry, and + the like, which we found in great abundance. At night, to prevent + surprise, the commodore sent a reinforcement on shore, who were + posted in all the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page379" id= + "page379"></a>[pg 379]</span> avenues leading to the parade; and, + for farther security, all the streets were traversed with + barricades six feet high. But the enemy continued quiet all + night, and at day-break we resumed our labour, in loading and + sending off the boats.</p> + + <p>We were now thoroughly convinced of what consequence it would + have been, had fortune seconded the prudent views of the + commodore, by enabling us to have secured the governor. For we + found many warehouses full of valuable effects, which were quite + useless to us in our present circumstances, as we could not find + room for them on board. But, had the governor been in our power, + he would have treated, in all probability, for the ransom of this + merchandize, which would have been extremely advantageous, both + for him and us. Whereas, he being at liberty, and having + collected all the force of the country for many leagues around, + and having even got a body of militia from Piura, he was so + elated by his numbers, and so fond of his new military command, + that he did not seem to care about the fate of his government. + Insomuch that, although our commodore sent several messages to + him, by some of the inhabitants who were made prisoners, offering + to enter into treaty for the ransom of the town and goods, even + giving an intimation that we should be far from insisting on a + rigorous equivalent, and might perhaps be satisfied with some + live cattle and other necessaries for the use of the squadron, + yet the governor despised all these reiterated overtures, and did + not deign to give the slightest answer, though repeatedly + threatened, if he would not condescend to treat, that we would + set the town and all the warehouses on fire.</p> + + <p>On the second day of our possessing the place, several negro + slaves deserted from the enemy on the hill, and voluntarily + entered into our service, one of them being well known to a + gentleman on board, who remembered to have seen him formerly at + Panama. We now learnt that the Spaniards, without the town, were + in extreme distress for water; for many of their slaves crept + into town by stealth, and carried away several jars of water to + their masters on the hill; and, though some of these were seized + in the attempt, yet their thirst was so pressing, that they + continued the practice as long as we remained in possession of + the place. In the course of this second day, we were assured, + both by deserters and prisoners, that the Spaniards were now + increased to a formidable number, and had resolved to storm the + town and fort <span class="pagenum"><a name="page380" id= + "page380"></a>[pg 380]</span> next night, under the command of + one Gordon, a Scots papist, and captain of a ship in these seas. + We continued, however, to prosecute our work, without hurry, + loading and sending off the boats as long as we had light; and at + night, a reinforcement was again sent on shore by the commodore, + and Mr Brett doubled his guards at all the barricades, all his + posts being connected, by means of centinels placed within call + of each other, and the whole visited by frequent rounds, attended + by a drum. These marks of our vigilance and readiness to receive + the enemy, which they could not be ignorant of, cooled their + resolution, and made them forget the vaunts of the preceding day; + so that we passed this second night with as little molestation as + we had done the first.</p> + + <p>We had finished sending the treasure on board the evening + before, so that the third morning, being the 15th of November, + the boats were employed in carrying off the most valuable part of + the effects from the town. As the commodore proposed to sail in + the afternoon, he this day about ten o'clock, pursuant to his + promise, sent all his prisoners on shore, to the number of + eighty-eight, giving orders to Lieutenant Brett to have them + secured in one of the churches under a strict guard, till he and + his men were ready to embark. Mr Brett was also ordered to set + the whole town on fire, except the two churches, which + fortunately stood at some distance from the houses, after which + he was to abandon the place and return on board. Mr Brett + punctually complied with these orders, and immediately + distributed pitch, tar, and other combustibles, of which there + was great abundance to be had, into various houses in the several + streets of the town, so that as the place was to be fired in many + different quarters at the same time, the destruction might be the + more violent and sudden, and the enemy might not be able to + extinguish it after his departure. All these preparations being + made, Mr Brett made the cannon in the fort be spiked; and setting + fire to the houses most to windward, he collected his men and + marched them to the beach, where the boats waited to take them + off.</p> + + <p>As that part of the beach where he intended to embark was an + open place without the town, near the churches, his retreat was + perceived by the Spaniards on the hill, on which they resolved to + endeavour to precipitate his departure, in order to have a + pretext for future boasting. For this purpose, a small squadron + of their horse, consisting of about <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page381" id="page381"></a>[pg 381]</span> + sixty, selected probably for this service, marched down the hill + with much seeming resolution, as if they had proposed to have + charged our men now on the open beach without any advantage or + situation. But no sooner did Mr Brett halt his men and face + about, than they stopped their career, and did not venture to + advance any farther. On arriving at the boats, and being quite + ready to embark, our people were detained some time by missing + one of their number; and, after some considerable delay, being + unable to learn where he was left, or by what accident he was + detained, they resolved to depart without him. Just when the last + man was embarked, and the boats were going to shove off they + heard him calling to be taken in; at which time the town was so + thoroughly on fire, and the smoke so covered the beach, that they + could hardly discern him, though he was quite well heard. Mr + Brett, however, instantly ordered one of the boats to his relief, + which found him up to the chin in the water, for he had waded as + far as he durst, being extremely terrified at the idea of falling + into the hands of the enemy, enraged as they doubtless were at + the pillage and destruction of their town. On enquiring into the + cause of his staying behind the rest, he acknowledged having + taken too large a dose of brandy, which had thrown him into so + profound a sleep that he did not wake till the fire began to + scorch him. At first opening his eyes, he was amazed to see all + the houses in a blaze on one side, and several Spaniards and + Indians not far from him on the other. The great and sudden + terror instantly restored him to sobriety, and gave him + sufficient presence of mind to push through the thickest of the + smoke, as the most likely means of escaping from the enemy; and, + making the best of his way to the beach, he ran into the water as + far as he durst, for he could not swim, before he ventured to + look back.</p> + + <p>It was certainly much to the honour of our people, that though + there were great quantities of wine and spirits found in the + town, yet this was the only one who was known to have so far + neglected his duty as to get drunk: indeed, their whole + behaviour, while on shore, was greatly more regular than could + well have been expected, from sailors who had been so long + confined on board ship; and, though much of this good conduct + must doubtless be imputed to the diligence of the officers, and + to the excellent discipline they had been constantly inured to + under the commodore, it was certainly not a little to the + reputation of the men, that they should so <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page382" id="page382"></a>[pg 382]</span> + generally have refrained from indulging in these intoxicating + liquors, which they found in abundance in every warehouse.</p> + + <p>There was another singular incident occurred here which merits + being recorded. An Englishman, who had formerly wrought as a + ship-carpenter in Portsmouth yard, had left his country and + entered into the Spanish service, and was at this time employed + by them at the port of Guayaquil; and, as it was well known to + his friends in England that he was in that part of the world, + they had put letters for him on board the Centurion. This man + happened at the present time to be among the Spaniards who had + retired to the hill of Payta; and ambitious, as it would seem, of + acquiring reputation among his new masters, he came down unarmed + to one of our centinels, who was posted at some distance from the + fort towards the enemy, pretending that he was desirous of + surrendering himself and returning to the service of his country. + Our centinel had a cocked pistol in his hand, but, deceived by + the fair speeches of the carpenter, he allowed him very + imprudently to come much too near him, so that, watching his + opportunity, the carpenter wrenched the pistol from his hand, and + ran away with it up the hill. By this time two others of our men, + who had seen the carpenter advance, and suspected his intentions, + were making towards him, and now pursued him, but he got up the + hill before they could reach him, and then turned round and fired + the pistol. His pursuers immediately returned the fire, though at + a great distance, and the crest of the hill covered him as soon + as they had fired, so that they took it for granted they had + missed him: yet we afterwards learnt that he was shot through the + body, and had fallen dead the very next step he took after firing + his pistol and getting out of sight. The centinel, too, whom he + had so grossly imposed upon, did not escape unpunished; as he was + ordered to be severely whipt, for allowing himself to be so + shamefully surprised on his post, and giving an example of + carelessness, which, if followed in other instances, might have + proved fatal to us all.</p> + + <p>By the time our people had taken their comrade out of the + water, and were making the best of their way to the squadron, the + flames had got possession of every part of the town with so + powerful a hold, by means of the combustibles laid for the + purpose, and by the slightness of the materials of the houses, + and their aptitude to take fire, that it was now quite apparent + no efforts of the enemy, who now flocked down in great numbers, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page383" id="page383"></a>[pg + 383]</span> could possibly stop its ravages, or prevent the + entire destruction of the place and all the merchandize it + contained. Our detachment under Lieutenant Brett safely joined + the squadron, and the commodore prepared to leave the bay that + same evening. On our first arrival there were six vessels + belonging to the enemy at anchor, one of which was the ship, that + was to have sailed with the treasure to the coast of Mexico; and, + as she was supposed to be a good sailer, the commodore resolved + to take her along with us. The others were two snows, a bark, and + two row gallies of thirty-six oars each. These last, as we + afterwards learnt, with many others of the same kind built at + different ports, were intended to prevent us from landing in the + neighbourhood of Callao; as the Spaniards, on the first + intelligence of our squadron being destined for the South seas, + and learning its force, expected that we would attempt the city + of Lima. Having no occasion for these five vessels, the commodore + ordered all their masts to be cut by the board at our first + arrival; and on leaving the place, they were all towed out into + deep water, scuttled, and sunk. The command of the remaining + ship, called the Solidad, was given to Mr Hughes, lieutenant of + the Tryal, with a crew of ten men. Towards midnight the squadron + weighed anchor and sailed out of the bay, now consisting of six + ships, the Centurion, Tryal's prize, Carmelo, Teresa, Carmin, and + Solidad.</p> + + <p>Before proceeding to narrate our subsequent transactions, it + may be proper to give a succinct account of the booty we acquired + at Payta, and the losses there sustained by the Spaniards. It has + been already observed, that there were great quantities of + valuable effects at this place, but most of them were of a nature + that we could neither dispose of nor carry away, and their value, + therefore, can only be guessed at. In their representations to + the court of Madrid, as we were afterward assured, the Spaniards + estimated their loss at a million and a half of dollars; and as + no small portion of the goods we there burnt were of the richest + and most expensive kinds, as broad cloths, silks, cambrics, + velvets, and the like, perhaps that valuation might be + sufficiently moderate. The acquisition we made, though + inconsiderable in comparison to what we destroyed, was yet far + from despicable, as, in wrought plate, dollars, and other coin, + there was to the value of more than 30,000<i>l.</i> sterling, + besides several rings, bracelets, and other jewels, the value of + which could not then be <span class="pagenum"><a name="page384" + id="page384"></a>[pg 384]</span> ascertained; and besides the + very great plunder which became the property of the immediate + captors.</p> + + <p>It has been already observed, that all the prisoners we had + taken in our preceding prizes were here discharged. Among these + were some persons of considerable distinction, one of them a + youth of seventeen, son to the vice-president of Chili. As the + barbarity of the buccaneers, and the artful uses the Spanish + ecclesiastics had made of that circumstance, had filled the + natives of these countries with the most horrible notions of the + English cruelty, we always found our prisoners, on first coming + aboard, extremely dejected, and under great horror and anxiety. + This youth particularly, having never been before from home, + lamented his captivity in the most moving terms, regretting the + loss of his parents, his brothers, his sisters, and his native + country; all of which he believed he should never see more, + conceiving that he was devoted for the remainder of his life to + an abject and cruel servitude. Indeed, all the Spaniards who came + into our power, seemed to entertain similarly desponding notions + of their condition. The commodore constantly exerted his utmost + endeavours to efface these terrifying impressions, always having + as many of the principal people among them as there was room for + to dine at his table; and giving strict charges that they should + at all times, and in every circumstance, be treated with the + utmost decency and humanity. In spite of this precaution, they + hardly ever parted with their fears for the first few days, + suspecting the gentleness of their usage to be only preparatory + to some after calamity; but at length, convinced of our + sincerity, they grew perfectly easy and cheerful, so that it was + often doubtful whether they considered their captivity as a + misfortune. The before-mentioned youth, who was near two months + on board the Centurion, had at last so completely conquered his + original melancholy surmises, and had taken such an affection for + the commodore, and seemed so much pleased with the manner of life + on board, so different from all he had ever seen before, that I + much question, if it had been in his choice, if he would not have + preferred a voyage to England in the Centurion to going on shore + at Payta, though he had here liberty of returning to his friends + and country.</p> + + <p>This generous conduct of our commodore to his prisoners, which + he continued without interruption or deviation, gave them all the + highest idea of his humanity and benevolence; and, as mankind are + ever fond of forming general opinions, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page385" id="page385"></a>[pg 385]</span> + induced them to entertain very favourable thoughts of the whole + English nation. But, whatever opinion they might be disposed to + form of his character before the capture of the Teresa, their + veneration for him was prodigiously increased by his conduct + towards the women who were taken in that vessel, as formerly + mentioned. For the circumstance of leaving them in possession of + their own apartments, the strict orders he issued to prevent any + of our people from approaching them, and his permitting the pilot + to remain with them as their guardian, were measures that seemed + so different from what they expected in an enemy and a heretic, + that, although the Spanish prisoners had themselves experienced + his beneficence, they were astonished at this particular + instance; and the more so, that all this was done without his + ever having seen the women, though the two daughters were both + reckoned handsome, and the youngest was celebrated for her + uncommon beauty. The women were themselves so sensible of the + obligations they owed him for the attention and delicacy with + which he had protected them, that they refused to go on shore at + Payta till permitted to wait upon him, that they might in person + return him thanks. Indeed all the prisoners left us with the + strongest assurances of their grateful remembrance of his + uncommon kindness. A Jesuit, in particular, of some distinction, + expressed himself with great thankfulness for the civilities he + and his countrymen had experienced while on board, declaring that + he should consider it his duty to do Mr Anson justice at all + times; adding, that his usage of the men prisoners was such as + could never be forgotten, and merited the highest + acknowledgments; but his behaviour to the women was so + extraordinary and honourable, that he doubted all the regard due + to his own ecclesiastical character would be scarcely sufficient + to make it believed. Indeed, we were afterwards informed that he + and the rest of the prisoners had not been silent on this topic, + but had given the highest commendations of our commodore, both at + Lima and other places; and the Jesuit, as we were told, had + interpreted in his favour, in a lax and hypothetical sense, that + article of his church which asserts the impossibility of heretics + being saved.</p> + + <p>Let it not be imagined, that the impression received by the + Spaniards to our advantage on the present occasion was a matter + of slight import; for, not to mention several of our countrymen + who had already felt the good effects of these <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page386" id="page386"></a>[pg 386]</span> + prepossessions, it may be observed, that the good opinion of this + nation is certainly of more consequence to us than that of all + the world besides. Not only as the commerce we have formerly + carried on with them, and perhaps may again hereafter, is so + extremely valuable, but also as its transacting so immediately + depends upon the honour and good faith of those who are entrusted + with its management. Even if no national conveniences were likely + to flow from this honourable conduct of our commodore, his own + equity and good dispositions would not the less have prevented + him from the exercise of tyranny and oppression on those whom the + chance of war had put into his hands. I shall only add, that, by + his constant practice of this humane and prudent conduct, he + acquired a distinguished character among the Spanish Creoles over + all their settlements in America, so that his name was + universally mentioned with honour and applause by most of the + Spanish inhabitants of that vast empire.</p> + + <h3>SECTION XVII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Occurrences from our Departure from Payta to our Arrival + at Quibo.</i></h4> + + <p>Setting sail from the road of Payta about midnight of the 16th + November, we stood to the westward, and next morning the + commodore caused the squadron to spread, on purpose to look out + for the Gloucester, as we drew near the station where Captain + Mitchell had been directed to cruise, and we hourly expected to + get sight of him, yet the whole day passed without seeing + him.</p> + + <p>At this time a jealousy between those who had gone ashore to + the attack of Payta, and those who had continued on board, grew + to such a height, that the commodore became acquainted with it, + and thought it necessary to interpose his authority for its + abatement. This was occasioned by the plunder taken at Payta, + which those who acted on shore had appropriated to themselves, + considering it as due to the risks they had run, and the + resolution they had shewn on that service. But those who had + remained on board, deemed this a very partial and unjust + procedure; urging, that they also would have preferred acting on + shore if it had been left to their choice; that their duty on + board was extremely fatiguing <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page387" id="page387"></a>[pg 387]</span> while their comrades + were on shore; for, besides the labour of the day, they were + forced to remain all night under arms to secure the prisoners, + who were more numerous than themselves, and of whom it was then + necessary to be extremely watchful, to prevent any attempts they + might have planned at that critical conjuncture. They insisted, + also, that it was undeniably as necessary to the success of the + enterprize to have an adequate force on board as on shore in its + execution, and, therefore, that those who remained on board could + not be deprived of their share in the plunder, without manifest + injustice. These contests were carried on with great heat on both + sides; and though the plunder in question was a mere trifle, in + comparison with the treasure taken, in which there was no doubt + that those on board had an equal right, yet, as the obstinacy of + sailors is not always regulated by the importance of the matter + in dispute, the commodore thought it necessary to put a speedy + stop to this commotion. Accordingly, on the morning of the 17th, + he ordered all hands to assemble on the quarter-deck, when, + addressing his discourse to those who had been detached on shore, + he highly commended their gallant conduct, and thanked them for + their services on that occasion. He then represented to them the + reasons that had been urged by those who continued on board, for + an equal distribution of the plunder, telling them that he + thought these reasons were conclusive, and that the expectations + of their comrades were justly founded; and he insisted, + therefore, that not only the men, but all the officers also, who + had been employed in the capture of Payta, should immediately + produce the whole of their plunder upon the quarter-deck, and + that it should be impartially divided among the whole crew, + proportionally to the rank and commission of each. To prevent + those who had been in possession of this plunder from murmuring + at this decision, and the consequent diminution of their shares, + he added, as an encouragement to those who might be afterwards + employed on like services, that he gave up his entire share, to + be distributed exclusively among those who had been detached to + attack the place. Thus this troublesome affair, which might + perhaps have had mischievous consequences if permitted to go on, + was soon appeased by the prudence of the commodore, to the + general satisfaction of all. Some few, indeed, whose selfish + dispositions were uninfluenced by the justice of this procedure, + and who were incapable of discerning the equity of the + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page388" id="page388"></a>[pg + 388]</span> decision, were dissatisfied, as it tended to deprive + them of what they had once possessed.</p> + + <p>This important affair employed the best part of the day after + leaving Payta; and at night, having seen nothing of the + Gloucester, the commodore made the squadron bring to, that we + might not pass her in the dark. Next morning we again spread on + the look-out, and saw a sail at 10 a.m. to which we gave chase, + and which we came near enough by two p.m. to observe to be the + Gloucester, having a small vessel in tow. We joined her in about + an hour after, when we learnt that Captain Mitchell had only + taken two small prizes during the whole of his cruise. One was a + small snow, the cargo of which consisted chiefly of wine, brandy, + and olives in jars, with about 7000<i>l.</i> in specie. The other + was a large boat or launch, taken near shore by the Gloucester's + barge. The prisoners on board this boat alleged that they were + very poor, and that their loading consisted only of cotton; + though the circumstances under which they were surprized, seemed + to insinuate that they were more opulent than they pretended; for + they were found at dinner on a pigeon-pye, served up in silver + dishes. The officer who commanded the barge, having opened + several of the jars in the prize, to satisfy his curiosity, found + nothing as he thought but cotton, which inclined him to believe + the account given by the prisoners; but when these jars were + examined more strictly in the Gloucester, they were agreeably + surprised to find the whole a very extraordinary piece of + deception; as in every jar there was a considerable quantity of + double doubloons and dollars, artfully concealed among the + cotton, to the amount in all of near 12,000<i>l.</i> This + treasure was going to Payta, and belonged to the same merchants + who were proprietors of most of the money we had taken there; so + that, if this boat had escaped the Gloucester, her cargo would + probably have fallen into our hands. Besides these two prizes, + the Gloucester had been in sight of two or three other ships, + which had escaped them; and one of them, from some of our + intelligence, we had reason to believe was of immense value.</p> + + <p>It was now resolved to stand to the northwards, and to make + the best of our way either for Cape St Lucas, in California, or + Cape Corientes on the coast of Mexico. When at Juan Fernandez, + the commodore had resolved to touch somewhere in the + neighbourhood of Panama, to endeavour <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page389" id="page389"></a>[pg 389]</span> to + get some correspondence overland with the fleet under Admiral + Vernon. For, on our departure from England, we left a fleet at + Portsmouth intended for the West Indies, to be employed there in + an expedition against some of the Spanish settlements. Taking for + granted, therefore, that this enterprise had succeeded, and that + Portobello might then be garrisoned by British troops, the + commodore conceived he might easily procure an intercourse with + our countrymen, on the other side of the isthmus of Darien, + either by means of the Indians, who are greatly disposed to + favour us, or even by the Spaniards themselves; some of whom + might be induced, by proper rewards, to carry on this + correspondence; which, when once begun, might be continued with + little difficulty. By this means, Mr Anson flattered himself that + he might procure a reinforcement of men from the other side, and + that, by settling a prudent plan of co-operation with our + commanders in the West Indies, he might even have taken Panama. + This would have given the British nation the command of the + isthmus, by which we should in effect have become masters of all + the wealth of Peru, and should have held an equivalent in our + hands for any demand, however extraordinary, that might have been + thought advisable to make on either branch of the Bourbon + family.</p> + + <p>Such were the magnificent projects which the commodore + revolved in his mind, when at the island of Juan Fernandez, + notwithstanding the feeble condition to which his force was then + reduced; and, had the success of the expedition to the West + Indies been answerable to the general expectation, these views + had certainly been the most prudent that could have been devised. + But, on examining the papers found on board the Carmelo, our + first prize, it was then learnt, though I deferred mentioning it + till now, that the attempt on Carthagena had failed, and that + there was no probability of our fleet in the West Indies engaging + in any new enterprise that could at all facilitate this plan. Mr + Anson, therefore, had relinquished all hope of being reinforced + across the isthmus, and consequently had no inducement to proceed + at present for Panama, being incapable of assaulting that place; + and there was reason to believe there was now a general embargo + over all the coast of the South Sea. The only feasible measure + that now remained, was to steer as soon as possible for the + southern parts of California, or the adjacent coast of Mexico, + and there to cruise for the Manilla galleon, which <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page390" id="page390"></a>[pg 390]</span> was + now known to be at sea on her voyage to Acapulco; and we had no + doubt of being able to get upon that station in sufficient time + to intercept her, as she does not usually arrive at Acapulco till + towards the middle of January, and, being now only about the + middle of November, we did not suppose our passage thither would + cost us above a month or six weeks, so that, in our opinion, we + had nearly twice as much time as was necessary.</p> + + <p>There was one business, however, which we knew must occasion + some delay, but which we hoped might be accomplished in four or + five days. This was to recruit our water; for the number of + prisoners we had to maintain, ever since we left Juan Fernandez, + had so far exhausted our stock, that it was impossible to think + of venturing upon a passage to the coast of Mexico, till we had + procured a fresh supply; especially as we had not found enough at + Payta for our consumption while there. It was for some time a + matter of deliberation with the commodore, where we might take in + this necessary article; but, by consulting the accounts of former + navigators, and examining our prisoners, he at last resolved for + the island of Quibo, beyond the bay of Panama. There was indeed a + small island called <i>Cocos</i>, less out of our way than Quibo, + where some of the Buccaneers pretended to have found water: But + none of our prisoners knew any thing of that island, and it was + thought too hazardous to risk the safety of the squadron, by + exposing ourselves to the chance of not finding water at that + place, on the mere authority of these legendary writers, of whose + misrepresentations and falsities we had almost daily experience. + Besides, we were not without hopes that in going to Quibo some of + the enemies ships bound to or from Panama might fall into our + hands, particularly such of them as were put to sea, before they + had intelligence of our squadron; we therefore directed our + course to the northward, being eight sail, and so having the + appearance of a very formidable fleet; and on the 19th at + day-break, we discovered Cape Blanco, bearing S.S.E. 1/2 E. seven + miles distant. This cape lies in the latitude of 4° 15' + south, and is always made by ships bound either to windward or to + leeward, so that it is a most excellent station to cruise upon + the enemy. As our last prize, the Solidad, was far from answering + the character given her of a good sailer, and she and the Santa + Teresa delayed us considerably, the commodore ordered them to be + cleared of every thing that might prove useful <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page391" id="page391"></a>[pg 391]</span> to + the rest of the ships, and then to be burnt. We then proceeded in + our course for Quibo, and, on the 22d in the morning, saw the + island of Plata bearing east, distant four leagues. One of our + prizes, which was ordered to stand close in, both to discover if + there were any ships between that island and the continent, and + likewise to look out for a stream of fresh water reported to be + there, returned without having seen any ship, or finding any + water. At three in the afternoon point Manta bore S.E. by E. + seven miles distant; and there being a town of the same name in + the neighbourhood, Captain Mitchell took this opportunity of + sending away several of his prisoners from the Gloucester in the + Spanish launch. The boats were now daily employed in distributing + provisions on board the Tryal and other prizes, to complete their + stock for six months; and, that the Centurion might be the better + prepared to give the Manilla ship (one of which we were told was + of immense size) a warm reception, the carpenters were ordered to + fix eight stocks in the main and fore-tops for the mounting of + swivel guns.</p> + + <p>On the 25th we had a sight of the island of Gallo, bearing + E.S.E. 1/2 E. four leagues distant; from hence we crossed the bay + of Panama with a N.W. course, hoping that this would have carried + us in a direct line to the island of Quibo. But we afterwards + found that wrought to have stood more to the westward, for the + winds in a short time began to incline to that quarter, and made + it difficult for us to gain the island. And now, after passing + the equinoctial on the 22d, leaving the neighbourhood of the + Cordilleras, and standing more and more towards the isthmus, + where the communication of the atmosphere to the eastward and the + westward was no longer interrupted, we found, in a few days, an + extraordinary alteration in the climate. Instead of uniform + temperature, we had, for several days together, close and sultry + weather, resembling what we had met with between the tropics on + the eastern side of America. We had besides frequent calms and + heavy rains, which we at first ascribed to the neighbourhood of + the line, where this kind of weather is found to prevail; but, + observing that it attended us to the latitude of seven degrees + north, we were induced to believe that the stormy season, or, as + the Spaniards call it, the Vandevals, was not yet over; though + many positively assert, that it begins in June, and is ended + November.</p> + + <p>On the 27th Captain Mitchel's largest prize being cleared, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page392" id="page392"></a>[pg + 392]</span> was scuttled, and set on fire, and as the remaining + five ships were all good sailers, so we never occasioned any + delay to each other. Being now in a rainy climate, which we had + been long disused to, we found it necessary to caulk the decks + and sides of the Centurion, to prevent the rain-water from + running into her.</p> + + <p>On the 3d of December we had a view of the island of Quibo, + the east end then bearing N.N.W. four leagues distant, and the + island of Quicara W.N.W. at about the same distance. Here we + struck ground with sixty-five fathom of line, and found the + bottom to consist of grey sand, with black specks. When we got + sight of the land, we found the wind to hang westerly, and + therefore thought it adviseable to stand off till morning, as + there are said to be some shoals in the entrance of the channel. + At six the next morning, point Mariato bore N.E. 1/2 N. three or + four leagues distant. In weathering this point, all the squadron, + except the Centurion, were very near it, and the Gloucester, + being the leewardmost ship, was forced to tack and stand to the + southward, so that we lost sight of her. At nine, the island + Sebaco bore N.W. by N. four leagues distant; but the wind still + proving unfavourable, we were obliged to ply on and off for the + succeeding twenty-four hours, and were frequently taken a-back. + However, at eleven the next morning the wind happily settling in + the S.S.W. we bore away for the S.S.E. end of the island, and + about three in the afternoon entered Canal Bueno, passing round a + shoal which stretches off about two miles from the south point of + the island. This Canal Bueno, or Good Channel, is at least six + miles in breadth; and as we had the wind large, we kept in a good + depth of water, generally from twenty-eight to thirty-three + fathom, and came not within a mile and a half distance of the + breakers, though, in all probability, if it had been necessary, + we might have ventured much nearer without incurring the least + danger. At seven in the evening we came to an anchor in + thirty-three fathom, muddy ground; the south point of the island + bearing S.E. by E. a remarkable high part of the island W. by N. + and the island Sebaco E. by N.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page393" id="page393"></a>[pg 393]</span> + + <h3>SECTION XVIII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Our Proceedings at Quibo, with an Account of the + Place.</i></h4> + + <p>The morning after our coming to an anchor, an officer was + dispatched to discover the watering-place; and, having found it, + returned before noon; then we sent the long-boat for a load of + water, and at the same time weighed and stood farther in with our + ships. At two we came again to an anchor in twenty-two fathom, + with a bottom of rough gravel intermixed with broken shells, the + watering-place now bearing from us N.W. 1/2 N. only three + quarters of a mile distant.</p> + + <p>The island of Quibo is extremely convenient for wooding and + watering, for the trees grow close to the high-water mark, and a + large rapid stream of fresh water runs over the sandy beach into + the sea; so that we were little more than two days in laying in + all the wood and water we wanted. The whole island is of a very + moderate height, excepting one part. It consists of a continued + wood spread over the whole surface of the country, which + preserves its verdure all the year round. We found there + abundance of cassia, and a few lime-trees. It appeared singular + to us, that, considering the climate and the shelter, we should + see no other birds there than parrots, parroquets, and mackaws; + of the last there were prodigious flights. Next to these birds, + the animals we found in most plenty were monkeys and guanos, and + these we frequently killed for food; for though there were many + herds of deer upon the place, yet the difficulty of penetrating + the woods prevented our coming near them, so that though we saw + them often, we killed only two during our stay. Our prisoners + assured us that this island abounded with tygers; we did once + discover the print of a tyger's paw upon the beach, but the + tygers themselves we never saw. The Spaniards, too, informed us + that there was often found in the woods a most mischievous + serpent, called the Flying Snake, which they said darted itself + from the boughs of trees on either man or beast that came within + its reach, and whose sting they believed to be inevitable death. + Besides these mischievous land-animals, the sea hereabouts is + infested with great numbers of alligators of an extraordinary + size; and we often observed a large kind of flat fish jumping a + considerable <span class="pagenum"><a name="page394" id= + "page394"></a>[pg 394]</span> height out of the water, which we + supposed to be the fish that is said frequently to destroy the + pearl-divers, by clasping them in its fins as they rise from the + bottom; and we were told that the divers, for their security, are + now always armed with a sharp knife, which, when they are + entangled, they stick into the belly of the fish, and thereby + disengage themselves from its embraces.</p> + + <p>Whilst the ship continued here at anchor, the commodore, + attended by some of his officers, went in a boat to examine a bay + which lay to the northward; and afterwards ranged all along the + eastern side of the island. In the places where they put on shore + in the course of his expedition, they generally found the soil to + be extremely rich, and met with great plenty of excellent water. + In particular, near the N.E. point of the island, they discovered + a natural cascade, which surpassed, as they conceived, every + thing of this kind, which human art or industry hath hitherto + produced. It was a river of transparent water, about forty yards + wide, which ran down a declivity of near a hundred and fifty + yards in length. The channel it ran in was very irregular; for it + was entirely formed of rock, both its sides and bottom being made + up of large detached blocks; and by these the course of the water + was frequently interrupted: For in some places it ran sloping + with a rapid but uniform motion, while in other parts it tumbled + over the ledges of rocks with a perpendicular descent. All the + neighbourhood of this stream was a fine wood; and even the huge + masses of rock which overhung the water, and which, by their + various projections, formed the inequalities of the channel, were + covered with lofty forest trees. Whilst the commodore, and those + with him, were attentively viewing this place, and remarking the + different blendings of the water, the rocks, and the wood, there + came in sight (as it were with an intent still to heighten and + animate the prospect) a prodigious flight of mackaws, which + hovering over this spot, and often wheeling and playing on the + wing about it, afforded a most brilliant appearance, by the + glittering of the sun on their variegated plumage; so that some + of the spectators cannot refrain from a kind of transport, when + they recount the complicated beauties which occurred in this + extraordinary scene.</p> + + <p>In this expedition, along the eastern side of the island, + though they met with no inhabitants, yet they saw many + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page395" id="page395"></a>[pg + 395]</span> huts upon the shore, and great heaps of shells of + fine mother-of-pearl scattered up and down in different places: + These were the remains left by the pearl-fishers from Panama, who + often frequent this place in the summer season; for the pearl + oysters, which are to be met with every where in the bay of + Panama, are so plenty at Quibo, that by advancing a very little + way into the sea, you might stoop down and reach them from the + bottom. They are usually very large, but extremely tough and + unpalatable.</p> + + <p>The oysters most productive of pearls, are those found in + considerable depths; for, though what are taken up by wading are + of the same species, yet the pearls found in them are rare and + very small. It is said, too, that the pearl partakes in some + degree of the quality of the bottom on which the oyster is found; + so that if the bottom be muddy, the pearl is dark and + ill-coloured.</p> + + <p>The diving for oysters is a work performed by negro slaves, of + whom the inhabitants of Panama and the neighbouring coast + formerly kept great numbers, carefully trained to this business. + These are not esteemed complete divers, till they are able to + protract their stay under water so long, that the blood gushes + out from their nose, mouth, and ears. It is the tradition of the + country, that when this accident has once befallen them, they + dive for the future with much greater facility than before; that + no inconvenience attends it, the bleeding generally stopping of + itself, and that there is no probability of their being subject + to it a second time.<a id="footnotetag144" name= + "footnotetag144"></a><a href="#footnote144"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>The sea at this place furnished us with a dainty, in the + greatest plenty and perfection, viz. the turtle. There are + reckoned four species of turtle: the trunk-turtle, the + loggerhead, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page396" id= + "page396"></a>[pg 396]</span> the hawksbill, and the green + turtle. The two first are rank and unwholesome; the hawksbill + (which furnishes the tortoise-shell) is but indifferent food, + though better than the other two; but the green turtle is + esteemed, by the greatest part of those who are acquainted with + its taste, as the most delicious of eatables; and that it is a + most wholesome food, we were amply convinced by our own + experience: For we fed on this for near four months, and + consequently had it been in any degree noxious, its ill effects + could not possibly have escaped us. At this island we took what + quantity we pleased with great facility; for, as they are an + amphibious animal, and get on shore to lay their eggs, which they + generally deposit in a large hole in the sand, just above the + high-water mark, covering them up, and leaving them to be hatched + by the heat of the sun, we usually dispersed several of our men + along the beach, whose business it was to turn them on their + backs when they came to land; and the turtle being thereby + prevented from getting away, we carried them off at our leisure. + These proved of great service both in lengthening out our store + of provision, and in heartening the whole crew with an almost + constant supply of fresh and palatable food; for the turtle being + large, generally weighing about 200 lb. weight each, what we took + with us lasted us near a month, and by that time we met with a + fresh recruit on the coast of Mexico, where we often saw them in + the heat of the day floating in great numbers on the surface of + the water fast asleep. Our mode of taking them was this; we sent + out our boat with a man in the bow, who was a dexterous diver; + when the boat came within a few yards of the turtle, the diver + plunged into the water, and took care to rise close upon it; on + seizing the shell near the tail, and pressing down the hinder + parts, the turtle awakened, and began to strike with its claws, + which motion supported both it and the diver, till the boat came + up and took them in. By this management we never wanted turtle + for the succeeding four months in which we continued at sea; and + though we had been three months on board, without putting our + foot on shore, except for the few days we stayed at the island of + Quibo, and those employed in the attack of Payta, yet, in the + whole seven months, from our leaving Juan Fernandez to our + anchoring in the harbour of Chequetan, we buried no more in the + whole squadron than two men; a most incontestable proof that the + turtle on which we fed for the last four months <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page397" id="page397"></a>[pg 397]</span> of + this term, was at least innocent, if not something more. It + appears wonderful, therefore, that a species of food so very + palatable and salubrious, and so much abounding in those parts, + should be proscribed by the Spaniards as unwholesome, and little + less than poisonous. Perhaps the strange appearance of this + animal may have been the foundation of this ridiculous aversion, + which is strongly rooted in all the inhabitants of that coast, + and of which we had many instances in the course of this + navigation. Some Indian and negro slaves we had taken in our + prizes, and continued on board to assist in navigating our ships, + were astonished at our feeding on turtle, and seemed fully + persuaded that it would soon destroy us; but finding that none of + us died, nor even suffered in our health by a continuation of + this diet, they at last got so far the better of their aversion, + as to be persuaded to taste it, to which the absence of all other + kinds of fresh provisions might not a little contribute. However, + it was with great reluctance, and very sparingly, that they began + to eat it: But the relish improving upon them by degrees, they at + last grew extremely fond of it, preferred it to every other kind + of food, and often felicitated each other on the happy experience + they had acquired, and the delicious and plentiful repasts it + would be always in their power to procure, when they should + return to their country. Those who are acquainted with the manner + of life of these unhappy wretches, need not be told, that next to + large draughts of spirituous liquors, plenty of tolerable food is + the greatest joy they know; and that the discovering a method + which would supply them with what quantity they pleased of a kind + more luxurious to the palate than any their haughty lords and + masters could indulge in, was a circumstance which they + considered as the most fortunate that could befal them.</p> + + <p>In three days time we had completed our business at this + place, and were extremely impatient to put to sea, that we might + arrive time enough on the coast of Mexico to intercept the + Manilla galleon. The wind being contrary detained us a night, and + the next day when we got into the offing, (which we did through + the same channel by which we entered) we were obliged to keep + hovering about the island, in hopes of getting sight of the + Gloucester. It was the 9th of December, in the morning, when we + put to sea, and continuing to the southward of the island, + looking out for the Gloucester, we, on the 10th, at five in the + afternoon, discerned <span class="pagenum"><a name="page398" id= + "page398"></a>[pg 398]</span> a small sail to the northward of + us, to which we gave chase, and coming up took her. She proved to + be a bark from Panama, bound to Cheripe, an inconsiderable + village on the continent, and was called the <i>Jesu + Nazareno</i>. She had nothing on board but some oakum, about a + ton of rock-salt, and between 30<i>l.</i> and 40<i>l.</i> in + specie, most of it consisting of small silver money, intended for + purchasing a cargo of provisions at Cheripe.</p> + + <p>I cannot but observe, for the use of future cruisers, that had + we been in want of provisions, we had by this capture an obvious + method of supplying ourselves. For at Cheripe, whither she was + bound, there is a constant store of provisions prepared for the + vessels which go thither every week from Panama, the market of + Panama being chiefly supplied from thence: So that by putting a + few of our hands on board our prize, we might easily have seized + a large store without any hazard, since Cheripe is a place of no + strength.</p> + + <p>On the 12th of December we were relieved from the perplexity + we had suffered, by the separation of the Gloucester; for on that + day she joined us, and informed us, that in tacking to the + southward on our first arrival, she had sprung her fore-top-mast, + which had disabled her from working to windward, and prevented + her from joining us sooner. We now scuttled and sunk the Jesu + Nazareno, the prize we took last, and having the greatest + impatience to get into a proper station for the galleon, stood + altogether to the westward, and notwithstanding the impediments + we met with, left the island of Quibo in about nine days after + our first coming in sight of it.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote144" name="footnote144"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag144">(return)</a> + + <p>The intelligent reader will demand more than the + <i>tradition of the country</i> to induce his belief, that this + diving business is not most certainly destructive of the + miserable wretches who are compelled to pursue it. The divers + in the Persian gulph, where it is well known the pearl fishery + is carried on by individuals on their own account, "seldom live + to a great age," (says Mr Morier in the account of his Journey + through Persia.) "Their bodies break out in sores, and their + eyes become very weak and blood-shot. They are restricted to a + certain regimen; and to food composed of dates and other light + ingredients." It cannot be imagined that the negroes of Panama + fare better in this hazardous occupation. But to the expression + of any solicitude as to <i>their</i> blood, it is very probable + the answer might be something in the style of one of Juvenal's + worthy ladies:</p> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p class="i10">ita servus homo est?</p> + + <p>Hoc volo, sic jubeo, sit pro ratione voluntas.P.</p> + </div> + </div> + + <p> </p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XIX.</h3> + + <h4><i>From Quibo to the Coast of Mexico.</i></h4> + + <p>On the 12th of December we left Quibo, and the same day the + commodore delivered fresh instructions to the captains of the men + of war, and the commanders of our prizes, appointing them the + rendezvouses they were to make, and the courses they were to + steer in case of a separation. And first, they were directed to + use all possible dispatch in getting to the northward of the + harbour of Acapulco, where they were to endeavour to fall in with + the land, between the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page399" id= + "page399"></a>[pg 399]</span> latitudes of 18 and 19°; + from thence, they were to beat up the coast at eight or ten + leagues distance from the shore, till they came a-breast of Cape + Corientes, in the latitude of 20°20'. When they arrived + there, they were to continue cruising on that station till the + 14th of February; and then they were to proceed to the middle + island of the Tres Marias, in the latitude of 21°25', + bearing from Cape Corientes N.W. by N., twenty-five leagues + distant. And if at this island they did not meet the commodore, + they were there to recruit their wood and water, and then to make + the best of their way to the island of Macao, on the coast of + China. These orders being distributed, we had little doubt of + arriving soon upon our intended station; as we expected, upon the + increasing our offing from Quibo, to fall in with the regular + trade-wind. But, to our extreme vexation, we were baffled for + near a month, either with tempestuous weather from the western + quarter, or with dead calms and heavy rains, attended with a + sultry air; so that it was the 25th of December before we got a + sight of the island of Cocos, which by our reckoning was only a + hundred leagues from the continent; and we had the mortification + to make so little way, that we did not lose sight of it again in + five days. This island we found to be in the latitude of + 5°20' north. It has a high hummock towards the western + part, which descends gradually, and at last terminates in a low + point to the eastward. From the island of Cocos we stood W. by + N., and were till the 9th of January in running an hundred + leagues more. We had at first flattered ourselves, that the + uncertain weather and western gales we met with were owing to the + neighbourhood of the continent, from which, as we got more + distant, we expected every day to be relieved, by falling in with + the eastern trade-wind: But as our hopes were so long baffled, + and our patience quite exhausted, we began at length to despair + of succeeding in the great purpose we had in view, that of + intercepting the Manilla galleon; and this produced a general + dejection amongst us, as we had at first considered this project + as almost infallible, and had indulged ourselves in the most + boundless hopes of the advantages we should thence receive. + However, our despondency was at last somewhat alleviated, by a + favourable change of the wind; for, on the 9th of January, a gale + for the first time sprang up from the N.E., and on this we took + the Carmelo in tow, as the Gloucester <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page400" id="page400"></a>[pg 400]</span> did + the Carmin, making all the sail we could to improve the + advantage, for we still suspected that it was only a temporary + gale, which would not last long; but the next day we had the + satisfaction to find, that the wind did not only continue in the + same quarter, but blew with so much briskness and steadiness, + that we now no longer doubted of its being the true trade-wind. + And as we advanced apace towards our station, our hopes began to + revive, and our despair by degrees gave place to pleasing + prejudices: For though the customary season of the arrival of the + galleon at Acapulco was already elapsed, yet we were unreasonable + enough to flatter ourselves, that some accidental delay might + lengthen her passage beyond its usual limits.</p> + + <p>When we got into the trade-wind, we found no alteration in it + till the 17th of January, when we were advanced to the latitude + of 12°50', but on that day it shifted to the westward of + the north: This change we imputed to our having haled up too + soon, though we then esteemed ourselves full seventy leagues from + the coast, which plainly shows, that the trade-wind doth not take + place, but at a considerable distance from the continent. After + this, the wind was not so favourable to us as it had been: + However, we still continued to advance, and, on the 26th of + January, being then to the northward of Acapulco, we tacked and + stood to the eastward, with a view of making the land.</p> + + <p>In the preceding fortnight we caught some turtle on the + surface of the water, and several dolphins, bonitos, and + albicores. One day, as one of the sail-makers mates was fishing + from the end of the gib-boom, he lost his hold, and dropped into + the sea; and the ship, which was then going at the rate of six or + seven knots, went directly over him: But as we had the Carmelo in + tow, we instantly called out to the people on board her, who + threw him over several ends of ropes, one of which he fortunately + caught hold of, and twisting it round his arm, was hauled into + the ship, without having received any other injury than a wrench + in his arm, of which he soon recovered.</p> + + <p>On the 26th of January, we stood to the eastward, expecting, + by our reckonings, to have fallen in with the land on the 28th; + but though the weather was perfectly clear, we had no sight of it + at sun-set, and therefore continued our course, not doubting but + we should see it by the next morning. About ten at night we + discovered a light on the larboard-bow, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page401" id="page401"></a>[pg 401]</span> + bearing from us N.N.E. The Tryal's prize too, about a mile a-head + of us, made a signal at the same time for seeing a sail; and as + we had no doubt that what we saw was a ship's light, we were + extremely animated with a firm persuasion, that it was the + Manilla galleon, which had been so long the object of our wishes: + And what added to our alacrity, was our expectation of meeting + with two of them instead of one, for we took it for granted, that + the light in view was carried in the top of one ship for a + direction to her consort. We immediately cast off the Carmelo and + pressed forward with all our canvass, making a signal for the + Gloucester to do the same. Thus we chased the light, keeping all + our hands at their respective quarters, under an expectation of + engaging in the next half hour, as we sometimes conceived the + chase to be about a mile distant, and at other times to be within + reach of our guns; and some positively averred, that besides the + light, they could plainly discern her sails. The commodore + himself was so fully persuaded that we should be soon along-side + of her, that he sent for his first lieutenant, who commanded + between decks, and directed him to see all the great guns loaded + with two round-shot for the first broadside, and after that with + one round-shot and one grape, strictly charging him, at the same + time, not to suffer a gun to be fired, till he, the commodore, + should give orders, which he informed the lieutenant would not be + till we arrived within pistol-shot of the enemy. In this constant + and eager attention we continued all night, always presuming that + another quarter of an hour would bring us up with this Manilla + ship, whose wealth, with that of her supposed consort, we now + estimated by round millions. But when the morning broke, and + day-light came on, we were most strangely and vexatiously + disappointed, by finding that the light which had occasioned all + this bustle and expectancy was only a fire on the shore. Indeed + the circumstances of this deception are so extraordinary as to be + scarcely credible; for, by our run during the night, and the + distance of the land in the morning, this fire, when we first + discovered it, must have been above twenty-five leagues from us. + It was indeed upon a very high mountain, and continued burning + for several days afterwards; it was not a volcano, but rather, as + I suppose, stubble, or heath, set on fire for some purpose of + agriculture.<a id="footnotetag145" name= + "footnotetag145"></a><a href= + "#footnote145"><sup>1</sup></a></p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page402" id="page402"></a>[pg 402]</span> + + <p>At sun-rising, after this mortifying delusion, we found + ourselves about nine leagues off the land, which extended from + the N.W. to E. 1/2 N. On this land we observed two remarkable + hummocks, such as are usually called paps, which bore north from + us: These, a Spanish pilot and two Indians, who were the only + persons amongst us that pretended to have traded in this part of + the world, affirmed to be over the harbour of Acapulco. Indeed, + we very much doubted their knowledge of the coast; for we found + these paps to be in the latitude of 17°56', whereas + those over Acapulco are said to be in 17° only; and we + afterwards found our suspicions of their skill to be well + grounded: However, they were very confident, and assured us, that + the height of the mountains was itself an infallible mark of the + harbour; the coast, as they pretended, (though falsely) being + generally low to the eastward and westward of it.</p> + + <p>And now being in the track of the Manilla galleon, it was a + great doubt with us (as it was near the end of January,) whether + she was or was not arrived: But examining our prisoners about it, + they assured us, that she was sometimes known to come in after + the middle of February; and they endeavoured to persuade us, that + the fire we had seen on shore was a proof that she was as yet at + sea, it being customary, as they said, to make use of these fires + as signals for her direction, when she continued longer out than + ordinary. On this information, strengthened by our propensity to + believe them in a matter which so pleasingly flattered our + wishes, we resolved to cruise for her for some days; and we + accordingly spread our ships at the distance of twelve leagues + from the coast, in such a manner, that it was impossible she + should pass us unobserved: However, not seeing her soon, we were + at intervals inclined to suspect that she had gained her port + already; and as we now began to want a harbour to refresh our + people, the uncertainty of our present situation gave us great + uneasiness, and we were very solicitous to get some positive + intelligence, which might either set us at liberty to consult our + necessities, if the galleon was arrived, or might animate us to + continue our present cruise with cheerfulness, if she was not. + With this view the commodore, after examining our prisoners very + particularly, resolved to send a boat, under night, into the + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page403" id="page403"></a>[pg + 403]</span> harbour of Acapulco, to see if the Manilla ship was + there or not, one of the Indians being very positive that this + might be done without the boat itself being discovered. To + execute this project, the barge was dispatched the 6th of + February, with a sufficient crew and two officers, who took with + them a Spanish pilot, and the Indian who had insisted on the + practicability of this measure, and had undertaken to conduct it. + Our barge did not return to us again till the eleventh, when the + officers acquainted Mr Anson, that, agreeable to our suspicion, + there was nothing like a harbour in the place where the Spanish + pilots had at first asserted Acapulco to lie; that when they had + satisfied themselves in this particular, they steered to the + eastward, in hopes of discovering it, and had coasted along shore + thirty-two leagues; that in this whole range they met chiefly + with sandy beaches of a great length, over which the sea broke + with so much violence, that it was impossible for a boat to land; + that at the end of their run they could just discover two paps at + a very great distance to the eastward, which from their + appearance and their latitude, they concluded to be those in the + neighbourhood of Acapulco; but that not having a sufficient + quantity of fresh water and provision for their passage thither + and back again, they were obliged to return to the commodore, to + acquaint him with their disappointment. On this intelligence we + all made sail to the eastward, in order to get into the + neighbourhood of that port, the commodore resolving to send the + barge a second time upon the same enterprize, when we were + arrived within a moderate distance. And the next day, which was + the 12th of February, we being by that time considerably + advanced, the barge was again dispatched, and particular + instructions given to the officers to preserve themselves from + being seen from the shore. On the 13th we espied a high land to + the eastward, which we first imagined to be that over the harbour + of Acapulco; but we afterwards found that it was the high land of + Seguateneo, where there is a small harbour, of which we shall + have occasion to make more ample mention hereafter. And now, + having waited six days without any news of our barge, we began to + be uneasy for her safety; but, on the 7th day, that is, on the + 19th of February, she returned. The officers informed the + commodore, that they had discovered the harbour of Acapulco, + which they esteemed to bear from us E.S.E. at least fifty leagues + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page404" id="page404"></a>[pg + 404]</span> distant: That on the 17th, about two in the morning, + they were got within the island that lies at the mouth of the + harbour, and yet neither the Spanish pilot, nor the Indian who + were with them, could give them any information where they then + were; but that while they were lying upon their oars in suspence + what to do, being ignorant that they were then at the very place + they sought for, they discerned a small light upon the surface of + the water, on which they instantly plied their paddles, and + moving as silently as possible towards it, they found it to be in + a fishing canoe, which they surprised, with three negroes that + belonged to it. It seems the negroes at first attempted to jump + overboard; and being so near the land, they would easily have + swam on shore; but they were prevented by presenting a piece at + them, on which they readily submitted, and were taken into the + barge. The officers further added, that they had immediately + turned the canoe adrift against the face of a rock, where it + would inevitably be dashed to pieces by the fury of the sea: This + they did to deceive those who perhaps might be sent from the town + to search after the canoe; for upon seeing several pieces of a + wreck, they would immediately conclude that the people on board + her had been drowned, and would have no suspicion of their having + fallen into our hands. When the crew of the barge had taken this + precaution, they exerted their utmost strength in pulling out to + sea, and by dawn of day had gained such an offing, as rendered it + impossible for them to be seen from the coast.</p> + + <p>And now having got the three negroes in our possession, who + were not ignorant of the transactions at Acapulco, we were soon + satisfied about the most material points which had long kept us + in suspense: And on examination we found, that we were indeed + disappointed in our expectation of intercepting the galleon + before her arrival at Acapulco; but we learnt other circumstances + which still revived our hopes, and which, we then conceived, + would more than balance the opportunity we had already lost: For + though our negro prisoners informed us that the galleon arrived + at Acapulco on our 9th of January, which was about twenty days + before we fell in with this coast, yet they at the same time told + us, that the galleon had delivered her cargo, and was taking in + water and provisions for her return, and that the viceroy of + Mexico had by proclamation fixed her departure <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page405" id="page405"></a>[pg 405]</span> from + Acapulco to the 14th of March, N.S. This last news was most + joyfully received by us, as we had no doubt but she must + certainly fall into our hands, and as it was much more eligible + to seize her on her return, than it would have been to have taken + her before her arrival, as the specie for which she had sold her + cargo, and which she would now have on board, was prodigiously + more to be esteemed by us than the cargo itself; great part of + which would have perished on our hands, and no part of it could + have been disposed of by us at so advantageous a mart as + Acapulco.</p> + + <p>Thus we were a second time engaged in an eager expectation of + meeting with this Manilla ship, which, by the fame of its wealth, + we had been taught to consider as the most desirable prize that + was to be met with in any part of the globe. As all our future + projects will be in some sort regulated with a view to the + possession of this celebrated galleon, and as the commerce which + is carried on by means of these vessels between the city of + Manilla and the port of Acapulco is perhaps the most valuable, in + proportion to its quantity, of any in the known world, I shall + endeavour, in the ensuing chapter, to give as distinct an account + as I can of all the particulars relating thereto, both as it is a + matter in which I conceive the public to be in some degree + interested, and as I flatter myself, that from the materials + which have fallen into my hands, I am enabled to describe it with + more distinctness than has hitherto been done, at least in our + language.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote145" name="footnote145"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag145">(return)</a> + + <p>The reasons for this supposition ought to have been adduced. + It is not improbable that the volcanic mountain in the + neighbourhood of Acapulco did furnish this vexatious + light.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XX.</h3> + + <h4><i>An Account of the Commerce carried on between the City of + Manilla on the Island of Luconia, and the Port of Acapulco in the + Coast of Mexico.</i><a id="footnotetag146" name= + "footnotetag146"></a><a href="#footnote146"><sup>1</sup></a></h4> + + <p>Though Spain did not acquire the property of any of the spice + islands, by the enterprising labours of Magellan (related in our + tenth volume, to which we refer,) yet the discovery made in his + expedition to the Philippine Islands, was thought too + considerable to be neglected; for these were not far distant from + those places which produced spices, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page406" id="page406"></a>[pg 406]</span> and + were very well situated for the Chinese trade, and for the + commerce of other parts of India; and therefore a communication + was soon established, and carefully supported between these + islands and the Spanish colonies on the coast of Peru: So that + the city of Manilla, (which Was built on the island of Luconia, + the chief of the Philippines) soon became the mart for all Indian + commodities, which were brought up by the inhabitants, and were + annually sent to the South-Seas to be there vended on their + account; and the returns of this commerce to Manilla being + principally made in silver, the place by degrees grew extremely + opulent and considerable, and its trade so far increased, as to + engage the attention of the court of Spain, and to be frequently + controlled and regulated by royal edicts.</p> + + <p>In the infancy of this trade, it was carried on from the port + of Callao to the city of Manilla, in which voyage the trade-wind + continually favoured them; so that notwithstanding these places + were distant between three and four thousand leagues, yet the + voyage was often made in little more than two months: But then + the return from Manilla was extremely troublesome and tedious, + and is said to have sometimes taken them up above a twelvemonth, + which, if they pretended to ply up within the limits of the + trade-wind, is not at all to be wondered at; and it is asserted, + that in their first voyages they were so imprudent and unskilful + as to attempt this course. However, that route Was soon laid + aside by the advice, as it is said, of a Jesuit, who persuaded + them to steer to the northward till they got clear of the + trade-winds, and then by the favour of the westerly winds, which + generally prevail in high latitudes, to stretch away for the + coast of California. This has been the practice for at least a + hundred and sixty years past, (1740-4:) For Sir Thomas Cavendish, + in the year 1586, engaged off the south end of California a + vessel bound from Manilla to the American coast. And it was in + compliance with this new plan of navigation, and to shorten the + run both backwards and forwards, that the staple of this commerce + to and from Manilla was removed from Callao, on the coast of + Peru, to the port of Acapulco, on the coast of Mexico, where it + continues fixed at this time.</p> + + <p>This trade to Acapulco is not laid open to all the inhabitants + of Manilla, but is confined by very particular regulations, + somewhat analogous to those by which the trade <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page407" id="page407"></a>[pg 407]</span> of + the register ships from Cadiz to the West-Indies is + restrained.</p> + + <p>The trade is limited to a certain value, which the annual + cargo ought not to exceed. Some Spanish manuscripts', I have + seen, mention this limitation to be 600,000 dollars; but the + annual cargo does certainly surpass this sum; and though it may + be difficult to fix its exact value, yet from many comparisons I + conclude, that the return cannot be greatly short of three + millions of dollars.</p> + + <p>This trade from Manilla to Acapulco and back again, is usually + carried on in one or at most two annual ships, which set sail + from Manilla about July, and arrive at Acapulco in the December, + January, or February following, and having there disposed of + their effects, return for Manilla some time in March, where they + generally arrive in June; so that the whole voyage takes up very + near an entire year: For this reason, though there is often no + more than one ship employed at a time, yet there is always one + ready for the sea when the other arrives; and therefore are + provided three or four stout ships, that, in case of any + accident, the trade may not be suspended.</p> + + <p>The ship having received her cargo on board, and being fitted + for the sea, generally weighs from the mole of Cabite about the + middle of July, taking the advantage of the westerly monsoon, + which then sets in, to carry them to sea. It appears that the + getting through the Boccadero to the eastward must be a + troublesome navigation, and in fact it is sometimes the end of + August before they get clear of the land. When they have got + through this passage, and are clear of the islands, they stand to + the northward of the east, in order to get into the latitude of + thirty odd degrees, where they expect to meet with westerly + winds, before which they run away for the coast of + California.<a id="footnotetag147" name= + "footnotetag147"></a><a href="#footnote147"><sup>2</sup></a> It + is most remarkable, that by the concurrent testimony of all the + Spanish navigators, there is not one port, nor even a tolerable + road, as yet found out betwixt the Philippine Islands and the + coast of California and Mexico; so that from the time the Manilla + ship first loses sight of land, she never lets go her anchor till + she arrives on the coast of California, and very often not till + she gets to its southermost <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page408" id="page408"></a>[pg 408]</span> extremity: And + therefore, as this voyage is rarely of less than six months + continuance, and the ship is deep laden with merchandise and + crowded with people, it may appear wonderful how they can be + supplied with a stock of fresh water for so long a time. A supply + indeed they have, but the reliance upon it seems at first sight + so extremely precarious, that it is wonderful such numbers should + risque perishing by the most dreadful of all deaths, on the + expectation of so casual a circumstance. In short, their only + method of recruiting their water is by the rains, which they meet + with between the latitudes of 30° and 40° + north, and which they are always prepared to catch: For this + purpose they take to sea with them a great number of mats, which + they place slopingly against the gunwale, whenever the rain + descends; these mats extend from one end of the ship to the + other, and their lower edges rest on a large split bamboe, so + that all the water which falls on the mats drain into the bamboe, + and by this, as a trough, is conveyed into ajar; and this method + of supplying their water, however accidental and extraordinary it + may at first sight appear, hath never been known to fail them, so + that it is common, for them, when their voyage is a little longer + than usual, to fill all their water jars several times over.</p> + + <p>The length of time employed in this passage, so much beyond + what usually occurs in any other navigation, is perhaps in part + to be imputed to the indolence and unskilfulness of the Spanish + sailors, and to an unnecessary degree of caution and concern for + so rich a vessel: For it is said, that they never set their + main-sail in the night, and often lie by unnecessarily. And + indeed the instructions given to their captains (which I have + seen) seem to have been drawn up by such as were more + apprehensive of too strong a gale, though favourable, than of the + inconveniences and mortality attending a lingering and tedious + voyage; for the captain is particularly ordered to make his + passage in the latitude of 30° if possible, and to be + extremely, careful to stand no farther to the northward than is + absolutely necessary for the getting a westerly wind. This, + according to our conceptions, appears to be a very absurd + restriction; since it can scarcely be doubted, that in the higher + latitudes the westerly winds are much steadier and brisker than + in the latitude of 30°: So that the whole conduct of + this navigation seems liable to very great censure. If instead + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page409" id="page409"></a>[pg + 409]</span> of steering E.N.E. into the latitude of thirty odd + degrees, they at first stood N.E., or even still more northerly, + into the latitude of 40° or 45°, in part of + which course the trade-winds would greatly assist them, I doubt + not they might considerably contract their voyage. And this is + not merely matter of speculation; for I am credibly informed, + that about the year 1721, a French ship, by pursuing this course, + ran from the coast of China to the valley of Vanderas on the + coast of Mexico, in less than fifty days: But it was said that + this ship, notwithstanding the shortness of her passage, suffered + prodigiously by the scurvy, so that she had only four or five of + her crew left when she arrived in America.</p> + + <p>The Manilla ship having stood so far to the northward as to + meet with a westerly wind, stretches away nearly in the same + latitude for the coast of California: And when she has run into + the longitude of 96° from Cape Espiritu, Santo, she + generally meets with a plant floating on the sea, which, being + called Porra by the Spaniards, is, I presume, a species of + sea-leek. On the sight of this plant they esteem themselves + sufficiently near the Californian shore, and immediately stand to + the southward; they rely so much on this circumstance, that on + the first discovery of the plant the whole ship's company chaunt + a solemn <i>Te Deum</i>, esteeming the difficulties and hazards + of their passage to be now at an end; and they constantly correct + their longitude thereby, without ever coming within sight of + land, till they draw near its southern extremity.</p> + + <p>The most usual time of the arrival of the galleon at Acapulco + is towards the middle of January: But this navigation is so + uncertain, that she sometimes gets in a month sooner, and at + other times has been detained at sea above a month longer. The + port of Acapulco is by much the securest and finest in all the + northern parts of the Pacific Ocean; being, as it were, a bason + surrounded by very high mountains: But the town is a most + wretched place, and extremely unhealthy, for the air about it is + so pent up by the hills, that it has scarcely any circulation. + The place is besides destitute of fresh water; except what is + brought from a considerable distance; and is in all respects so + inconvenient, that except at the time of the mart, whilst the + Manilla galleon is in the port, it is almost deserted.</p> + + <p>When the galleon arrives in this port, she is generally + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page410" id="page410"></a>[pg + 410]</span> moored on its western side, and her cargo is + delivered with all possible expedition. And now the town of + Acapulco, from almost a solitude, is immediately thronged with + merchants from all parts of the kingdom of Mexico. The cargo + being landed and disposed of, the silver and the goods intended + for Manilla are taken on board, together with provisions and + water, and the ship prepares to put to sea with the utmost + expedition. There is indeed no time to be lost; for it is an + express order to the captain to be out of the port of Acapulco on + his return, before the first day of April, N.S.</p> + + <p>The principal return is made in silver, and consequently the + rest of the cargo is but of little account; the other articles, + besides the silver, being some cochineal and a few sweetmeats, + the produce of the American settlements, together with European + millinery ware for the women at Manilla, and some Spanish wines, + such as tent and sherry, which are intended for the use of their + priests in the administration of the sacrament.</p> + + <p>This difference in the cargo of the ship to and from Manilla, + occasions a very remarkable variety in the manner of equipping + the ship for these two different voyages. For the galleon, when + she sets sail from Manilla, being deep laden with a variety of + bulky goods, has not the conveniency of mounting her lower tire + of guns, but carries them in her hold, till she draws near Cape + St Lucas, and is apprehensive of an enemy. Her hands too are as + few as is consistent with the safety of the ship, that she may be + less pestered with the stowage of provisions. But on her return + from Acapulco, as her cargo lies in less room, her lower tire is + (or ought to be) always mounted before she leaves the port, and + her crew is augmented with a supply of sailors, and with one or + two companies of foot, which are intended to reinforce the + garrison at Manilla. And there being besides many merchants who + take their passage to Manilla, her whole number of hands on her + return is usually little short of six hundred, all which are + easily provided for, by reason of the small stowage necessary for + the silver. The galleon being thus fitted for her return, the + captain, on leaving the port of Acapulco, steers for the latitude + of 13° or 14°, and runs on that parallel, till + he gets sight of the island of Guam, one of the Ladrones. In this + run the captain is particularly directed to be careful of the + shoals <span class="pagenum"><a name="page411" id= + "page411"></a>[pg 411]</span> of St Bartholomew, and of the + island of Gasparico. He is also told in his instructions, that to + prevent his passing the Ladrones in the dark, there are orders + given that, through all the month of June, fires shall be lighted + every night on the highest part of Guam and Rota, and kept in + till the morning.</p> + + <p>At Guam there is a small Spanish garrison, purposely intended + to secure that place for the refreshment of the galleon, and to + yield her all the assistance in their power. However, the danger + of the road at Guam is so great, that though the galleon is + ordered to call there, yet she rarely stays above a day of two, + but getting her water and refreshments on board as soon as + possible, she steers away directly for Cape Espiritu Santo, on + the island of Samal. Here the captain is again ordered to look + out for signals; and he is told, that centinels will be posted + not only on that Cape, but likewise in Catanduanas, Butusan, + Birriborongo, and on the island of Batan. These centinels are + instructed to make a fire when they discover the ship, which the + captain is carefully to observe: For if, after this first fire is + extinguished, he perceives that four or more are lighted up + again, he is then to conclude that there are enemies on the + coast; and on this he is immediately to endeavour to speak with + the centinel on shore, and to procure from him more particular + intelligence of their force, and of the station they cruise in; + pursuant to which, he is to regulate his conduct, and to + endeavour to gain some secure port amongst those islands, without + coming in sight of the enemy; and in case he should be discovered + when in port, and should be apprehensive of attack, he is then to + land his treasure, and to take some of his artillery on shore for + its defence, not neglecting to send frequent and particular + accounts to the city of Manilla of all that passes. But if, after + the first fire on shore, the captain observes that two others + only are made by the centinels, he is then to conclude, that + there is nothing to fear: And he is to pursue his course without + interruption, and to make the best of his way to the port of + Cabite, which is the port to the city of Manilla, and the + constant station for all the ships employed in this commerce to + Acapulco.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page412" id= + "page412"></a>[pg 412]</span> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote146" name="footnote146"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag146">(return)</a> + + <p>Much of the original in this section is omitted, as either + unimportant now; or elsewhere given in the work.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote147" name="footnote147"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag147">(return)</a> + + <p>In the original is inserted a chart for the explanation of + this track, which it is unnecessary to give here.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XXI.</h3> + + <h4><i>Our Cruise off the Port of Acapulco for the Manilla + Ship.</i></h4> + + <p>I have already mentioned, that the return of our barge from + the port of Acapulco, where she had surprised three negro + fishermen, gave us inexpressible satisfaction, as we learnt from + our prisoners, that the galleon was then preparing to put to sea, + and that her departure was fixed, by an edict of the viceroy of + Mexico, to the 14th of March, N.S. that is, to the 3d of March, + according to our reckoning.</p> + + <p>Having satisfied ourselves upon this head, we indulged our + curiosity in enquiring after other news; when the prisoners + informed us, that they had received intelligence at Acapulco, of + our having plundered and burnt the town of Paita; and that, on + this occasion, the governor of Acapulco had augmented the + fortifications of the place, and had taken several precautions to + prevent us from forcing our way into the harbour; that in + particular, he had placed a guard on the island which lies at the + harbour's mouth, and that this guard had been withdrawn but two + nights before the arrival of our barge: So that had the barge + succeeded in her first attempt, or had she arrived at the port + the second time two days sooner, she could scarcely have avoided + being seized on, or if she had escaped, it must have been with + the loss of the greatest part of her crew, as she would have been + under the fire of the guard, before she had known her danger.</p> + + <p>The withdrawing of this guard was a circumstance that greatly + encouraged us, as it seemed to demonstrate, not only that the + enemy had not as yet discovered us, but likewise that they had + now no farther apprehensions of our visiting their coast, indeed + the prisoners assured us, that they had no knowledge of our being + in those seas, and that they had therefore flattered themselves, + that, in the long interval since our taking of Paita, we had + steered another course. But we did not consider the opinion of + these negro prisoners so authentic a proof of our being hitherto + concealed, as the withdrawing of the guard from the harbour's + mouth, which being the action of the governor, was of all + arguments the most convincing, as he might be supposed + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page413" id="page413"></a>[pg + 413]</span> to have intelligence, with which the rest of the + inhabitants were unacquainted.</p> + + <p>Satisfied therefore that we were undiscovered, and that the + time was fixed for the departure of the galleon from Acapulco, we + made all necessary preparations, and waited with the utmost + impatience for the important day. As this was the 3d of March, + and it was the 19th of February when the barge returned and + brought us our intelligence, the commodore resolved to continue + the greatest part of the intermediate time on his present + station, to the westward of Acapulco, conceiving that in this + situation there would be less danger of his being seen from the + shore, which was the only circumstance that could deprive us of + the immense treasure, on which we had at present so eagerly fixed + our thoughts. During this interval, we were employed in scrubbing + and cleansing our ships, in bringing them into their most + advantageous trim, and in regulating the orders, signals, and + stations to be observed, when we should arrive off Acapulco, and + the time of the departure of the galleon should draw nigh.</p> + + <p>On the first of March, we made the high lands, usually called + the paps over Acapulco, and got with all possible expedition into + the situation prescribed by the commodore's orders. The + distribution of our squadron on this occasion, both for the + intercepting the galleon, and for the avoiding a discovery from + the shore, was so very judicious, that it well merits to be + distinctly described.</p> + + <p>The Centurion brought the paps over the harbour to bear + N.N.E., at fifteen leagues distance, which was a sufficient + offing to prevent our being seen by the enemy. To the westward of + the Centurion there was stationed the Carmelo, and to the + eastward were the Tryal prize, the Gloucester, and the Carmin: + These were all ranged in a circular line, and each ship was three + leagues distant from the next; so that the Carmelo and the + Carmin, which were the two extremes, were twelve leagues distant + from each other: And as the galleon could, without doubt, be + discerned at six leagues distance from either extremity, the + whole sweep of our squadron, within which nothing could pass + undiscovered, was at least twenty-four leagues in extent; and yet + we were so connected by our signals, as to be easily and speedily + informed of what was seen in any part of the line: And, to render + this disposition still more complete, and to prevent <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page414" id="page414"></a>[pg 414]</span> even + the possibility of the galleon's escaping us in the night, the + two cutters belonging to the Centurion and the Gloucester were + both manned and sent in shore; and were ordered to lie all day at + the distance of four or five leagues from the entrance of the + port, where they could not possibly be discovered; but they were + directed in the night to stand nearer to the harbour's mouth, and + as the light of the morning came on, to return back again to + their day-posts. When the cutters should first discover the + Manilla ship, one of them was to return to the squadron, and to + make a signal, whether the galleon stood to the eastward or to + the westward; whilst the other was to follow the galleon at a + distance, and if it grew dark, to direct the squadron in their + chace, by shewing false fires.</p> + + <p>Besides the care we had taken to prevent the galleon from + passing us unobserved, we had not been inattentive to the means + of engaging her to advantage, when we came up with her: For, + considering the thinness of our hands, and the vaunting accounts + given by the Spaniards of her size, her guns, and her strength, + this was a consideration not to be neglected. As we supposed that + none of our ships but the Centurion and the Gloucester were + capable of lying alongside of her, we took on board the Centurion + all the hands belonging to the Carmelo and the Carmin, except + what were just sufficient to navigate those ships; and Captain + Saunders was ordered to send from the Tryal prize ten Englishmen, + and as many negroes, to reinforce the crew of the Gloucester. For + the encouragement of our negroes, we promised them, that on their + good behaviour they should all have their freedom; and as they + had been almost every day trained to the management of the great + guns for the two preceding months, they were very well qualified + to be of service to us; and from their hopes of liberty, and in + return for the usage they had met with amongst us, they seemed + disposed to exert themselves to the utmost of their power.</p> + + <p>Being thus prepared for the reception of the galleon, we + expected, with the utmost impatience, the so-often-mentioned + third of March, the day fixed for her departure. And on that day + we were all of us most eagerly engaged in looking out towards + Acapulco; and we were so strangely prepossessed with the + certainty of our intelligence, and with an assurance of her + coming out of port, that some or other of us <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page415" id="page415"></a>[pg 415]</span> were + constantly imagining they discovered one of our cutters returning + with a signal. But, to our extreme vexation, both this day and + the succeeding night passed without any news of the galleon: + However, we did not yet despair, but were all heartily disposed + to flatter ourselves, that some unforeseen accident had + intervened, which might have put off her departure for a few + days; and suggestions of this kind occurred in plenty, as we knew + that the time fixed by the viceroy for her sailing was often + prolonged on the petition of the merchants of Mexico. Thus we + kept up our hopes, and did not abate of our vigilance; and as the + 7th of March was Sunday the beginning of Passion-week, which is + observed by the Papists with great strictness, and a total + cessation from all kinds of labour, so that no ship is permitted + to stir out of port during the whole week, this quieted our + apprehensions for some days, and disposed us not to expect the + galleon till the week following. On the Friday in this week our + cutters returned to us, the officers being very confident that + the galleon was still in port, and that she could not possibly + have come out but they must have seen her. On the Monday morning + succeeding Passion-week, that is, on the 15th of March, the + cutters were again dispatched to their old station, and our hopes + were once more indulged in as sanguine prepossessions as before; + but in a week's time our eagerness was greatly abated, and a + general dejection and despondency took place. It is true, there + were some few amongst us who still kept up their spirits, and + were very ingenious in finding out reasons to satisfy themselves, + that the disappointment had been occasioned by a casual delay of + the galleon, which a few days would remove, and not by a total + suspension of her departure for the whole season: But these + speculations were not relished by the generality of our people; + for they were persuaded that the enemy had, by some accident, + discovered our being upon the coast, and had therefore laid an + embargo on the galleon till the next year. And indeed this + persuasion was but too well founded; for we afterwards learnt, + that our barge, when sent on the discovery of the port of + Acapulco, had been seen from the shore; and that this + circumstance (no embarkations but canoes ever frequenting that + coast) was to them a sufficient proof of the neighbourhood of our + squadron; on which they stopped the galleon till the succeeding + year.</p> + + <p>The commodore himself, though he declared not his opinion, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page416" id="page416"></a>[pg + 416]</span> was yet in his own thoughts very apprehensive that we + were discovered, and that the departure of the galleon was put + off; and he had, in consequence of this opinion, formed a plan + for possessing himself of Acapulco; for he had no doubt that the + treasure remained in the town, though the orders for dispatching + the galleon were countermanded.<a id="footnotetag148" name= + "footnotetag148"></a><a href="#footnote148"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>His scheme was formed on a supposition that the galleon was + detained till the next year; but as this was a matter of opinion + only, and not founded on intelligence, and there was a + possibility that she might still put to sea in a short time, the + commodore thought it prudent to continue his cruise upon this + station, as long as the necessary attention to his stores of wood + and water, and to the convenient season for his future passage to + China, would give him leave; and therefore, as the cutters had + been ordered to remain, before Acapulco till the 23d of March, + the squadron did not change its position till that day; when the + cutters not appearing, we were in some pain for them, + apprehending they might have suffered either from the enemy or + the weather; but we were relieved from our concern the next + morning, when we discovered them, though at a great distance and + to the leeward of the squadron: We bore down to them and took + them up and were informed by them, that, conformable to their + orders, they had left their station the day before, without + having seen any thing of the galleon; and we found, that the + reason of their being so far to the leeward of us was a strong + current, which had driven the whole squadron to windward.</p> + + <p>It afterwards appeared that this prolongation of our cruise + was a very prudent measure, and afforded us no contemptible + chance of seizing the treasure, on which we had so long fixed our + thoughts. For it seems, after the embargo was laid on the + galleon, the persons principally interested in the cargo sent + several expresses to Mexico, to beg that she might still be + permitted to depart: For as they knew, by the accounts sent from + Paita, that we had not more than three hundred men in all, they + insisted that there was nothing to be feared from us; for that + the galleon (carrying above twice as many hands as our whole + squadron) would be greatly an overmatch for us. Though the + viceroy was inflexible; <span class="pagenum"><a name="page417" + id="page417"></a>[pg 417]</span> yet, on this representation, she + was kept ready for the sea for near three weeks after the first + order came to detain her.</p> + + <p>When we had taken up the cutters, all the ships being joined, + the commodore made a signal to speak with their commanders; and + upon enquiry into the stock of fresh water remaining on board the + squadron, it was found to be so very slender, that we were under + a necessity of quitting our station to procure a fresh supply. It + was agreed, that the harbour of Seguataneo or Chequetan being the + nearest to us, was, on that account, the most eligible; it was + therefore immediately resolved to make the best of our way + thither: And that, even while we were recruiting our water, we + might not abandon our views upon the galleon, which perhaps, upon + certain intelligence of our ship being employed at Chequetan, + might venture to slip out to sea; our cutter, under the command + of Mr Hughes, the lieutenant of the Tryal prize, was ordered to + cruise off the port of Acapulco for twenty-four days, that if the + galleon should set sail in that interval, we might be speedily + informed of it. In pursuance of these resolutions we endeavoured + to ply to the westward, to gain our intended port, but were often + interrupted in our progress by calms and adverse currents: In + these intervals we employed ourselves in taking out the most + valuable part of the cargoes of the Carmelo and Carmin prizes, + which two ships we intended to destroy as soon as we had + tolerably cleared them. By the first of April we were so far + advanced towards Seguataneo, that we thought it expedient to send + out two boats, that they might range along the coast, and + discover the watering-place; they were gone some days, and our + water being now very short, it was a particular felicity to us + that we met with daily supplies of turtle, for had we been + entirely confined to salt provisions, we must have suffered + extremely in so warm a climate. Indeed our present circumstances + were sufficiently alarming, and gave the most considerate amongst + us as much concern as any of the numerous perils we had hitherto + encountered; for our boats, as we conceived by their not + returning, had not as yet discovered a place proper to water at, + and by the leakage of our cask and other accidents, we had not + ten days water on board the whole squadron; so that from the + known difficulty of procuring water on this coast, and the little + reliance we had on the Buccaneer writers, (the only guides we had + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page418" id="page418"></a>[pg + 418]</span> to trust to) we were apprehensive of being soon + exposed to a calamity, the most terrible of any in the long + disheartening catalogue of the distresses of a sea-faring + life.</p> + + <p>But these gloomy suggestions were soon happily ended; for our + boats returned on the 5th of April, having discovered a place + proper for our purpose, about seven miles to the westward of the + rocks of Seguataneo, which, by the description they gave of it, + appeared to be the port called by Dampier the harbour of + Chequetan. They were ordered out again the next day, to sound the + harbour and its entrance, which they had represented as very + narrow. At their return they reported the place to be free from + any danger; so that on the 7th we stood in, and that evening came + to an anchor in eleven fathom. The Gloucester came to an anchor + at the same time with us; but the Camelo and the Carmin having + fallen to leeward, the Tryal prize was ordered to join them, and + to bring them in, which in two or three days she effected.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote148" name="footnote148"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag148">(return)</a> + + <p>It is unnecessary to detail this plan, as, for sufficient + reasons soon discovered, it was not attempted to be + executed.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XXII.</h3> + + <h4><i>A short Account of Chequetan, and of the adjacent Coast + and Country.</i></h4> + + <p>The harbour of Chequetan lies in the latitude of 17° + 36' N. and is about thirty leagues to the westward of Acapulco. + It is easy to be discovered by any ship that will keep well in + with the land, especially by such as range down coast from + Acapulco, and will attend to the following particulars.</p> + + <p>There is a beach of sand which extends eighteen leagues from + the harbour of Acapulco to the westward, against which the sea + breaks with such violence that it is impossible to land in any + part of it; but yet the ground is so clean; that ships, in the + fair season, may anchor in great safety at the distance of a mile + or two from the shore. The land adjacent to this beach is + generally low, full of villages, and planted with a great number + of trees; and on the tops of some small eminencies there are + several look-out towers, so that the face of the country affords + a very agreeable prospect: For the cultivated part, which is the + part here described, extends some leagues back from the shore, + and there appears to be bounded by the chain of mountains, which + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page419" id="page419"></a>[pg + 419]</span> stretch to a considerable distance on either side of + Acapulco. It is a most remarkable particularity, that in this + whole extent, being, as hath been mentioned, eighteen leagues, + and containing, in appearance, the most populous and best planted + district of the whole coast, there should be neither canoes, + boats, nor any other embarkations either for fishing, coasting, + or for pleasure.</p> + + <p>The beach here described is the surest guide for finding the + harbour of Chequetan; for five miles to the westward of the + extremity of this beach there appears a hummock, which at first + makes like an island, and is in shape not very unlike the hill of + Petaplan, hereafter mentioned, though much smaller. Three miles + to the westward of this hummock is a white rock lying near the + shore, which cannot easily be passed by unobserved; it is about + two cables length from the land, and lies in a large bay about + nine leagues over. The westward point of this bay is the hill of + Petaplan. This hill, like the forementioned hummock, may be at + first mistaken for an island, though it be, in reality, a + peninsula, which is joined to the continent by a low and narrow + isthmus, covered over with shrubs and small trees. The bay of + Seguataneo extends from this hill a great way to the westward; + and at a small distance from the hill, and opposite to the + entrance of the bay, there is an assemblage of rocks, which are + white, from the excrements of boobies and tropical birds. Four of + these rocks are high and large, and, together with several other + smaller ones, are, by the help of a little imagination, pretended + to resemble the form of a cross, and are called the White Friars. + These rocks bear W. by N. from Petaplan, and about seven miles to + the westward of them lies the harbour of Chequetan, which is + still more minutely distinguished by a large and single rock, + that rises out of the water a mile and a half distant from its + entrance, and bears S. 1/2 W. from the middle of it.<a id= + "footnotetag149" name="footnotetag149"></a><a href= + "#footnote149"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>These are the infallible marks by which the harbour of + Chequetan may be known to those who keep well in with the land; + and I must add, that the coast is no ways to be dreaded from the + middle of October to the beginning of May, nor is there then any + danger from the winds, though in the remaining part of the year + there are frequent and violent <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page420" id="page420"></a>[pg 420]</span> tornadoes, heavy + rains, and hard gales, in all directions of the compass. But as + to those who keep at any considerable distance from the coast, + there is no other method to be taken by them for finding this + harbour than that of making it by its latitude; for there are so + many ranges of mountains rising one upon the back of another + within land, that no drawings of the appearance of the coast can + be at all depended on when off at sea, for every little change of + distance, or variation of position, brings new mountains in view, + and produces an infinity of different prospects, which would + render all attempts of delineating the aspect of the coast + impossible.</p> + + <p>The harbour is environed on all sides, except to the westward, + with high mountains overspread with trees. The passage into it is + very safe on either side of the rock that lies off the mouth of + it, though we, both in coming in and going out, left it to the + eastward. The ground without the harbour is gravel mixed with + stones, but within it is soft mud: And it must be remembered, + that in coming to an anchor a good allowance should be made for a + large swell, which frequently causes a great send of the sea; as + likewise for the ebbing and flowing of the tide, which we + observed to be about five feet, and that it set nearly E. and + W.</p> + + <p>The watering-place had the appearance of a large standing + lake, without any visible outlet into the sea, from which it is + separated by a part of the strand. The origin of this lake is a + spring, that bubbles out of the ground near half a mile within + the country. We found the water a little brackish, but more + considerably so towards the sea-side, for the nearer we advanced + towards the spring-head, the softer and fresher it proved: This + laid us under a necessity of filling all our casks from the + furthest part of the lake, and occasioned us some trouble, and + would have proved still more difficult had it not been for our + particular management, which, for the conveniency of it, deserves + to be recommended to all who shall hereafter water at this place. + Our method consisted in making use of canoes which drew but + little water; for, loading them with a number of small casks, + they easily got up the lake to the spring-head, and the small + casks being there filled, were in the same manner transported + back again to the beach, where some of our hands always attended + to start them into other casks of a larger size.</p> + + <p>Though this lake, during our continuance there, appeared + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page421" id="page421"></a>[pg + 421]</span> to have no outlet into the sea, yet there is reason + to suppose that in the wet season it overflows the strand, and + communicates with the ocean; for Dampier, who was formerly here, + speaks of it as a large river. Indeed, there must be a very great + body of water amassed before the lake can rise high enough to + overflow the strand, for the neighbouring country is so low, that + great part of it must be covered with water before it can run out + over the beach.</p> + + <p>As the country in the neighbourhood, particularly the tract + which we have already described, appeared to be well peopled and + cultivated, we hoped thence to have procured fresh provision and + other refreshments which we stood in need of. With this view, the + morning after we came to an anchor, the commodore ordered a party + of forty men, well armed, to march into the country, and to + endeavour to discover some town or village, where they were to + attempt a correspondence with the inhabitants; for we doubted not + if we could have any intercourse with them, but that by presents + of some of the coarse merchandise, with which our prizes abounded + (which, though of little consequence to us, would to them be + extremely valuable,) we should allure them to furnish us with + whatever fruits or fresh provisions were in their power. Our + people were directed on this occasion to proceed with the + greatest circumspection, and to make as little ostentation of + hostility as possible; for we were sensible that we could meet + with no wealth here worth our notice, and that what necessaries + we really wanted we should in all probability be better supplied + with by an open amicable traffic, than by violence and force of + arms. But this endeavour of opening an intercourse with the + inhabitants proved ineffectual, for towards evening, the party + which had been ordered to march into the country, returned + greatly fatigued with their unusual exercise, and some of them so + far spent as to have fainted by the way, and to be obliged to be + brought back upon the shoulders of their companions. They had + marched in all, as they conceived, about ten miles, in a beaten + road, where they often saw the fresh dung of horses or mules. + When they had got about five miles from the harbour, the road + divided between the mountains into two branches, one running to + the east and the other to the west. After some deliberation about + the course they should take, they agreed to pursue the eastern + road, which, when they had followed for some time, led them at + once <span class="pagenum"><a name="page422" id="page422"></a>[pg + 422]</span> into a large plain or savannah; on one side of which + they discovered a centinel on horseback with a pistol in his + hand: It was supposed that when they first saw him he was asleep, + but his horse startled at the glittering of their arms, and, + turning round suddenly, rode off with his master, who was very + near being unhorsed in the surprise, but he recovered his seat, + and escaped with the loss of his hat and his pistol, which he + dropped on the ground. Our people ran after him, in hopes of + discovering some village or habitation, but as he had the + advantage of being on horseback, they soon lost sight of him. + However, they were unwilling to come back without making some + discovery, and therefore still followed the track they were in; + but the heat of the day increasing, and finding no water to + quench their thirst, they were first obliged to halt, and then + resolved to return; for, as they saw no signs of plantations or + cultivated land, they had no reason to believe that there was any + village or settlement near them: But, to leave no means untried + of procuring some intercourse with the people, the officers stuck + up several poles in the road, to which were affixed declarations, + written in Spanish, encouraging the inhabitants to come down to + the harbour and to traffic with us, giving the strongest + assurances of a kind reception, and faithful payment for any + provisions they should bring us. This was doubtless a very + prudent measure, but it produced no effect; for we never saw any + of them during the whole time of our continuance at this port of + Chequetan. But had our men, upon the division of the path, taken + the western road instead of the eastern, it would soon have led + them to a village or town, which, in some Spanish manuscripts, is + mentioned as being in the neighbourhood of this port, and which + we afterwards learnt was not above two miles from that + turning.</p> + + <p>And on this occasion I cannot help mentioning another + adventure which happened to some of our people in the bay of + Petaplan, as it may help to give the reader a just idea of the + temper of the inhabitants of this part of the world. Some time + after our arrival at Chequetan, Lieutenant Brett was sent by the + commodore, with two of our boats under his command, to examine + the coast to the eastward, particularly to make observations on + the bay and watering-place of Petaplan. As Mr Brett with one of + the boats was preparing to go on shore towards the hill of + Petaplan, he, accidentally <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page423" id="page423"></a>[pg 423]</span> looking across the + bay, perceived, on the opposite strand, three small squadrons of + horse parading upon the beach, and seeming to advance towards the + place where he proposed to land. On sight of this he immediately + put off the boat, though he had but sixteen men with him, and + stood over the bay towards them; and he soon came near enough to + perceive that they were mounted on very sightly horses, and were + armed with carbines and lances. On seeing him make towards them + they formed upon the beach, and seemed resolved to dispute his + landing, firing several distant shot at him as he drew near; till + at last, the boat being arrived within a reasonable distance of + the most advanced squadron, Mr Brett ordered his people to fire, + upon which this resolute cavalry instantly ran in great confusion + into the wood. In this precipitate flight one of their horses + fell down and threw his rider; but whether he was wounded or not + we could not learn, for both man and horse soon got up again, and + followed the rest. In the mean time the other two squadrons, who + were drawn up at a great distance behind, out of the reach of our + shot, were calm spectators of the rout of their comrades; for + they had halted on our first approach, and never advanced + afterwards. It was, doubtless, fortunate for our people that the + enemy acted with so little prudence, and exerted so little + spirit, for had they concealed themselves till our men had + landed, it is scarcely possible but the whole boat's crew must + have fallen into their hands, since the Spaniards were not much + short of two hundred in number. However, the discovery of so + considerable a force collected in this bay of Petaplan, obliged + us constantly to keep a boat or two before it; for we were + apprehensive that the cutter, which we had left to cruise off + Acapulco, might, on her return, be surprised by the enemy, if she + did not receive timely information of her danger.</p> + + <p>After our unsuccessful attempt to engage the people of the + country to furnish us with the necessaries we wanted, we were + obliged to be contented with what we could procure in the + neighbourhood of the port. We caught fish here in tolerable + quantities, especially when the smoothness of the water permitted + us to hale the seyne. Amongst the rest, we got here cavallies, + breams, mullets, soles, fiddle-fish, sea eggs, and lobsters; and + here, and in no other place, met with that extraordinary fish + called the Torpedo, or numbing fish, which is in shape very like + the fiddle-fish, and is <span class="pagenum"><a name="page424" + id="page424"></a>[pg 424]</span> not to be known from it but by a + brown circular spot of about the bigness of a crown-piece near + the centre of its back; perhaps its figure will be better + understood when I say it is a flat fish, much resembling the + thorn-back. This fish is of a most singular nature, productive of + the strangest effects on the human body; for whoever handles it, + or happens even to set his foot upon it, is presently seized with + a numbness all over him, but more distinguishable in that limb + which was in immediate contact with it. The same effect, too, + will be, in some degree, produced by touching the fish, with any + thing held in the hand; for I myself had a considerable degree of + numbness conveyed to my right arm through a walking cane, which I + rested on the body of the fish for some time, and I make no doubt + but I should have been much more sensibly affected had not the + fish been near expiring when I made the experiment: For it is + observable that this influence acts with most vigour when the + fish is first taken out of the water, and entirely ceases when it + is dead, so that it may be then handled, or even eaten, without + any inconvenience. I shall only add that the numbness of my arm + on this occasion did not go off on a sudden, as the accounts of + some naturalists gave me reason to expect, but diminished + gradually, so that I had some sensation of it remaining till the + next day.</p> + + <p>To the account given of the fish we met with here, I must add, + that though turtle now grew scarce, and we met with none in this + harbour of Chequetan, yet our boats, which, as I have mentioned, + were stationed off Petaplan, often supplied us therewith; and + though this was a food that we had now been so long as it were + confined to, (for it was the only fresh provisions which we had + tasted for near six months,) yet we were far from being cloyed + with it, or finding that the relish we had of it at all + diminished.</p> + + <p>The animals we met with on shore were principally guanos, with + which the country abounds, and which are by some reckoned + delicious food. We saw no beasts of prey here, except alligators, + several of which our people discovered, but none of them very + large. However, we were satisfied there were tygers in the woods, + though none of them came in sight; for we every morning found the + beach near the watering-place imprinted with their footsteps: But + we never apprehended any mischief from them, for they are by no + means so fierce as the Asiatic or African tyger, and are + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page425" id="page425"></a>[pg + 425]</span> rarely, if ever, known to attack mankind. Birds were + in sufficient plenty, especially pheasants of different kinds, + some of them of an uncommon size, but they were very dry and + tasteless food. Besides these we had a variety of smaller birds, + particularly parrots, which we often killed for food.</p> + + <p>The fruits and vegetable refreshments at this place were + neither plentiful, nor of the best kinds: There were, it is true, + a few bushes scattered about the woods, which supplied us with + limes, but we scarcely could procure enough for our present use; + and these, with a small plumb of an agreeable acid, called in + Jamaica the hog-plumb, together with another fruit called a + papah, were the only fruits to be found in the woods. Nor is + there any other useful vegetable here worth mentioning, except + brook-lime: This indeed grew in great quantities near the + fresh-water banks; and, as it was esteemed an antiscorbutic, we + fed upon it frequently, though its extreme bitterness made it + very unpalatable.</p> + + <p>By all that has been said, it will appear that the + conveniences of this port of Chequetan, particularly in the + articles of refreshment, are not altogether such as might be + desired: But, upon the whole, it is a place of considerable + consequence, as the only secure harbour in a vast extent of + coast, except Acapulco.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote149" name="footnote149"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag149">(return)</a> + + <p>In the original are references to some plates, which cannot + be given in this work.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XXIII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Account of Proceedings at Chequetan and on the adjacent + Coast, till our setting sail for Asia.</i></h4> + + <p>The next morning, after our coming to an anchor in the harbour + of Chequetan, we sent about ninety of our men well armed on + shore, forty of whom were ordered to march into the country, as + has been mentioned, and the remaining fifty were employed to + cover the watering-place, and to prevent any interruption from + the natives.</p> + + <p>Here it was agreed, after mature consultation, to destroy the + Tryal's prize, as well as the Carmelo and Carmin whose fate had + been before resolved on. Indeed the ship was in good repair and + fit for the sea; but as the whole numbers onboard our squadron + did not amount to the complement of a fourth-rate man of war, we + found it was impossible to divide them into three ships, without + rendering them incapable <span class="pagenum"><a name="page426" + id="page426"></a>[pg 426]</span> of navigating in safety in the + tempestuous weather we had reason to expect on the coast of + China, where we supposed we should arrive about the time of the + change of the monsoons.</p> + + <p>During our stay here there happened an incident, which, as it + proved the means of convincing our friends in England of our + safety, which for some time they were in doubt about, I shall beg + leave particularly to recite. I have observed, that from this + harbour of Chequetan there was but one path-way which led through + the woods into the country. This we found much beaten, and were + thence convinced that it was well known to the inhabitants. As it + passed by the spring-head, and was the only avenue by which the + Spaniards could approach us, we, at some distance beyond the + spring-head, felled several large trees, and laid them one upon + the other across the path; and at this barricado we constantly + kept a guard: And we besides ordered our men employed in watering + to have their arms ready, and, in case of any alarm, to march + instantly to this post. Though our principal intention was to + prevent our being disturbed by any sudden attack of the enemy's + horse, yet it answered another purpose, which was not in itself + less important; this was to hinder our own people from straggling + singly into the country, where we had reason to believe they + would be surprised by the Spaniards, who would doubtless be + extremely solicitous to pick up some of them, in hopes of getting + intelligence of our future designs. To avoid this inconvenience, + the strictest orders were given to the centinels, to let no + person whatever pass beyond their post: But, notwithstanding this + precaution, we missed one Lewis Leger, who was the commodore's + cook; and as he was a Frenchman, and suspected to be a papist, it + was by some imagined that he had deserted with a view of + betraying all that he knew to the enemy; but this appeared by the + event to be an ill-grounded surmise, for it was afterwards known + that he had been taken by some Indians, who carried him prisoner + to Acapulco, from whence he was transferred, to Mexico, and then + to Vera Cruz, where he was shipped on board a vessel bound to Old + Spain: And the vessel being obliged by some accident to put into + Lisbon, Leger escaped on shore, and was by the British consul + sent from thence to England; where he brought the first authentic + account of the safety of the commodore, and of what he had done + in <span class="pagenum"><a name="page427" id="page427"></a>[pg + 427]</span> the South Seas. The relation he gave of his own + seizure was, that he had rambled into the woods at some distance + from the barricade, where he had first attempted to pass, but had + been stopped and threatened to be punished; that his principal + view was to get a quantity of limes for his master's store; and + that in this occupation he was surprised by four Indians, who + stripped him naked, and carried him in that condition to + Acapulco, exposed to the scorching heat of the sun, which at that + time of the year shone with its greatest violence: And afterwards + at Mexico his treatment in prison was sufficiently severe, and + the whole course of his captivity was a continued instance of the + hatred which the Spaniards bear to all those who endeavour to + disturb them in the peaceable possession of the coasts of the + South Seas. Indeed, Leger's fortune was upon the whole extremely + singular; for after the hazards he had run in the commodore's + squadron, and the severities he had suffered in his long + confinement amongst the enemy, a more fatal disaster attended him + on his return to England: For though, when he arrived in London, + some of Mr Anson's friends interested themselves in relieving him + from the poverty to which his captivity had reduced him, yet he + did not long enjoy the benefit of their humanity, for he was + killed in an insignificant night brawl, the cause of which could + scarcely be discovered.</p> + + <p>And here I must observe, that though the enemy never appeared + in sight during our stay in this harbour; yet we perceived that + there were large parties encamped in the woods about us; for we + could see their smokes, and could thence determine that they were + posted in a circular line surrounding us at a distance; and just + before our coming away they seemed, by the increase of their + fires, to have received a considerable reinforcement.</p> + + <p>Towards the latter end of April, the unloading of our three + prizes, our wooding and watering, and, in short, all our proposed + employments at the harbour of Chequetan were completed: So that, + on the 27th of April, the Tryal's prize, the Carmelo, and the + Carmin, all which we intended to destroy, were towed on shore and + scuttled, and a quantity of combustible materials were + distributed in their upper works; and the next morning the + Centurion and the Gloucester weighed anchor, but as there was but + little wind, and that not in their favour, they were obliged to + warp out of the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page428" id= + "page428"></a>[pg 428]</span> harbour. When they had reached the + offing, one of the boats was dispatched back again to set fire to + our prize, which was accordingly executed. And a canoe was left + fixed to a grapnel in the middle of the harbour, with a bottle in + it well corked, inclosing a letter to Mr Hughes, who commanded + the cutter, which was ordered to cruise before the port of + Acapulco, when we came off that station. And on this occasion I + must mention more particularly than I have yet done, the views of + the commodore in leaving the cutter before that port.</p> + + <p>When we were necessitated to make for Chequetan to take in our + water, Mr Anson considered that our being in that harbour would + soon be known at Acapulco; and therefore he hoped, that on the + intelligence of our being employed in port, the galleon might put + to sea, especially as Chequetan is so very remote from the course + generally steered by the galleon: He therefore ordered the cutter + to cruise twenty-four days off the port of Acapulco, and her + commander was directed, on perceiving the galleon under sail, to + make the best of his way to the commodore at Chequetan. As the + Centurion was doubtless a much better sailer than the galleon, Mr + Anson in this case resolved to have got to sea as soon as + possible, and to have pursued the galleon across the Pacific + Ocean: And supposing he should not have met with her in his + passage, (which considering that he would have kept nearly the + same parallel, was not very improbable,) yet he was certain of + arriving off Cape Espiritu Santo, on the island of Samal, before + her; and that being the first land she makes on her return to the + Philippines, we could not have failed to have fallen in with her, + by cruising a few days in that station. But the viceroy of Mexico + ruined this project by keeping the galleon in the port of + Acapulco all that year.</p> + + <p>The letter left in the canoe for Mr Hughes, the commander of + the cutter, the time of whose return was now considerably + elapsed, directed him to go back immediately to his former + station before Acapulco, where he would find Mr Anson, who + resolved to cruise for him there for a certain number of days; + after which it was added, that the commodore would return to the + southward to join the rest of the squadron. This last article was + inserted to deceive the Spaniards, if they got possession of the + canoe, (as we afterwards learnt they did) but could not impose on + Mr <span class="pagenum"><a name="page429" id="page429"></a>[pg + 429]</span> Hughes, who well knew that the commodore had no + squadron to join, nor any intention of steering back to Peru.</p> + + <p>Being now in the offing of Chequetan, bound cross the vast + Pacific Ocean in our way to China, we were impatient to run off + the coast as soon as possible; for as the stormy season was + approaching apace, and as we had no further views in the American + seas, we had hoped that nothing would have prevented us from + standing to the westward, the moment we got out of the harbour of + Chequetan: And it was no small mortification to us, that our + necessary employment there had detained us so much longer than we + expected; and now we were farther detained by the absence of the + cutter, and the standing towards Acapulco in search of her. + Indeed, as the time of her cruise had been expired near a + fortnight, we suspected that she had been discovered from the + shore; and that the governor of Acapulco had thereupon sent out a + force to seize her, which, as she carried but six hands, was no + very difficult enterprize. However, this being only conjecture, + the commodore, as soon as we got clear of the harbour of + Chequetan, stood along the coast to the eastward in search of + her: And to prevent her from passing by us in the dark, we + brought to every night; and the Gloucester, whose station was a + league within us towards the shore, carried a light which the + cutter could not but perceive if she kept along shore, as we + supposed she would do; and as a farther security, the Centurion + and the Gloucester alternately showed two false fires every half + hour.</p> + + <p>By Sunday, the 2d of May, we were advanced within three + leagues of Acapulco, and having seen nothing of our boat, we gave + her over for lost, which, besides the compassionate concern for + our shipmates, and for what it was apprehended they might have + suffered, was in itself a misfortune in our present scarcity of + hands, we were all greatly interested in: For the crew of the + cutter, consisting of six men and the lieutenant, were the very + flower of our people, purposely picked out for this service, and + known to be every one of them of tried and approved resolution, + and as skilful seamen as ever trod a deck. However, as it was the + general belief among us that they were taken and carried into + Acapulco, the commodore's prudence suggested a project which we + hoped would recover them. This was founded <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page430" id="page430"></a>[pg 430]</span> on + our having many Spanish and Indian prisoners in our possession, + and a number of sick negroes, who could be of no service to us in + the navigating of the ship. The commodore therefore wrote a + letter the same day to the governor of Acapulco, telling him that + he would release them all, provided the governor returned the + cutter's crew; and the letter was dispatched the same afternoon + by a Spanish officer, of whose honour we had a good opinion, and + who was furnished with a launch belonging to one of our prizes, + and a crew of six other prisoners who all gave their parole for + their return. The officer, besides the commodore's letter, + carried with him a petition signed by all the prisoners, + beseeching his excellency to acquiesce in the terms proposed. + From a consideration of the number of our prisoners, and the + quality of some of them, we did not doubt but the governor would + readily comply, and therefore we kept plying on and off the whole + night, intending to keep well in with the land, that we might + receive an answer at the limited time, which was the next day, + being Monday: But both on the Monday and Tuesday we were driven + so far off shore, that we could not hope to receive any answer; + and on the Wednesday morning we found ourselves fourteen leagues + from the harbour of Acapulco; but as the wind was now favourable, + we pressed forwards with all our sail, and did not doubt of + getting in with the land in a few hours. Whilst we were thus + standing in, the man at the mast-head called out that he saw a + boat under sail at a considerable distance to the south-eastward: + This we took for granted was the answer of the governor to the + commodore's message, and we instantly edged towards it; but when + we drew nearer, we found to our unspeakable joy that it was our + own cutter. While she was still at a distance, we imagined that + she had been discharged out of the port of Acapulco by the + governor; but when she drew nearer, the wan and meagre + countenances of the crew, the length of their beards, and the + feeble and hollow tone of their voices, convinced us that they + had suffered much greater hardships than could be expected from + even the severities of a Spanish prison. They were obliged to be + helped into the ship, and were immediately put to bed, and with + rest, and nourishing diet, which they were plentifully supplied + with, from the commodore's table, they recovered their health and + vigour apace. We learnt that they had kept the sea the whole time + of <span class="pagenum"><a name="page431" id="page431"></a>[pg + 431]</span> their absence; that when they finished their cruise + before Acapulco, and had just begun to ply to the westward in + order to join the squadron, a strong adverse current had forced + them down the coast to the eastward in spite of all their + efforts; that at length their water being all expended, they were + obliged to search the coast farther on to the eastward, in quest + of some convenient landing-place, where they might get a fresh + supply; that in this distress they ran upwards of eighty leagues + to leeward, and found every where so large a surf, that there was + not the least possibility of their landing; that they passed some + days in this dreadful situation without water, and having no + other means left them to allay their thirst than sucking the + blood of the turtle which they caught; and at last, giving up all + hopes of relief, the heat of the climate augmenting their + necessities, and rendering their sufferings insupportable, they + abandoned themselves to despair, fully persuaded that they should + perish by the most terrible of all deaths; but that they were + soon after happily relieved by a most unexpected incident, for + there fell so heavy a rain, that by spreading their sails + horizontally, and by putting bullets in the centres of them to + draw them to a point, they caught as much water as filled all + their casks; that immediately upon this fortunate supply they + stood to the westward in quest of the commodore; and being now + luckily favoured by a strong current, they joined us in less than + fifty hours, from the time they stood to the westward, after + having been absent from us full forty-three days. Those who have + an idea of the inconsiderable size of a cutter belonging to a + sixty-gun ship, (being only an open boat about twenty-two feet in + length,) and who will attend to the various accidents to which + she was exposed during a six weeks continuance alone, in the open + ocean, on so impracticable and dangerous a coast, will readily + own that her return to us, after all the difficulties which she + actually experienced, and the hazards to which she was each hour + exposed, was little short of miraculous.</p> + + <p>I cannot finish this article without remarking how little + reliance navigators ought to have on the accounts of the + Buccaneer writers: For though in this run eighty leagues to the + eastward of Acapulco, she found no place where it was possible + for a boat to land, yet those writers have not been ashamed to + feign harbours and convenient watering-places <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page432" id="page432"></a>[pg 432]</span> + within these limits, thereby exposing such as should confide in + their relations to the risk of being destroyed by thirst.</p> + + <p>Having received our cutter, the sole object of our coming a + second time before Acapulco, the commodore resolved not to lose a + moment's time longer, but to run off the coast with the utmost + expedition, both as the stormy season on the coast of Mexico was + now approaching apace, and as we were apprehensive of having the + westerly monsoon to struggle with when we came upon the coast of + China; and therefore he no longer stood towards Acapulco, as he + now wanted no answer from the governor; but yet he resolved not + to deprive his prisoners of the liberty which he had promised + them; so that they were all immediately embarked in two launches + which belonged to our prizes, those from the Centurion in one + launch, and those from the Gloucester in the other. The launches + were well equipped with masts, sails, and oars, and, lest the + wind might prove unfavourable, they had a stock of water and + provisions put on board them sufficient for fourteen days. There + were discharged thirty-nine persons from on board the Centurion, + and eighteen from the Gloucester, the greatest part of them + Spaniards, the rest Indians and sick negroes: But as our crews + were very weak, we kept the mulattoes and some of the stoutest of + the negroes, with a few Indians, to assist us; but we dismissed + every Spanish prisoner whatever. We have since learnt, that these + two launches arrived safe at Acapulco, where the prisoners could + not enough extol the humanity with which they had been treated; + and that the governor, before their arrival, had returned a very + obliging answer to the commodore's letter, and had attended it + with a present of two boats laden with the choicest refreshments + and provisions which were to be got at Acapulco; but that these + boats not having found our ships, were at length obliged to put + back again, after having thrown all their provisions overboard in + a storm which threatened their destruction.</p> + + <p>The sending away our prisoners was our last transaction on the + American coast; for no sooner had we parted with them, than we + and the Gloucester made sail to the S.W., proposing to get a good + offing from the land, where we hoped, in a few days, to meet with + the regular trade-wind, which the accounts of former navigators + had represented as much brisker and steadier in this ocean, than + in any other <span class="pagenum"><a name="page433" id= + "page433"></a>[pg 433]</span> part of the globe: For it has been + esteemed no uncommon passage to run from hence to the eastermost + parts of Asia in two months; and we flattered ourselves that we + were as capable of making an expeditious passage as any ships + that had ever run this course before us; so that we hoped soon to + gain the coast of China, for which we were now bound. And + conformable to the general idea of this navigation given by + former voyagers, we considered it as free from all kinds of + embarrassment of bad weather, fatigue, or sickness; and + consequently we undertook it with alacrity, especially as it was + no contemptible step towards oar arrival at our native country, + for which many of us by this time began to have great longings. + Thus, on the 6th of May, we, for the last time, lost sight of the + mountains of Mexico, persuaded, that in a few weeks we should + arrive at the river of Canton in China, where we expected to meet + with many English ships, and numbers of our countrymen; and hoped + to enjoy the advantages of an amicable, well-frequented port, + inhabited by a polished people, and abounding with the + conveniences and indulgences of a civilized life, which for near + twenty months had never been once in our power.</p> + + <p>[It is judged advisable to omit altogether the next section of + the original, as occupied by mere reckoning on the advantages + "which might have been expected from the squadron, had it arrived + in the South Seas in good time." They are in part specified at + the beginning.]</p> + + <h3>SECTION XXIV.</h3> + + <h4><i>The Run from the Coast of Mexico to the Ladrones or Marian + Islands.</i></h4> + + <p>When we left the coast of America, we stood to the S. W. with + a view of meeting with the N.E. trade-wind, which the accounts of + former writers made us expect at seventy or eighty leagues + distance from the land: We had another reason for standing to the + southward, which was the getting into the latitude of + 13° or 14° north; that being the parallel where + the Pacific Ocean is most usually crossed, and consequently where + the navigation is esteemed the safest: This last purpose we had + soon answered, being in a day or two sufficiently advanced to the + south. At the same time we <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page434" id="page434"></a>[pg 434]</span> were also farther from + the shore, than we had presumed was necessary for the falling in + with the trade-wind: But in this particular we were most + grievously disappointed; for the wind still continued to the + westward, or at best variable. As the getting into the N.E. + trade-wind, was to us a matter of the last consequence, we stood + more to the southward, and made many experiments to meet with it; + but it was seven weeks, from our leaving the coast, before we got + into it. This was an interval, in which we believed we should + well nigh have reached the easternmost parts of Asia: But we were + so baffled with the contrary and variable winds, which for all + that time perplexed us, that we were not as yet advanced above a + fourth part of the way. The delay alone would have been a + sufficient mortification; but there were other circumstances + attending it, which rendered this situation not less terrible, + and our apprehensions perhaps still greater than in any of our + past distresses. For our two ships were by this time extremely + crazy; and many days had not passed, before we discovered a + spring in the fore-mast of the Centurion, which rounded about + twenty-six inches of its circumference, and which was judged to + be at least four inches deep: And no sooner had our carpenters + secured this with fishing it, but the Gloucester made a signal of + distress; and we learnt that she had a dangerous spring in her + main-mast, twelve feet below the trussel-trees; so that she could + not carry any sail upon it. Our carpenters, on a strict + examination of this mast, found it so very rotten and decayed, + that they judged it necessary to cut it down as low as it + appeared to have been injured; and by this it was reduced to + nothing but a stump, which served only as a step to the topmast. + These accidents augmented our delay, and occasioned us great + anxiety about our future security: For on our leaving the coast + of Mexico, the scurvy had begun to make its appearance again + amongst our people; though from our departure from Juan Fernandes + we had till then enjoyed a most uninterrupted state of health. We + too well knew the effects of this disease, from our former fatal + experience, to suppose that any thing but a speedy passage could + secure the greater part of our crew from perishing by it: And as, + after-being seven weeks at sea, there did not appear any reasons + that could persuade us we were nearer the trade-wind than when we + first set out, there was no ground for us to suppose but our + passage would prove at least three <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page435" id="page435"></a>[pg 435]</span> times as long as we at + first expected; and consequently we had the melancholy prospect, + either of dying by the scurvy, or perishing with the ship for + want of hands to navigate her. Indeed, some amongst us were at + first willing to believe, that in this warm climate, so different + from what we felt in passing round Cape Horn, the violence of + this disease, and its fatality, might be in some degree + mitigated; as it had not been unusual to suppose that its + particular virulence in that passage was in a great measure owing + to the severity of the weather; but the havock of the distemper, + in our present circumstances, soon convinced us of the falsity of + this speculation; as it likewise exploded some other opinions, + which usually pass current about the cause and nature of this + disease.<a id="footnotetag150" name="footnotetag150"></a><a href= + "#footnote150"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>Our surgeon (who, during our passage round Cape Horn, had + ascribed the mortality we suffered to the severity of the + climate) exerted himself in the present run to the utmost, and at + last declared, that all his measures were totally ineffectual, + and did not in the least avail his patients. When we reached the + trade-wind, and it settled between the north and the east, yet it + seldom blew with so much strength, but the Centurion might have + carried all her small sails abroad with the greatest safety; so + that now, had we been a single ship, we might have run down our + longitude apace, and have reached the Ladrones soon enough to + have recovered great numbers of our men, who afterwards perished. + But the Gloucester, by the loss of her main-mast, sailed so very + heavily, that we had seldom any more than our top-sails set, and + yet were frequently obliged to lie to for her: And, I conceive, + that in the whole we lost little less than a month by our + attendance upon her, in consequence of the various mischances she + encountered. In all this run it was remarkable, that we were + rarely many days together, without seeing great numbers of birds; + which is a proof that there are many islands, or at least rocks, + scattered all along, at no very considerable distance from our + track. Some indeed there are marked in a Spanish chart; but the + frequency of the birds seems to evince, that there are many more + than have been hitherto discovered: For the greatest part of the + birds we observed were such as are known to roost on <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page436" id="page436"></a>[pg 436]</span> + shore; and the manner of their appearance sufficiently made out, + that they came from some distant haunt every morning, and + returned thither again in the evening; for we never saw them + early or late; and the hour of their arrival and departure + gradually varied, which we supposed was occasioned by our running + nearer their haunts, or getting farther from them.</p> + + <p>The trade-wind continued to favour us without any fluctuation, + from the end of June till towards the end of July. But on the + 26th of July, being then, as we esteemed, about three hundred + leagues distant from the Ladrones, we met with a westerly wind, + which did not come about again to the eastward in four days time. + This was a most dispiriting incident, as it at once damped all + our hopes of speedy relief, especially too as it was attended + with a vexatious accident to the Gloucester: For in one part of + these four days the wind-flatted to a calm, and the ships rolled + very deep; by which means the Gloucester's forecap split, and her + top-mast came by the board, and broke her fore-yard directly in + the slings. As she was hereby rendered incapable of making any + sail for some time, we were obliged, as soon as a gale sprung up, + to take her in tow; and near twenty of the healthiest and ablest + of our seamen were taken from the business of our own ship, and + were employed for eight or ten days together on board the + Gloucester in repairing her damages: But these things, mortifying + as we thought them, were but the beginning of our disasters; for + scarce had our people finished their business in the Gloucester, + before we met with a most violent storm in the western board, + which obliged us to lie to. In the beginning of this storm our + ship sprung a leak, and let in so much water, that all our + people, officers included, were employed continually in working + the pumps: And the next day we had the vexation to see the + Gloucester, with her top-mast once more by the board; and whilst + we were viewing her with great concern for this new distress, we + saw her main-top mast, which had hitherto served as a jury + main-mast, share the same fate. This completed our misfortunes, + and rendered them without resource; for we knew the Gloucester's + crew were so few and feeble, that without our assistance they + could not be relieved: And our sick were now so far increased, + and those that remained in health so continually fatigued with + the additional duty of our pumps, that it was impossible + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page437" id="page437"></a>[pg + 437]</span> for us to lend them any aid. Indeed we were not as + yet fully apprized of the deplorable situation of the + Gloucester's crew; for when the storm abated, (which during its + continuance prevented all communication with them) the Gloucester + bore up under our stern; and Captain Mitchel informed the + commodore, that besides the loss of his masts, which was all that + had appeared to us, the ship had then no less than seven feet of + water in her hold, although his officers and men had been kept + constantly at the pump for the last twenty-four hours.</p> + + <p>This last circumstance was indeed a most terrible accumulation + to the other extraordinary distresses of the Gloucester, and + required, if possible, the most speedy and vigorous assistance; + which captain Mitchel begged the commodore to send him: But the + debility of our people, and our own immediate preservation, + rendered it impossible for the commodore to comply with his + request. All that could be done was to send our boat on board for + a more particular condition of the ship; and it was soon + suspected that the taking her people on board us, and then + destroying her, was the only measure that could be prosecuted in + the present emergency, for the security of their lives and our + own.</p> + + <p>Our boat soon returned with a representation of the state of + the Gloucester, and of her several defects, signed by Captain + Mitchel and all his officers; by which it appeared, that she had + sprung a leak by the stern-post being loose, and working with + every roll of the ship, and by two beams a midships being broken + in the orlope; no part of which the carpenters reported was + possible to be repaired at sea. That both officers and men had + worked twenty-four hours at the pump without intermission, and + were at length so fatigued, that they could continue their labour + no longer; but had been forced to desist, with seven feet of + water in the hold, which covered their cask, so that they could + neither come at fresh water, nor provision: That they had no mast + standing, except the fore-mast, the mizen-mast, and the mizen + top-mast, nor had they any spare masts to get up in the room of + those they had lost: That the ship was besides extremely decayed + in every part, for her knees and clamps were all worked quite + loose, and her upper works in general were so loose, that the + quarter-deck was ready to drop down: And that her crew was + greatly reduced, for there remained alive on board her no more + than seventy-seven, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page438" id= + "page438"></a>[pg 438]</span> men, eighteen boys, and two + prisoners, officers included; and that of this whole number, only + sixteen men and eleven boys were capable of keeping the deck, and + several of these very infirm.</p> + + <p>The commodore, on the perusal of this melancholy + representation, presently ordered them a supply of water and + provisions, of which they seemed to be in immediate want, and at + the same time sent his own carpenter on board them, to examine + into the truth of every particular; and it being found, on the + strictest enquiry, that the preceding account was in no instance + exaggerated, it plainly appeared, that there was no possibility + of preserving the Gloucester any longer, as her leaks were + irreparable, and the united hands on board both ships, capable of + working, would not be able to free her, even if our own ship + should not employ any part of them. What then could be resolved + on, when it was the utmost we ourselves could do to manage our + own pumps? Indeed there was no room for deliberation; the only + step to be taken was, the saving the lives of the few that + remained on board the Gloucester, and getting out of her as much + as was possible before she was destroyed. And therefore the + commodore immediately sent an order to Captain Mitchel, as the + weather was now calm and favourable, to send his people on board + the Centurion as expeditiously as he could; and to take out such + stores as he could get at, whilst the ship could be kept above + water. And as our leak required less attention, whilst the + present easy weather continued, we sent our boats with as many + men as we could spare, to Captain Mitchel's assistance.</p> + + <p>The removing the Gloucester's people on board us, and the + getting out such stores as could most easily be come at, gave us + full employment for two days. Mr Anson was extremely desirous to + have gotten two of her cables and an anchor, but the ship rolled + so much, and the men were so excessively fatigued, that they were + incapable of effecting it; nay, it was even with the greatest + difficulty that the prize-money, which the Gloucester had taken + in the South-Seas, was secured, and sent on board the Centurion: + However, the prize-goods on board her, which amounted to several + thousand pounds in value, and were principally the Centurion's + property, were entirely lost; nor could any more provision be got + out than five casks of flour, three of which were spoiled by the + salt-water. Their sick men, amounting <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page439" id="page439"></a>[pg 439]</span> to + near seventy, were removed into boats with as much care as the + circumstances of that time would permit; but three or four of + them expired as they were hoisting them into the Centurion.</p> + + <p>It was the 15th of August, in the evening, before the + Gloucester was cleared of every thing that was proposed to be + removed; and though the hold was now almost full of water, yet, + as the carpenters were of opinion that she might still swim for + some time, if the calm should continue, and the water become + smooth, she was set on fire; for we knew not how near we might + now be to the island of Guam, which was in the possession of our + enemies, and the wreck of such a ship would have been to them no + contemptible acquisition. When she was set on fire, Captain + Mitchel and his officers left her, and came on board the + Centurion: And we immediately stood from the wreck, not without + some apprehensions (as we had now only a light breeze) that if + she blew up soon, the concussion of the air might damage our + rigging; but she fortunately burnt, though very fiercely, the + whole night, her guns firing successively, as the flames reached + them. And it was six in the morning, when we were about four + leagues distant, before she blew up; the report she made upon + this occasion was but a small one, but there was an exceeding + black pillar of smoke, which shot up into the air to a very + considerable height.</p> + + <p>Thus perished his majesty's ship the Gloucester. And now it + might have been expected, that, being freed from, the + embarrassments which her frequent disasters had involved us in, + we would proceed on our way much brisker than, we had hitherto + done, especially as we had received some small addition to our + strength, by the taking on board the Gloucester's crew; but our + anxieties were not yet to be relieved; for, notwithstanding all + that we had hitherto suffered, there remained much greater + distresses, which we were still to struggle with. For the late + storm, which had proved so fatal to the Gloucester, had driven us + to the northward of our intended course; and the current setting + the same way, after the weather abated, had forced us still a + degree or two farther, so that we were now in 17° 1/4 of + north latitude, instead of being in 13° 1/2, which was + the parallel we proposed to keep, in order to reach the island of + Guam: And as it had been a perfect calm for some days since the + cessation of the storm, and we were ignorant how near we + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page440" id="page440"></a>[pg + 440]</span> were to the meridian of the Ladrones, and supposed + ourselves not to be far from it, we apprehended that we might be + driven to the leeward of them by the current, without discovering + them: In this case, the only land we could make would be some of + the eastern parts of Asia, where, if we could arrive, we should + find the western monsoon in its full force, so that it would be + impossible for the stoutest best-manned ship to get in. And this + coast being removed between four and five hundred leagues + farther, we, in our languishing circumstances, could expect no + other than to be destroyed by the scurvy, long before the most + favourable gale could carry us to such a distance: For our deaths + were now extremely alarming, no day passing in which we did not + bury eight or ten, and sometimes twelve of our men; and those, + who had hitherto continued healthy, began to fall down apace. + Indeed we made the use we could of the present calm, by employing + our carpenters in searching after the leak, which was now + considerable, notwithstanding the little wind we had: The + carpenters at length discovered it to be in the gunner's fore + store-room, where the water rushed in under the breast-hook, on + each side of the stein; but though they found where it was, they + agreed that it was impossible to stop it, till we should get into + port, and till they could come at it on the outside: However, + they did the best they could within board, and were fortunate + enough to reduce it, which was a considerable relief to us.</p> + + <p>We had hitherto considered the calm which succeeded the storm, + and which continued for some days, as a very great misfortune; + since the currents were driving us to the northward of our + parallel, and we thereby risqued the missing of the Ladrones, + which we now conceived ourselves to be very near. But when a gale + sprung up, our condition was still worse; for it blew from the + S.W. and consequently was directly opposed to the course we + wanted to steer: And though it soon veered to the N.E. yet this + served only to tantalize us, for it returned back again in a very + short time to its old quarter. However, on the 22d of August we + had the satisfaction to find that the current was shifted; and + had set us to the southward: And the 23d, at day-break, we were + cheered with the discovery of two islands in the western board: + This gave us all great joy, and raised our drooping spirits; for + before this an universal dejection had seized us, and we almost + despaired of ever seeing land again: <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page441" id="page441"></a>[pg 441]</span> The + nearest of these islands we afterwards found to be Anatacan; we + judged it to be full fifteen leagues from us, and it seemed to be + high land, though of an indifferent length: The other was the + island of Serigan; and had rather the appearance of a high rock, + than a place we could hope to anchor at. We were extremely + impatient to get in with the nearest island, where we expected to + meet with anchoring-ground, and an opportunity of refreshing our + sick: But the wind proved so variable all day, and there was so + little of it, that we advanced towards it but slowly; however, by + the next morning we were got so far to the westward, that we were + in view of a third island, which was that of Paxaros, though + marked in the chart only as a rock. This was small and very low + land, and we had passed within less than a mile of it, in the + night, without seeing it: And now at noon, being within four + miles of the island of Anatacan, the boat was sent away to + examine the anchoring-ground and the produce of the place; and we + were not a little solicitous for her return, as we then conceived + our fate to depend upon the report we should receive: For the + other two islands were obviously enough incapable of furnishing + us with any assistance, and we knew not then that there were any + others which we could reach. In the evening the boat came back, + and the crew informed us that there was no place for a ship to + anchor, the bottom being every where foul ground, and all, except + one small spot, not less than fifty fathom in depth; that on that + spot there was thirty fathom, though not above half a mile from + the shore; and that the bank was steep, and could not be depended + on: They farther told us, that they had landed on the island, but + with some difficulty, on account of the greatness of the swell; + that they found the ground was every where covered with a kind of + cane, or rush; but that they met with no water, and did not + believe the place to be inhabited; though the soil was good, and + abounded with groves of cocoa-nut trees.</p> + + <p>This account of the impossibility of anchoring at this island, + occasioned a general melancholy on board; for we considered it as + little less than the prelude to our destruction; and our + despondency was increased by a disappointment we met with the + succeeding night; for, as we were plying under top-sails, with an + intention of getting nearer to the island, and of sending our + boat on shore to load with cocoa-nuts for the refreshment of our + sick, the wind proved <span class="pagenum"><a name="page442" id= + "page442"></a>[pg 442]</span> squally, and blew so strong off + shore, as to drive us so far to the southward, that we dared not + to send off our boat. And now the only possible circumstance, + that could secure the few that remained alive from perishing, was + the accidental falling in with some other of the Ladrone islands, + better prepared for our accommodation; and as our knowledge of + these islands was extremely imperfect, we were to trust entirely + to chance for our guidance; only as they are all of them usually + laid down near the same meridian, and we had conceived those we + had already seen to be part of them, we concluded to stand to the + southward, as the most probable means of falling in with the + next. Thus, with the most gloomy persuasion of our approaching + destruction, we stood from the island of Anatacon, having all of + us the strongest apprehensions (and those not ill founded) either + of dying of the scurvy, or of perishing with the ship, which, for + want of hands to work her pumps, might in a short time be + expected to founder.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote150" name="footnote150"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag150">(return)</a> + + <p>Some remarks respecting the nature and treatment of this + disease are now given in the original, but being imperfect and + conjectural, are omitted here.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XXV.</h3> + + <h4><i>Our Arrival at Tinian, and an Account of the Island, and + of our Proceedings there, till the Centurion drove out to + Sea.</i></h4> + + <p>It was the 26th of August, 1742, in the morning, when we lost + sight of Anatacan. The next morning we discovered three other + islands to the eastward, which were from ten to fourteen leagues + from us. These were, as we afterwards learnt, the islands of + Saypan, Tinian, and Aguigan. We immediately steered towards + Tinian, which was the middlemost of the three, but had so much of + calms and light airs, that though we were helped forwards by the + currents, yet next day, at day-break, we were at least five + leagues distant from it. However, we kept on our course, and + about ten in the morning we perceived a proa under sail to the + southward, between Tinian and Aguigan. As we imagined from hence + that these islands were inhabited, and knew that the Spaniards + had always a force at Guam, we took the necessary precautions for + our own security, and for preventing the enemy from taking + advantage of our present wretched circumstances, of which they + would be sufficiently informed by the manner of our working the + ship; we therefore mustered <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page443" id="page443"></a>[pg 443]</span> all our hands, who + were capable of standing to their arms, and loaded our upper and + quarter-deck guns with grape-shot; and, that we might the more + readily procure some intelligence of the state of these islands, + we showed Spanish colours, and hoisted a red flag at the + fore-top-masthead, to give our ship the appearance of the Manilla + galleon, hoping thereby to decoy some of the inhabitants on board + us. Thus preparing ourselves, and standing towards the land, we + were near enough, at three in the afternoon, to send the cutter + in shore, to find out a proper birth for the ship; and we soon + perceived that a proa came off the shore to meet the cutter, + fully persuaded, as we afterwards found, that we were the Manilla + ship. As we saw the cutter returning back with the proa in tow, + we immediately sent the pinnace to receive the proa and the + prisoners, and to bring them on board, that the cutter might + proceed on her errand. The pinnace came back with a Spaniard and + four Indians, which were the people taken in the proa. The + Spaniard was immediately examined as to the produce and + circumstances of this island of Tinian, and his account of it + surpassed even our most sanguine hopes; for he informed us that + it was uninhabited, which, in our present defenceless condition, + was an advantage not to be despised, especially as it wanted but + few of the conveniences that could be expected in the most + cultivated country; for he assured us, that there was great + plenty of very good water, and that there were an incredible + number of cattle, hogs, and poultry running wild on the island, + all of them excellent in their kind; that the woods produced + sweet and sour oranges, limes, lemons, and cocoa-nuts in great + plenty, besides a fruit peculiar to these islands (called by + Dampier, Bread-fruit); that from the quantity and goodness of the + provisions produced here, the Spaniards at Guam made use of it as + a store for supplying the garrison; that he himself was a + serjeant of that garrison, and was sent here with twenty-two + Indians to jerk beef, which he was to load for Guam on board a + small bark of about fifteen tun, which lay at anchor near the + shore.</p> + + <p>This account was received by us with inexpressible joy: Part + of it we were ourselves able to verify on the spot, as we were by + this time near enough to discover several numerous herds of + cattle feeding in different places of the island; and we did not + any ways doubt the rest of his relation, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page444" id="page444"></a>[pg 444]</span> as + the appearance of the shore prejudiced us greatly in its favour, + and made us hope, that not only our necessities might be there + fully relieved, and our diseased recovered, but that, amidst + those pleasing scenes which were then in view, we might procure + ourselves some amusement and relaxation, after the numerous + fatigues we had undergone: For the prospect of the country did by + no means resemble that of an uninhabited and uncultivated place, + but had much more the air of a magnificent plantation, where + large lawns and stately woods had been laid out together with + great skill, and where the whole had been so artfully combined, + and so judiciously adapted to the slopes of the hills, and the + inequalities of the ground, as to produce a most striking effect, + and to do honour to the invention of the contriver. Thus (an + event not unlike what we had already seen) we were forced upon + the most desirable and salutary measures by accidents, which at + first sight we considered as the greatest of misfortunes; for had + we not been driven by the contrary winds and currents to the + northward of our course (a circumstance which at that time gave + us the most terrible apprehensions) we should, in all + probability, never have arrived at this delightful island, and + consequently we should have missed of that place, where alone all + our wants could be most amply relieved, our sick recovered, and + our enfeebled crew once more refreshed, and enabled to put again + to sea.</p> + + <p>The Spanish serjeant, from whom we received the account of the + island, having informed us that there were some Indians on shore + under his command, employed in jerking beef, and that there was a + bark at anchor to take it on board, we were desirous, if + possible, to prevent the Indians from escaping, who doubtless + would have given the governor of Guam intelligence of our + arrival; and we therefore immediately dispatched the pinnace to + secure the bark, which the serjeant told us was the only + embarkation on the place; and then, about eight in the evening, + we let go our anchor in twenty-two fathom; and though it was + almost calm, and whatever vigour and spirit was to be found on + board was doubtless exerted to the utmost on this pleasing + occasion, when, after having kept the sea for some months, we + were going to take possession of this little paradise, yet we + were full five hours in furling our sails: It is true, we were + somewhat <span class="pagenum"><a name="page445" id= + "page445"></a>[pg 445]</span> weakened by the crews of the cutter + and pinnace having been sent on shore; but it is not less true, + that, including those absent with the boats and some negro and + Indian prisoners, all the hands we could muster capable of + standing at a gun amounted to no more than seventy-one, most of + which number too were incapable of duty; but on the greatest + emergencies this was all the force we could collect, in our + present enfeebled condition, from the united crews of the + Centurion, the Gloucester, and the Tryal, which, when we departed + from England, consisted altogether of near a thousand hands.</p> + + <p>When we had furled our sails, the remaining part of the night + was allowed to our people for their repose, to recover them from + the fatigue they had undergone; and in the morning a party was + sent on shore well armed, of which I myself was one, to make + ourselves masters of the landing place, as we were not certain + what opposition might be made by the Indians on the island: We + landed without difficulty, for the Indians having perceived, by + our seizure of the bark the night before, that we were enemies, + they immediately fled into the woody parts of the island. We + found on shore many huts which they had inhabited, and which + saved us both the time and trouble of erecting tents; one of + these huts which the Indians made use of for a storehouse was + very large, being twenty yards long, and fifteen broad; this we + immediately cleared of some bales of jerked beef, which we found + in it, and converted it into an hospital for our sick, who as + soon as the place was ready to receive them were brought on + shore, being in all a hundred and twenty-eight: Numbers of these + were so very helpless that we were obliged to carry them from the + boats to the hospital upon our shoulders, in which humane + employment (as before at Juan Fernandes) the commodore himself, + and every one of his officers, were engaged without distinction; + and, notwithstanding the great debility and the dying aspects of + the greatest part of our sick, it is almost incredible how soon + they began to feel the salutary influence of the land; for, + though we buried twenty-one men on this and the preceeding day, + yet we did not lose above ten men more during our whole two + months stay here; and in general, our diseased received so much + benefit from the fruits of the island, particularly the fruits of + the acid kind, that, in a <span class="pagenum"><a name="page446" + id="page446"></a>[pg 446]</span> week's time, there were but few + who were not so far recovered, as to be able to move about + without help.<a id="footnotetag151" name= + "footnotetag151"></a><a href="#footnote151"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>Whilst we were employed in the removal of our sick on shore, + four of the Indians, being part of the Spanish serjeant's + detachment, came and surrendered themselves to us, so that with + those we took in the proa, we had now eight of them in our + custody. One of the four, who submitted, undertook to show us the + most convenient place for killing cattle, and two of our men were + ordered to attend him on that service; but one of them unwarily + trusting the Indian with his firelock and pistol, the Indian + escaped with them into the woods: His countrymen, who remained + behind, were apprehensive of suffering for this perfidy of their + comrade, and therefore begged leave to send one of their own + party into the country, who they engaged should both bring back + the arms, and persuade the whole detachment from Guam to submit + to us. The commodore granted their request; and one of them was + dispatched on this errand, who returned next day, and brought + back the firelock and pistol, but assured us, he had met with + them in a path-way in the wood, and protested that he had not + been able to meet with any one of his countrymen: This report had + so little the air of truth, that we suspected there was some + treachery carrying on, and therefore, to prevent any future + communication amongst them, we immediately ordered all the + Indians who were in our power on board the ship, and did not + permit them to return any more on shore.</p> + + <p>When our sick were well settled on the island, we employed all + the hands that could be spared from attending them; in arming the + cables with a good rounding, several fathom from the anchor, to + secure them from being rubbed by the coral rocks, which here + abounded: And this being completed, our next attention was our + leak, and in order to raise it out of water, we, on the first of + September, began to get the guns aft to bring the ship by the + stern; and now the carpenters, being able to come at it on the + outside, ripped off the old sheathing that was left, and caulked + all the seams on both sides the cut-water, and leaded them over, + and then new-sheathed the bows to the surface of the water: By + this means we conceived the defect was sufficiently <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page447" id="page447"></a>[pg 447]</span> + secured; but upon our beginning to bring the guns into their + places, we had the mortification to perceive, that the water + rushed into the ship in the old place, with as much violence as + ever: Hereupon we were necessitated to begin again; and that our + second attempt might be more effectual, we cleared the fore + store-room, and sent a hundred and thirty barrels of powder on + board the small Spanish bark we had seized here, by which means + we raised the ship about three feet out of the water forwards, + and the carpenters ripped off the sheathing lower down, and new + caulked all the seams, and afterwards laid on new sheathing; and + then, supposing the leak lobe effectually stopped, we began to + move the guns forwards; but the upper deck guns were scarcely in + their places, when, to our amazement, it burst out again; and + now, as we durst not cut away the lining within board, lest a + but-end or a plank might start, and we might go down immediately, + we had no other resource left than chincing and caulking within + board; and indeed by this means the leak was stopped for some + time; but when our guns were all in their places, and our stores + were taken on board, the water again forced its way through a + hole in the stem, where one of the bolts was driven in; and on + this we desisted from all farther efforts, being now well + assured, that the defect was in the stem itself, and that it was + not to be remedied till we should have an opportunity of heaving + down.</p> + + <p>Towards the middle of September, several of our sick were + tolerably recovered by their residence on shore; and, on the 12th + of September, all those who were so far relieved, since their + arrival, as to be capable of doing duty, were sent on board the + ship: And then the commodore, who was himself ill of the scurvy, + had a tent erected for him on shore, where he went with the view + of staying a few days for the recovery of his health, being + convinced, by the general experience of his people, that no other + method but living on the land was to be trusted to for the + removal of this dreadful malady. The place, where his tent was + pitched on this occasion, was near the well, whence we got all + our water, and was indeed a most elegant spot. As the crew on + board were now reinforced by the recovered hands returned from + the island, we began to send our cask on shore to be fitted up, + which till now could not be done, for the coopers were not well + enough to work. We <span class="pagenum"><a name="page448" id= + "page448"></a>[pg 448]</span> likewise weighed our anchors, that + we might examine our cables, which we suspected had by this time + received considerable damage. And as the new moon was now + approaching, when we apprehended violent gales, the commodore, + for our greater security, ordered that part of the cables next to + the anchors to be armed with the chains of the fire-grapnels; and + they were besides cackled twenty fathom from the anchors, and + seven fathom from the service, with a good rounding of a 41/2 + inch hawser; and to all these precautions we added that of + lowering the main and fore-yard close down, that in case of + blowing weather the wind might have less power upon the ship, to + make her ride a strain.</p> + + <p>Thus effectually prepared, as we conceived, we expected the + new moon, which was the 18th of September, and riding safe that + and the three succeeding days, (though the weather proved very + squally and uncertain) we flattered ourselves (for I was then on + board) that the prudence of our measures had secured us from all + accidents; but, on the 22d, the wind blew from the eastward with + such fury, that we soon despaired of riding out the storm; and + therefore we should have been extremely glad that the commodore + and the rest of our people on shore, which were the greatest part + of our hands, had been on board with us, since our only hopes of + safety seemed to depend on our putting immediately to sea; but + all communication with the shore was now effectually cut off, for + there was no possibility that a boat could live, so that we were + necessitated to ride it out, till our cables parted. Indeed it + was not long before this happened, for the small bower parted at + five in the afternoon, and the ship swung off to the best bower; + and as the night came on, the violence of the wind still + increased; but notwithstanding its inexpressible fury, the tide + ran with so much rapidity, as to prevail over it; for the tide + having set to the northward in the beginning of the storm, turned + suddenly to the southward about six in the evening, and forced + the ship before it in despight of the storm, which blew upon the + beam: And now the sea broke most surprisingly all round us, and a + large tumbling swell threatened to poop us; the long-boat, which + was at this time moored a-stern, was on a sudden canted so high, + that it broke the transom of the commodore's gallery, whose cabin + was on the quarter-deck, and would doubtless have risen as high + as the tafferel, had it not been for this stroke which stove the + boat all to pieces; <span class="pagenum"><a name="page449" id= + "page449"></a>[pg 449]</span> but the poor boat-keeper, though + extremely bruised, was saved almost by miracle. About eight the + tide slackened, but the wind did not abate; so that at eleven, + the best bower-cable, by which alone we rode, parted. Our + sheet-anchor, which was the only one we had left, was instantly + cut from the bow; but before it could reach the bottom, we were + driven from twenty-two into thirty-five fathom; and after we had + veered away one whole cable, and two-thirds of another, we could + not find ground with sixty fathom of line: This was a plain + indication, that the anchor lay near the edge of the bank, and + could not hold us. In this pressing danger, Mr Sanmarez, our + first lieutenant, who now commanded on board, ordered several + guns to be fired, and lights to be shown, as a signal to the + commodore of our distress; and in a short time after, it being + then about one o'clock, and the night excessively dark, a strong + gust, attended with rain and lightning, drove us off the bank, + and forced us out to sea, leaving behind us, on the island, Mr + Anson, with many more of our officers, and great part of our + crew, amounting in the whole to an hundred and thirteen persons. + Thus were we all, both at sea and on shore, reduced to the utmost + despair by this catastrophe, those on shore conceiving they had + no means left them ever to leave the island, and we on board + utterly unprepared to struggle with the fury of the seas and + winds we were now exposed to, and expecting each moment, to be + our last.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote151" name="footnote151"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag151">(return)</a> + + <p>The description of this beautiful island, and its most + desirable productions, is deferred till we come to the voyage + of Commodore Byron, who visited it in 1765.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XXVI.</h3> + + <h4><i>Transactions at Tinian after the Departure of the + Centurion.</i></h4> + + <p>The storm, which drove the Centurion to sea, blew with too + much turbulence to permit either the commodore or any of the + people on shore bearing the guns, which she fired as signals of + distress; and the frequent glare of the lightning had prevented + the explosions from being observed: So that, when at day-break, + it was perceived from the shore that the ship was missing, there + was the utmost consternation amongst them: For much the greatest + part of them immediately concluded that she, was lost, and + entreated the commodore that the boat might be sent round the + island to <span class="pagenum"><a name="page450" id= + "page450"></a>[pg 450]</span> look for the wreck; and those who + believed her safe, had scarcely any expectation that she would + ever be able to make the island again: For the wind continued to + blow strong at east, and they knew how poorly she was manned and + provided for struggling with so tempestuous a gale. And if the + Centurion was lost, or should be incapable of returning, there + appeared no possibility of their ever getting off the island; For + they were at least six hundred leagues from Macao, which was + their nearest port; and they were masters of no other vessel than + the small Spanish bark, of about fifteen tun, which they seized + at their first arrival, and which would not even hold a fourth + part of their number: And the chance of their being taken off the + island by the casual arrival of any ship was altogether + desperate; as perhaps no European ship had ever anchored here + before, and it were madness to expect that like incidents should + send another in an hundred ages to come: So that their desponding + thoughts could only suggest to them the melancholy prospect of + spending the remainder of their days on this island, and bidding + adieu for ever to their country, their friends, their families, + and all their domestic endearments.</p> + + <p>Nor was this the worst they had to fear: For they had reason + to expect, that the governor of Guam, when he should be informed + of their situation, might send a force sufficient to overpower + them, and to remove them to that island; and then, the most + favourable treatment they could hope for would be to be detained + prisoners for life; since, from the known policy and cruelty of + the Spaniards in their distant settlements, it was rather to be + expected, that the governor, if he once had them in his power, + would make their want of commissions (all of them being on board + the Centurion) a pretext for treating them, as pirates, and for + depriving them of their lives with infamy.</p> + + <p>In the midst of these gloomy reflections, Mr Anson had his + share of disquietude; but he kept up his usual composure and + steadiness: And having soon projected a scheme for extricating + himself and his men from their present anxious situation, he + first communicated it to some of the most intelligent; and being + satisfied that it was practicable, he then endeavoured to animate + his people to a speedy and vigorous prosecution of it. With this + view he represented to them, how little foundation there was for + their apprehensions of the Centurion's being lost: That he should + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page451" id="page451"></a>[pg + 451]</span> have hoped, they had been all of them better + acquainted with sea-affairs, than to give way to the impression + of so chimerical a fright; and that he doubted not, if they would + seriously consider what such a ship was capable of enduring, they + would confess that there was not the least probability of her + having perished: That he was not without hopes that she might + return in a few days; but if she did not, the worst that could be + supposed was, that she was driven so far to the leeward of the + island that she could not regain it, and that she would + consequently be obliged to bear away for Macao on the coast of + China: That as it was necessary to be prepared against all + events, he had, in this case, considered of a method of carrying + them off the island, and joining their old ship the Centurion + again at Macao: That this method was to hale the Spanish bark on + shore, to saw her asunder, and to lengthen her twelve feet, which + would enlarge her to near forty tun burthen, and would enable her + to carry them all to China: That he had consulted the carpenters, + and they had agreed that this proposal was very feasible, and + that nothing was wanting to execute it, but the united resolution + and industry of the whole body: He added, that, for his own part, + he would share the fatigue and labour with them, and would expect + no more from any man than what he himself was ready to submit to; + he concluded with representing to them the importance of saving + time; and that, in order to be the better prepared for all + events, it was necessary to set to work immediately, and to take + it for granted, that the Centurion would not be able to put back + (which was indeed the commodore's secret opinion;) since, if she + did return, they should only throw away a few days application; + but, if she did not, their situation, and the season of the year, + required their utmost dispatch.</p> + + <p>These remonstrances, though not without effect, did not + immediately operate so powerfully as Mr Anson wished: He indeed + raised their spirits, by showing them the possibility of their + getting away, of which they had before despaired; but then, from + their confidence of this resource, they grew less apprehensive of + their situation, gave a greater scope to their hopes, and + flattered themselves that the Centurion would return and prevent + the execution of the commodore's scheme, which they could easily + foresee would be a work of considerable labour. By this means, it + was some days before they were all of them heartily engaged in + the project; <span class="pagenum"><a name="page452" id= + "page452"></a>[pg 452]</span> but at last, being in general + convinced of the impossibility of the ship's return, they set + themselves zealously to the different tasks allotted them, and + were as industrious and as eager as their commander could desire, + punctually assembling at day-break at the rendezvous, whence they + were distributed to their different employments, which they + followed with unusual vigour till night came on.</p> + + <p>And here I must interrupt the course of this transaction for a + moment, to relate an incident which for some time gave Mr Anson + more concern than all the preceding disasters. A few days after + the ship was driven off, some of the people on shore cried out, A + sail. This spread a general joy, every one supposing that it was + the ship returning; but presently a second sail was descried, + which quite destroyed their conjecture, and made it difficult to + guess what they were. The commodore eagerly turned his glass + towards them, and saw they were two boats; on which it + immediately occurred to him that the Centurion was gone to the + bottom, and that these were her two boats coming back with the + remains of her people; and this sudden and unexpected suggestion + wrought on him so powerfully, that, to conceal his emotion, he + was obliged (without speaking to any one) instantly to retire to + his tent, where he past some bitter moments, in the firm belief + that the ship was lost, and that now all his views of farther + distressing the enemy, and of still signalizing his expedition by + some important exploit, were at an end.</p> + + <p>But he was soon relieved from these disturbing thoughts, by + discovering that the two boats in the offing were Indian proas, + and, perceiving that they stood towards the shore, he directed + every appearance that could give them any suspicion to be + removed, and concealed his people in the adjacent thickets, + prepared to secure the Indians when they should land; but, after + the proas had stood in within a quarter of a mile of the land, + they suddenly stopt short, and remaining there motionless for + near two hours, they then made sail again, and stood to the + southward.To return to the projected enlargement of the bark.</p> + + <p>If we examine how they were prepared for going through with + this undertaking, on which their safely depended, we shall find, + that, independent of other matters which were of as much + importance, the lengthening of the bark alone was attended with + great difficulty. Indeed, in a proper place, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page453" id="page453"></a>[pg 453]</span> + where all the necessary materials and tools were to be had, the + embarrassment would have been much less; but some of these tools + were to be made, and many of the materials were wanting; and it + required no small degree of invention to supply all these + deficiences. And when the hull of the bark should be completed, + this was but one article; and there were many others of equal + weight, which were to be well considered: These were the rigging + it, the victualling it, and, lastly, the navigating it, for the + space of six or seven hundred leagues, through unknown seas, + where no one of the company had ever passed before. In some of + these particulars such obstacles occurred, that, without the + intervention of very extraordinary and unexpected accidents, the + possibility of the whole enterprise would have fallen to the + ground, and their utmost industry and efforts must have been + fruitless. Of all these circumstances I shall make a short + recital.</p> + + <p>It fortunately happened that the carpenters, both of the + Gloucester and of the Tryal, with their chests of tools, were on + shore when the ship drove out to sea; the smith, too, was on + shore, and had with him his forge and some tools, but unhappily + his bellows had not been brought from on board, so that he was + incapable of working, and without his assistance they could not + hope to proceed with their design; their first attention, + therefore, was to make him a pair of bellows, but in this they + were for some time puzzled, by their want of leather; however, as + they had hides in sufficient plenty, and they had found a + hogshead of lime, which the Indians or Spaniards had prepared for + their own use, they tanned some hides with this lime; and though + we may suppose the workmanship to be but indifferent, yet the + leather they thus made served tolerably well, and the bellows (to + which a gun-barrel served for a pipe) had no other inconvenience + than that of being somewhat strong-scented from the imperfection + of the tanner's work.</p> + + <p>Whilst the smith was preparing the necessary iron work, others + were employed in cutting down trees, and sawing them into plank, + and this being the most laborious task, the commodore himself + wrought at it for the encouragement of his people. As there were + neither blocks nor cordage sufficient for tackles to hale the + bark on shore, it was proposed to get her up on rollers; and for + these the body of the cocoa-nut tree was extremely useful, for + its smoothness <span class="pagenum"><a name="page454" id= + "page454"></a>[pg 454]</span> and circular turn prevented much + labour, and fitted it for the purpose with very little + workmanship; many of these trees were therefore felled, and the + ends of them properly opened for the reception of hand-spikes; + and in the mean time a dry dock was dug for the bark, and ways + laid from thence quite into the sea to facilitate the bringing + her up. Besides those who were thus occupied in preparing + measures for the future enlargement of the bark, a party was + constantly ordered for the killing and preparing of provisions + for the rest: And though in these various employments, some of + which demanded considerable dexterity, it might have been + expected there would have been great confusion and delay, yet + good order being once established, and all hands engaged, their + preparations advanced apace. Indeed, the common men, I presume, + were not the less tractable for their want of spirituous liquors; + for, there being neither wine nor brandy on shore, the juice of + the cocoa-nut was their constant drink, and this, though + extremely pleasant, was not at all intoxicating, but kept them + very cool and orderly.</p> + + <p>And now the officers began to consider of all the articles + necessary for the fitting out the bark; when it was found, that + the tents on shore, and the spare cordage accidentally left there + by the Centurion, together with the sails and rigging already + belonging to the bark, would serve to rig her indifferently well, + when she was lengthened. As they had tallow in plenty, they + proposed to pay her bottom with a mixture of tallow and lime, + which it was known was well adapted to that purpose; so that with + respect to her equipment, she would not have been very defective. + There was, however, one exception, which would have proved + extremely inconvenient, and that was her size; for as they could + not make her quite forty tun burthen, she would have been + incapable of containing half the crew below the deck, and must + have been so top-heavy, that if they were all at the same time on + deck, there would be no small hazard of her oversetting; but this + was a difficulty not to be removed, as they could not augment her + beyond the size already proposed. After the manner of rigging and + fitting up the bark was considered and regulated, the next + essential point to be thought on was, how to procure a sufficient + stock of provisions for their voyage; and here they were greatly + at a loss what course to take; for they had neither grain nor + bread of any kind on shore, their bread-fruit, which would not + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page455" id="page455"></a>[pg + 455]</span> keep at sea, having all along supplied its place; and + though they had live cattle enough, yet they had no salt to cure + beef for a sea-store, nor would meat take salt in that climate. + Indeed, they had preserved a small quantity of jerked beef, which + they found upon the place at their landing, but this was greatly + disproportioned to the run of near six hundred leagues, which + they were to engage in, and to the number of hands they should + have on board. It was at last, however, resolved to take on board + as many cocoa-nuts as they possibly could; to make the most of + their jerked beef, by a very sparing distribution of it, and to + endeavour to supply their want of bread by rice; to furnish + themselves with which, it was proposed, when the bark was fitted + up, to make an expedition to the island of Rota, where they were + told that the Spaniards had large plantations of rice under the + care of the Indian inhabitants: But as this last measure was to + be executed by force, it became necessary to examine what + ammunition had been left on shore, and to preserve it carefully; + and on this enquiry, they had the mortification to find, that the + utmost that could be collected, by the strictest search, did not + amount to more than ninety charges of powder for their firelocks, + which was considerably short of one a-piece for each of the + company, and was indeed a very slender stock of ammunition, for + such as were to eat no grain or bread for a month, but what they + were to procure by force of arms.</p> + + <p>But the most alarming circumstance, and what, without the + providential interposition of very improbable events, had + rendered all their schemes abortive, remains yet to be related. + The general idea of the fabric and equipment of the vessel was + settled in a few days, and when this was done, it was not + difficult to make some estimation of the time necessary to + complete her. After this, it was natural to expect that the + officers would consider on the course they were to steer, and the + land they were to make. These reflections led them to the + disheartening discovery, that there was neither compass nor + quadrant on the island. Indeed, the commodore had brought a + pocket compass on shore for his own use, but Lieutenant Brett had + borrowed it to determine the position of the neighbouring + islands, and he had been driven to sea in the Centurion, without + returning it; and as to a quadrant, that could not be expected to + be found on shore, for as it was of no use at land, there could + be no reason <span class="pagenum"><a name="page456" id= + "page456"></a>[pg 456]</span> for bringing it from on board the + ship. It was eight days, from the departure of the Centurion, + before they were relieved from this terrible perplexity: At last, + in rummaging a chest belonging to the Spanish bark, they found a + small compass, which, though little better than the toys usually + made for the amusement of school-boys, was to them an invaluable + treasure. And a few days after, by a similar piece of good + fortune, they found a quadrant on the sea-shore, which had been + thrown overboard amongst other lumber belonging to the dead: The + quadrant was eagerly seized, but it unluckily wanted vanes, and + therefore, in its present state, was altogether useless; however, + fortune still continuing in a favourable mood, it was not long + before a person, out of curiosity, pulling out the drawer of an + old table, which had been driven on shore, found some vanes, + which fitted the quadrant very well; and it being thus completed, + it was examined by the known latitude of the place, and found to + answer to a sufficient degree of exactness.</p> + + <p>All these obstacles being in some degree removed (which were + always as much as possible concealed from the vulgar, that they + might not grow remiss with the apprehension of labouring to no + purpose,) the work proceeded very successfully and vigorously: + The necessary iron-work was in great forwardness; and the timbers + and planks (which, though not the most exquisite performances of + the sawyer's art, were yet sufficient for the purpose,) were all + prepared; so that on the 6th of October, being the 14th day from + the departure of the ship, they haled the bark on shore, and, on + the two succeeding days, she was sawn asunder (though with great + care not to cut her planks,) and her two parts were separated the + proper distance from each other, and, the materials being all + ready before-hand, they, the next day, being the 9th of October, + went on with great dispatch in their proposed enlargement of her; + and by this time they had all their future operations so fairly + in view, and were so much masters of them, that they were able to + determine when the whole would be finished, and had accordingly + fixed the 5th of November for the day of their putting to sea. + But their projects and labours were drawing to a speedier and + happier conclusion; for on the 11th of October, in the afternoon, + one of the Gloucester's men, being upon a hill in the middle of + the island, perceived the Centurion at a distance, and running + down with his utmost speed towards the landing-place, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page457" id="page457"></a>[pg + 457]</span> he, in the way, saw some of his comrades, to whom he + hallooed out with extacy, The ship, the ship! This being heard by + Mr Gordon, a lieutenant of marines, who was convinced by the + fellow's transport that his report was true, Mr Gordon ran + towards the place where the commodore and his people were at + work, and being fresh and in breath, easily outstripped the + Gloucester's man, and got before him to the commodore, who, on + hearing this happy and unexpected news, threw down his axe with + which he was then at work, and by his joy broke through, for the + first time, the equable and unvaried character which he had + hitherto preserved; the others, who were with him, instantly ran + down to the sea-side in a kind of frenzy, eager to feast + themselves with a sight they had so ardently wished for, and of + which they had now for a considerable time despaired. By five in + the evening the Centurion was visible in the offing to them all; + and, a boat being sent off with eighteen men to reinforce her, + and with fresh meat and fruits for the refreshment of her crew, + she, the next afternoon, happily came to an anchor in the road, + when the commodore immediately went on board, and was received + with the sincerest and heartiest acclamations: For, from the + following short recital of the fears, the dangers and fatigues we + in the ship underwent during our nineteen days absence from + Tinian, it may be easily conceived, that a harbour, refreshments, + repose, and the joining of our commander and shipmates, were not + less pleasing to us than our return was to them.</p> + + <h3>SECTION XXVII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Account of the Proceedings on board the Centurion when + driven out to Sea.</i></h4> + + <p>The Centurion being now once more safely arrived at Tinian, to + the mutual respite of the labours of our divided crew, it is high + time that the reader, after the relation already given of the + projects and employment of those left on shore, should be + apprised of the fatigues and distresses to which we, who were + driven off to sea, were exposed during the long interval of + nineteen, days that we were absent from the + island.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page458" id= + "page458"></a>[pg 458]</span> + + <p>It has been already mentioned, that it was the 22d of + September, about one o'clock, in an extreme dark night, when, by + the united violence of a prodigious storm, and an exceeding rapid + tide, we were driven from our anchors and forced to sea. Our + condition was truly deplorable; we were in a leaky ship, with + three cables in our hawses, to one of which hung our only + remaining anchor; we had not a gun on board lashed, nor a port + barred in; our shrowds were loose, and our top-masts unrigged, + and we had struck our fore and main-yards close down, before the + storm came on, so that there were no sails we could set, except + our mizen. In this dreadful extremity we could muster no more + strength on board to navigate the ship, than an hundred and eight + hands, several negroes and Indians included: This was scarcely + the fourth part of our complement, and of these the greater + number were either boys, or such as, being lately recovered from + the scurvy, had not yet arrived at half their vigour. No sooner + were we at sea, but by the violence of the storm, and the working + of the ship, we made a great quantity of water through our + hawse-holes, ports, and scuppers, which, added to the constant + effect of our leak, rendered our pumps alone a sufficient + employment for us all: But though this leakage, by being a short + time neglected, would inevitably end in our destruction, yet we + had other dangers then impending, which occasioned this to be + regarded as a secondary consideration only. For we all imagined + that we were driving directly on the neighbouring island of + Aguiguan, which was about two leagues distant; and as we had + lowered our main and fore-yards close down, we had no sails we + could set but the mizen, which was altogether insufficient to + carry us clear of this instant peril; we therefore immediately + applied ourselves to work, endeavouring, by the utmost of our + efforts, to heave up the main and fore-yards, in hopes that, if + we could but be enabled to make use of our lower canvass, we + might possibly weather the island, and thereby save ourselves + from this impending shipwreck. But after full three hours + ineffectual labour, the jeers broke, and the men being quite + jaded, we were obliged, by mere debility, to desist, and quietly + to expect our fate, which we then conceived to be unavoidable: + For we imagined ourselves by this time to be driven just upon the + shore, and the night was so extremely dark, that we expected to + discover the island no otherwise than by striking upon + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page459" id="page459"></a>[pg + 459]</span> it; so that the belief of our destruction, and the + uncertainly of the point of time when it would take place, + occasioned us to pass several hours under the most serious + apprehensions, that each succeeding moment would send us to the + bottom. Nor did these continued terrors of instantly striking and + sinking end but with the day-break, when we, with great + transport, perceived that the island we had thus dreaded was at a + considerable distance, and that a strong northern current had + been the cause of our preservation.</p> + + <p>The turbulent weather which forced us from Tinian, did not + begin to abate till three days after; and then we swayed up the + fore-yard, and began to heave up the main-yard, but the jeers + broke and killed one of our men, and prevented us at that time + from proceeding. The next day, being the 26th of September, was a + day of most severe fatigue to us all; for it must be remembered, + that in these exigences no rank or office exempted any person + from the manual application and bodily labour of a common sailor. + The business of this day was no less than an attempt to heave up + the sheet-anchor, which we had hitherto dragged at our bows with + two cables an end. This was a work of great importance to our + future preservation: For, not to mention the impediment to our + navigation, and the hazard it would be to our ship, if we + attempted to make sail with the anchor in its present situation, + we had this most interesting consideration to animate us, that it + was the only anchor we had left; and, without securing it, we + should be under the utmost difficulties and hazards, whenever we + made the land again; and therefore, being all of us fully + apprized of the consequence of this enterprize, we laboured at it + with the severest application for full twelve hours, when we had + indeed made a considerable progress, having brought the anchor in + sight; but, it then growing dark, and we being excessively + fatigued, we were obliged to desist, and to leave our work + unfinished till the next morning, when, by the benefit of a + night's rest, we completed it, and hung the anchor at our + bow.</p> + + <p>It was the 27th of September in the morning, that is, five + days after our departure, when we thus secured our anchor; And + the same day we got up our main-yard: And having now conquered in + some degree the distress and disorder which we were necessarily + involved in at our first driving out to sea, and being enabled to + make use of our canvass, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page460" + id="page460"></a>[pg 460]</span> we set our courses, and for the + first time stood to the eastward, in hopes of regaining the + island of Tinian, and joining our commodore in a few days: For we + were then, by our accounts, only forty-seven leagues to the + south-west of Tinian; so that on the first day of October, having + then run the distance necessary for making the island according + to our reckoning, we were in full expectation of seeing it; but + we were unhappily disappointed, and were thereby convinced that a + current had driven us to the westward. And as we could not judge + how much we might hereby have deviated, and consequently how long + we might still expect to be at sea, we had great apprehensions + that our stock of water might prove deficient; for we were + doubtful about the quantity we had on board, and found many of + our casks so decayed, as to be half leaked out. However, we were + delivered from our uncertainty the next day by having a sight of + the island of Guam, by which we discovered that the currents had + driven us forty-four leagues to the westward of our accounts. + This sight of land having satisfied us of our situation, we kept + plying to the eastward, though with excessive labour, for the + wind continuing fixed in the eastern board, we were obliged to + tack often, and our crew were so weak, that, without the + assistance of every man on board, it was not in our power to put + the ship about: This severe employment lasted till the 11th of + October, being the nineteenth day from our departure; when, + arriving in the offing of Tinian, we were reinforced from the + shore, as hath been already mentioned; and on the evening of the + same day, to our inexpressible joy, came to an anchor in the + road, thereby procuring to our shipmates on shore, as well as to + ourselves, a cessation from the fatigues and apprehensions which + this disastrous incident had given rise to.</p> + + <h3>SECTION XXVIII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Of our Employment at Tinian, till the final Departure of + the Centurion, and of the Voyage to Macao.</i><a id= + "footnotetag152" name="footnotetag152"></a><a href= + "#footnote152"><sup>1</sup></a></h4> + + <p>The commodore resolved to stay no longer at the island than + was absolutely necessary to complete our stock of water, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page461" id="page461"></a>[pg + 461]</span> a work which we immediately set ourselves about. But + the loss of our long-boat, which was staved against our poop when + we were driven out to sea, put us to great inconveniences in + getting our water on board: For we were obliged to raft off all + our cask, and the tide ran so strong, that, besides the frequent + delays and difficulties it occasioned, we more than once lost the + whole raft. Nor was this our only misfortune; for, on the third + day after our arrival, a sudden gust of wind brought home our + anchor, forced us off the bank, and drove the ship out to sea a + second time. The commodore, it is true, and the principal + officers, were now on board; but we had near seventy men on + shore, who had been employed in filling our water, and procuring + provisions: These had with them our two cutters; but as they were + too many for the cutters to bring off at once, we sent the + eighteen-oared barge to assist them; and at the same time made a + signal for all that could to embark. The two cutters soon came + off to us full of men; but forty of the company, who were + employed in killing cattle in the wood, and in bringing them down + to the landing-place, were left behind; and though the + eighteen-oared barge was left for their conveyance, yet, as the + ship soon drove to a considerable distance, it was not in their + power to join us. However, as the weather was favourable, and our + crew was now stronger than when we were first driven out, we, in + about five days time, returned again to an anchor at Tinian, and + relieved those we had left behind us from their second fears of + being deserted by their ship.</p> + + <p>On our arrival, we found that the Spanish bark, the old object + of their hopes, had undergone a new metamorphosis: For those we + had left onshore began to despair of our return, and conceiving + that the lengthening the bark, as formerly proposed, was both a + toilsome and unnecessary measure, considering the small number + they consisted of, they had resolved to join her again, and to + restore her to her first state; and in this scheme they had made + some progress; for they had brought the two parts together, and + would have soon completed her, had not our coming back put a + period to their labours and disquietudes.</p> + + <p>These people we had left behind informed us, that, just before + we were seen in the offing, two proas had stood in very near the + shore, and had continued there for some time; but, on the + appearance of our ship, they crowded away, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page462" id="page462"></a>[pg 462]</span> and + were presently out of sight. And, on this occasion, I must + mention an incident, which, though it happened during the first + absence of the ship, was then omitted, to avoid interrupting the + course of the narration.</p> + + <p>It hath been already observed, that a part of the detachment, + sent to this island under the command of the Spanish Serjeant, + lay concealed in the woods; and we were the less solicitous to + find them out, as our prisoners all assured us, that it was + impossible for them to get off, and consequently that it was + impossible for them to send any intelligence about us to Guam. + But when the Centurion drove out to sea, and left the commodore + on shore, he one day, attended by some of his officers, + endeavoured to make the tour of the island: In this expedition, + being on a rising ground, they perceived in the valley beneath + them the appearance of a small thicket, which, by observing more + nicely, they found had a progressive motion: This at first + surprised them; but they soon discovered, that it was no more + than several large cocoa bushes, which were dragged along the + ground, by persons concealed beneath them. They immediately + concluded that these were some of the Serjeant's party (which, + was indeed true); and therefore the commodore and his people made + after them, in hopes of finding out their retreat. The Indians + soon perceived they were discovered, and hurried away with + precipitation; but Mr Anson was so near them, that he did not + lose sight of them till they arrived at their cell, which he and + his officers entering found to be abandoned, there being a + passage from it down a precipice contrived for the conveniency of + flight. They found here an old firelock or two, but no other + arms. However, there was a great quantity of provisions, + particularly salted spare-ribs of pork, which were excellent; and + from what our people saw here, they concluded, that the + extraordinary appetite, which they had found at this island, was + not confined to themselves; for, it being about noon, the Indians + had laid out a very plentiful repast considering their numbers, + and had their bread-fruit and cocoa-nuts prepared ready for + eating, and in a manner which plainly evinced, that, with them + too, a good meal was neither an uncommon nor an unheeded article. + The commodore having in vain endeavoured to discover the path by + which the Indians had escaped, he and his officers contented + themselves with sitting down to the dinner, which was thus + luckily filled to their present appetites; <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page463" id="page463"></a>[pg 463]</span> + after which, they returned back to their old habitation, + displeased at missing the Indians, as they hoped to have engaged + them in our service, if they could have had any conference with + them. But, notwithstanding what our prisoners had asserted, we + were afterwards assured, that these Indians were carried off to + Guam long before we left the place.</p> + + <p>On our coming to an anchor again; after our second driving off + to sea; we laboured indefatigably in getting in our water; and + having, by the 20th of October, completed it to fifty tun, which + we supposed would be sufficient for our passage to Macao, we, on + the next day, sent one of each mess on shore, to gather as large + a quantity of oranges, lemons, cocoa-nuts, and other fruits of + the island, as they possibly could, for the use of themselves and + mess-mates, when at sea. And, these purveyors returning on board + us on the evening of the same day, we then set fire to the bark + and proa, hoisted in our boats, and got under sail, steering away + for the south-end of the island of Formosa, and taking our + leaves, for the third and last time, of the island of Tinian: An + island, which, whether we consider the excellence of its + productions, the beauty of its appearance, the elegance of its + woods and lawns, the healthiness of its air or the adventures it + gave rise to, may in all these views be truly styled + romantic.</p> + + <p>[After the description, certainly a very imperfect one, of the + Ladrones, which now follows, the author gives a curious account + of the proas or prows so much used among them. This is extracted, + as likely to interest the reader, and as more satisfactory, than + the brief notice already given in the history of Magellan's + voyage. This account is more deserving of regard, as being drawn + up from very particular examination of one of the vessels taken, + as has been mentioned, at Tinian.]</p> + + <p>The Indians that inhabit the Ladrones, of which Tinian + (formerly well peopled) is one, are a bold, well-limbed people; + and it should seem from some of their practices, that they are no + ways defective in understanding; for their flying proa in + particular, which has been for ages the only vessel used by them, + is so singular and extraordinary an invention, that it would do + honour to any nation, however dexterous and acute. Whether we + consider its aptitude to the <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page464" id="page464"></a>[pg 464]</span> particular navigation + of these islands, or the uncommon simplicity and ingenuity of its + fabric and contrivance, or the extraordinary velocity with which + it moves, we shall find it worthy of our admiration, and meriting + a place amongst the mechanical productions of the most civilized + nations, where arts and sciences have most eminently + flourished.</p> + + <p>The name of flying proa given to these vessels, is owing to + the swiftness with which they sail. Of this the Spaniards assert + such stories, as appear altogether incredible to those who have + never seen these vessels move; nor are the Spaniards the only + people who relate these extraordinary tales of their celerity. + For those who shall have the curiosity to enquire at the dock at + Portsmouth, about a trial made there some years since, with a + very imperfect one built at that place, will meet with accounts + not less wonderful than any the Spaniards have given. However, + from some rude estimations made, by our people, of the velocity + with which they crossed the horizon at a distance, whilst we lay + at Tinian, I cannot help believing that with a brisk trade-wind + they will run near twenty miles an hour: Which, though greatly + short of what the Spaniards report of them, is yet a prodigious + degree of swiftness.</p> + + <p>The construction of this proa is a direct contradiction to the + practice of the rest of mankind. For as the rest of the world + make the head of their vessels different from the stern, but the + two sides alike, the proa, on the contrary, has her head and + stern exactly alike, but her two sides very different; the side, + intended to be always the lee-side, being flat; and the + windward-side made rounding, in the manner of other vessels: And, + to prevent her oversetting, which from her small breadth, and the + straight run of her leeward-side, would, without this precaution, + infallibly happen, there is a frame laid out from her to + windward, to the end of which is fastened a log, fashioned into + the shape of a small boat, and made hollow: The weight of the + frame is intended to balance the proa, and the small boat is by + its buoyancy (as it is always in the water) to prevent her + oversetting to windward; and this frame is usually called an + outrigger. The body of the proa (at least of that we took) is + made of two pieces joined end-ways, and sowed together with bark, + for there is no iron used about her: She is about two inches + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page465" id="page465"></a>[pg + 465]</span> thick at the bottom, which at the gunwale is reduced + to less than one.<a id="footnotetag153" name= + "footnotetag153"></a><a href="#footnote153"><sup>2</sup></a></p> + + <p>The proa generally carries six or seven Indians; two of which + are placed in the head and stem, who steer the vessel alternately + with a paddle, according to the tack she goes on, be in the stern + being the steersman; the other Indians are employed either in + baling out the water which she accidentally ships, or in setting + and trimming the sail. From the description of these vessels it + is sufficiently obvious, how dexterously they are fitted for + ranging this collection of islands called the Ladrones: For as + these islands lie nearly N. and S. of each other, and are all + within the limits of the trade-wind, the proas, by sailing most + excellently on a wind, and with either end foremost, can ran from + one of these islands to the other and back again, only by + shifting the sail, without ever putting about; and, by the + flatness of their lee-side, and their small breadth, they are + capable of lying much nearer the wind than any other vessel + hitherto known.</p> + + <p>The eastern monsoon was now, we reckoned, fairly settled; and + we had a constant gale blowing right upon our stern: So that we + generally ran from forty to fifty leagues a-day. But we had a + large hollow sea pursuing us, which occasioned the ship to labour + much; whence we received great damage in our rigging, which was + grown very rotten, and our leak was augmented: But, happily for + us, our people were now in full health; so that there were no + complaints of fatigue, but all went through their attendance on + the pumps, and every other duty of the ship, with ease and + cheerfulness.</p> + + <p>Having no other but our sheet-anchor left, except our + prize-anchors, which were stowed in the hold, and were too light + to be depended on, we were under great concern how we should + manage on, the coast of China, where we were all entire + strangers, and where we should doubtless be frequently under the + necessity of coming to an anchor. Our sheet-anchor being much too + heavy for a coasting anchor, it was at length resolved to fix two + of our largest prize-anchors into one stock, and to place between + their shanks two guns, four pounders, which was accordingly + executed, and it was <span class="pagenum"><a name="page466" id= + "page466"></a>[pg 466]</span> to serve as a best bower: And a + third prize-anchor being ill like manner joined with our + stream-anchor, with guns between them, we thereby made a small + bower; so that, besides our sheet-anchor, we had again two others + at our bows, one of which weighed 3900, and the other 2900 + pounds.</p> + + <p>The 3d of November, about three in the afternoon, we saw an + island, which at first we imagined to be the island of Botel + Tobago Xima: But on nearer approach we found it to be much + smaller than that is usually represented; and about an hour after + we saw another island, five or six miles farther to the westward. + As no chart, nor any journal we had seen, took notice of any + other island to the eastward of Formosa, than Botel Tobago Xima, + and as we had no observation of our latitude at noon, we were in + some perplexity, being apprehensive that an extraordinary current + had driven us into the neighbourhood of the Bashee islands; and + therefore, when night came on, we brought to, and continued in + this posture till the next morning, which proving dark and + cloudy, for some time prolonged our uncertainty; but it cleared + up about nine o'clock, when we again discerned the two islands + above-mentioned; we then prest forwards to the westward, and by + eleven got a sight of the southern part of the island of Formosa. + This satisfied us that the second island we saw was Botel Tobago + Xima, and the first a small island or rock, lying five or six + miles due east from it, which, not being mentioned by any of our + books or charts, was the occasion of our fears.<a id= + "footnotetag154" name="footnotetag154"></a><a href= + "#footnote154"><sup>3</sup></a></p> + + <p>When we got sight of the island of Formosa, we steered W. by + S. in order to double its extremity, and kept a good look-out for + the rocks of Vele Rete, which we did not see till two in the + afternoon. They then bore from us W.N.W. three miles distant, the + south end of Formosa at the same time bearing N. by W. 1/2 W. + about five leagues distant. To give these rocks a good birth, we + immediately haled up S. by W. and so left them between us and the + land. Indeed we had reason to be careful of them; for though they + appeared as high out of the water as a ship's hull, yet they are + environed with breakers on all sides, and there is a shoal + stretching from them at least a mile and a half to the southward, + whence they may be truly called dangerous. <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page467" id="page467"></a>[pg 467]</span> The + course from Botel Tobago Xima to these rocks is S.W. by W. and + the distance about twelve or thirteen leagues: And the south end + of Formosa, off which they lie, is in the latitude of + 21° 50' north, and in 23° 50' west longitude + from Tinian, according to our most approved reckonings, though by + some of our accounts above a degree more.</p> + + <p>While we were passing by these rocks of Vele Rete, there was + an outcry of fire on the fore-castle; this occasioned a general + alarm, and the whole crew instantly flocked together in the + utmost confusion, so that the officers found it difficult for + some time to appease the uproar: But having at last reduced the + people to order, it was perceived that the fire proceeded from + the furnace; and, pulling down the brick-work, it was + extinguished with great facility, for it had taken its rise from + the bricks, which, being over-heated, had begun to communicate + the fire to the adjacent wood-work. In the evening we were + surprised with a view of what we at first sight conceived to have + been breakers, but, on a stricter examination, we found them to + be only a great number of fires on the island of Formosa. These, + we imagined, were, intended by the inhabitants of that island as + signals for us to touch there, but that suited not our views, we + being impatient to reach the port of Macao as soon as possible. + From Formosa we steered W.N.W. and sometimes still more + northerly, proposing to fall in with, the coast of China, to the + eastward of Pedro Blanco; for the rock so called is usually + esteemed an excellent direction for ships bound to Macao. We + continued this course till the following night, and then + frequently brought to, to try if we were in soundings: But it was + the 5th of November, at nine in the morning, before we struck + ground, and then, we had forty-two fathom, and a bottom of grey + sand mixed with shells. When we had got about twenty miles + farther W.N.W. we had thirty-five fathom; and the same bottom, + from whence our sounding gradually decreased from thirty-five to + twenty-five fathom; but soon after, to our great surprise, they + jumped back again to thirty fathom: This was an alteration we + could not very well account for,<a id="footnotetag155" name= + "footnotetag155"></a><a href="#footnote155"><sup>4</sup></a> + since all the charts laid down regular soundings every-where to + the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page468" id="page468"></a>[pg + 468]</span> northward of Pedro Blanco; and for this reason we + kept a very careful look-out, and altered our course to N.N.W. + and having run thirty-five miles in this direction, our soundings + again gradually diminished to twenty-two fathom, and we at last, + about mid-night, got sight of the main land of China, bearing N. + by W. four leagues distant: We then brought the ship to, with her + head to the sea, proposing to wait for the morning; and before + sun-rise we were surprised to find ourselves in the midst of an + incredible number of fishing-boats, which seemed to cover the + surface of the sea as far as the eye could reach. I may well + style their number incredible, since I cannot believe, upon the + lowest estimate, that there were fewer than six thousand, most of + them manned with five hands, and none with less than three. Nor + was this swarm of fishing-vessels peculiar to this spot; for, as + we ran on to the westward, we found them as abundant on every + part of the coast. We at first doubted not but we should procure + a pilot from them to carry us to Macao; but though many of them + came close to the ship, and we endeavoured to tempt them by + showing them a number of dollars, a most alluring bait for + Chinese of all ranks and professions, yet we could not entice + them on board us, nor procure any directions from them; though, I + presume, the only difficulty was their not comprehending what we + wanted them to do, for we could have no communication with them, + but by signs: Indeed we often pronounced the word Macao; but this + we had reason to suppose they understood in a different sense; + for in return they sometimes held up fish to us, and we + afterwards learnt, that the Chinese name for fish is of a + somewhat similar sound. But what surprised us most, was the + inattention and want of curiosity, which we observed in this herd + of fishermen: A ship like ours had doubtless never been in those + seas before; perhaps, there might not be one, amongst all the + Chinese employed in this fishery, who had ever seen any European + vessel; so that we might reasonably have expected to have been + considered by them as a very uncommon and extraordinary object; + but though many of their vessels came close to the ship, yet they + did not appear to be at all interested about us, nor did they + deviate in the least from their course to regard us; which + insensibility, especially in maritime persons, about a matter in + their own profession, is scarcely to be credited, did not the + general behaviour of the Chinese, in other <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page469" id="page469"></a>[pg 469]</span> + instances, furnish us with continual proofs of a similar turn of + mind: It may perhaps be doubted, whether this cast of temper be + the effect of nature or education; but, in either case, it is an + incontestable symptom of a mean and contemptible disposition, and + is alone a sufficient confutation of the extravagant panegyrics, + which many hypothetical writers have bestowed on the ingenuity + and capacity of this nation.<a id="footnotetag156" name= + "footnotetag156"></a><a href="#footnote156"><sup>5</sup></a></p> + + <p>Not being able to procure any information from the Chinese + fishermen about our proper course to Macao, it was necessary for + us to rely entirety on our own judgment; and concluding from our + latitude, which was 22° 42' north, and from our + soundings, which were only seventeen or eighteen fathoms, that we + were yet to the eastward of Pedro Blanco, we stood to the + westward: And, for the assistance of future navigators, who may + hereafter doubt about the parts of the coast they are upon, I + must observe, that, besides the latitude of Pedro Blanco, which + is 22° 18', and the depth of water, which to the + westward of that rock is almost every where twenty fathoms, there + is another circumstance which will give great assistance in + judging of the position of the ship: This is, the kind of ground; + for, till we came within thirty miles of Pedro Blanco, we had + constantly a sandy bottom; but there the bottom changed to soft + and muddy, and continued so quite to the island of Macao; only + while we were in sight of Pedro Blanco, and very near it, we had + for a short space a bottom of greenish mud, intermixed with + sand.</p> + + <p>On the fifth of November, at midnight, we made the coast of + China; and the next day, about two o'clock, as we were standing + to the westward within two leagues of the coast, and still + surrounded by fishing vessels in as great numbers as at first, we + perceived that a boat a-head of us waved a red flag, and blew a + horn; This we considered as a signal made to us, either to warn + us of some shoal, or to inform us that they would supply us with + a pilot, and in this belief we immediately sent our cutter to the + boat, to know their <span class="pagenum"><a name="page470" id= + "page470"></a>[pg 470]</span> intentions; but we were soon made + sensible of our mistake, and found that this boat was the + commodore of the whole fishery, and that the signal she had made, + was to order them all to leave off fishing, and to return in + shore, which we saw them instantly obey. On this disappointment + we kept on our course, and soon after passed by two very small + rocks, which lay four or five miles distant from the shore; but + night came on before we got sight of Pedro Blanco, and we + therefore brought-to till the morning, when we had the + satisfaction to discover it. It is a rock of a small + circumference, but of a moderate height, and, both in shape and + colour, resembles a sugar-loaf, and is about seven or eight miles + from the shore. We passed within a mile and a half of it, and + left it between us and the land, still keeping on to the + westward; and the next day, being the 7th, we were a-breast of a + chain of islands, which stretched from east to west. These, as we + afterwards found, were called the islands of Lema;<a id= + "footnotetag157" name="footnotetag157"></a><a href= + "#footnote157"><sup>6</sup></a> they are rocky and barren, and + are in all, small and great, fifteen or sixteen; and there are, + besides, a great number of other islands between them and the + main land of China. These islands we left on the star-board side, + passing within four miles of them, where we had twenty-four + fathom water. We were still surrounded by fishing-boats; and we + once more sent the cutter on board one of them, to endeavour to + procure a pilot, but could not prevail; however, one of the + Chinese directed us by signs to sail round the westermost of the + islands, or rocks of Lema, and then to hale up. We followed this + direction; and in the evening came to an anchor in eighteen + fathom.</p> + + <p>On the 9th at four in the morning, we sent our cutter to sound + the channel, where we proposed to pass; but before the return of + the cutter, a Chinese pilot put on board us, and told us, in + broken Portuguese, he would carry us to Macao for thirty dollars: + These were immediately paid him, and we then weighed and made + sail; and soon after, several other pilots came on board us, who, + to recommend themselves, produced certificates from the captains + of several ships they had piloted in, but we continued the ship + under the management of the Chinese who came first on board. By + this time we learnt, that we were not far distant from + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page471" id="page471"></a>[pg + 471]</span> Macao, and that there were in the river of Canton, at + the mouth of which Macao lies, eleven European ships, of which + four were English. Our pilot carried us between the islands of + Bamboo and Cabouce, but the winds hanging in the northern board, + and the tides often setting strongly against us, we were obliged + to come frequently to an anchor, so that we did not get through + between the two islands till the 12th of November, at two in the + morning. In passing through, our depth of water was from twelve + to fourteen fathom; and as we still steered on N.W. 1/2 W. + between a number of other islands, our soundings underwent little + or no variation till towards the evening, when they increased to + seventeen fathom; in which depth (the wind dying away) we + anchored not far from the island of Lantoon, which is the largest + of all this range of islands. At seven in the morning we weighed + again, and steering W.S.W. and S.W. by W., we at ten o'clock + happily anchored in Macao road, in five fathom water, the city of + Macao bearing W. by N., three leagues distant; the peak of + Lantoon E. by N., and the grand Ladrone S. by E. each of them + about five leagues distant. Thus, after a fatiguing cruise of + above two years continuance, we once more arrived in an amicable + port, in a civilized country; where the conveniences of life were + in great plenty; where the naval stores, which we now extremely + wanted, could be in some degree procured; where we expected the + inexpressible satisfaction of receiving letters from our + relations and friends; and where our countrymen, who were lately + arrived from England, would be capable of answering the numerous + enquiries we were prepared to make, both about public and private + occurrences, and to relate to us many particulars, which, whether + of importance or not, would be listened to by us with the utmost + attention, after the long suspension of our correspondence with + our country, to which the nature of our undertaking had hitherto + subjected us.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote152" name="footnote152"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag152">(return)</a> + + <p>The original contains also a description of the Ladrones (or + Marian Islands, as they are now usually called,) which, for a + reason before mentioned, is omitted.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote153" name="footnote153"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag153">(return)</a> + + <p>The author refers to a plate for a minute description, which + is necessarily omitted.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote154" name="footnote154"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag154">(return)</a> + + <p>These two islands are marked in Arrowsmith's map of Asia, + under the names of Bottle Tobago and Little Bottle + Tobago.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote155" name="footnote155"></a><b>Footnote 4:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag155">(return)</a> + + <p>It was probably occasioned by their being over a sand bank, + which is laid down by Arrowsmith in this part of the + Centurion's course.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote156" name="footnote156"></a><b>Footnote 5:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag156">(return)</a> + + <p>Neither the ingenuity nor the capacity of the Chinese is at + all implicated by the circumstances recorded, the source of + which may be probably enough conjectured, viz. their contempt + of every thing foreign, which, it is well known, they never + scruple to avow. Besides, as is very soon mentioned, their + fishermen were under authority, and had received no orders or + permission to the effect desired.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote157" name="footnote157"></a><b>Footnote 6:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag157">(return)</a> + + <p>Called Grand Lema in Arrowsmith's map, and touched at by the + Lion in 1793.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XXIX.</h3> + + <h4><i>Proceedings at Macao.</i></h4> + + <p>The city of Macao, in the road of which we came to an anchor + on the 12th of November, is a Portuguese settlement, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page472" id="page472"></a>[pg 472]</span> + situated in an island at the mouth of the river of Canton. It was + formerly a very rich and populous city, and capable of defending + itself against the power of the adjacent Chinese governors: But + at present it is much fallen from its ancient splendour, for + though it is inhabited by Portuguese, and has a governor + nominated by the king of Portugal, yet it subsists merely by the + sufferance of the Chinese, who can starve the place, and + dispossess the Portuguese whenever they please: This obliges the + governor of Macao to behave with great circumspection, and + carefully to avoid every circumstance that may give offence to + the Chinese.<a id="footnotetag158" name= + "footnotetag158"></a><a href="#footnote158"><sup>1</sup></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page473" id="page473"></a>[pg + 473]</span> The river of Canton, at the mouth of which this city + lies, is the only Chinese port, frequented by European ships; and + this river is indeed a more commodious harbour, on many accounts, + than Macao: But the peculiar customs of the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page474" id="page474"></a>[pg 474]</span> + Chinese, only adapted to the entertainment of trading ships, and + the apprehensions of the commodore, lest he should embroil the + East-India company with the regency of Canton, if he should + insist on being treated upon a different footing than the + merchantmen, made him resolve to go first to Macao, before he + ventured into the port of Canton. Indeed, had not this reason + prevailed with him, he himself had nothing to fear: For it is + certain that he might have entered the port of Canton, and might + have continued there as long as he pleased, and afterwards have + left it again, although the whole power of the Chinese empire had + been brought together to oppose him.</p> + + <p>The commodore, not to depart from his usual prudence, no + sooner came to an anchor in Macao road, than he dispatched an + officer with his compliments to the Portuguese governor of Macao, + requesting his excellency, by the same officer, to advise him in + what manner it would be proper to act, to avoid offending the + Chinese, which, as there were then four of our ships in their + power at Canton, was a matter worthy of attention. The + difficulty, which the commodore principally apprehended, related + to the duty usually paid by all ships in the river of Canton, + according to their tunnage. For as men of war are exempted in + every foreign harbour from all manner of port charges, the + commodore thought it would be derogatory to the honour of his + country to submit to this duty in China: And therefore he desired + the advice of the governor of Macao, who, being an European, + could not be ignorant of the privileges claimed by a British man + of war, and consequently might be expected to give us the best + lights for avoiding this perplexity. Our boat returned in the + evening with two officers sent by the governor, who informed the + commodore, that it was the governor's opinion, that if the + Centurion ventured into the river of Canton, the duty would + certainly be demanded; and therefore, if the commodore approved + of it, he would send him a pilot, who should conduct us into + another safe harbour, called the Typa, which was every way + commodious for careening the ship, (an operation we were resolved + to begin upon as soon as possible) and where the above-mentioned + duty would, in all probability, be never asked for.</p> + + <p>This proposal the commodore agreed to, and in the morning we + weighed anchor, and, under the direction of the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page475" id="page475"></a>[pg 475]</span> + Portuguese pilot, steered for the intended harbour. As we entered + two islands, which form the eastern passage to it, we found our + soundings decreased to three fathom and a half: But the pilot + assuring us that this was the least depth we should meet with, we + continued our course, till at length the ship stuck fast in the + mud, with only eighteen feet water abaft; and, the tide of ebb + making, the water sewed to sixteen feet, but the ship remained + perfectly upright; we then sounded all round us, and finding the + water deepened to the northward, we carried out our small bower + with two hawsers an end, and at the return of the tide of flood, + hove the ship afloat, and a small breeze springing up at the same + instant, we set the fore top-sail, and, slipping the hawser, ran + into the harbour, where we moored in about five fathom water. + This harbour of the Typa is formed by a number of islands, and is + about six miles distant from Macao. Here we saluted the castle of + Macao with eleven guns, which were returned by an equal + number.</p> + + <p>The next day the commodore paid a visit in person to the + governor, and was saluted at his landing by eleven guns, which + were returned by the Centurion. Mr Anson's business in this visit + was to solicit the governor to grant us a supply of provisions, + and to furnish us with such stores as were necessary to refit the + ship The governor seemed really inclined to do us all the service + he could, and assured the commodore, in a friendly manner, that + he would privately give us all the assistance in his power; but, + at the same time, frankly owned that he dared not openly furnish + us with any thing we demanded, unless we first procured an order + for it from the viceroy of Canton, for that he neither received + provisions for his garrison, nor any other necessaries, but by + permission from the Chinese government; and as they took care + only to furnish him from day to day, he was indeed no other than + their vassal, whom they could at all times compel to submit to + their own terms, only by laying an embargo on his provisions.</p> + + <p>On this declaration of the governor, Mr Anson resolved himself + to go to Canton to procure a license from the viceroy; and + accordingly hired a Chinese boat for himself and his attendants; + but just as he was ready to embark, the Hoppo, or Chinese + custom-house officer at Macao, refused to grant a permit to the + boat, and ordered the watermen not to proceed at their peril. The + commodore at first endeavoured <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page476" id="page476"></a>[pg 476]</span> to prevail with the + hoppo to withdraw his injunction, and to grant a permit; and the + governor of Macao employed his interest with the hoppo to the + same purpose. Mr Anson, finding the officer inflexible, told him + the next day, that if he longer refused to grant the permit, he + would man and arm his own boats to carry him thither; asking the + hoppo, at the same time, who he imagined would dare to oppose + him. This threat immediately brought about what his entreaties + had laboured for in vain: The permit was granted, and Mr Anson + went to Canton. On his arrival there he consulted with the + supercargoes and officers of the English ships, how to procure an + order from the viceroy for the necessaries he wanted; but in this + he had reason to suppose, that the advice they gave him, though + doubtless well intended, was yet not the most prudent; for as it + is the custom with these gentlemen never to apply to the supreme + magistrate himself, whatever difficulties they labour under, but + to transact all matters relating to the government by the + mediation of the principal Chinese merchants, Mr Anson was + advised to follow the same method upon this occasion, the English + promising (in which they were doubtless sincere) to exert all + their interest to engage the merchants in his favour. And when + the Chinese merchants were applied to, they readily undertook the + management of it, and promised to answer for its success; but + after near a month's delay, and reiterated excuses, during which + interval they pretended to be often upon the point of completing + the business, they at last (being pressed, and measures being + taken for delivering a letter to the viceroy) threw off the mask, + and declared they neither had applied to the viceroy nor could + they; for he was too great a man, they said, for them to approach + on any occasion. And, not contented with having themselves thus + grossly deceived the commodore, they now used all their + persuasion with the English at Canton, to prevent them from + intermeddling with any thing that regarded him, representing to + them; that it would in all probability embroil them with the + government, and occasion them a great deal of unnecessary + trouble; which groundless insinuations had indeed but too much + weight with those they were applied to.</p> + + <p>It may be difficult to assign a reason for this perfidious + conduct of the Chinese merchants: Interest indeed is known to + exert a boundless influence over the inhabitants of that + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page477" id="page477"></a>[pg + 477]</span> empire; but how their interest could be affected in + the present case is not easy to discover, unless they apprehended + that the presence of a ship of force might damp their Manilla + trade, and therefore acted in this manner with a view of forcing + the commodore to Batavia: But it might be as natural in this + light to suppose, that they would have been eager to have got him + dispatched. I, therefore, rather impute their behaviour to the + unparalleled pusillanimity of the nation, and to the awe they are + under of the government; for as such a ship as the Centurion, + fitted for war only, had never been seen in those parts before, + she was the horror of these dastards, and the merchants were in + some degree terrified even with the idea of her, and could not + think of applying to the viceroy (who is doubtless fond of all + opportunities of fleecing them) without representing to + themselves the pretences which a hungry and tyrannical magistrate + night possibly find, for censuring their intermeddling in so + unusual a transaction, in which he might pretend the interest of + the state was immediately concerned. However, be this as it may, + the commodore was satisfied that nothing was to be done by the + interposition of the merchants, as it was on his pressing them to + deliver a letter to the viceroy that they had declared they durst + not intermeddle, and had confessed, that, notwithstanding all + their pretences of serving him, they had not yet taken one step + towards it. Mr Anson therefore told them, that he would proceed + to Batavia and refit his ship there; but informed them, at the + same time, that this was impossible to be done, unless he was + supplied with a stock of provisions sufficient for his passage. + The merchants on this undertook to procure him provisions, but + assured him that it was what they durst not engage in openly, but + proposed to manage it in a clandestine manner, by putting a + quantity of bread, flour, and other provision, on board the + English ships, which were now ready to sail, and these were to + stop at the mouth of the Typa, where the Centurion's boats were + to receive it. This article, which the merchants represented as a + matter of great favour, being settled, the commodore, on the 16th + of December, returned from Canton to the ship, seemingly resolved + to proceed to Batavia to refit, as soon as he should get his + supplies of provision on board.</p> + + <p>But Mr Anson (who never intended going to Batavia) found, on + his return to the Centurion, that her main-mast <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page478" id="page478"></a>[pg 478]</span> was + sprung in two places, and that the leak was considerably + increased; so that, upon the whole, he was fully satisfied, that + though he should lay in a sufficient stock of provisions, yet it + would be impossible for him to put to sea without refitting: For, + if he left the port with his ship in her present condition, she + would be in the utmost danger of foundering, and therefore, + notwithstanding the difficulties he had met with, he resolved at + all events to have her hove down before he left Macao. He was + fully convinced, by what he had observed at Canton, that his + great caution not to injure the East India Company's affairs, and + the regard he had shown to the advice of their officers, had + occasioned all his embarrassments. For he now saw clearly, that + if he had at first carried his ship into the river of Canton, and + had immediately applied himself to the mandarines, who are the + chief officers of state, instead of employing the merchants to + apply for him, he would, in all probability, have had all his + requests granted, and would have been soon dispatched. He had + already lost a month by the wrong measures he had been put upon, + but he resolved to lose as little more time as possible; and, + therefore, the 17th of December, being the next day after his + return from Canton, he wrote a letter to the viceroy of that + place, acquainting him that he was commander-in-chief of a + squadron of his Britannic majesty's ships of war which had been + cruising for two years past in the South Seas against the + Spaniards, who were at war with the king his master; that, in his + way back to England, he had put into the port of Macao, having a + considerable leak in his ship, and being in great want of + provisions, so that it was impossible for him to proceed on his + voyage till his ship was repaired, and he was supplied with the + necessaries he wanted; that he had been at Canton, in hopes of + being admitted to a personal audience of his excellency, but + being a stranger to the customs of the country, he had not been + able to inform himself what steps were necessary to be taken to + procure such an audience, and therefore was obliged to apply to + him in this manner, to desire his excellency to give orders for + his being permitted to employ carpenters and proper workmen to + refit his ship, and to furnish himself with provisions and + stores, thereby to enable him to pursue his voyage to Great + Britain with this monsoon, hoping, at the same time, that these + orders would be issued with as little delay as possible, lest + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page479" id="page479"></a>[pg + 479]</span> it might occasion his loss of the season, and he + might be prevented, from departing till the next winter.</p> + + <p>This letter was translated into the Chinese language, and the + commodore delivered it himself to the hoppo, or chief officer of + the emperor's customs at Macao, desiring him to forward it to the + viceroy of Canton with as much expedition as he could. The + officer at first seemed unwilling to take charge of it, and + raised many difficulties about it, so that Mr Anson suspected him + of being in league with the merchants of Canton, who had always + shown a great apprehension of the commodore's having any + immediate intercourse with the viceroy or mandarines; and, + therefore, the commodore, with some resentment, took back his + letter from the hoppo, and told him he would immediately send, an + officer with it to Canton in his own boat, and would give him + positive orders not to return without an answer from the viceroy. + The hoppo, perceiving the commodore to be in earnest, and fearing + to be called to an account for his refusal, begged to be + entrusted with the letter, and promised to deliver it, and to + procure an answer as soon as possible. And now it was soon seen + how justly Mr Anson had at last judged of the proper manner of + dealing with the Chinese; for this letter was written but the + 17th of December, as hath been already observed, and on the 19th + in the morning, a mandarine of the first rank, who was governor + of the city of Janson, together with two mandarines of an + inferior class, and a great retinue of officers and servants, + having with them eighteen half gallies, decorated with a great + number of streamers, and furnished with music, and full of men, + came to grapnel a-head of the Centurion; whence the mandarine + sent a message to the commodore, telling him that he (the + mandarine) was ordered by the viceroy of Canton to examine the + condition of the ship, and desiring the ship's boat might be sent + to fetch him on board. The Centurion's boat was immediately + dispatched, and preparations were made for receiving him; for a + hundred of the most sightly of the crew were uniformly drest in + the regimentals of the marines, and were drawn up under arms on + the main-deck on his arrival. When he entered the ship he was + saluted by the drums, and what other military music there was on + board; and, passing by the new-formed guard, he was met by the + commodore on the quarter-deck, who conducted him to the great + cabin. Here the mandarine <span class="pagenum"><a name="page480" + id="page480"></a>[pg 480]</span> explained his commission, + declaring, that his business was to examine all the particulars + mentioned in the commodore's letter to the viceroy, and to + confront them with the representation that had been given of + them; that he was particularly instructed to inspect the leak, + and had for that purpose brought with him two Chinese carpenters; + and that, for the greater regularity and dispatch or his + business, he had every head of enquiry separately wrote down on a + sheet of paper, with a void space opposite to it, where he was to + insert such information and remarks thereon as he could procure + by his own observation.</p> + + <p>This mandarine appeared to be a person of very considerable + parts, and endowed with more frankness and honesty than is to be + found in the generality of the Chinese. After the proper + enquiries had been made, particularly about the leak, which the + Chinese carpenters reported to be as dangerous as it had been + represented, and consequently that it was impossible for the + Centurion to proceed to sea without being refitted, the mandarine + expressed himself satisfied with the account given in the + commodore's letter. And this magistrate, as he was more + intelligent than any other person of his nation that came to our + knowledge, so likewise was he more curious and inquisitive, + viewing each part of the ship with particular attention, and + appearing greatly surprised at the largeness of the lower-deck + guns, and at the weight and size of the shot. The commodore, + observing his astonishment, thought this a proper opportunity to + convince the Chinese of the prudence of granting him a speedy and + ample supply of all he wanted: With this view he told the + mandarine, and those who were with him, that, besides the demands + he made for a general supply, he had a particular complaint + against the proceedings of the custom-house of Macao; that at his + first arrival the Chinese boats had brought on board plenty of + greens, and variety of fresh provisions for daily use, for which + they had always been paid to their full satisfaction, but that + the custom-house officers at Macao had soon forbid them, by which + means he was deprived of those refreshments which were of the + utmost consequence to the health of his men after their long and + sickly voyage; that as they, the mandarines, had informed + themselves of his wants, and were eye-witnesses of the force and + strength of his ship, they might be satisfied it was not for want + of power to supply himself, that he desired <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page481" id="page481"></a>[pg 481]</span> the + permission of the government to purchase what provisions he stood + in need of; that they must be convinced that the Centurion alone + was capable of destroying the whole navigation of the port of + Canton, or of any other port in China, without running the least + risk from all the force the Chinese could collect; that it was + true this was not the manner of proceeding between nations in + friendship with each other, but it was likewise true that it was + not customary for any nation to permit the ships of their friends + to starve and sink in their ports, when those friends had money + to supply their wants, and only desired liberty to lay it out; + that they must confess he and his people had hitherto behaved + with great modesty and reserve, but that, as his wants were each + day increasing, hunger would at last prove too strong for any + restraint, and necessity was acknowledged in all countries to be + superior to every other law, and therefore it could not be + expected that his crew would long continue to starve in the midst + of that plenty to which their eyes were every day witnesses. To + this the commodore added, (though perhaps with a less serious + air,) that if by the delay of supplying him with fresh provisions + his men should be reduced to the necessity of turning cannibals, + and preying upon their own species, it was easy to be foreseen, + that, independent of their friendship to their comrades, they + would, in point of luxury, prefer the plump well-fed Chinese to + their own emaciated shipmates. The first mandarine acquiesced in + the justness of this reasoning, and told the commodore that he + should that night proceed for Canton; that on his arrival a + counsel of mandarines would be summoned, of which he himself was + a member, and that by being employed in the present commission, + he was of course the commodore's advocate; that, as he was fully + convinced of the urgency of Mr Anson's necessity, he did not + doubt but on his representation the counsel would be of the same + opinion; and that all that was demanded would be amply and + speedily granted. And with regard to the commodore's complaint of + the custom-house of Macao, he undertook to rectify that + immediately by his own authority; for, desiring a list to be + given him of the quantity of provision necessary for the expense + of the ship for a day, he wrote a permit under it, and delivered + it to one of his attendants, directing him to see that quantity + sent on board early every morning; <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page482" id="page482"></a>[pg 482]</span> and this order, from + that time forwards, was punctually complied with.<a id= + "footnotetag159" name="footnotetag159"></a><a href= + "#footnote159"><sup>2</sup></a></p> + + <p>When this weighty affair was thus in some degree regulated, + the commodore invited him and his two attendant mandarines to + dinner, telling them at the same time, that if his provisions, + either in kind or quantity, were not what they might expect, they + must thank themselves for having confined him to so hard an + allowance. One of his dishes was beef, which the Chinese all + dislike, though Mr Anson was not apprized of it; this seems to be + derived from the India superstition, which for some ages past has + made a great progress in China. However, his guests did not + entirely fast; <span class="pagenum"><a name="page483" id= + "page483"></a>[pg 483]</span> for the three mandarines completely + finished the white part of four large fowls. But they were + extremely embarrassed with their knives and forks, and were quite + incapable of making use of them: So that, after some fruitless + attempts to help themselves, which were sufficiently awkward, one + of the attendants was obliged to cut their meat in small pieces + for them. But whatever difficulty they might have in complying + with the European manner of eating, they seemed not to be novices + in drinking. The commodore excused himself in this part of the + entertainment, under the pretence of illness; but there being + another gentleman present, of a florid and jovial complexion, the + chief mandarine clapped him on the shoulder, and told him by the + interpreter, that certainly he could not plead sickness, and + therefore insisted on his bearing him company; and that gentleman + perceiving, that after they had dispatched four or five bottles + of Frontiniac, the mandarine still continued unruffled, he + ordered a bottle of citron-water to be brought up, which the + Chinese seemed much to relish; and this being near finished, they + arose from table in appearance cool and uninfluenced by what they + had drank, and the commodore having, according to custom, made + the mandarine a present, they all departed in the same vessels + that brought them.</p> + + <p>After their departure, the commodore with great impatience + expected the resolution of the council, and the necessary + licences for his refitment. For it must be observed, as hath + already appeared from the preceding narration, that he could + neither purchase stores nor necessaries with his money, nor did + any kind of workmen dare to engage themselves to work for him, + without the permission of the government first obtained. And in + the execution of these particular injunctions, the magistrates + never fail of exercising great severity, they, notwithstanding + the fustian eulogiums bestowed on them by the catholic + missionaries and their European copiers, being composed of the + same fragile materials with the rest of mankind, and often making + use of the authority of the law, not to suppress crimes, but to + enrich themselves by the pillage of those who commit them; for + capital punishments are rare in China, the effeminate genius of + the nation, and their strong attachment to lucre, disposing them + rather to make use of fines; and hence arises no inconsiderable + profit to those who compose <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page484" id="page484"></a>[pg 484]</span> their tribunals: + Consequently prohibitions of all kinds, particularly such as the + alluring prospect of great profit may often tempt the subject to + infringe, cannot but be favourite institutions in such a + government. But to return:</p> + + <p>Some time before this, Captain Saunders took his passage to + England on board a Swedish ship, and was charged with dispatches + from the commodore; and soon after, in the month of December, + Captain Mitchel, Colonel Cracherode, and Mr Tassel, one of the + agent-victuallers, with his nephew Mr Charles Harriot, embarked + on board some of our company's ships; and I, having obtained, the + commodore's leave to return home, embarked with them.</p> + + <p>Whilst we lay here at Macao, we were informed by some of the + officers of our Indiamen, that the Severn and Pearl, the two + ships of our squadron, which had separated from us off Cape Noir, + were safely arrived at Rio Janeiro on the coast of Brazil. I have + formerly taken notice, that at the time of their separation, we + apprehended them to be lost. And there were many reasons which + greatly favoured this suspicion: For we knew that the Severn in + particular was extremely sickly; and this was the more obvious to + the rest of the ships, as, in the preceding part of the voyage, + her commander, Captain Legg, had been remarkable for his + exemplary punctuality in keeping his station, till, for the last + ten days before his separation, his crew was so diminished and + enfeebled, that with his utmost efforts it was not possible for + him to maintain it. Whatever was the cause of it, the Severn was + by much the most sickly of the squadron: For before her departure + from St Catharines, she buried more men than any of them, + insomuch that the commodore was obliged to recruit her with a + number of fresh hands; and the mortality still continuing, she + was supplied with men a second time at sea, after our setting + sail from St Julians; and, notwithstanding these different + reinforcements, she was at last reduced to the distressed + condition I have already mentioned.</p> + + <p>Notwithstanding the favourable disposition of the mandarine + governor of Janson, at his leaving Mr Anson, several days were + elapsed before he had any advice from him; and Mr Anson was + privately informed there were great debates in council upon his + affair; partly perhaps owing to its being so unusual a case, and + in part to the influence, as I suppose, of the French at Canton: + For they had a countryman <span class="pagenum"><a name="page485" + id="page485"></a>[pg 485]</span> and fast friend residing on the + spot, who spoke the language very well, and was not unacquainted + with the venality of the government, nor with the persons of + several of the magistrates, and consequently could not be at a + loss for means of traversing the assistance desired by Mr Anson. + And this opposition of the French was not merely the effect of + national prejudice or contrariety of political interests, but was + in good measure owing to their vanity, a motive of much more + weight with the generality of mankind, than any attachment to the + public service of their community: For, the French pretending + their Indiamen to be men of war, their officers were apprehensive + that any distinction granted to Mr Anson, on account of his + bearing the king's commission, would render them less + considerable in the eyes of the Chinese, and would establish a + prepossession at Canton in favour of ships of war, by which they, + as trading vessels, would suffer in their importance: And I wish + the affectation of endeavouring to pass for men of war, and the + fear of sinking in the estimation of the Chinese, if the + Centurion was treated in a different manner from themselves, had + been confined to the officers of the French ships only.<a id= + "footnotetag160" name="footnotetag160"></a><a href= + "#footnote160"><sup>3</sup></a> However, notwithstanding all + these obstacles, it should seem that the representation of the + commodore to the mandarines of the facility with which he could + right himself, if justice were denied him, had at last its + effect: For, on the 6th of January, in the morning, the governor + of Janson, the commodore's advocate, sent down the viceroy of + Canton's warrant for the refitment of the Centurion, and for + supplying her people with all they wanted; and the next day a + number of Chinese smiths and carpenters went on board to agree + for the work. They demanded at first to the amount of a thousand + pounds sterling for the necessary repairs of the ship, the boats, + and the masts: This the commodore seemed to think an unreasonable + sum, and endeavoured to persuade them to work by the day; but + that proposal they would not hearken to; so it was at last + agreed, that the carpenters should have to the amount of about + six hundred pounds; and that the smiths should be paid for their + iron-work by weight, allowing them at the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page486" id="page486"></a>[pg 486]</span> rate + of three pounds a hundred nearly for the small work, and + forty-six shillings for the large.</p> + + <p>This being regulated, the commodore exerted himself to get + this most important business completed; I mean the heaving down + the Centurion, and examining the state of her bottom: For this + purpose the first lieutenant was dispatched to Canton to hire two + country vessels, called in their language junks, one of them + being intended to heave down by, and the other to serve as a + magazine for the powder and ammunition: At the same time the + ground was smoothed on one of the neighbouring islands, and a + large tent was pitched for lodging the lumber and provisions, and + near a hundred Chinese caulkers were soon set to work on the + decks and sides of the ship. But all these preparations, and the + getting ready the careening gear, took up a great deal of time; + for the Chinese caulkers, though they worked very well, were far + from being expeditions; and it was the 26th of January before the + junks arrived; and the necessary materials, which were to be + purchased at Canton, came down very slowly, partly from the + distance of the place, and partly from the delays and + backwardness of the Chinese merchants. And in this interval Mr + Anson had the additional perplexity to discover that his + fore-mast was broken asunder above the upper deck partners, and + was only kept together by the fishes which had been formerly + clapt upon it.</p> + + <p>However, the Centurion's people made the most of their time, + and exerted themselves the best they could; and as, by clearing + the ship, the carpenters were enabled to come at the leak, they + took care to secure that effectually, whilst the other + preparations were going forwards. The leak was found to be below + the fifteen-foot mark, and was principally occasioned by one of + the bolts being wore away and loose in the joining of the stem + where it was scarfed.</p> + + <p>At last all things being prepared, they, on the 22d of + February, in the morning, hove out the first course of the + Centurion's starboard side, and had the satisfaction to find that + her bottom appeared sound and good; and, the next day (having by + that time completed the new sheathing of the first course) they + righted her again, to set up anew the careening rigging which + stretched much. Thus they continued heaving down, and often + righting the ship from a <span class="pagenum"><a name="page487" + id="page487"></a>[pg 487]</span> suspicion of their careening + tackle, till the 3d of March; when, having completed the paying + and sheathing the bottom, which proved to be every where very + sound, they for the last time righted the ship to their great + joy, for not only the fatigue of careening had been considerable, + but they had been apprehensive of being attacked by the + Spaniards, whilst the ship was thus incapacitated for defence. + Nor were their fears altogether groundless; for they learnt + afterwards by a Portuguese vessel, that the Spaniards at Manilla + had been informed that the Centurion was in the Typa, and + intended to careen there; and that thereupon the governor had + summoned his council, and had proposed to them to endeavour to + burn her whilst she was careening, which was an enterprise, + which, if properly conducted, might have put them in great + danger: They were farther told that this scheme was not only + proposed, but resolved on; and that a captain of a vessel had + actually undertaken to perform the business for forty thousand + dollars, which he was not to receive unless he succeeded; but the + governor pretending that there was no treasure in the royal + chest, and insisting that the merchants should advance the money, + and they refusing to comply with the demand, the affair was + dropped: Perhaps the merchants suspected that the whole was only + a pretext to get forty thousand dollars from them; and indeed + this was affirmed by some who bore the governor no good will, but + with what truth it is difficult to ascertain.</p> + + <p>As soon as the Centurion was righted, they took in her powder + and gunner's stores, and proceeded in getting in their guns as + fast as possible, and then used their utmost; expedition in + repairing the fore-mast, and in completing the other articles of + her refitment. And being thus employed, they were alarmed on the + 10th of March, by a Chinese fisherman, who brought them + intelligence that he had been on board a large Spanish ship off + the grand Ladrone, and that there were two more in company with + her: He added several particulars to his relation, as that he had + brought one of their officers to Macao; and that, on this, boats + went off early in the morning from Macao to them: And the better + to establish the belief of his veracity, he said he desired no + money if his information should not prove true. This was + presently believed to be the fore-mentioned <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page488" id="page488"></a>[pg 488]</span> + expedition from Manilla, and the commodore immediately fitted his + cannon and small arms in the best manner he could for defence; + and having; then his pinnace and cutter in the offing, who had + been ordered to examine a Portuguese vessel which was getting + under sail, he sent them the advice he had received, and directed + them to look out strictly: But no such ships ever appeared, and + they were soon satisfied the whole of the story was a fiction; + though it was difficult to conceive what reason could induce the + fellow to be at such extraordinary pains to impose on them.</p> + + <p>It was the beginning of April before they had new-rigged the + ship, stowed their provisions and water on board, and had fitted + her for the sea; and before this time the Chinese grew very + uneasy, and extremely desirous that she should be gone; either + not knowing, or pretending not to believe, that this was a point + the commodore was as eagerly set on as they could be. On the 3d + of April, two mandarine boats came on board from Macao to urge + his departure; and this having been often done before, though + there had been no pretence to suspect Mr Anson of any affected + delays, he at this last message answered them in a determined + tone, desiring them to give him no further trouble, for he would + go when he thought proper, and not before. On this rebuke the + Chinese (though it was not in their power to compel him to be + gone) immediately prohibited all provisions from being carried on + board him, and took such care that their injunctions should be + complied with, that from that time forwards nothing could be + purchased at any rate whatever.</p> + + <p>On the 6th of April, the Centurion weighed from the Typa, and + warped to the southward; and by the 15th, she was got into Macao + road, completing her water as she passed along, so that there + remained now very few articles more to attend to, and her whole + business being finished by the 19th, she, at three in the + afternoon of that day, weighed and made sail, and stood to + sea.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page489" id= + "page489"></a>[pg 489]</span> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote158" name="footnote158"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag158">(return)</a> + + <p>This circumspection has never availed much. The Portuguese + obtained this port and the adjoining territory of about 8 miles + in circuit, as a reward for assistance given in extirpating a + pirate who took refuge here. But the ingratitude of the Chinese + always grudged, and often violated, the immunities thus won + from their fears. The city, built after the European model, and + originally possessed of both military strength and commercial + consequence, has, through the carelessness of the Portuguese, + and the exactions and insolence of their neighbours, dwindled + into comparative insignificance. According to Sir George + Staunton's account, the population does not now exceed 12000, + and more than half is Chinese. In short, Macao is virtually a + Chinese town, where the Portuguese are merely tolerated. The + Chinese, it is certain, require almost any other treatment than + condescension and good manners. The reader will soon see in the + narrative how practicable it is to reduce them to common + senseone of the ingredients of it they have in a high degree, + the desire of self-preservation. The following quotation from a + work recently published, may amuse him in the mean time, and + serves besides to confirm the statement of the text. "The + situation of the Portuguese in Macao is particularly + restrained, and that of their governor extremely unpleasant to + him. Although the latter invariably conducts himself with the + greatest circumspection, cases still arise in which he cannot + give way without entirely sacrificing the honour of his + country, already greatly diminished in the eyes of the Chinese. + A few months only before our arrival (November 1805,) a + circumstance happened fully illustrative of this; an account of + which may tend to prove that, if the Portuguese possessed + greater power at Macao, the cowardly Chinese would not dare to + treat them with so little consideration, or, to speak more + correctly, with so much contempt. If Macao were in the hands of + the English, or even of the Spaniards, the shameful dependence + of this possession on the Chinese would soon fall to the + ground; and, with the assistance of their important possessions + in the vicinity of China, either of these nations established + in Macao might bid defiance to the whole empire. A Portuguese + resident at Macao stabbed a Chinese, but being rich, he offered + the family of the deceased a sum of money to suffer the affair + to drop. This was agreed to, and he paid 4000 piastres; + scarcely, however, had he given the money, when the affair was + represented to the Chinese magistracy, who exacted from the + governor that the criminal should be instantly given up. The + latter refused, alleging, that, as the deed was committed in + Macao, he was liable to the Portuguese law, according to which + he would be punished if they found him guilty. The Chinese, who + wished to inflict punishment on the Portuguese, immediately on + the receipt of this answer shut up all their booths, and + forbade the importation of provisions into Macao; but the + governor, who had two years stock of provisions for his + garrison, (we shall find it was otherwise with the governor in + Anson's time) troubled himself very little with this threat, + and still refused to give up the criminal; in the mean time his + trial went on; he was found guilty of the murder, and + immediately hanged. The Chinese assembled with the intention of + endeavouring to seize the perpetrator of the murder whilst on + his way to the scaffold: The governor collected his troops, + loaded the artillery on the batteries, and awaited the attack; + and, alarmed at his decisive measures, the Chinese withdrew, + under the pretence of being perfectly satisfied with the + execution of the murderer, and order was immediately restored." + The work from which this is extracted is Captain Krusenstern's + account of his voyage round the world, in 1803-4-5 and 6; being + the first circumnavigation the Russians have made, and that too + under the patronage and by the command of the most magnanimous + and beneficient Alexander, a monarch whom every friend of + humanity must admire and love from the heart, as surpassing + even his liberality in the promotion of useful science and + discovery amongst his own subjects, by the splendour and + substantial value of his services in the best interests of + Europe, and the world:</p> + + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p>Non possidentem multa vocaveris</p> + + <p>Recte beatum: rectius occupat</p> + + <p>Nomen beati, qui deorum</p> + + <p>Muneribus sapienter uti,</p> + + <p>Duramque callet <i>pauperiem</i> pati,</p> + + <p>Pejusque leto flagitium timet;</p> + + <p>Non ille pro caris <i>amicis</i></p> + + <p>Aut patria timidus perire.</p> + </div> + </div> + + <p>To return to Macao: Captain K. strongly expresses his wish + that some European power of sufficient energy and consequence + would take possession of it, before the Portuguese themselves + abandon it to the Chinese. It is evident he alludes to the + English. An agreement, it is very probable, might be readily + entered into with the Portuguese for the possession of that + place, which could not fail to prove most convenient for our + eastern commerce. An equivalent may be found among the West + Indian islands; but it is perhaps equally vain and invidious to + speculate on such very distant concerns, when the wonderful + events now occurring in a kingdom so long the torment and the + <i>teacher</i> of nations, arrest the imagination from every + trivial selfish pursuit, and fix the mind undividedly on the + operations of the great source of power, justice, and truth. A + new &#230;ra commences in the worldMay it be remarkable to + all succeeding generations for liberal policy, + disinterestedness, and general benevolence!E.</p> + + <p>12th April, 1814.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote159" name="footnote159"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag159">(return)</a> + + <p>Captain Krusenstern, in his very interesting work already + referred to, relates an anecdote, which it may amuse the reader + to compare with the reasoning of Commodore Anson's now + given:</p> + + <p>"An English brig (The Harrier) of eighteen guns, sent by + Captain Wood, commanding a squadron on that station, to demand + indemnification for a Spanish prize stranded on the coast of + China, and plundered by the natives, had the audacity, in + defiance of the laws of China, which prohibit ships of war + going up the Tigris, to force her way as high as Whampoa. Two + mandarines, as usual, went aboard the brig at the mouth of the + river, to enquire what her cargo was. The captain shewed them a + cannon-ball, on which they instantly retired.</p> + + <p>"The brig," says K. "had found her way to Whampoa without a + pilot; and the captain, with a guard of twelve men, proceeded + to Canton to demand the payment of the sum (£30,000.) + This daring conduct threw the viceroy into astonishment, and + perhaps occasioned him some terror; for nothing but the + excessive cowardice of the Chinese could have deterred him from + noticing the affront. They, indeed, shewed a disposition after + the captain had quitted Canton of avenging themselves, but this + altogether in their customary manner; and I was assured, that + the viceroy, as indemnification for this insult of the English + captain, had imposed a heavy fine upon the Kohong (a company of + merchants possessing the monopoly of the European trade,) + although the members of this body could have no concern in the + transaction." Capt. K. is decidedly of opinion, that nothing + but resolute conduct will overcome the fickleness and knavery + of the Chinese. He pays a high compliment to our countrymen, + especially Mr Drummond, president of the factory, who + interfered in his behalf when at Whampoa, and with effect, when + they could easily have thwarted his plan, and embroiled his + government with that of China. "That they pursued a very + different line of conduct," says he, "will appear by the above + account of their proceedings; nor can I sufficiently rejoice at + the zeal and eagerness manifested by them in this business. Had + we been detained only twenty-four-hours longer (he had applied + for leave to depart, which was granted with much difficulty, + and actually revoked a day after he had gone,) we must have + fallen into the absolute power of these savages, who have been + emboldened by an useless moderation, not only to call the + polite nations of Europe barbarians, but also to treat them as + such."E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote160" name="footnote160"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag160">(return)</a> + + <p>This sly insinuation, it is pretty evident from the + preceding narrative, is directed against some of the English + merchants.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XXX.</h3> + + <h4><i>From Macao to Cape Espiritu Santo; the taking of the + Manilla Galleon, and returning back again.</i></h4> + + <p>The commodore was now got to sea, with his ship very well + refitted, his stores replenished, and an additional stock of + provisions on board: His crew too was somewhat reinforced; for he + had entered twenty-three men during his stay at Macao, the + greatest part of which were Lascars or Indian sailors, and some + few Dutch. He gave out at Macao that he was bound to Batavia, and + thence to England; and though the westerly monsoon was now set + in, when that passage is considered as impracticable, yet, by the + confidence he had expressed in the strength of his ship, and the + dexterity of his people, he had persuaded not only his own crew, + but the people at Macao likewise, that he proposed to try this + unusual experiment; so that there were many letters put on board + him by the inhabitants of Canton and Macao for their friends at + Batavia.</p> + + <p>But his real design was of a very different nature: For he + knew, that instead of one annual ship from Acapulco to Manilla, + there would be this year in all probability two; since, by being + before Acapulco, he had prevented one of them from putting to sea + the preceding season. He therefore resolved to cruise for these + returning vessels off Cape Espiritu Santo, on the island of + Samal, which is the first land they always make in the Philippine + Islands. And as June is generally the month in which they arrive + there, he doubted not but he should get to his intended station + time enough to intercept them. It is true, they were said to be + stout vessels, mounting forty-four guns a-piece, and carrying + above five hundred hands, and might be expected to return in + company; and he himself had but two hundred and twenty-seven + hands on board, of which near thirty were boys: But this + disproportion of strength did not deter him, as he knew his ship + to be much better fitted for a sea-engagement than theirs, and as + he had reason to expect that his men would exert themselves in + the most extraordinary manner, when they had in view the immense + wealth of these Manilla galleons.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page490" id="page490"></a>[pg 490]</span> + + <p>This project the commodore had resolved on in his own + thoughts, ever since his leaving the coast of Mexico. And the + greatest mortification which he received, from the various delays + he had met with in China, was his apprehension, lest he might be + thereby so long retarded as to let the galleons escape him. + Indeed, at Macao it was incumbent on him to keep these views + extremely secret; for there being a great intercourse and a + mutual connection of interests between that port and Manilla, he + had reason to fear, that if his designs were discovered, + intelligence would be immediately sent to Manilla, and measures + taken to prevent the galleons from falling into his hands: But + being now at sea, and entirely clear of the coast, he summoned + all his people on the quarter-deck, and informed them of his + resolution to cruise for the two Manilla ships, of whose wealth + they were not ignorant. He told them he should chuse a station, + where he could not fail of meeting with them; and though they + were stout ships, and full manned, yet, if his own people behaved + with their accustomed spirit, he was certain he should prove too + hard for them both, and that one of them at least could not fail + of becoming his prize: He further added, that many ridiculous + tales had been propagated about the strength of the sides of + these ships, and their being impenetrable to cannon-shot; that + these fictions had been principally invented to palliate the + cowardice of those who had formerly engaged them; but he hoped + there were none of those present weak enough to give credit to so + absurd a story: For his own part, he did assure them upon his + word, that, whenever he met with them, he would fight them so + near, that they should find, his bullets, instead of being + stopped by one of their sides, should go through them both.</p> + + <p>This speech of the commodore's was received by his people with + great joy: For no sooner had he ended, than they expressed their + approbation, according to naval custom, by three strenuous + cheers, and all declared their determination to succeed or + perish, whenever the opportunity presented itself. And now their + hopes, which, since their departure from the coast of Mexico, had + entirely subsided, were again revived; and they all persuaded + themselves, that, notwithstanding the various casualties and + disappointments they had hitherto met with, they should yet be + repaid the price of their fatigues, and should at last return + home enriched <span class="pagenum"><a name="page491" id= + "page491"></a>[pg 491]</span> with the spoils of the enemy: For, + firmly relying on the assurances of the commodore, that they + should certainly meet with the vessels, they were all of them too + sanguine to doubt a moment of mastering them; so that they + considered themselves as having them already in their possession. + And this confidence was so universally spread through the whole + ship's company, that, the commodore having taken some Chinese + sheep to sea with him for his own provision, and one day + enquiring of his butcher, why, for some time past, he had seen no + mutton at his table, asking him if all the sheep were killed, the + butcher very seriously replied, that there were indeed two sheep + left, but that, if his honour would give him leave, he proposed + to keep those for the entertainment of the general of the + galleons.</p> + + <p>When the Centurion left the port of Macao, she stood for some + days to the westward; and, on the first of May, they saw part of + the island of Formosa; and, standing thence to the southward, + they, on the 4th of May, were in the latitude of the Bashee + islands, as laid down by Dampier; but they suspected his account + of inaccuracy, as they found that he had been considerably + mistaken in the latitude of the south end of Formosa: For this + reason they kept a good look-out, and about seven in the evening + discovered from the mast-head five small islands, which were + judged to be the Bashees, and they had afterwards a sight of + Bottle Tobago Xima. By this means they had an opportunity of + correcting the position of the Bashee islands, which had been + hitherto laid down twenty-five leagues too far to the westward: + For, by their observations, they esteemed the middle of these + islands to be in 21° 4' north, and to bear from Botel + Tobago Xima S.S.E. twenty leagues distant, that island itself + being in 21° 57' north.<a id="footnotetag161" name= + "footnotetag161"></a><a href= + "#footnote161"><sup>1</sup></a></p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page492" id="page492"></a>[pg 492]</span> + + <p>After getting a sight of the Bashee islands, they stood + between the S. and S.W. for Cape Espiritu Santo; and, the 20th of + May at noon, they first discovered that cape, which about four + o'clock they brought to bear S.S.W. about eleven leagues distant. + It appeared to be of a moderate height, with several round + hummocks on it. As it was known that there were centinels placed + upon this cape to make signals to the Acapulco ship, when she + first falls in with the land, the commodore immediately tacked, + and ordered the top-gallant sails to be taken in, to prevent + being discovered; and, this being the station in which it was + resolved to cruise for the galleons, they kept the cape between + the south and the west, and endeavoured to confine themselves + between the latitude of 12° 50', and 13° 5', + the cape itself lying, by their observations, in 12° 40' + north, and 4° of east longitude from Botel Tobago + Xima.</p> + + <p>It was the last of May, when they arrived off this cape; and + the month of June being that in which the Manilla ships are + usually expected, the Centurion's people were now waiting each + hour with the utmost impatience for the happy crisis which was to + balance the account of all their past calamities. As from this + time there was but small employment for the crew, the commodore + ordered them almost every day to be exercised in the management + of the great guns, and in the use of their small arms. This had + been his practice, more or less, at all convenient seasons, + during the whole course of his voyage; and the advantages which + he received from it, in his engagement with the galleon, were an + ample recompence for all his care and attention.<a id= + "footnotetag162" name="footnotetag162"></a><a href= + "#footnote162"><sup>2</sup></a></p> + + <p>The galleons being now expected, the commodore made all + necessary preparations for receiving them, having hoisted out his + long-boat, and lashed her alongside, that the ship might be ready + for engaging, if they fell in with the galleons in the night. All + this time too he was very solicitous to keep at such a distance + from the cape, as not to be discovered: <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page493" id="page493"></a>[pg 493]</span> But + it hath been since learnt, that notwithstanding his care, he was + seen from the land; and advice of him was sent to Manilla, where + it was at first disbelieved, but on reiterated intelligence (for + it seems he was seen more than once) their merchants were + alarmed, and the governor was applied to, who undertook (the + commerce supplying the necessary sums) to fit out a force + consisting of two ships of thirty-two guns, one of twenty guns, + and two sloops of ten guns each, to attack the Centurion on her + station: And some of these vessels did actually weigh with this + view; but the principal ship not being ready, and the monsoon + being against then, the commerce and the governor disagreed, and + the enterprize was laid aside. This frequent discovery of the + Centurion from the shore was somewhat extraordinary; for the + pitch of the cape is not high, and she usually kept from ten to + fifteen leagues distant; though once indeed, by an indraught of + the tide, as was supposed, they found themselves in the morning + within seven leagues of the land.</p> + + <p>As the month of June advanced, the expectancy and impatience + of the commodore's people each day increased. And I think no + better idea can be given of their great eagerness on this + occasion, than by copying a few paragraphs from the journal of an + officer, who was then on board, as it will, I presume, be a more + natural picture of the full attachment of their thoughts to the + business of their cruise, than can be given by any other means. + The paragraphs I have selected, as they occur in order of time, + are as follow:</p> + + <p>"<i>May</i> 31. Exercising our men at their quarters, in great + expectation of meeting with the galleons very soon; this being + the eleventh of June their stile."</p> + + <p>"<i>June</i> 3. Keeping in our stations, and looking out for + the galleons."</p> + + <p>"<i>June</i> 5. Begin now to be in great expectation, this + being the middle of June their stile."</p> + + <p>"<i>June</i> 11. Begin to grow impatient at not seeing the + galleons."</p> + + <p>"<i>June</i> 13. The wind having blown fresh easterly for the + forty-eight hours past, gives us great expectations of seeing the + galleons soon."</p> + + <p>"<i>June</i> 15. Cruising on and off, and looking out + strictly."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page494" id= + "page494"></a>[pg 494]</span> + + <p>"<i>June</i> 19. This being the last day of June, N.S. the + galleons, if they arrive at all, must appear soon."</p> + + <p>From these samples it is sufficiently evident, how completely + the treasure of the galleons had engrossed their imagination, and + how anxiously they passed the latter part of their cruise, when + the certainty of the arrival of these vessels was dwindled down + to probability only, and that probability became each hour more + and more doubtful. However, on the 20th of June, O.S. being just + a month from their arrival on their station, they were relieved + from this state of uncertainty; when, at sun-rise, they + discovered a sail from the mast-head, in the S.E. quarter. On + this, a general joy spread through the whole ship; for they had + no doubt but this was one of the galleons, and they expected soon + to see the other. The commodore instantly stood towards her, and + at half an hour after seven they were near enough to see her from + the Centurion's deck; at which time the galleon fired a gun, and + took in her top-gallant sails, which was supposed to be a signal + to her consort, to hasten her up; and therefore the Centurion + fired a gun to leeward, to amuse her. The commodore was surprised + to find, that in all this time the galleon did not change her + course, but continued to bear down upon him; for he hardly + believed, what afterwards appeared to be the case, that she knew + his ship to be the Centurion, and resolved to fight him.</p> + + <p>About noon the commodore was little more than a league distant + from the galleon, and could fetch her wake, so that she could not + now escape; and, no second ship appearing, it was concluded that + she had been separated from her consort. Soon after, the galleon + haled up her fore-sail, and brought-to under top-sails, with her + head to the northward, hoisting Spanish colours, and having the + standard of Spain flying at the top-gallant-mast-head. Mr Anson, + in the mean time, had prepared all things for an engagement on + board the Centurion, and had taken all possible care, both for + the most effectual exertion of his small strength, and for the + avoiding the confusion and tumult too frequent in actions of this + kind. He picked out about thirty of his choicest hands and best + marksmen, whom he distributed into his tops, and who fully + answered his expectation, by the signal services they performed. + As he had not hands enough remaining to quarter a sufficient + number to each <span class="pagenum"><a name="page495" id= + "page495"></a>[pg 495]</span> great gun, in the customary manner, + he therefore, on his lower tire, fixed only two men to each gun, + who were to be solely employed in loading it, whilst the rest of + his people were divided into different gangs of ten or twelve men + each, who were constantly moving about the decks, to ran out and + fire such guns as were loaded. By this management he was enabled + to make use of all his guns; and, instead of firing broad-sides + with intervals between them, he kept up a constant fire without + intermission, whence he doubted not to procure very signal + advantages; for it is common with the Spaniards to fall down upon + the decks when they see a broadside preparing, and to continue in + that posture till it is given; after which they rise again, and, + presuming the danger to be for some time over, work their guns, + and fire with great briskness, till another broad-side is ready: + But the firing gun by gun, in the manner directed by the + commodore, rendered this practice of theirs impossible.</p> + + <p>The Centurion being thus prepared, and nearing the galleon + apace, there happened, a little after noon, several squalls of + wind and rain, which often obscured the galleon from their sight; + but whenever it cleared up, they observed her resolutely + lying-to; and, towards one o'clock, the Centurion hoisted her + broad pendant and colours, she being then within gun-shot of the + enemy. And the commodore observing the Spaniards to have + neglected clearing their ship till that time, as he then saw them + throwing overboard cattle and lumber, he gave orders to fire upon + them with the chace-guns, to embarrass them in their work, and + prevent them from completing it, though his general directions + had been not to engage till they were within pistol-shot. The + galleon returned the fire with two of her stern-chacers; and, the + Centurion getting her sprit-sail-yard fore and aft, that if + necessary she might be ready for boarding, the Spaniards in a + bravado rigged their sprit-sail-yard fore and aft likewise. Soon + after, the Centurion came a-breast of the enemy within + pistol-shot, keeping to the leeward with a view of preventing + them from putting before the wind, and gaining the port of + Jalapay, from which they were about seven leagues distant. And + now the engagement began in earnest, and, for the first half + hour, Mr Anson over-reached the galleon, and lay on her bow; + where, by the great wideness of his ports, he could traverse + almost all his guns upon the enemy, whilst the galleon could only + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page496" id="page496"></a>[pg + 496]</span> bring a part of hers to bear. Immediately on the + commencement of the action, the mats, with which the galleon had + stuffed her netting, took fire, and burnt violently, blazing up + half as high as the mizen-top. This accident (supposed to be + caused by the Centurion's wads) threw the enemy into great + confusion, and at the same time alarmed the commodore, for he + feared least the galleon should be burnt, and least he himself + too might suffer by her driving on board him: But the Spaniards + at last freed themselves from the fire, by cutting away the + netting, and tumbling the whole mass, which was in flames, into + the sea. But still the Centurion kept her first advantageous + position, firing her cannon with great regularity and briskness, + whilst at the same time the galleon's decks lay open to her + top-men, who, having at their first volley driven the Spaniards + from their tops, made prodigious havock with their small-arms, + killing or wounding every officer but one that ever appeared on + the quarter-deck, and wounding in particular the general of the + galleon himself. And though the Centurion, after the first half + hour, lost her original situation, and was close alongside the + galleon, and the enemy continued to fire briskly for near an hour + longer, yet at last the commodore's grape-shot swept their decks + so effectually, and the number of their slain and wounded was so + considerable, that they began to fall into great disorder, + especially as the general, who was the life of the action, was no + longer capable of exerting himself. Their embarrassment was + visible from on board the commodore. For the ships were so near, + that some of the Spanish officers were seen running about with + great assiduity, to prevent the desertion of their men from their + quarters: But all their endeavours were in vain; for after + having, as a last effort, fired five or six guns with more + judgment than usual, they gave up the contest; and, the galleon's + colours being singed off the ensign-staff in the beginning of the + engagement, she struck the standard at her + main-top-gallant-mast-head, the person who was employed to do it, + having been in imminent peril of being killed, had not the + commodore, who perceived what he was about, given express orders + to his people to desist from firing.</p> + + <p>Thus was the Centurion possessed of this rich prize, amounting + in value to near a million and a half of dollars. She was called + the Nostra Signora de Cabadonga, and was <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page497" id="page497"></a>[pg 497]</span> + commanded by the general Don Jeronimo de Montero, a Portuguese by + birth, and the most approved officer for skill and courage of any + employed in that service. The galleon, was much larger than the + Centurion, had five hundred and fifty men and thirty-six guns + mounted for action, besides twenty-eight pidreroes in her + gunwale, quarters and tops, each of which carried a four-pound + ball. She was very well furnished with small arms, and was + particularly provided against boarding, both by her close + quarters, and by a strong net-work of two-inch rope, which was + laced over her waist, and was defended by half pikes. She had + sixty-seven killed in the action, and eighty-four wounded, whilst + the Centurion had only two killed, and a lieutenant and sixteen + wounded, all of whom, but one, recovered: Of so little + consequence are the most destructive arms in untutored and + unpractised hands.</p> + + <p>The treasure thus taken by the Centurion having been for at + least eighteen months the great object of their hopes, it is + impossible to describe the transport on board, when, after all + their reiterated disappointments, they at last saw their wishes + accomplished. But their joy was near being suddenly damped by a + most tremendous incident: For no sooner had the galleon struck, + than one of the lieutenants coming to Mr Anson to congratulate + him on his prize, whispered him at the same time, that the + Centurion was dangerously on fire near the powder-room. The + commodore received this dreadful news without any apparent + emotion, and, taking care not to alarm his people, gave the + necessary orders for extinguishing it, which was happily done in + a short time, though its appearance at first was extremely + terrible. It seems some cartridges had been blown up by accident + between decks, by which a quantity of oakum in the + after-hatch-way, near the after-powder-room, was set on fire; and + the great smother and smoke of the oakum occasioned the + apprehension of a more extended and mischievous fire. At the same + instant, too, the galleon fell on board the Centurion on the + starboard quarter, but she was cleared without doing or receiving + any considerable damage.</p> + + <p>The commodore made his first lieutenant, Mr Saumarez, captain + of this prize, appointing her a post-ship in his majesty's + service. Captain Saumarez, before night, sent on board the + Centurion all the Spanish prisoners, but such as were thought the + most proper to be retained to assist in navigating <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page498" id="page498"></a>[pg 498]</span> the + galleon. And now the commodore learnt, from some of the + prisoners, that the other ship, which he had kept in the port of + Acapulco the preceding year, instead of returning in company with + the present prize, as was expected, had set sail from Acapulco + alone much sooner than usual, and had, in all probability, got + into the port of Manilla long before the Centurion arrived off + Espiritu Santo; so that Mr Anson, notwithstanding his present + success, had great reason to regret his loss of time at Macao, + which prevented him from taking two rich prizes instead of + one.</p> + + <p>The commodore, when the action was ended, resolved to make the + best of his way with his prize for the river of Canton, being in + the mean time fully employed in securing his prisoners, and in + removing the treasure from on board the galleon into the + Centurion. The last of these operations was too important to be + postponed; for as the navigation to Canton was through seas but + little known, and where, from the season of the year, much bad + weather might be expected, it was of great consequence that the + treasure should be sent on board the Centurion, which ship, by + the presence of the commander in chief, the greater number of her + hands, and her other advantages, was doubtless much safer against + all the casualties of winds and seas than the galleon; and the + securing the prisoners was a matter of still more consequence, as + not only the possession of the treasure, but the lives of the + captors, depended thereon. This was indeed an article which gave + the commodore much trouble and disquietude; for they were above + double the number of his own people; and some of them, when they + were brought on board the Centurion, and had observed how + slenderly she was manned, and the large proportion which the + striplings bore to the rest, could not help expressing themselves + with great indignation to be thus beaten by a handful of boys. + The method, which was taken to hinder them from rising, was by + placing all but the officers and the wounded in the hold, where, + to give them as much air as possible, two hatch-ways were left + open; but then (to avoid all danger, whilst the Centurion's + people should be employed upon the deck) there was a square + partition of thick planks, made in the shape of a funnel, which + enclosed each hatch-way on the lower deck, and reached to that + directly over it on the upper deck; these funnels served to + communicate the air to the hold better than could have + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page499" id="page499"></a>[pg + 499]</span> been done without them; and, at the same time, added + greatly to the security of the ship; for they being seven or + eight feet high, it would have been extremely difficult for the + Spaniards to have clambered up; and still to augment that + difficulty, four swivel-guns loaded with musquet-bullets were + planted at the mouth of each funnel, and a centinel with lighted + match constantly attended, prepared to fire into the hold amongst + them, in case of any disturbance. Their officers, who amounted to + seventeen or eighteen, were all lodged in the first lieutenant's + cabin, under a constant guard of six men; and the general, as he + was wounded, lay in the commodore's cabin with a centinel always + with him; and they were all informed, that any violence or + disturbance would be punished with instant death. And that the + Centurion's people might be at all times prepared, if, + notwithstanding these regulations, any tumult should arise, the + small arms were constantly kept loaded in a proper place, whilst + all the men went armed with cutlasses and pistols; and no officer + ever pulled off his cloaths, and when he slept had always his + arms lying ready by him.</p> + + <p>These measures were obviously necessary, considering the + hazards to which the commodore and his people would have been + exposed, had they been less careful. Indeed, the sufferings of + the poor prisoners, though impossible to be alleviated, were much + to be commiserated; for the weather was extremely hot, the stench + of the hold loathsome beyond all conception, and their allowance + of water but just sufficient to keep them alive, it not being + practicable to spare them more than at the rate of a pint a-day + for each, the crew themselves having only an allowance of a pint + and a half. All this considered, it was wonderful that not a man + of them died during their long confinement, except three of the + wounded, who died the same night they were taken; though it must + be confessed, that the greatest part of them were strangely + metamorphosed by the heat of the hold; for when they were first + taken, they were sightly, robust fellows; but when, after above a + month's imprisonment, they were discharged in the river of + Canton, they were reduced to mere skeletons; and their air and + looks corresponded much more to the conception formed of ghosts + and spectres, than to the figure and appearance of real men.</p> + + <p>Thus employed in securing the treasure and the prisoners, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page500" id="page500"></a>[pg + 500]</span> the commodore stood for the river of Canton; and, on + the 30th of June, at six in the evening, got sight of Cape + Delangano, which then bore west ten leagues distant; and, the + next day, he made the Bashee islands, and the wind being so far + to the northward, that it was difficult to weather them, it was + resolved to stand through between Grafton and Monmouth islands, + where the passage seemed to be clear; but in getting through, the + sea had a very dangerous aspect, for it rippled and foamed, as if + it had been full of breakers, which was still more terrible, as + it was then night. But the ships got through very safe, (the + prize always keeping a-head) and it was found that the appearance + which had alarmed them had been occasioned only by a strong tide. + I must here observe, that though the Bashee islands are usually + reckoned to be no more than five, yet there are many more lying + about them to the westward, which, as the channels amongst them + are not at all known, makes it advisable for ships, rather to + pass to the northward or southward, than through them; and indeed + the commodore proposed to have gone to the northward, between + them and Formosa, had it been possible for him to have weathered + them. From hence the Centurion steering the proper course for the + river of Canton, she, on the 8th of July, discovered the island + of Supata, the westermost of the Lema islands. This island they + made to be an hundred and thirty-nine leagues distant from + Grafton's island, and to bear from it north 82°, + 37° west: And, on the 11th, having taken on board two + Chinese pilots, one for the Centurion, and the other for the + prize, they came to an anchor off the city of Macao.</p> + + <p>By this time the particulars of the cargo of the galleon were + well ascertained, and it was found that she had on board + 1,313,843 pieces of eight, and 35,682 oz. of virgin silver, + besides some cochineal, and a few other commodities, which, + however, were but of small account, in comparison of the specie. + And this being the commodore's last prize, it hence appears, that + all the treasure taken by the Centurion was not much short of + 400,000<i>l.</i> independent of the ships and merchandise, which + she either burnt or destroyed, and which, by the most reasonable + estimation, could not amount to so little as 600,000<i>l.</i> + more; so that the whole loss of the enemy, by our squadron, did + doubtless exceed a million sterling. To which, if there be added + the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page501" id="page501"></a>[pg + 501]</span> great expence of the court of Spain, in fitting out + Pizarro, and in paying the additional charges in America, + incurred on our account, together with the loss of their men of + war, the total of all these articles will be a most exorbitant + sum, and is the strongest conviction of the utility of this + expedition, which, with all its numerous disadvantages, did yet + prove so extremely prejudicial to the enemy.</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote161" name="footnote161"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag161">(return)</a> + + <p>The Bashee Islands were so called by Dampier from the name + of a liquor used by the natives. Four of them are inhabited, + and are tolerably fertile, producing sugar canes, pine apples, + plantaines, potatoes, &c. and having some hogs and goats. + The inhabitants, who are reckoned a harmless and peaceable + race, are said to resemble the Japanese, and probably are + derived from them. The unfortunate Peyreuse visited one of the + most northerly of these islands, and found its latitude to be + 21° 9' 13" N. Arrowsmith's map lays them down very + particularly. The passage betwixt Formosa and these islands is + held very dangerous on account of the rock called Vele Rete, + the precise situation of which is matter of discord among the + navigators. Captain Krusenstern went through this passage + during the night, and that a stormy one too, with perfect + safety, keeping the middle of the channel, and having men + continually on the look-out. He seems to prefer the position of + Vele Rete and its reef of rocks, (of about two miles circuit,) + as given by Broughton, according to whose observations the + latitude is 21° 43' 24", and the longitude + 239° 15'.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote162" name="footnote162"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag162">(return)</a> + + <p>The original has here some reflections on the importance and + advantages of exercising the seamen in firing, &c. which, + however good, are too common and obvious to merit insertion. + The art of destroying men's lives has been abundantly improved + since our author's day.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <h3>SECTION XXXI.</h3> + + <h4><i>Transactions in the River of Canton.</i></h4> + + <p>The commodore, having taken pilots on board, proceeded with + his prize for the river of Canton; and on the 14th of July, came + to an anchor short of the Bocca Tigris, which is a narrow passage + forming the mouth of that river: This entrance he proposed to + stand through the next day, and to run up as far as Tiger island, + which is a very safe road, secured from all winds. But whilst the + Centurion and her prize were thus at anchor, a boat with an + officer came off from the mandarine, commanding the forts at + Bocca Tigris, to examine what the ships were, and whence they + came. Mr Anson informed the officer, that his ship was a ship of + war, belonging to the king of Great Britain; and that the other + in company with him was a prize he had taken; that he was going + into Canton river to shelter himself against the hurricanes which + were then coming on; and that as soon as the monsoon shifted, he + should proceed for England. The officer then desired an account + of what men, guns, and ammunition were on board, a list of all + which he said was to be sent to the government of Canton. But + when these articles were repeated to him, particularly when he + was told that there were in the Centurion four hundred firelocks, + and between three and four hundred barrels of powder, he shrugged + up his shoulders, and seemed to be terrified with the bare + recital, saying, that no ships ever came into Canton river armed + in that manner; adding, that he durst not set down the whole of + this force, lest it should too much alarm the regency. After he + had finished his enquiries, and was preparing to depart, he + desired to leave the two custom-house officers behind him; on + which the commodore told him, that though as a man of war he was + prohibited <span class="pagenum"><a name="page502" id= + "page502"></a>[pg 502]</span> from trading, and had nothing to do + with customs or duties of any kind, yet, for the satisfaction of + the Chinese, he would permit two of their people to be left on + board, who might themselves be witnesses how punctually he should + comply with his instructions. The officer seemed amazed when Mr + Anson mentioned being exempted from all duties, and told him, + that the emperor's duty must be paid by all ships that came into + his ports: And it is supposed, that on this occasion, private + directions were given by him to the Chinese pilot, not to carry + the commodore through the Bocca Tigris; which makes it necessary + more particularly to describe that entrance.</p> + + <p>The Bocca Tigris is a narrow passage, little more than + musquet-shot over, formed by two points of land, on each of which + there is a fort, that on the starboard-side being a battery on + the water's edge, with eighteen embrasures, but where there were + no more than twelve iron cannon mounted, seeming to be four or + six pounders; the fort on the larboard-side is a large castle, + resembling those old buildings which here in England we often + find distinguished by that name; it is situated on a high rock, + and did not appear to be furnished with more than eight or ten + cannon, none of which were supposed to exceed six pounders. These + are the defences which secure the river of Canton; and which the + Chinese (extremely defective in all military skill) have imagined + were sufficient to prevent any enemy from forcing his way + through.</p> + + <p>But it is obvious, from the description of these forts, that + they could have given no obstruction to Mr Anson's passage, even + if they had been well supplied with gunners and stores; and + therefore, though the pilot, after the Chinese officer had been + on board, refused at first to take charge of the ship, till he + had leave from the forts, yet as it was necessary to get through + without any delay, for fear of the bad weather which was hourly + expected, the commodore weighed on the 15th, and ordered the + pilot to carry him by the forts, threatening him that, if the + ship ran aground, he would instantly hang him up at the yard-arm. + The pilot, awed by these threats, carried the ship through + safely, the forts not attempting to dispute the passage. Indeed + the poor pilot did not escape the resentment of his countrymen, + for when he came on shore, he was seized and sent to prison, and + was rigorously disciplined with the bamboo. <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page503" id="page503"></a>[pg 503]</span> + However, he found means to get at Mr Anson afterwards, to desire + of him some recompence for the chastisement he had undergone, and + of which he then carried very significant marks about him; and Mr + Anson, in commiseration of his sufferings, gave him such a sum of + money, as would at any time have enticed a Chinese to have + undergone a dozen bastinadings.</p> + + <p>Nor was the pilot the only person that suffered on this + occasion; for the commodore soon after seeing some royal junks + pass by him from Bocca Tigris towards Canton, he learnt, on + enquiry, that the mandarine commanding the forts was a prisoner + on board them; that he was already turned out, and was now + carrying to Canton, where it was expected he would be severely + punished for having permitted the ships to pass; and the + commodore urging the unreasonableness of this procedure, from the + inability of the forts to have done otherwise, explaining to the + Chinese the great superiority his ships would have had over the + forts, by the number and size of their guns, the Chinese seemed + to acquiesce in his reasoning, and allowed that their forts could + not have stopped him; but they still asserted, that the mandarine + would infallibly suffer, for not having done what all his judges + were convinced was impossible. To such indefensible absurdities + are those obliged to submit who think themselves concerned to + support their authority, when the necessary force is wanting.</p> + + <p>On the 16th of July the commodore sent his second lieutenant + to Canton, with a letter to the viceroy, informing him of the + reason of the Centurion's putting into that port; and that the + commodore himself soon proposed to repair to Canton, to pay a + visit to the viceroy. The lieutenant was very civilly received, + and was promised that an answer should be sent to the commodore + the next day. In the mean time Mr Anson gave leave to several of + the officers of the galleon to go to Canton, they engaging their + parole to return in two days. When these prisoners got to Canton, + the regency sent for them, and examined them, enquiring + particularly by what means they had fallen into Mr Anson's power. + And on this occasion the prisoners were honest enough to declare, + that as the kings of Great Britain and of Spain were at war, they + had proposed to themselves the taking of the Centurion, and had + bore down upon her with that view, but that the event had been + contrary to their hopes: However, <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page504" id="page504"></a>[pg 504]</span> they acknowledged that + they had been treated by the commodore, much better than they + believed they should have treated him, had he fallen into their + hands. This confession from an enemy had great weight with the + Chinese, who, till then, though they had revered the commodore's + power, had yet suspected his morals, and had considered him + rather as a lawless freebooter, than as one commissioned by the + state for the revenge of public injuries. But they now changed + their opinion, and regarded him as a more important person; to + which perhaps the vast treasure of his prize might not a little + contribute; the acquisition of wealth being a matter greatly + adapted to the estimation and reverence of the Chinese + nation.</p> + + <p>In this examination of the Spanish prisoners, though the + Chinese had no reason in the main to doubt of the account which + was given them, yet there were two circumstances which appeared + to them so singular, as to deserve a more ample explanation; one + of them was the great disproportion of men between the Centurion + and the galleon; the other was the humanity with which the people + of the galleon were treated after they were taken. The mandarines + therefore asked the Spaniards, how they came to be overpowered by + so inferior a force; and how it happened, since the two nations + were at war, that they were not put to death when they came into + the hands of the English. To the first of these enquiries the + Spaniards replied, that though they had more hands than the + Centurion, yet she being intended solely for war, had a great + superiority in the size of her guns, and in many other articles, + over the galleon, which was a vessel fitted out principally for + traffic: And as to the second question, they told the Chinese, + that amongst the nations of Europe, it was not customary to put + to death those who submitted; though they readily owned, that the + commodore, from the natural bias of his temper, had treated both + them and their countrymen, who had formerly been in his power, + with very unusual courtesy, much beyond what they could have + expected, or than was required by the customs established between + nations at war with each other. These replies fully satisfied the + Chinese, and at the same time wrought very powerfully in the + commodore's favour.</p> + + <p>On the 20th of July, in the morning, three mandarines, with a + great number of boats, and a vast retinue, came on board the + Centurion, and delivered to the commodore the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page505" id="page505"></a>[pg 505]</span> + viceroy of Canton's order for a daily supply of provisions, and + for pilots lo carry the ships up the river as far as the second + bar; and at the same time they delivered him a message from the + viceroy, in answer to the letter sent to Canton. The substance of + the message was, that the viceroy desired to be excused from + receiving the commodore's visit, during the then excessive hot + weather; because the assembling the mandarines and soldiers, + necessary to that ceremony, would prove extremely inconvenient + and fatiguing; but that in September, when the weather would be + more temperate, he should be glad to see both the commodore + himself, and the English captain of the other ship, that was with + him. As Mr Anson knew that an express had been dispatched to the + court at Pekin, with an account of the Centurion and her prize + being arrived in the river of Canton, he had no doubt, but the + principal motive for putting off this visit was, that the regency + at Canton might gain time to receive the emperor's instructions, + about their behaviour on this unusual affair.</p> + + <p>When the mandarines had delivered their message, they began to + talk to the commodore about the duties to be paid by his ships; + but he immediately told them, that he would never submit to any + demand of that kind; that as he neither brought any merchandise + thither, nor intended to carry any away, he could not be + reasonably deemed to be within the meaning of the emperor's + orders, which were doubtless calculated for trading vessels only, + adding, that no duties were ever demanded of men of war, by + nations accustomed to their reception, and that his master's + orders expressly forbad him from paying any acknowledgement for + his ships anchoring in any port whatever.</p> + + <p>The mandarines being thus cut short on the subject of the + duty, they said they had another matter to mention, which was the + only remaining one they had in charge; this was a request to the + commodore, that he would release the prisoners he had taken on + board the galleon; for that the viceroy of Canton apprehended the + emperor, his master, might be displeased, if he should be + informed, that persons, who were his allies, and carried on a + great commerce with his subjects, were under confinement in his + dominions. Mr Anson was himself extremely desirous to get rid of + the Spaniards, having, on his first arrival, sent about an + hundred of them to Macao, and those who remained, near four + hundred <span class="pagenum"><a name="page506" id= + "page506"></a>[pg 506]</span> more, were, on many accounts, a + great incumbrance to him. However, to enhance the favour, he at + first raised some difficulties; but permitting himself to be + prevailed on, he at last told the mandarines, that to show his + readiness to oblige the viceroy, he would release the prisoners, + whenever they, the Chinese, would send boats to fetch them off. + This matter being thus adjusted, the mandarines departed; and, on + the 28th of July, two Chinese junks were sent from Canton, to + take on board the prisoners, and to carry them to Macao. And the + commodore, agreeable to his promise, dismissed them all, and + ordered his purser to send with them eight days provision for + their subsistence, during their sailing down the river; this + being dispatched, the Centurion and her prize came to her + moorings, above the second bar, where they proposed to continue + till the monsoon shifted.</p> + + <p>Though the ships, in consequence of the viceroy's permit, + found no difficulty in purchasing provisions for their daily + consumption, yet it was impossible for the commodore to proceed + to England; without laying in a large quantity both of provisions + and stores for his use, during the voyage: The procuring this + supply was attended with much embarrassment; for there were + people at Canton who had undertaken to furnish him with biscuit, + and whatever else he wanted; and his linguist, towards the middle + of September, had assured him, from day to day, that all was + ready, and would be sent on board him immediately. But a + fortnight being elapsed, and nothing being brought, the commodore + sent to Canton to enquire more particularly into the reasons of + this disappointment: And he had soon the vexation to be informed, + that the whole was an illusion: that no order had been procured + from the viceroy to furnish him with sea-stores, as had been + pretended; that there was no biscuit baked, nor any one of the + articles in readiness which had been promised him; nor did it + appear, that the contractors had taken the least step to comply + with their agreement. This was most disagreeable news, and made + it suspected, that the furnishing the Centurion for her return to + Great Britain might prove a more troublesome matter than had been + hitherto imagined; especially too, as the month of September was + nearly elapsed, without Mr Anson's having received any message + from the viceroy of Canton.</p> + + <p>And here perhaps it might be expected that some satisfactory + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page507" id="page507"></a>[pg + 507]</span> account should be given of the motives of the Chinese + for this faithless procedure. But as I have already, in a former + chapter, made some kind of conjectures about a similar event, I + shall not repeat them again in this place, but shall observe, + that after all, it may perhaps be impossible for an European, + ignorant of the customs and manners of that nation, to be fully + apprised of the real incitements to this behaviour. Indeed, thus + much may undoubtedly be asserted, that in artifice, falsehood, + and an attachment to all kinds of lucre, many of the Chinese are + difficult to be paralleled by any other people; but then the + combination of these talents, and the manner in which they are + applied in particular emergencies, are often beyond the reach of + a foreigner's penetration: So that though it may be safely + concluded, that the Chinese had some interest in thus amusing the + commodore, yet it may not be easy to assign the individual views + by which they were influenced. And that I may not be thought too + severe in ascribing to this nation a fraudulent and selfish turn + of temper, so contradictory to the character given of them in the + legendary accounts of the Roman missionaries, I shall here + mention an extraordinary transaction or two, which I hope will be + some kind of confirmation of what I have advanced.</p> + + <p>When the commodore lay first at Macao, one of his officers, + who had been extremely ill, desired leave of him to go on shore + every day on a neighbouring island, imagining that a walk upon + the land would contribute greatly to the restoring of his health: + The commodore would have dissuaded him, suspecting the tricks of + the Chinese, but the officer continuing importunate, in the end + the boat was ordered to carry him. The first day he was put on + shore he took his exercise, and returned without receiving any + molestation, or even seeing any of the inhabitants; but the + second day, he was assaulted, soon after his arrival, by a great + number of Chinese who had been hoeing rice in the neighbourhood, + and who beat him so violently with the handles of their hoes, + that they soon laid him on the ground incapable of resistance; + after which they robbed him, taking from him his sword, the hilt + of which was silver, his money, his watch, gold-headed cane, + snuff box, sleeve-buttons, and hat, with several other trinkets: + In the mean time the boat's crew, who were at some little + distance, and had no arms of any kind with them, were incapable + of giving <span class="pagenum"><a name="page508" id= + "page508"></a>[pg 508]</span> him any assistance; till at last + one of them flew on the fellow who had the sword in his + possession, and wresting it out of his hands, drew it, and with + it was preparing to fall on the Chinese, some of whom he could + not have failed of killing; but the officer, perceiving what he + was about, immediately ordered him to desist, thinking it more + prudent to submit to the present violence, than to embroil his + commodore in an inextricable squabble with the Chinese government + by the death of their subjects; which calmness in this gentleman + was the more meritorious, as he was known to be a person of an + uncommon spirit, and of a somewhat hasty temper: By this means + the Chinese recovered the possession of the sword, which they + soon perceived was prohibited to be made use of against them, and + carried off their whole booty unmolested. No sooner were they + gone, than a Chinese on horseback, very well dressed, and who had + the air and appearance of a gentleman, came down to the shore, + and, as far as could be understood by his signs, seemed to + censure the conduct of his countrymen, and to commiserate the + officer, being wonderfully officious to assist in getting him on + board the boat: But notwithstanding this behaviour, it was + shrewdly suspected that he was an accomplice in the theft, and + time fully evinced the justice of those suspicions.</p> + + <p>When the boat returned on board, and reported what had passed + to the commodore, he immediately complained of it to the + mandarine, who attended to see his ship supplied; but the + mandarine coolly replied, that the boat ought not to have gone on + shore, promising, however, that if the thieves could be found + out, they should be punished; though it appeared plain enough, by + his manner of answering, that he would never give himself any + trouble in searching them out. However, a considerable time + afterwards, when some Chinese boats were selling provisions to + the Centurion, the person who had wrested the sword from the + Chinese came with great eagerness to the commodore, to assure him + that one of the principal thieves was then in a provision-boat + alongside the ship; and the officer, who had been robbed, viewing + the fellow on this report, and well remembering his face, orders + were immediately given to seize him; and he was accordingly + secured on board the ship, where strange discoveries were now + made.</p> + + <p>This thief, on his being apprehended, expressed so much + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page509" id="page509"></a>[pg + 509]</span> fright in his countenance, that it was feared he + would have died upon the spot; the mandarine too, who attended + the ship, had visibly no small share of concern on the occasion. + Indeed he had reason enough to be alarmed, since it was soon + evinced that he had been privy to the whole robbery, for the + commodore, declaring that he would not deliver up the thief, but + would himself order him to be shot, the mandarine immediately put + off the magisterial air with which be had at first pretended to + demand him, and begged his release in the most abject manner; and + the commodore appearing inflexible, there came on board, in less + than two hours time, five or six of the neighbouring mandarines, + who all joined in the same entreaty, and, with a view of + facilitating their suit, offered a large sum of money for the + fellow's liberty. Whilst they were thus soliciting, it was + discovered that the mandarine, who was the most active amongst + them, and who seemed to be most interested in the event, was the + very gentleman who came to the officer just after the robbery, + and who pretended to be so much displeased with the villainy of + his countrymen. And, on further enquiry, it was found that he was + the mandarine of the island; and that he had, by the authority of + his office, ordered the peasants to commit that infamous action: + And it seemed, as far as could be collected from the broken hints + which were casually thrown out, that he and his brethren, who + were all privy to the transaction, were terrified with the fear + of being called before the tribunal at Canton, where the first + article of their punishment would be the stripping them of all + they were worth; though their judges (however fond of inflicting + a chastisement so lucrative to themselves) were perhaps of as + tainted a complexion as the delinquents. Mr Anson was not + displeased to have caught the Chinese in this dilemma; and he + entertained himself for some time with their perplexity, + rejecting their money with scorn, appearing inexorable to their + prayers, and giving out that the thief should certainly be shot; + but as he then foresaw that he should be forced to take shelter + in their ports a second time, when the influence he might hereby + acquire over the magistrates would be of great service to him, he + at length permitted himself to be persuaded, and, as a favour, + released his prisoner, but not till the mandarine had collected + and returned all that had been stolen from the officer, even to + the minutest trifle.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page510" + id="page510"></a>[pg 510]</span> + + <p>But, notwithstanding this instance of the good intelligence + between the magistrates and criminals, the strong inclination of + the Chinese to lucre often prompts them to break through this + awful confederacy, and puts them on defrauding the authority that + protects them, of its proper quota of the pillage. For not long + after the above-mentioned transaction, (the former mandarine + attendant on the ship, being, in the mean time, relieved by + another,) the commodore lost a top-mast from his stern, which, + after the most diligent enquiry, could not be traced: As it was + not his own, but had been borrowed at Macao to heave down by, and + was not to be replaced in that part of the world, he was + extremely desirous to recover it, and published a considerable + reward to any who would bring it him again. There were suspicions + from the first of its being stolen, which made him conclude a + reward was the likeliest method of getting it back: Accordingly, + soon after, the mandarine told him that some of his, the + mandarine's people, had found the top-mast, desiring the + commodore to send his boats to fetch it, which being done, the + mandarine's people received the promised reward; but the + commodore told the mandarine that he would make him a present + besides for the care he had taken in directing it to be searched + for, and, accordingly, Mr Anson gave a sum of money to his + linguist, to be delivered to the mandarine; but the linguist + knowing that the people had been paid, and ignorant that a + further present had been promised, kept the money himself: + However, the mandarine fully confiding in Mr Anson's word, and + suspecting the linguist, took occasion one morning to admire the + size of the Centurion's masts, and thence, on a pretended sudden + recollection, he made a digression to the top-mast which had been + lost, and asked Mr Anson if he had not got it again. Mr Anson + presently perceived the bent of this conversation, and enquired + of him if he had not received the money from the linguist, and + finding he had not, he offered to pay it him upon the spot. But + this the mandarine refused, having now somewhat more in view than + the sum which had been detained; for the next day the linguist + was seized, and was doubtless mulcted of all he had gotten in the + commodore's service, which was supposed to be little less than + two thousand dollars; he was, besides, so severely bastinadoed + with the bamboo, that it was with difficulty he escaped with + life; and when he was upbraided by the commodore <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page511" id="page511"></a>[pg 511]</span> (to + whom he afterwards came begging) with his folly in risking all he + had suffered for fifty dollars (the present intended for the + mandarine,) he had no other excuse to make than the strong bias + of his nation to dishonesty, replying, in his broken jargon, + "Chinese man very great rogue truly, but have fashion, no can + help."</p> + + <p>It were endless to recount all the artifices, extortions, and + frauds which were practised on the commodore and his people, by + this interested race. The method of buying all things in China + being by weight, the tricks made use of by the Chinese to + increase the weight of the provision they sold to the Centurion, + were almost incredible. One time a large quantity of fowls and + ducks being bought for the ship's use, the greatest part of them + presently died. This alarmed the people on board with the + apprehensions that they had been killed by poison, but, on + examination, it appeared that it was only owing to their being + crammed with stones and gravel to increase their weight, the + quantity thus forced into most of the ducks being found to amount + to ten ounces in each. The hogs, too, which were bought ready + killed of the Chinese butchers, had water injected into them for + the same purpose; so that a carcass, hung up all night for the + water to drain from it, hath lost above a stone of its weight; + and when, to avoid this cheat, the hogs were bought alive, it was + found that the Chinese gave them salt to increase their thirst, + and having by this means excited them to drink great quantities + of water, they then took measures to prevent them from + discharging it again by urine, and sold the tortured animal in + this inflated state. When the commodore first put to sea from + Macao, they practised an artifice of another kind; for as the + Chinese never object to the eating of any food that dies of + itself, they took care; by some secret practices, that great part + of his live sea-store should die in a short time after it was put + on board, hoping to make a second profit of the dead carcasses, + which they expected would be thrown overboard; and two-thirds of + the hogs dying before the Centurion was out of sight of land, + many of the Chinese boats followed her, only to pick up the + carrion. These instances may serve as a specimen of the manners + of this celebrated nation, which is often recommended to the rest + of the world as a pattern of all kinds of laudable qualities.</p> + + <p>The commodore, towards the end of September, having + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page512" id="page512"></a>[pg + 512]</span> found out (as has been said) that those who had + contracted, to supply him with sea-provisions and stores had + deceived him, and that the viceroy had not sent to him according + to his promise, saw it would be impossible for him to surmount + the embarrassment he was under, without going himself to Canton + and visiting the viceroy; and, therefore, on the 27th. of + September, he sent a message to the mandarine who attended the + Centurion, to inform him that he, the commodore, intended, on the + 1st of October, to proceed in his boat to Canton, adding, that + the day after he got there he should notify his arrival to the + viceroy, and should desire him to fix a time for his audience; to + which the mandarine returned no other answer, than that he would + acquaint the viceroy with the commodore's intentions. In the mean + time all things were prepared for this expedition; and the boat's + crew in particular, which Mr Anson proposed to take with him, + were cloathed in an uniform dress, resembling that of the + watermen on the Thames; they were in number eighteen and a + coxswain; they had scarlet jackets and blue silk; waistcoats, the + whole trimmed with silver buttons, and with silver badges on + their jackets and caps. As it was apprehended, and even asserted, + that the payment of the customary duties for the Centurion and + her prize would be demanded by the regency of Canton, and would + be insisted on previous to the granting a permission for + victualling the ship for her future voyage, the commodore, who + was resolved never to establish so dishonourable a precedent, + took all possible precaution to prevent the Chinese from + facilitating the success of their unreasonable pretensions, by + having him in their power at Canton; and, therefore, for the + security of his ship, and the great treasure on board her, he + appointed his first lieutenant, Mr Brett, to be captain of the + Centurion under him, giving him proper instructions for his + conduct; directing him, particularly, if he, the commodore, + should be detained at Canton on account of the duties in dispute, + to take out the men from the Centurion's prize, and to destroy + her; and then to proceed down the river through the Bocca Tigris + with the Centurion alone, and to remain without that entrance + till he received further orders from Mr Anson.</p> + + <p>These necessary steps being taken, which were not unknown to + the Chinese, it should seem as if their deliberations were in + some sort embarrassed thereby. It is reasonable <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page513" id="page513"></a>[pg 513]</span> to + imagine, that they were in general very desirous of getting the + duties to be paid them, not perhaps solely in consideration of + the amount of those dues, but to keep up their reputation for + address and subtlety, and to avoid the imputation of receding + from claims on which they had already so frequently insisted: + However, as they now foresaw that they had no other method of + succeeding than by violence, and that even against this the + commodore was prepared, they were at last disposed, I conceive, + to let the affair drop, rather than entangle themselves in an + hostile measure, which they found would only expose them to the + risk of having the whole navigation of their port destroyed, + without any certain prospect of gaining their favourite + point.</p> + + <p>However, though there is reason to imagine that these were + their thoughts at that time, yet they could not depart at once + from the evasive conduct to which they had hither to adhered. For + when the commodore, on the morning of the 1st of October, was + preparing to set out for Canton, his linguist came to him from + the mandarine, who attended his ship, to tell him that a letter + had been received from the viceroy of Canton, desiring the + commodore to put off his going thither for two or three days: But + in the afternoon of the same day another linguist came on board, + who, with much seeming fright, told Mr Anson that the viceroy had + expected him up that day, that the counsel was assembled, and the + troops had been under arms to receive him; and that the viceroy + was highly offended at the disappointment, and had sent the + commodore's linguist to prison chained, supposing that the whole + had been owing to the linguist's negligence. This plausible tale + gave the commodore great concern, and made him apprehend that + there was some treachery designed him, which he could not yet + fathom; and though it afterwards appeared that the whole was a + fiction, not one article of it having the least foundation, yet + (for reasons best known to themselves) this falsehood was so well + supported by the artifices of the Chinese merchants at Canton, + that, three days afterwards, the commodore received a letter, + signed by all the supercargoes of the English ships then at that + place, expressing their great uneasiness at what had happened, + and intimating their fears that some insult would be offered to + his boat, if he came thither before the viceroy was fully + satisfied about the mistake. To <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page514" id="page514"></a>[pg 514]</span> this letter Mr Anson + replied, that he did not believe there had been any mistake, but + was persuaded it was a forgery of the Chinese, to prevent his + visiting the viceroy; that, therefore, he would certainly come up + to Canton on the 13th of October, confident that the Chinese + would not dare to offer him an insult, as well knowing it would + be properly returned.</p> + + <p>On the 13th of October, the commodore continuing firm, to his + resolution, all the supercargoes of the English, Danish, and + Swedish ships, came on board the Centurion, to accompany him to + Canton, for which place he set out in his barge the same day, + attended by his own boats, and by those of the trading ships, + which, on this occasion, came to form his retinue; and, as he + passed by Whampoa, where the European vessels lay, he was saluted + by all of them but the French, and in the evening arrived safely + at Canton.</p> + + <h3>SECTION XXXII.</h3> + + <h4><i>Proceedings at the City of Canton, and the Return of the + Centurion to England.</i></h4> + + <p>When the commodore arrived at Canton, he was visited by the + principal Chinese merchants, who affected to appear very much + pleased that he had met with no obstruction in getting thither, + and who thence pretended to conclude that the viceroy was + satisfied about the former mistake, the reality of which they + still insisted on; they added, that as soon as the viceroy should + be informed that Mr Anson was at Canton (which they promised + should be done the next morning,) they were persuaded a day would + be immediately appointed for the visit, which was the principal + business that had brought the commodore thither.</p> + + <p>The next day the merchants returned to Mr Anson, and told him + that the viceroy was then so fully employed in preparing his + dispatches for Pekin, that there was no getting admittance to him + for some days, but that they had engaged one of the officers of + his court to give them information as soon as he should be at + leisure, when they proposed to notify Mr Anson's arrival, and to + endeavour to fix the day of audience. The commodore was by this + time too well acquainted with their artifices not to perceive + that this was <span class="pagenum"><a name="page515" id= + "page515"></a>[pg 515]</span> a falsehood; and had he consulted + only his own judgment, he would have applied directly to the + viceroy by other hands: But the Chinese merchants had so far + prepossessed the supercargoes of our ships with chimerical fears, + that they were extremely apprehensive of being embroiled with the + government, and of suffering in their interest, if those measures + were taken, which appeared to Mr Anson at that time to be the + most prudential; and, therefore, lest the malice and + double-dealing of the Chinese might have given rise to some + sinister incident, which would be afterwards charged on him, he + resolved to continue passive as long as it should appear that he + lost no time by thus suspending his own opinion. With this view, + he promised not to take any immediate step for getting admittance + to the viceroy, provided the Chinese with whom he contracted for + provisions would let him see that his bread was baked, his meat + salted, and his stores prepared with the utmost dispatch; but if + by the time when all was in readiness to be shipped off (which it + was supposed would be in about forty days,) the merchants should + not have procured the viceroy's permission, then, the commodore + proposed to apply for himself. These were the terms Mr Anson + thought proper to offer, to quiet the uneasiness of the + supercargoes, and, notwithstanding the apparent equity of the + conditions, many difficulties and objections were urged; nor + would the Chinese agree to them till the commodore had consented + to pay for every article he bespoke before it was put in hand. + However, at last, the contract being past, it was some + satisfaction to the commodore to be certain that his preparations + were now going on, and being himself on the spot, he took care to + hasten them as much as possible.</p> + + <p>During this interval, in which the stores and provisions were + getting ready, the merchants continually entertained Mr Anson + with accounts of their various endeavours to get a license from + the viceroy, and their frequent disappointments, which to him was + now a matter of amusement, as he was fully satisfied there was + not one word of truth in any thing they said. But when all was + completed, and wanted only to be shipped, which was about the + 24th of November, at which time too the N.E. monsoon was set in, + he then resolved to apply himself to the viceroy to demand an + audience, as he was persuaded that, without this ceremony, the + procuring a permission to send his stores on board would + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page516" id="page516"></a>[pg + 516]</span> meet with great difficulty. On the 24th of November, + therefore, Mr Anson sent one of his officers to the Mandarine, + who commanded the guard of the principal gate of the city of + Canton, with a letter directed to the viceroy. When this letter + was delivered to the mandarine, he received the officer who + brought it very civilly, and took down the contents of it in + Chinese, and promised that the viceroy should be immediately + acquainted with it; but told the officer it was not necessary for + him to wait for an answer, because a message would be sent to the + commodore himself.</p> + + <p>On this occasion Mr Anson had been under great difficulties + about a proper interpreter to send with his officer, as he was + well aware that none of the Chinese, usually employed as + linguists, could be relied on: But he at last prevailed with Mr + Flint, an English gentleman belonging to the factory, who spoke + Chinese perfectly well, to accompany his officer. This person, + who upon this occasion and many others was of singular service to + the commodore, had been left at Canton when a youth, by the late + Captain Rigby. The leaving him there to learn the Chinese + language was a step taken by that captain, merely from his own + persuasion of the great advantages which the East-India company + might one day receive from an English interpreter; and though the + utility of this measure has greatly exceeded all that was + expected from it, yet I have not heard that it has been to this + day imitated: But we imprudently choose (except in this single + instance) to carry on the vast transactions of the port of + Canton, either by the ridiculous jargon of broken English, which + some few of the Chinese have learnt, or by the suspected + interpretation of the linguists of other nations.<a id= + "footnotetag163" name="footnotetag163"></a><a href= + "#footnote163"><sup>1</sup></a></p> + + <p>Two days after the sending the above-mentioned letter, a fire + broke out in the suburbs of Canton. On the first alarm, Mr Anson + went thither with his officers, and his boat's crew, to assist + the Chinese. When he came there, he found that it had begun in a + sailor's shed, and that by the slightness of the buildings, and + the awkwardness of the Chinese, it was getting head apace: But he + perceived, that by pulling down some of the adjacent sheds it + might easily be extinguished; and particularly observing that it + was running <span class="pagenum"><a name="page517" id= + "page517"></a>[pg 517]</span> along a wooden cornish, which would + soon communicate it to a great distance, he ordered his people to + begin with tearing away that cornish; this was presently + attempted, and would have been soon executed; but, in the + meantime, he was told, that, as there was no mandarine there to + direct what was to be done, the Chinese would make him, the + commodore, answerable for whatever should be pulled down by his + orders. On this his people desisted; and he sent them to the + English factory, to assist in securing the company's treasure and + effects, as it was easy to foresee that no distance was a + protection against the rage of such a fire, where so little was + done to put a stop to it; for all this time the Chinese contented + themselves with viewing it, and now and then holding one of their + idols near it, which they seemed to expect should check its + progress: However, at last, a mandarine came out of the city, + attended by four or five hundred firemen: These made some feeble + efforts to pull down the neighbouring houses; but by this time + the fire had greatly extended itself, and was got amongst the + merchants' warehouses; and the Chinese firemen, wanting both + skill and spirit, were incapable of checking its violence; so + that its fury increased upon them, and it was feared the whole + city would be destroyed, in this general confusion the viceroy + himself came thither, and the commodore was sent to, and was + entreated to afford his assistance, being told that he might take + any measures he should think most prudent in the present + emergency. And now he went thither a second time, carrying with + him about forty of his people; who, upon this occasion, exerted + themselves in such a manner, as in that country was altogether + without example: For they were rather animated than deterred by + the flames and falling buildings, amongst which they wrought; so + that it was not uncommon to see the most forward of them tumble + to the ground on the roofs, and amidst the ruins of houses, which + their own efforts brought down with them. By their boldness and + activity the fire was soon extinguished, to the amazement of the + Chinese; and the building being all on one floor, and the + materials slight, the seamen, notwithstanding their daring + behaviour, happily escaped with no other injuries, than some + considerable bruises. The fire, though at last thus luckily + extinguished, did great mischief during the time it continued; + for it consumed <span class="pagenum"><a name="page518" id= + "page518"></a>[pg 518]</span> an hundred shops and eleven streets + full of warehouses, so that the damage amounted to an immense + sum; and one of the Chinese merchants, well known to the English, + whose name was Succoy, was supposed, for his own share, to have + lost near two hundred thousand pounds sterling. It raged indeed + with unusual violence, for in many of the warehouses, there were + large quantities of camphor, which greatly added to its fury, and + produced a column of exceeding white flame, which shot up into + the air to such a prodigious height that it was plainly seen on + board the Centurion, though she was thirty miles distant.</p> + + <p>Whilst the commodore and his people were labouring at the + fire, and the terror of its becoming general still possessed the + whole city, several of the most considerable Chinese merchants + came to Mr Anson, to desire that he would let each of them have + one of his soldiers (for such they styled his boat's crew from + the uniformity, of their dress) to guard their warehouses and + dwellings-houses, which, from the known dishonesty of the + populace, they feared would be pillaged in the tumult. Mr Anson + granted them this request; and all the men that he thus furnished + to the Chinese behaved greatly to the satisfaction of their + employers, who afterwards highly applauded their great diligence + and fidelity.</p> + + <p>By this means, the resolution of the English at the fire, and + their trustiness and punctuality elsewhere, was the general + subject of conversation amongst the Chinese: And, the next + morning, many of the principal inhabitants waited on the + commodore to thank him for his assistance; frankly owning to him, + that they could never have extinguished the fire of themselves, + and that he had saved their city from being totally consumed. And + soon after a message came to the commodore from the viceroy, + appointing the 30th of November for his audience; which sudden + resolution of the viceroy, in a matter that had been so long + agitated in vain, was also owing to the signal services performed + by Mr Anson and his people at the fire, of which the viceroy + himself had been in some measure an eye-witness.</p> + + <p>The fixing this business of the audience, was, on all + accounts, a circumstance which Mr Anson was much pleased with; as + he was satisfied that the Chinese government would not have + determined this point, without having agreed among themselves to + give up their pretensions to the duties <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page519" id="page519"></a>[pg 519]</span> they + claimed, and to grant him all he could reasonably ask; for as + they well knew the commodore's sentiments, it would have been a + piece of imprudence, not consistent with the refined cunning of + the Chinese, to have admitted him to an audience, only to have + contested with him. And therefore, being himself perfectly easy + about the result of his visit, he made all necessary preparations + against the day. Mr Flint, whom he engaged to act as interpreter + in the conference, acquitted himself much to the commodore's + satisfaction; repeating with great boldness; and doubtless with + exactness, all that was given in charge, a part which no Chinese + linguist would ever have performed with any tolerable + fidelity.</p> + + <p>At ten o'clock in the morning, on the day appointed, a + mandarine came to the commodore, to let him know that the viceroy + was ready to receive him; on which the commodore and his retinue + immediately set out: And as soon as he entered the outer gate of + the city, he found a guard of two hundred soldiers drawn up ready + to attend him; these conducted him to the great parade before the + emperor's palace, where the viceroy then resided. In this parade, + a body of troops, to the number of ten thousand, were drawn up + under arms, and made a very fine appearance, being all of them + new clothed for this ceremony: And Mr Anson and his retinue + having passed through the middle of them, he was then conducted + to the great hall of audience, where he found the viceroy seated + under a rich canopy in the emperor's chair of state, with all his + council of mandarines attending: Here there was a vacant seat + prepared for the commodore, in which he was placed on his + arrival: He was ranked the third it order from the viceroy, there + being above him only the head of the law, and of the treasury, + who in the Chinese government take place of all military + officers. When the commodore was seated, he addressed himself to + the viceroy by his interpreter, and began with reciting the + various methods he had formerly taken to get an audience; adding, + that he imputed the delays he had met with to the insincerity of + those he had employed, and that he had therefore no other means + left, than to send, as he had done, his own officer with a letter + to the gate. On the mention of this the viceroy stopped the + interpreter, and bid him assure Mr Anson, that the first + knowledge they had of his being at Canton, was from that letter. + Mr Anson then proceeded, and told him, that the subjects of the + king of <span class="pagenum"><a name="page520" id= + "page520"></a>[pg 520]</span> Great Britain trading to China had + complained to him, the commodore, of the vexatious impositions + both of the merchants and inferior custom-house officers, to + which they were frequently necessitated to submit, by reason of + the difficulty of getting access to the mandarines, who alone + could grant them redress: That it was his, Mr Anson's, duty, as + an officer of the king of Great Britain, to lay before the + viceroy these grievances of the British subjects, which he hoped + the viceroy would take into consideration, and would give orders, + that for the future there should be no just reason for complaint. + Here Mr Anson paused, and waited some time in expectation of an + answer; but nothing being said, he asked his interpreter if he + was certain the viceroy understood what he had urged; the + interpreter told him, he was certain it was understood, but he + believed no reply would be made to it. Mr Anson then represented + to the viceroy the case of the ship Haslingfield, which, having + been dismasted on the coast of China, had arrived in the river of + Canton but a few days before. The people on board this vessel had + been great sufferers by the fire; the captain in particular had + all his goods burnt, and had lost besides, in the confusion, a + chest of treasure of four thousand five hundred tahel, which was + supposed to be stolen by the Chinese boat-men. Mr Anson therefore + desired that the captain might have the assistance of the + government, as it was apprehended the money could never be + recovered without the interposition of the mandarines. And to + this request the viceroy made answer, that in settling the + emperor's customs for that ship, some abatement should be made in + consideration of her losses.</p> + + <p>And now the commodore having dispatched the business with + which the officers of the East-India company had entrusted him, + he entered on his own affairs; acquainting the viceroy, that the + proper season was now set in for returning to Europe, and that he + waited only for a licence to ship off his provisions and stores, + which were all ready; and that as soon as this should be granted + him, and he should have gotten his necessaries on board, he + intended to leave the river of Canton, and to make the best of + his way for England. The viceroy replied to this, that the + licence should be immediately issued, and that every thing should + be ordered on board the following day. And finding that Mr Anson + had nothing farther to insist on, the viceroy continued the + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page521" id="page521"></a>[pg + 521]</span> conversation for some time, acknowledging in very + civil terms how much the Chinese were obliged to him for his + signal services at the fire, and owning that he had saved the + city from being destroyed: And then observing that the Centurion + had been a good while on their coast, he closed his discourse, by + wishing the commodore a good voyage to Europe. After which, the + commodore, thanking him for his civility and assistance, took his + leave.</p> + + <p>As soon as the commodore was out of the hall of audience, he + was much pressed to go into a neighbouring apartment, where there + was an entertainment provided; but finding, on enquiry, that the + viceroy himself was not to be present, he declined the + invitation, and departed, attended in the same manner as at his + arrival; only at his leaving the city he was saluted by three + guns, which are as many as in that country are ever fired on any + ceremony. Thus the commodore, to his great joy, at last finished + this troublesome affair, which, for the preceding four months, + had given him great disquietude. Indeed he was highly pleased + with procuring a licence for the shipping of his stores and + provisions; for thereby he was enabled to return to Great Britain + with the first of the monsoon, and to prevent all intelligence of + his being expected: But this, though a very important point, was + not the circumstance which gave him the greatest satisfaction; + for he was more particularly attentive to the authentic precedent + established on this occasion, by which his majesty's ships of war + are for the future exempted from all demands of duty in any of + the ports of China.</p> + + <p>In pursuance of the promises of the viceroy, the provisions + were begun to be sent on board the day after the audience; and, + four days after, the commodore embarked at Canton for the + Centurion; and on the 7th of December, the Centurion and her + prize unmoored, and stood down the river, passing through the + Bocca Tigris on the 10th. And on this occasion I must observe, + that the Chinese had taken care to man the two forts, on each + side of that passage, with as many men as they could well + contain, the greatest part of them armed with pikes and + match-lock musquets. These garrisons affected to shew themselves + as much as possible to the ships, and were doubtless intended to + induce Mr Anson to think more reverently than he had hitherto + done of the Chinese military power: For this purpose they were + equipped with much parade, having a great number of colours + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page522" id="page522"></a>[pg + 522]</span> exposed to view; and on the castle in particular + there were laid considerable heaps of large stones; and a soldier + of unusual size, dressed in very sightly armour, stalked about on + the parapet with a battle-axe in his hand, endeavouring to put on + as important and martial an air as possible, though some of the + observers on board the Centurion shrewdly suspected, from the + appearance of his armour, that instead of steel, it was composed + only of a particular kind of glittering paper.</p> + + <p>The Centurion and her prize being now without the river of + Canton, and consequently upon the point of leaving the Chinese + jurisdiction, I beg leave, before I quit all mention of the + Chinese affairs, to subjoin a few remarks on the disposition and + genius of that extraordinary people. And though it may be + supposed, that observations made at Canton only, a place situated + in the corner of the empire, are very imperfect materials on + which to found any general conclusions, yet as those who have had + opportunities of examining the inner parts of the country, have + been evidently influenced by very ridiculous prepossessions, and + as this transactions of Mr Anson with the regency of Canton were + of an uncommon nature, in which many circumstances occurred, + different perhaps from any which have happened before, I hope the + following reflections, many of them drawn from these incidents, + will not be altogether unacceptable to the reader.</p> + + <p>That the Chinese are a very ingenious and industrious people, + is sufficiently evinced, from the great number of curious + manufactures which are established amongst them, and which are + eagerly sought for by the most distant nations; but though skill + in the handicraft arts seems to be the most important + qualification of this people, yet their talents therein are but + of a second-rate kind; for they are much out-done by the Japanese + in those manufactures, which are common to both countries; and + they are in numerous instances incapable of rivalling the + mechanic dexterity of the Europeans. Indeed, their principal + excellency seems to be imitation; and they accordingly labour + under that poverty of genius, which constantly attends all + servile imitators. This is most conspicuous in works which + require great truth and accuracy; as in clocks, watches, + fire-arms, &c. for in all these, though they can copy the + different parts, and can form some resemblance of the whole, yet + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page523" id="page523"></a>[pg + 523]</span> they never could arrive at such a justness in their + fabric, as was necessary to produce the desired effect. And if we + pass from their manufactures to artists of a superior class, as + painters, statuaries, &c., in these matters they seem to be + still more defective, their painters, though very numerous and in + great esteem, rarely succeeding in the drawing or colouring of + human figures; or in the grouping of large compositions; and + though in flowers and birds their, performances are much more + admired, yet even in these, some part of the merit is rather to + be imputed to the native brightness and excellency of the + colours, than to the skill of the painter; since it is very + unusual to see the light and shade justly and naturally handled, + or to find that ease and grace in the drawing, which are to be + met with in the works of European artists; In short, there is a + stiffness and minuteness in most of the Chinese productions, + which are extremely displeasing: And it may perhaps be asserted + with great truth, that these defects in their arts are entirely + owing to the peculiar turn of the people, amongst whom nothing + greater spirited is to be met with.</p> + + <p>If we next examine the Chinese literature; (taking our + accounts from the writers, who have endeavoured to represent sent + it in the most favourable light) we shall find; that on this head + their obstinacy and absurdity are most wonderful: For though, for + many ages, they have been surrounded by nations, to whom the use + of letters was familiar, yet they, the Chinese alone, have + hitherto neglected to avail themselves of that almost divine + invention, and have continued to adhere to the rude and + inartificial method of representing words by arbitrary marks; a + method, which necessarily renders the number of their character + too great for human memory to manage, makes writing to be an art + that requires prodigious application, and in which no man can be + otherwise than partially skilled; whilst all reading, and + understanding of what is written, is attended with infinite + obscurity and confusion; for the connection between these marks, + and the words they represent; cannot be retained in books, but + must be delivered down from age to age by oral tradition: And how + uncertain this must prove in such a complicated subject, is + sufficiently obvious to those who have attended to the variation + which all verbal relations undergo, when they are transmitted + through three or four hands only. Hence it is easy to conclude, + that the history <span class="pagenum"><a name="page524" id= + "page524"></a>[pg 524]</span> and inventions of past ages, + recorded by these perplexed symbols, must frequently prove + unintelligible; and consequently the learning and boasted + antiquity of the nation most, in numerous instances, be extremely + problematical.</p> + + <p>But we are told by some of the missionaries, that though the + skill of the Chinese in science is indeed much inferior to that + of the Europeans, yet the morality and justice taught and + practised by them are most exemplary. And from the description + given by some of these good fathers, one should be induced to + believe that the whole empire was a well-governed affectionate + family, where the only contests were, who should exert the most + humanity and beneficence: But our preceding relation of the + behaviour of the magistrates, merchants, and tradesmen at Canton, + sufficiently refutes these jesuitical fictions. And as to their + theories of morality, if we may judge from the specimens + exhibited in the works of the missionaries, we shall find them + solely employed in recommending ridiculous attachments to certain + immaterial points, instead of discussing the proper criterion of + human actions, and regulating the general conduct of mankind to + one another on reasonable and equitable principles. Indeed, the + only pretension of the Chinese to a more refined morality than + their neighbours is founded, not on their integrity or + beneficence, but solely on the affected evenness of their + demeanour, and their constant attention to suppress all symptoms + of passion and violence. But it must be considered, that + hypocrisy and fraud are often not less mischievous to the general + interests of mankind, than, impetuosity and vehemence of temper, + since these, though usually liable to the imputation of + imprudence, do not exclude sincerity, benevolence, resolution, + nor many other laudable qualities. And perhaps if this matter + were examined to the bottom, it would appear that the calm and + patient turn of the Chinese, on which they so much value + themselves, and which distinguishes the nation from all others, + is in reality the source of the most exceptionable part of their + character; for it has been often observed by those who have + attended to the nature of mankind, that it is difficult to curb + the more robust and violent passions, without augmenting at the + same time the force of the selfish ones: So that the timidity, + dissimulation, and dishonesty of the Chinese, may, in some sort, + be owing to the <span class="pagenum"><a name="page525" id= + "page525"></a>[pg 525]</span> composure and external decency so + universally prevailing in that empire.</p> + + <p>Thus much for the general disposition of the people: But I + cannot dismiss this subject without adding a few words about the + Chinese government, that too having been the subject of boundless + panegyric. And on this head I must observe, that the favourable + accounts often given of their prudent regulations for the + administration of their domestic affairs, are sufficiently + confuted by their transactions with Mr Anson: For we have seen + that their magistrates are corrupt, their people thievish, and + their tribunals crafty and venal. Nor is the constitution of the + empire, or the general orders of the state, less liable to + exception: Since that form of government, which does not in the + first place provide for the security of the public against the + enterprises of foreign powers, is certainly a most defective + institution: And yet this populous, this rich, and extensive + country, so pompously celebrated for its refined wisdom and + policy, was conquered about an age since by an handful of + Tartars; and even now, by the cowardice of the inhabitants, and + the want of proper military regulations, it continues exposed not + only to the attempts of any potent state, but to the ravages of + every petty invader. I have already observed, on occasion of the + commodore's disputes with the Chinese, that the Centurion alone + was an overmatch for all the naval power of that empire: This + perhaps may appear an extraordinary position; but to render it + unquestionable, one may refer to vessels made use of by the + Chinese.<a id="footnotetag164" name="footnotetag164"></a><a href= + "#footnote164"><sup>2</sup></a> The first of these is a junk of + about a hundred and twenty tons burden, and was what the + Centurion hove down by; these are most used in the great rivers, + though they sometimes serve for small coasting voyages: The other + junk is about two hundred and eighty tons burden, and is of the + same form with those in which they trade to Cochinchina, Manilla, + Batavia, and Japan, though some of their trading vessels are of a + much larger size; its head is perfectly flat; and when the vessel + is deep laden, the second or third plank of this flat surface is + oft-times under water. The masts, sails, and rigging of these + vessels are ruder than their built; for their masts are made of + trees, no otherwise fashioned than by barking them, and lopping + off their <span class="pagenum"><a name="page526" id= + "page526"></a>[pg 526]</span> branches. Each mast has only two + shrouds made of twisted rattan, which are often both shifted to + the weather-side; and the halyard, when the yard is up, serves + instead of a third shroud. The sails are made of mat, + strengthened every thee feet by an horizontal rib of bamboo; they + run upon the mast with hoops, and when they are lowered down, + they fold upon the deck. These merchantmen carry no cannon; and + it appears, from this whole description, that they are utterly + incapable of resisting any European armed, vessel. Nor is the + state provided with ships of considerable force, or of a better + fabric, to protect them: For at Canton, where doubtless their + principal naval power is stationed, we saw no more than four men + of war junks, of about three hundred tons burden, being of the + make already described, and mounted only with eight or ten guns, + the largest of which does not exceed a four-pounder. This may + suffice to give an idea of the defenceless state of the Chinese + empire. But it is time to return to the commodore, whom I left + with his two ships without the Bocca Tigris; and who, on the 12th + of December, anchored before the town of Macao.</p> + + <p>Whilst the ships lay here, the merchants of Macao finished + their agreement for the galleon, for which they had offered 6000 + dollars; this was much short of her value, but the impatience of + the commodore to get to sea, to which the merchants were no + strangers, prompted them to insist on so unequal a bargain. Mr + Anson had learnt enough from the English at Canton, to conjecture + that the war betwixt Great Britain and Spain was still continued; + and that probably the French might engage in the assistance of + Spain, before he could arrive in Great Britain; and therefore + knowing, that no intelligence could get to Europe of the prize he + had taken, and the treasure he had on board, till the return of + the merchantmen from Canton, he was resolved to make all possible + expedition in getting back, that he might be himself the first + messenger of his own good fortune, and might thereby prevent the + enemy from forming any projects to intercept him: For these + reasons, he, to avoid all delay, accepted of the sum offered for + the galleon; and she being delivered to the merchants the 15th of + December, 1743, the Centurion the same day got under sail, on her + return to England. And on the 3d of January, she came to an + anchor at Prince's Island, in the straits of <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page527" id="page527"></a>[pg 527]</span> + Sunda, and continued there wooding and watering till the 8th, + when, she weighed and stood for the Cape of Good Hope, where, on + the eleventh of March she anchored in Table-Bay.</p> + + <p>Here the commodore continued till the beginning of April, + highly delighted with the place, which, by its extraordinary + accommodations, the healthiness of its air, and the picturesque + appearance of the country, all enlivened by the addition of a + civilized colony, was not disgraced in an imaginary comparison + with the vallies of Juan Fernandez, and the lawns of Tinian. + During his stay he entered about forty new men; and having by the + 3d of April, 1744, completed his water and provision, he on that + day weighed and put to sea; and on the 19th of the same month + they saw the island of St Helena, which, however, they did not + touch at, but stood on their way; and, on the 10th of June, being + then in soundings, they spoke with an English ship from Amsterdam + bound for Philadelphia, whence they received the first + intelligence of a French war; the 12th they got sight of the + Lizard; and the 15th, in the evening, to their infinite joy, they + came safe to an anchor at Spithead. But that the signal perils + which had so often threatened them in the preceding part of the + enterprise, might pursue them to the very last, Mr Anson learnt + on his arrival, that there was a French fleet of considerable + force cruising in the chops of the channel, which, by the account + of their position, he found the Centurion had run through, and + had been all the time concealed by a fog. Thus was this + expedition finished, when it had lasted three years and nine + months; after having, by its event, strongly evinced this + important truth, that though prudence, intrepidity, and + perseverance united, are not exempted from the blows of adverse + fortune; yet in a long series of transactions, they usually rise + superior to its power, and in the end rarely fail of proving + successful.</p> + <hr /> + + <p>[In concluding the account of this very interesting + circumnavigation, it is necessary to advert to a question of some + importance in literature, as every question must be that involves + the claims of authors and their respective titles to reputation. + Nor is the public often impatient in listening to evidence on + such subjects, if the merit contended for be sufficiently great + to justify solicitude as to its being <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page528" id="page528"></a>[pg 528]</span> + rightly conferred. That it is so in the case of the question, Who + was the author of this work? no one can doubt, that is capable of + relishing its excellencies; or is aware of the high rank it has + always held among compositions of the kindthat its first + reception was such as to take off four large impressions within a + twelvemonththat it has been repeatedly printed since in a variety + of formsand that it has been translated into most of the + languages of Europe. The claimants are Mr Walter, chaplain of the + Centurion, under whose name (as is mentioned in this volume of + the Collection, p. 201,) it was originally, and, so far as the + editor knows, always published; and Mr Benjamin Robins, an + ingenious mathematician, and author of several works, much + esteemed by men of science. A short statement of such information + as the editor has been able to procure, is all that the limits of + this work will permit to be said on the subject of this question. + The public, being interested in what had been generally reported + through the medium of the periodical publications, respecting the + proceedings and fate of the squadron under Commodore Anson, had + eagerly expected some account of this voyage drawn up under his + notice, or authenticated by his approval. This anxiety, it is + likely, was not a little enhanced by the circumstance of several + small, but curious enough, narratives having been published of + the distresses experienced by part of the squadron, especially + the Wager; from which it was naturally enough inferred, that a + judicious and minute account of the whole could not fail to + gratify rational curiosity, and the common disposition to wonder. + Mr Walter, accordingly, who had gone in the Centurion, the + commodore's vessel, as chaplain, and who, it seems, had been in + the habit of keeping memorials of the transactions and + occurrences of the squadron, prepared materials for publication, + and actually procured subscriptions for the liquidation of its + expense. He brought down his narrative to the time of his leaving + the Centurion at Macao, when he returned by another conveyance to + England. But as the public expectation had been raised very high, + some persons, it would appear, suggested that the materials + intended to be published should be carefully examined, and, if + need be, corrected, by an adequate judge of literary and + scientific composition. Mr Robins, already well known as an + author of both mathematical and political essays, and much valued + by several distinguished characters <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page529" id="page529"></a>[pg 529]</span> of + the times, was engaged to undertake this task, whether with or + without the desire of Mr Walter, or under any allegation of that + gentleman's known or reputed incompetency to fulfil the hopes + entertained, cannot now be discovered. On examination, we are + told, it was resolved that Mr Robins should write the whole work + anew, and merely use the materials furnished by Mr Walter, or + otherwise, as the particulars of wind, weather, currents, + courses, &c. &c. usually given in a sailor's journal. The + introduction, and several dissertations interspersed through, the + work, are said, moreover, to have been written by Mr Robins + without any such assistance whatever; but to what magnitude his + labours throughout amounted, it is perhaps impossible to + ascertain. That he acquired reputation by it is unquestionable; + but that Mr Walter himself should not have contributed so much as + to warrant his name appearing on the title-page of the book, and + at its dedication to the Duke of Bedford, would require a proof + of both want of talents and meanness of disposition, which no one + yet has attempted to adduce. Mr Walter's character, indeed, seems + to have been quite above either such deficiency; and, in all + probability, was, both in point of firmness and moral and + intellectual worth, the very circumstance which obtained for him + the appointment to a responsible office in an expedition, which, + in its origin, progress, and issue, attracted the peculiar regard + of the British government, and the admiration of mankind in + general. Besides this office, it may be mentioned, that in 1745, + on his return from the expedition, he was made chaplain of + Portsmouth dock-yard, in which situation he continued till his + death on March 10th, 1785. The first edition of the work appeared + in 1748; and a fifth being required in the following year, Mr + Robins, it is said, revised it, and intended, had he remained in + England, to have added a second volume. This rests on the + assertion of Dr Wilson, who published Mr Robins' works after his + death, in 2 vols. 8vo. 1761; and who, in the account of that + gentleman's life prefixed, has been at pains to claim, in the + strongest language, the merit of the Narrative for his friend. A + passage or two from that memoir may satisfy the reader as to this + part of the evidence, and as to the opinion of Dr W. one of the + principal witnesses, respecting the proportional labours of + Messrs Walter and Robins. "Upon a strict perusal of both the + performances," says he, "I find Mr Robins' to contain + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page530" id="page530"></a>[pg + 530]</span> about as much matter again as that of Mr Walterso + this famous Voyage was composed in the person of the Centurion's + chaplain, by Mr Robins in his own style and manner. Of this Mr + Robins' friends, Mr Glover and Mr Ockenden, are witnesses as well + as myself, we having compared the printed book with Mr Walter's + manuscript. And this was at that time no secret, for in the + counterpart of an indenture, now lying before me, made between + Benjamin Robins, Esq. and John and Paul Knapton, booksellers, I + find that those booksellers purchased the copy of this book from + Mr Robins, as the sole proprietor, with no other mention of Mr + Walter than a proviso in relation to the subscriptions he had + taken." Dr Wilson evidently writes under some conviction that his + assertions are liable to scrutiny, and that the matter of his + remarks is debatable; hence his allegation that other + <i>friends</i> of Mr Robins are witnesses as well as himself, and + his insinuation that what he testifies was no secret. But it is + obvious, that, were his own assertions of the fact at all + questionable, he would be equally obnoxious to discredit in + assigning these other witnesses; for clearly, the man who could + falsify in the one case, would be capable of doing so in the + other. This may be said without any impeachment whatever of + either Dr Wilson or the other friends of Mr Robins. It is merely + a remark on the mode of proof which the Dr has adopted. As to the + insinuation again, of the fact being no secret, all that it may + be requisite to say is simply this, that the circumstance of the + existence of the counterpart of such an indenture as is + mentioned, is a very indifferent proof of publicity; and that + even were it otherwise, were it "confirmation strong," still it + might be readily conceived that Mr Robins should be the sole + proprietor of the work, and yet in no degree the author of it. + One may believe, at least, that Mr Robins, having aided in + drawing up the materials for publication, and having furnished + some pieces for it, was entrusted with the disposal of it to the + booksellers; Mr Walter himself, for value received; or other + considerations, abandoning all further concern. Some importance + has been attached to a letter from Lord Anson to Mr Robins, as + preserved by Dr Wilson, and published, as he says, by his + lordship's permission, or, to use his own expression, "Printed + not without the noble lord's consent; who," says the doctor, + "being requested to permit that this testimony might be exhibited + to the world of his lordship's <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page531" id="page531"></a>[pg 531]</span> esteem for Mr Robins, + replied, in the politest manner, That every thing in his power + was due to the memory of one who had deserved so well of the + public." That Mr Robins deserved well of the public was + unquestionable, though he had not written a line of the + Narrative. He had published several works on subjects of general + utility; and, besides his private instructions in beneficial + science, he had been employed officially in the service of his + country: In short, he needed not any thing of the reputation of + the author of the Narrative, whoever he was, to extend his own. + But does the letter referred to, or the quotation now given + respecting Lord Anson's permission to publish it, in any degree + determine the question, or any thing connected with it? The + Editor has a different opinion of it; he thinks it quite + irrelevantthat it does not yield the least shadow of proof, that + Mr Robins had any thing to do with the volume of the Narrative, + already given to the public. All that can be legitimately + inferred from it amounts to this, that Lord Anson, entertaining a + high opinion of Mr Robins, and being much pleased with his works, + was desirous that he should publish a second volume of the + Voyage, and apprehended that he had abandoned the intention of + doing so. Of the fact of Mr Robins being the author of what had + appeared, or even of the existence of materials for a second + volume in a state fit for the public noticeof any thing, in + short, but an intention on the part of Mr Robins to this effect, + the letter in question says not a word. Let the reader judge for + himself. The letter is as follows:</p> + + <p>"DEAR SIR,</p> + + <p>"When I last saw you in town, I forgot to ask you, whether you + intended to publish the second volume of my "Voyage" before you + leave us; which, I confess, I am very sorry for. If you should + have laid aside all thoughts of favouring the world with more of + your works, it will be much disappointed, and no one in it more + than your very much obliged and humble servant,</p> + + <p><i>Bath, 22d October, 1749.</i></p> + + <p>"ANSON."</p> + + <p>"If you can tell the time of your departure, let me know + it."</p> + + <p>This letter is also preserved by Mr Nichols in his Literary + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page532" id="page532"></a>[pg + 532]</span> Anecdotes of the 18th Century, vol. ii. page 206, + where the Narrative is explicitly ascribed to Mr Robins, but not + on, any particular evidence. The statement indeed that is there + given seems founded on Dr Wilson's account of Mr Robins, without + any other source of information having been consulted. The + Encyclop&#230;dia Britannica is somewhat more candid, stating + merely what was generally thought as to the Narrative being the + work of Mr Robins, and at the same time pointing, though + indirectly, to the existence of information opposed to that + opinion. "In 1748," says the article Robins, 3d edition, + "appeared Lord Anson's Voyage round the World, which, though Mr + Walter's name is in the title, has been generally thought to be + the work of Mr Robins.""The 5th edition, printed at London, in + 1749, was revised and corrected by Mr Robins himself. It appears, + however, from the corrigenda and addenda to the 1st volume of the + Biographia Britannica, printed in the beginning of the 4th volume + of that work, that Mr Robins was only consulted with respect to + the disposition of the drawings, and that he had left England + before the book was printed. Whether this be the fact, as it is + asserted to be by the widow of Mr Walter, it is not for us to + determine." The remark now made seems somewhat ambiguous, and may + refer to either the 5th edition only, or to the work in general. + In referring, however, to the Biog. Brit. as above, the ambiguity + is removed, and a testimony is discovered in opposition to the + statement of Dr Wilson, which the reader cannot fail to consider + of very high import, and as bearing strongly against the claims + of Mr Robins. The writers of the Biog. had spoken, in their + account of Lord Anson, of the history of his voyage having been + written by Mr Robins. This they did on common though + uncontradicted report, arising in all probability from the + positive assertions of Dr Wilson, to which, it is certainly very + singular, neither Mr Walter nor any of his friends chose to + object. With the most praise-worthy liberality and candour, + however, these gentlemen, in the corrigenda; &c. referred to, + insert the following notice:"Thus has the matter hitherto stood. + But so late as the present year (1789) and a few days previously + to the writing of this note, a letter upon the subject has been + put into our hands by Mr John. Walter, bookseller at Charing + Cross. It is addressed to that gentleman by Mrs Walter, the widow + of the publisher of that Voyage, and is as + follows:</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page533" id= + "page533"></a>[pg 533]</span> + + <p>"SIR,</p> + + <p>"I am informed that the Biographia Britannica insinuates that + Mr Robins, and not Mr Walter, was the writer of Lord Anson's + Voyage round the World. I shall therefore take it as a favour, if + you will put me in the way of correcting so great a mistake. + During the time of Mr Walter's writing that Voyage, he visited me + almost daily previous to our marriage, and I have frequently + heard him say how closely be had been engaged in writing for some + hours to prepare for his constant attendance upon Lord Anson at + six every morning for his approbation, as his lordship overlooked + every sheet that was written. At some of those meetings Mr Robins + assisted, as he was consulted in the disposition of the drawings; + and I also know that Mr Robins left England (for he was sent to + Bergen-op-Zoom,)<a id="footnotetag165" name= + "footnotetag165"></a><a href="#footnote165"><sup>3</sup></a> some + months before the publication of that book; and I have frequently + seen Mr Walter correct the proof sheets for the printer. You may + perhaps wonder that Mr Walter never took any steps to contradict + the assertion; but that wonder will cease when I tell you that + for four years before his death (which was in 1785) he laboured + under very severe and painful illnesses, and therefore never + heard any thing but newspaper squibs, which he looked upon with + contempt. But as it now appears to be published in a work that + will be handed down to-posterity, that Mr Walter was not the real + author, I think it a duty incumbent upon me to endeavour to clear + his memory from any imputation of duplicity. Nor can it be + supposed that any man would write a book for another to share the + greatest part of the advantages. These and many other reasons + make me to apply to you, as I should suppose that, as a relation + to the deceased, you would be anxious for his fame, as well + as,</p> + + <p>Sir,</p> + + <p>Your most humble servant,</p> + + <p>JANE WALTER."</p> + + <p><i>June 16th, 1789.</i></p> + + <p>"We shall make no other comment on this letter than to + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page534" id="page534"></a>[pg + 534]</span> observe, that it is highly worthy of attention. If it + shall give such full satisfaction to our readers as to convince + them that Mr Walter was the writer of the voyage in its present + form, we shall rejoice in having had an opportunity of doing + justice to an injured character."</p> + + <p>Such is all the information the Editor has been able to + procure on this subject; and he regrets that it is not adequate + to what is desirable for the determining it. He might seem + invidiously disposed were he positively to decide in the claims, + the respective evidences of which, though not logically + contradictory, are so much opposed to each other; but he thinks + he can hazard no unfavourable imputation, if he should merely + state his opinion drawn from the consideration of the + testimonies, and the comparison of the style of part of the + Narrative, with that of the works which appeared in Mr Robins' + name. He thinks, then, in few words, that the Narrative is really + the production of Mr Walter, under whose name it appeared, but + that it was materially increased in size, if not in real value, + by the contributions of Mr Robins; and that the species of those + contributions may be condescended on, which of course goes far to + determine their amount.]</p> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote163" name="footnote163"></a><b>Footnote 1:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag163">(return)</a> + + <p>The practice recommended, it is almost unnecessary to + remark, has been adopted since our author's time, but certainly + not to the extent the probable advantages of it would + suggest.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote164" name="footnote164"></a><b>Footnote 2:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag164">(return)</a> + + <p>The plate is necessarily omitted.</p> + </blockquote> + + <blockquote class="footnote"> + <a id="footnote165" name="footnote165"></a><b>Footnote 3:</b> + <a href="#footnotetag165">(return)</a> + + <p>"Mr Robins," says Dr Wilson, "was invited over to assist in + the defence of Bergen-op-Zoom, then invested by the French; and + he did accordingly set out for that place; but it was entered + by the besiegers September 16, 1747, just after his arrival in + the Dutch army." This corresponds well with Mrs Walter's + statement, and must have its weight in the question.E.</p> + </blockquote> + + <p>END OF VOLUME ELEVENTH.</p> + + <p>Edinburgh: Printed by James Ballantyne & Co.</p> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of A General History and Collection of +Voyages and Travels, Volume 11, by Robert Kerr + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK VOYAGES AND TRAVELS, VOLUME 11 *** + +***** This file should be named 15376-h.htm or 15376-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/5/3/7/15376/ + +Produced by Robert Connal, Alison Hadwin and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. 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