Volume 17 / Part 3 / Book 3 — BULKELEY'S NARRATIVE. (continued 2)

Saturday the 29th, came here five Indian canoes, loaden with muscles; the men, women, and children, were about fifty: These Indians had never been with us before, they are not so generous and good-natur'd as our friends I have already mentioned; they were so mercenary, that they would not part with a single muscle without something in exchange; their stay was but short with us, for the next morning they launch'd their canoes, and went off.

Tuesday, September the 1st, the carpenter was shot in the thigh with several large pewter slugs by the captain's cook, but he being at a great distance, the slugs did not enter his skin: Whether this was design'd, or accidental, we don't know; however, we thought it proper to disarm him.

Wednesday the 2d, wind at N. and N. by W. with rain. This day we were inform'd that three of the deserters, viz. James Mitchel, carpenter's mate, Joseph King and Owen Thomson, seamen, were gone over to the main in a punt of their own building; the others were here yesterday, and I believe would be gladly received again, but am of opinion there are few voices in their favour.

Friday the 4th, some disorders among the people about watching the provisions, some taking all opportunities to rob the stores. Our living now is very hard, shell-fish are very scarce, and difficult to be had; the sea- weeds are our greatest support; we have found a sort of sea-weed which we call dulse, it is a narrow weed, growing on rocks in the sea, which, when boil'd about two hours, thickens the water like flour; this we esteem a good and wholsome food.

Sunday the 6th, last night the store-tent was robbed of brandy and flour: The people on hearing this were greatly enrag'd, and insisted on searching the marines tents; on search they found four bottles of brandy, and four small parcels of flour. The captain sent for the lieutenant, master gunner, carpenter, and surgeon, with lieutenants H----n, E----s, and F----g, of the army, Captain Pemberton was also sent for, but was so ill that he could not be present, but desir'd all might pass according to the judgment of the above-mention'd officers. A consultation was held, five of the accused marines did not appear, dreading the punishment due to their crime, they march'd off to the deserters: Four more, who staid to be try'd, receiv'd sentence, on the first opportunity, to carry them off to the main, and there to shift for themselves with the former deserters. The seamen insisted on a pint of brandy each man per diem, which was agreed on. The provisions being found were put into the store.

Monday the 7th, I was invited to a dog-feast at Mr J----s's tent: There were present at this entertainment, the lieutenant, the Honourable John Byron, Mr Cummins, Mr Campbell, Mr Young, Lieutenants Ewers and Fielding, and Dr Oakley of the army. It was exceeding good eating, we thought no English mutton preferable to it.

Tuesday the 8th, in the afternoon, William Harvey, quarter gunner, came to our tent with a paper sign'd by seven people; the contents as follows, viz.

"These are to acquaint you, the gentlemen, officers, and seamen of the ship Wager, that, for the easement of the boat now building, we do agree to go in the yawl, after she is fitted up, with allowing us our share of provisions, and other conveniences, to go in her to the southward, through the Streights of Magellan, for the coast of Brazil.

The next day, the above-mention'd added one more to their number, viz. Peter Plastow, captain's steward: he came to acquaint us he was willing to go with them, and hoped we would give our consent; we told him we had nothing to do with it, therefore he must apply to the captain.

Thursday the 10th, hard gales at W.N.W., with rain and hail. The captain sent for the lieutenant, master, myself, the carpenter, and boatswain; when we were all met, the captain ask'd us if Plastow had mention'd any thing to us about going off in the yawl. We told him he had. Plastow being sent for, the captain said, Peter, I hear you are for going in the boat? He answer'd, Yes, sir, I will take my chance, for I want to get to England. The captain bade him be gone for a villain, and said no more. This Plastow was a mighty favourite with the captain, and had often been admitted to his conversation: He above all men ought to have stood steadfast to him, because the captain regarded him above the whole body of people, and hath been heard to say as much. It was this day agreed that the sentence put off on the 6th should be executed the first opportunity, without any delay, and that no boat should go off from hence before all was ready, believing some have a design to go to the northward.

Friday the 11th, wind at N.N.W. The people very uneasy, scarce any work done for this week past; every thing at a stand, we have now among us no command, order, or discipline, add to our uneasiness the uncomfortableness of the climate; we have been inhabitants of this island sixteen weeks, and have not seen ten fair days; the murmurings of the people, the scarcity of provision, and the severity of the weather, would really make a man weary of life.

Monday the 14th, last night very hard gales at N.W. and W.N.W., with large showers of hail, with thunder. The wind to-day is much abated. As to the article of provisions, nothing comes amiss, we eat dogs, rats, and, in short, every thing we can come at.

Friday the 18th, Dennis O'Lary, and John Redwood, seamen, with six marines, were put off to the main, according to their sentence, it being a fine summer's day. This day the lieutenant bringing a pair of pistols to the carpenter, and complaining they were in bad order, did not imagine they were loaded, snapping the first it miss'd fire, the second went off, but providentially did no harm, tho' the lieutenant had then a crowd of people about him.

Sunday the 20th, little wind, and clear weather. Launch'd the barge, and went off to the wreck; we took up four casks of beef, with a cask of pease, which was stay'd, we serv'd out to each man five pieces of beef, and pease to suck as would have 'em, but there were none to take 'em, having now plenty of meat, our stomachs are become nice and dainty.

Wednesday, the 23d, the people went to the captain with a two gallon cagg, and ask'd it full of wine. The captain refus'd 'em, but apprehending that they would make no ceremony of filling it without leave, and carrying it off by force, he thought proper to order it to be fill'd. They brought it to the long-boat, and drank it in her hold. Stept the long-boat's mast forward. The people very much disorder'd in liquor, and very quarrelsome.

Thursday the 24th, I was sent on a week's cruize in the barge, the officers with me were Mr Jones, the mate, and the Honourable Mr B----n, midshipman, and Mr Harvey the purser, who was a good draughtsman; we went in order to discover the coast to the southward, for the safety of the long-boat; we were informed on our return, that the people in our absence went to the captain and got two gallons of wine which they mixed with their half pints of brandy, they got all drunk and mad, but no great mischief ensued. Six Indian canoes likewise came in our absence loaden with men, women, and children, and brought with them clams out of the shells strung on lines. The Indian women dived for muscles, and brought them ashore in abundance, the men went to the fresh water river, and caught several fish like our English mullets. The people bought dogs of the Indians, which they kill'd and eat, esteeming the flesh very good food. The next day the Indians went out and caught a vast quantity of fish out of a pond, where they sent their dogs to hunt; the dogs dived, and drove the fish ashore in great numbers to one part of the pond, as if they had been drawn in a seyne; the Indians sold the fish to the people. This method of catching fish, is, I believe, unknown any where else, and was very surprising; and, what is also very strange, after the Indians went away, we hauled the seyne over the pond, and could never get a fish.

Monday the 28th, returned with the barge; the first evening we were out we had a good harbour for the barge, which we put into; the first animal we saw was a fine large bitch big with puppies, we kill'd her, we then roasted one side and boiled the other, were exceedingly well pleased with our fare, supped heartily, and slept well. The next morning we got up at day-break, and proceeded on our cruize, finding all along the coast to be very dangerous; at evening put into a place of very good shelter for the barge: Here we found the Indians had been very lately, the shore being covered with the offals of seal; in an hour's time we killed ten wild fawn, we roasted three geese and two ducks, the rest we put into a sea pye, so that we fared most elegantly; got up at day-light next morning, but seeing the weather hazy and dirty, thought it not proper to put out with the barge, fearing we should not get a harbour before night; we took a walk five miles in the country cross the land to the southward, but could not see any shelter for the boat, being then twelve leagues from the place we came from, so we returned back in the evening, and got into a fine sandy bay; I think it as good a harbour for shipping as any I ever saw: Coming into this bay, saw the southmost land, which we had seen before, bearing about S.S.W. right over an inlet of land, above two miles. After landing, lived as we did last night; in the morning we walked over, where we found a deep bay, it being eighteen leagues deep, and twelve leagues broad; here we had a very good prospect of the coast; we found here the green pease that Sir John Narborough mentions in his book.

Saturday, the 3d of October, after our return from the cruize, the lieutenant, the master, myself, the boatswain, and Mr J----s the mate, went to the captain, to acquaint him how forward the boat was, and to consult some measures to be observ'd on board the boat, to prevent mutiny; he desir'd a day or two to consider of it.

On Monday, the 5th, the carpenter sent his case bottle, as usual, to the captain, to be filled with wine, but it was sent back empty, with this answer, I will give him none. This sudden change of the captain's behaviour to the carpenter, proceeded from some words which the latter dropt, and were carried to the captain; the words the carpenter spoke were to this purport, that he was not to be led by favour or affection, nor to be biassed by a bottle of brandy. To-day we heeled the long-boat, and caulked the star-board side, paid her bottom with wax, tallow, and soap that came out of the ship.

Tuesday the 6th, hard gales at N.W. and N., with rain: This morning the lieutenant acquainted us of the captain's resolution, which was to be captain as before, and to be governed by the rules of the navy, and to stand or fall by them; it was objected in the present situation, the rules of the navy are not sufficient to direct us, several rules being requisite in our circumstances which are not mention'd there, that the whole body of officers and people are determin'd not to be govern'd by those rules at present. This objection was started, not from a disrespect to those rules, but we imagin'd, if Captain C----p was restor'd to the absolute command he had before the loss of the Wager, that he would proceed again on the same principles, never on any exigency consult his officers, but act arbitrarily, according to his humour and confidence of superior knowledge; while he acts with reason, we will support his command with our lives, but some restriction is necessary for our own preservation. We think him a gentleman worthy to have a limited command, but too dangerous a person to be trusted with an absolute one. This afternoon the people insisted to be serv'd brandy out of the casks that were buried under ground, accordingly they were serv'd half a pint each man. Got the long-boat upright.

Thursday the 18th, this day the master went to the captain concerning ten half barrels of powder more than can be carried off, which will make good water casks for the boats; the captain told him not to start the powder, or destroy any thing, without his orders, and said, he must have time, to consider of it. In the afternoon Captain P--m-b--rt--n, of the land forces, came on the beach and desired the assistance of the seamen to take Captain C----p a prisoner, for the death of Mr Cozens, the midshipman, telling us, he should be call'd to an account, if he did not. This evening the carpenter went up to the hill-tent, so called from its situation; the people were shooting balls at marks, some of 'em were firing in vollies, without shot or sluggs; one of the men on the beach fir'd at the tent while the carpenter was in it, who was standing with a book in his hand; there was a piece of beef hung close at his cheek, the ball went through the tent and the beef, but the carpenter receiv'd no damage. To-day I overhaul'd the powder, and told the lieutenant that I had twenty-three half barrels in store, and that we could not carry off in the vessel above six half barrels, therefore proposed to start the overplus into the sea, and make water casks of the half barrels, they being very proper for that purpose. I desired him to acquaint the captain with my intention; that since he had no regard for the publick good, or any thing that tended to promoting it, the carpenter and I had determin'd never to go near him again. The lieutenant declin'd going, fearing the captain would murther him, but he sent the master to him, to let him know the necessity of starting the powder; the captain's answer to the master was, I desire you will not destroy any one thing without my orders. We now are convinc'd the captain hath no intention of going to the southward, notwithstanding he had lately given his word and honour that he would; therefore Captain P--mb--r-t--n, in order to put an end to all future obstructions, demanded our assistance to make him a prisoner for the shooting Mr Cozens, intending to carry him as such to England; at the same time to confine Lieutenant H----n with him, which was readily agreed to by the whole body. It was reckon'd dangerous to suffer the captain any longer to enjoy liberty, therefore the lieutenant, gunner, carpenter, and Mr J----s the mate, resolv'd next morning to surprize him in his bed.

Friday the 9th, this morning went in a body and surpriz'd the captain in bed, disarm'd him, and took every thing out of his tent. The captain said to the seamen, What are you about? where are my officers? at which the master, gunner, carpenter, and boatswain, went in. The captain said, Gentlemen, do you know what you have done, or are about? He was answer'd, Yes, sir; our assistance was demanded by Captain P----n, to secure you as a prisoner for the death of Mr Cozens; and as we are subjects of Great Britain, we are oblig'd to take you as such to England. The captain said, Gentlemen, Captain P----n has nothing to do with me, I am your commander still, I will shew you my instructions, which he did to the people, on this we came out. He then call'd his officers a second time, and said, What is this for? He was answer'd as before, that assistance was demanded by Captain P----n to take him prisoner for the death of Mr Cozens. He still insisted, Captain P----n has no business with me, I could not think you would serve me so. It was told him, Sir, it is your own fault, you have given yourself no manner of concern for the publick good, on our going from hence, but have acted quite the reverse, or else been so careless and indifferent about it, as if we had no commander, and if other persons had given themselves no more trouble and concern than you have, we should not be ready to go from hence as long as provisions lasted. The captain said, Very well, gentlemen, you have caught me napping; I do not see any of you in liquor, you are a parcel of brave fellows, but my officers are scoundrels: Then turning himself to me, he said, Gunner, where's my lieutenant? did not he head you? I told him, No, sir, but was here to see it executed, and is here now. One of you, says the captain, call Mr B----s. When Mr B----s came, he said, What is all this for, sir? Sir, it is Captain P----n's order. Captain P----n hath no business with me, and you will answer for it hereafter, if I do not live to see England, I hope some of my friends will. On this the lieutenant left him. The captain then address'd himself to the seamen, saying, My lads, I do not blame you, but it is the villainy of my officers, which they will answer for hereafter. He then call'd Mr B----s again, and said, Well, sir, what do you design to do by me? The lieutenant answer'd, Sir, your officers have design'd the purser's tent for you. Hum! I should be obliged to the gentlemen, if they would let me stay in my own tent. The lieutenant came to acquaint the officers of the captain's request, but they judg'd it inconvenient, as Mr H----n's tent join'd the purser's, one guard might serve 'em both; accordingly all his things were mov'd to the purser's tent: As he was coming along, he said, Gentlemen, you must excuse my not pulling my hat off, my hands are confin'd. Well, Captain B----s you will be call'd to an account for this hereafter. The boatswain, after the captain's confinement, most barbarously insulted him, reproaching him with striking him, saying, Then it was your time, but now, G--d d--n you, it is mine; The captain made no reply but this, You are a scoundrel for using a gentleman ill when he is a prisoner. When the captain was a prisoner, he declar'd, he never intended to go to the southward, having more honour than to turn his back on his enemies; and farther, he said, Gentlemen, I do not want to go off in any of your craft, for I never design'd to go for England, and would rather cause to be shot by you; there is not a single man on the beach dare engage me, but this is what I fear'd.

It is very odd, that Captain C----p should now declare be never intended to go to the southward, when he publickly gave his word and honour he would go that way, or any way where the spirit of the people led: But he afterwards told his officers, he knew he had a severe trial to go through, if ever he came to England; and as for those who liv'd to return to their country, the only favour he requested from them, was to declare the truth, without favour or prejudice, and this we promis'd faithfully to do: His words, in this respect, were as much regarded by us as the words of a dying man, and have been most punctually observ'd.

Saturday the 10th, little wind at N. and N.W. Getting all ready for going off this afternoon, the captain sent for the lieutenant and me, desiring us both to go to Captain P----n, to know what he intended to do with him. We accordingly came, and both promised to go directly, and bring him his answer. When we came out, went to the lieutenant's tent; from thence I expected, and made no doubt but he would go to Captain P----n's: But when I ask'd him he refused, which very much surprised me. I thought it very ungenerous to trifle with Captain C----p, or any gentleman in his unhappy situation; therefore went alone to Captain Pemberton. When I delivered him Captain C----p's message the answer was, I design, and must carry him prisoner to England. I return'd, and acquainted Captain C----p with Captain P----n's answer: He ask'd me then if the lieutenant was with me. I told him, no; and I believe did not design it. He said, Mr Bulkeley, I am very much obliged to you, and could not think the lieutenant would use me thus. In the evening the lieutenant and I were sent for again: The captain said to the lieutenant, Sir, have you been with Captain P----n? He answer'd, No, sir. I thought, sir, you promised me you would: However, I have his answer from Mr Bulkeley; I am to be carried a prisoner to England. Gentlemen, I shall never live to see England, but die by inches in the voyage; and it is surprising to me to think what you can expect by going to the southward, where there are ten thousand difficulties to be encounter'd with: I am sorry so many brave fellows should be led to go where they are not acquainted, when, by going to the northward, there is the island of Chili, not above ninety leagues, where we need not fear taking prizes, and may have a chance to see the commodore. I made answer, Sir, you have said that we shall be call'd to an account for this in England: I must tell you, for my part, had I been guilty of any crime, and was sure of being hang'd for it in England, I would make it my choice to go there, sooner than to the northward: Have not you given your word and honour to go to the southward? It is true there is a chance in going to the northward, by delivering us from this unhappy situation of life to a worse, viz. a Spanish prison. The captain said no more but this, Gentlemen, I wish you well and safe to England.

Sunday the 11th, this morning the captain sent for me, and told me he had rather be shot than carried off a prisoner, and that he would not go off with us; therefore desired me to ask the people to suffer him to remain on the island: The people readily agreed to his request, and also consented to leave him all things needful for his support, as much as could be spared. Lieutenant H----n and the surgeon chose to stay with him. We offer'd him also the barge and yawl, if he could procure men to go with him. The question was proposed before the whole body, but they all cry'd aloud for England, and let him stay and be d----'d; does he want to carry us to a prison? There is not a man will go. The captain being deprived of his command in the manner above mentioned, and for the reasons already given, it was resolved to draw some articles to be sign'd for the good of the community, and to give the lieutenant a limited command. The paper was drawn up in this manner:--

"Whereas Captain David C----p, our commander in his majesty's ship the Wager, never consulted any of his officers for the safety and preservation of the said ship, and his majesty's subjects thereto belonging, but several times, since the unhappy loss of the said ship, he has been solicited in the most dutiful manner, promising him at the same time to support his command with our lives, desiring no more than to go off heart in hand from this place to the southward, which he gave his word and honour to do; and being almost ready for sailing, did apply to him some few days past, to draw up some proper articles, in order to suppress mutiny, and other material things, which were thought necessary to be agreed to before we went off; but he, in the most scornful manner, hath rejected every thing proposed for the public good, and as he is now a prisoner, and the command given to the lieutenant, upon his approbation of the following articles:

"First, As we have no conveniency for dressing provisions, on board the vessel, for a third part of the number to be carried off the spot, therefore this day served out to every man and boy twelve days' provision, for them to dress before we go off; and also it is agreed, that whoever is guilty of defrauding another of any part of his allowance, on sufficient proof thereof, the person found guilty (without any respect of person) shall be put on shore at the first convenient place, and left there.

"Secondly, In regard to the boats going off with us, we think proper to allow one week's provision for each man appointed to go in them, in order to prevent separation from each other, which would be of the worst consequence of any thing that can happen to us: To prevent which, we do agree, that when under way they shall not separate, but always keep within musket-shot, and on no pretence or excuse whatsoever go beyond that reach. The officer, or any other person, that shall attempt a separation, or exceed the above-mention'd bounds, shall, on proof, be put on shore, and left behind.

"Thirdly, It is agreed, in order to suppress mutiny, and prevent broils and quarrels on board the vessel, that no man shall threaten the life of another, or offer violence in any shape, the offender, without any respect of station or quality, being found guilty, shall be put on shore, and left behind.

"Fourthly, We do agree, whatever fowl, fish, or necessaries of life, we shall happen to meet with on our passage, the same shall be divided among the whole, and if Captain David C----p shall, be put on board a prisoner, it shall not be in the lieutenant's power to release him.

"The aforesaid articles were agreed to, and sign'd by the undermention'd,

Monday the 12th, at day-light, launch'd the long-boat, and gave her the name of the Speedwell, (which God preserved to deliver us) we got all the provision on board, and other necessaries. The captain sent for the lieutenant, myself, and the carpenter, desiring us to leave him what could be spared, and to send to the deserters to know if they will go in the yawl to the northward, we promised to grant him his request. To-day every body got on board. The captain, surgeon, and Mr H----n, had their share of provisions equal with us.

Tuesday the 13th, we sent the barge to the deserters, with Mr S----w, the mate, to know if they were willing to tarry, and go with the captain to the northward, to acquaint them what provision and necessaries should be allow'd 'em: They readily agreed to tarry. On the return of the boat, deliver'd to the captain the share of provision for the deserters, and sundry necessaries, as under-mentioned, viz.

Six hand-grenadoes, five half barrels of powder, two caggs of musket-balls, Lieutenant H----n's pistols and gun, one pair of pistols for the captain, twelve musket-flints, six pistol-flints, sundry carpenter's tools, half a pint of sweet oil, two swords of the captain's own, five muskets, twelve pistol balls, one bible, one azimuth compass, one quadrant, and one Gunter's scale.

Provision deliver'd to the captain, surgeon, and Lieutenant K----n, with eight deserters, which last are to be at half allowance of the quantity made out to the people, which make the whole number seven at whole allowance.

To the captain, surgeon, and Lieutenant H----n, six pieces of beef, six pieces of pork, and ninety pound of flour; for the deserters, eight pieces of beef, eight pieces of pork, one hundred weight of flour.

As soon as the above things were delivered, we got ready for sailing. I went and took my leave of the captain; he repeated his injunction, that at my return to England I would impartially relate all proceedings: He spoke to me in the most tender and affectionate manner, and, as a token of his friendship and regard for me, desired me to accept of a suit of his best wearing apparel: At parting he gave me his hand with a great deal of chearfulness, wishing me well and safe to England. This was the last time I ever saw the unfortunate Captain C----p. However, we hope to see him again in England, that Mr Cummins and myself may be freed from some heavy imputations to our prejudice, laid on us by the gentleman who succeeded him in command, and who, having an opportunity of arriving before us in England, not only in the places he touched at abroad, but at home, has blackened us with the greatest calumnies, and by an imperfect narrative, has not only traduced us, but made the whole affair so dark and mystical, that till the captain's arrival the l----s of the a----y will not decide for or against us. But if that unfortunate captain never returns to his country, let us do so much justice to his character, to declare that he was a gentleman possessed of many virtues: He was an excellent seaman himself, and loved a seaman; as for personal bravery, no man, had a larger share of it; even when a prisoner he preserved the dignity of a commander, no misfortune could dispirit or deject him, and fear was a weakness he was entirely a stranger to; the loss of the ship was the loss of him; he knew how to govern while he was a commander on board, but when things were brought to confusion and disorder, he thought to establish his command ashore by his courage, and to suppress the least insult on his authority on the first occasion; an instance of this was seen on the boatswain's first appearing ashore--shooting Mr Cozens, and treating him in the manner he did after his confinement, was highly resented by the people, who soon got the power in their own hands; the officers only had the name, and they were often compelled, for the preservation of their lives, to comply sometimes with their most unreasonable demands; and it is a miracle, amidst the wildness and distraction of the people, that there was no more bloodshed.

At eleven in the forenoon, the whole body of people embarked, to the number of eighty-one souls, fifty-nine on board the vessel, on board the cutter twelve, and in the barge ten. At noon got under sail, the wind at N.W. by W. The captain, surgeon, and Mr H----n, being on the shore side, we gave them three cheers, which they returned. Coming out of Wager's Bay, split the foresail, and very narrowly escaped the rocks; with the assistance of the barge and our own oars, tow'd her clear, and bore away into a large sandy bay, on the south side of the lagoon, which we called by the name of the Speedwell Bay. At four in the afternoon, anchored in ten fathom fine sand, the barge and cutter went ashore, there not being room on board the boat to lodge the people.

Wednesday the 14th, fresh gales at S.W. and W., with rain. At three this afternoon, being fair weather, weigh'd, and came to sail to take a cruize up the lagoon, to try the vessel, it being smooth water she work'd very well; after three or four trips returned, and anchor'd where we came from.

"These are to certify the right honourable the lords commissioners for executing the office of lord high admiral of Great Britain, That we, whose names are under-mentioned, do beg leave to acquaint your lordships that Captain David Cheap, our late commander in his majesty's ship Wager, having publicly declared, that he will never go off this spot, at his own request desires to be left behind; but Captain Pemberton, of his majesty's land forces, having confined him a prisoner for the death of Mr Henry Cozens, midshipman, with Lieutenant Hamilton, for breaking his confinement, did insist on delivering them up on the beach to the charge of Lieutenant Beans, but he, with his officers and people, consulting the ill consequences that might attend carrying two prisoners off in so small a vessel, and for so long and tedious a passage as we are likely to have, and that they might have opportunities of acting such things in secret as may prove destructive to the whole body; and also in regard to the chief article of life, as the greatest part of the people must be obliged at every place we stop, to go on shore in search of provisions, and there being now no less than eighty-one souls in this small vessel, which we hope to be delivered in, we therefore, to prevent any difficulties to be added to the unforeseen we have to encounter with, think proper to agree, and in order to prevent murder, to comply with Captain David Cheap's request: The surgeon also begs leave to be left with him. Dated on board the Speedwell schooner, in Cheap's Bay, this 14th day of October, 1741.

Thursday the 15th, this morning it being calm, made a signal for the boats to come off, by firing five muskets. At day-light came to sail, with the wind at W. by N. It blowing hard, and a great swell, the vessel would not work, therefore we were obliged to put into a small bay, lying S.W. of Harvey's Bay, where we had very good shelter, there being a large ledge of rocks without us, which broke the sea off. At eleven we sent the barge to Cheap's Bay, for what canvass could be found serviceable, having left a sufficient quantity behind to supply us with sails, in case we wanted 'em. Went in the barge the Hon. John Byron, at his own request, Alexander Campbell, midshipman; William Harvey, quarter-gunner; David Buckley, ditto; William Rose, quarter-master; Richard Noble, ditto; Peter Plastow, captain's steward; Joseph Clinch, seaman, and Rowland Crusset, marine. This afternoon the carpenter went ashore in the cutter, with several of the people, to look for provender. Shot several geese, and other sea-fowl. Rainy weather. Wind W.N.W.

Friday the 16th, continual rain, and hard gales all night at S.W. This morning the carpenter came on board, and acquainted us that he saw an anchor of seven feet in the shank, the palm of each arm filed off just above the crown: This anchor we suppose to have belonged to some small vessel wreck'd on the coast. The cutter brought off abundance of shell-fish ready dress'd for the people.

Sunday, the 18th, at noon, the cutter came off, and brought aboard plenty of shell-fish and greens. The Hon. Mr B----n, Mr C----l, and three of the barge's crew, came from where the barge lay. Mr B----n came aboard, and inform'd us of the barge being safe in the bay where we left her, and only waited the opportunity of weather to come round with her: At the same time he desired to know if we would give him, and those who would stay with Captain C----p, their share of provisions. This question of Mr B----n's very much surprized us; and what surprized us more was, that he should be influenced by Mr C----l, a person whom he always held in contempt. As for my part, I believe Mr B----n left us because he could not get an accommodation aboard the vessel that he liked, being obliged to lie forward with the men; as were also the carpenter and myself when below: It is very certain, that we are so closely pent up for want of room, that the worst jail in England is a palace to our present situation.

Tuesday the 20th, served out to the people eight days' flour, to be dress'd ashore. I went in the cutter to command in my turn for a week.

Wednesday the 21st, close weather; the wind from W. to N.W., with rain and hail. Brought aboard shell-fish in abundance. At noon the Honourable Mr B----n came with some of the crew over-land; he ask'd me whether the boat's crew were gone off, and if we had served the provision, for he wanted to return to the barge. I told him all the people were out a-fishing, and that the first who came in should carry him off. On which he said, I think we will go and get some fish too, having nothing else to live on. This was the last time I ever saw his honour. When the people return'd from fishing, they told me Mr B----n had lost his hat, the wind blowing it off his head. I said, rather than he should want a hat I would give him my own. One of the seamen forced a hat on his head; his name was John Duck: But Mr B----n would by no means wear it, saying, John, I thank you, if I accept of your kindness you must go bareheaded, and I think I can bear hardships as well as the best of you, and must use myself to them. I took eight people and went overland to the place where the barge lay, to get the canvass that we stood so much in need of, but found that she was gone from thence. The people in the barge told our men that they would return to us again, but it is plain they never intended it.

Thursday the 22d, this day we saw sea-fowl in vast flocks, flying to the southward, where was a dead whale. Look'd out all this day for the barge, but to no purpose. The barge not returning was a very great misfortune, having no boat but the cutter; and if by an unlucky accident we lose her, we must be reduced to the greatest extremities to get provision. The persons in the barge, except the captain's steward, always approved of going to the southward, but it seems Mr C----l, the poltron, prevail'd on 'em to return to Captain C----p.

Friday the 23d, saw thousands of sea-fowl; in the morning they fly to the northward, and in the evening come back to the south; they are birds of a very large size, but of what kind we do not know. Since we have been here we saw several Indian graves; they are dug just within the surface of the earth, with a board on each side, and a cross stuck, up at the head. The day following, a gun, a four-pounder, was seen near the anchor in Clam Bay; we call it by this name, because of the vast quantities of this sort of shell-fish which are found there.

Monday the 26th, it being very calm and fair weather, I went ashore to bring off the people; weigh'd the longboat, and took her in tow over a bar where there was ten feet water, but a great swell; as soon as we got over the bar there sprung up a breeze of wind at N.W., steer'd away S. 1/2 E. for the southmost part of land, which bore S. by E., distant fourteen leagues. The two points of land make a large and deep sandy bay, we sounded but found no ground; it is a bold shore close to. I kept a-head in the cutter, in order to provide a harbour for the long-boat; Providence directed us to a very good one: It blew so hard, with thick hazy weather, that we could not keep the sea. At eight at night we anchor'd in eight fathom water, a-breast of a fine sandy bay, and land-locked not above three boats length from the shore: At the entrance of the harbour, which lies about a league up the lagoon, I set the land, the northmost point bore by the compass N. by E., distant twelve leagues, and the southmost S. by W., distant five leagues; the entrance lies E.

Tuesday the 27th, fresh gales at west, and cloudy weather, with a great swell without, insomuch that we could not put out to sea; we therefore sent the people ashore to dress their provisions; each man is allow'd but a quarter of a pound of flour per day, without any other subsistence but what Providence brings in our way.

Thursday, the 29th, early this morning it being calm and thick weather, with small rain, we rowed out of the lagoon; at five it cleared up, with a fresh breeze at S.S.E., steer'd S.W. and S.W. by W., saw a small island bearing S. by W., the southmost end S. by E. This island we called the rock of Dundee, it being much like that island in the West-Indies, but not so large; it lieth about four leagues distant from the southmost point of land out at sea. This day it blow'd so hard that we were obliged to take the cutter in tow.

Friday the 30th, hard gales, and a great sea; saw some islands and some sunken rocks; at six saw the main in two points of land, with a large opening; on each side the sunken rocks are innumerable; the entrance is so dangerous, that no mortal would attempt it unless his case was desperate as ours, we have nothing but death before our eyes in keeping the sea, and the same prospect in running in with the land: We ran in before the wind to the opening that appear'd between the two points, the northmost of which bore N. by E., and the southmost S. by E. We steered in east, and found the opening to be a large lagoon on the southmost side, running into a very good harbour; here our small vessel lay secure in a cove, which nature had form'd like a dock; we had no occasion to let go our anchor, but ran alongside the land, and made fast our head and stern. The people went ashore in search of provision; here we found plenty of wood and water, and fine large muscles in great quantities. Served to each man half a piece of beef.

Saturday the 31st, this morning cast loose and row'd towards the mouth of the lagoons, designing to put out to sea, but the wind blew so hard that we were obliged to come to an anchor. This afternoon, in weighing the grapnel in order to go to the cove, we found it foul among some rocks, all hands haul'd, took a turn round the main-mast and went aft, which weighed the grapnel, but straightened one of the flukes: Here the land is very high and steep on each side, the carpenter and cooper were on the highest of these hills, and found deep ponds of water on the top of them; these hills are very rocky, and there are great falls of water all along the coast: The whole navy of England may lie with safety in many of those lagoons, but the coast is too dangerous for any ship to fall in with the land. The people today were very much afflicted with the gripes and pains in their side. Here are abundance of trees, not unlike our yew-trees, they are not above seven or eight inches in diameter, and the bark is like cedar. The land is to appearance very good, but on digging beneath the surface we find it almost an entire stone. We saw no people here, though it is plain there have been some lately, by their wigwams or huts. We are so closely pent up for want of room, that our lodging is very uncomfortable; the stench of the men's wet cloaths makes the air we breathe nauseous to that degree, that one would think it impossible for a man to live below. We came to sail, and steered out of the lagoon west; went into a sandy bay one league to the southward of the lagoon. Indian huts to be seen, but no natives.

Monday November 2d, at five in the morning, came to sail with the wind at S. and S. by E. At noon the wind came to the W. and W.N.W. in small breezes. This day I had a very good observation, it being the first since we left Cheap's Island. We found ourselves in the latitude of 50° 0' S. After observing, bore away and ran into a fine smooth passage between the island and the main. These islands I believe to be the same that are taken notice of in Cook's voyage. From the entrance to the northward, to the going out of the Cape of Good Hope (as we call it) the distance is about six leagues, and the depth of the water is from two fathom to twelve; the northmost land before we came into the passage bore N. by W., and the southmost, or Cape of Good Hope, bore S. by E. In the evening anchored in a fine sandy bay; here we also saw Indian huts, but no people. To-day we shot wild geese in abundance, and got of shell-fish, as limpets and muscles.

Tuesday the 3d, at four this morning weighed, and came to sail with the wind at W., till we got about the Cape of Good Hope, then at W.N.W., steering S., and a tumbling sea from the W. The cutter steer'd S. by E. into a deep bay; supposing them not to see the southmost land, we made the signal for her, by hoisting an ensign at the topping-lift; as the cutter was coming up to us her square sail splitted, we offer'd to take them in tow, but they would not accept it; we lay with our sails down some time before they would show any signal of making sail; coming before the wind, and a large sea, we ordered them to steer away for the southmost point of land after us, and to keep as near us as possible; but, instead of observing our directions, they steered away into the cod of a deep bay, supposed to be King's Bay: The cutter being much to leeward, and the weather being very thick, we were obliged to steer after her, but soon lost sight of her. The place being exceeding dangerous, we could not venture any farther after the cutter, therefore we hauled by the wind to the southward, it continued blowing hard, with thick weather, with sunken rocks and breakers, so that we were obliged to bear away before the wind into a large bay, the tide running rampant, and in a great swell, every where surrounded with sunken rocks, that we thought nothing but a miracle could save us: at last we got safe into the bay, and came to in two fathom water, we steered in east. At four this morning rowed out between the islands, after we got out had a fresh breeze at N.W., steered out S.S.W. then S. and S. by E., the cutter a-head. At seven in the morning a-breast of Cape Good Hope, saw a large high rock bearing S., steered S. by E., going within it, and the main a-breast of the rocks, saw a long point making into islands bearing S. by E., steer'd S. until a-breast of them: The same day saw a very high land, with a low point running off in small hommacoes, bearing from the northmost point S. by E. about eighteen leagues; between those two points is a large deep bay, all within surrounded with rocks and small islands, steered S. and S. by W. for the outermost point, the cutter keeping within, and we considering the ill consequence of being embayed, to prevent which we hauled the mainsail and foresail down, and kept the vessel before the wind; at eleven the cutter came alongside, with her mainsail split; we called to them to take hold of a tow-rope, but they refused, telling us that the boat would not bear towing, by reason of the swell of the sea, therefore they would have us nearer the shore, where we should have smooth water; we answered them that the water was smoother without, and nothing nigh the sea that runs within; besides, we shall be embay'd, therefore we desire you to come on board the vessel, and we'll take the boat in tow: They had no regard to what we said; we at the same time, for above a quarter of an hour, lay in the trough of the sea, with a fair wind: The people in the cutter would neither make sail nor row, at last, finding them obstinate, we hoisted a skirt of the mainsail, and edged farther off, S. by W.; when they found we would not go into that bay, they hoisted their mainsail, and went a-head; being some distance a-head, we made sail, the cutter still keeping a-head till one o'clock, then she bore away S. by E. and S.S.E., the reason of which we could not tell, it blowing very hard, with a great sea, nothing before us but rocks and breakers, therefore of consequence the farther in the sea must be the greater. At half an hour past two, the cutter being on the beam, and four miles within us, we bore away after them, and in a very heavy squall of wind and rain we lost sight of her: After the squall was over it cleared up, but we saw nothing of the cutter, nor could we clear the shore to the northward, being not above two miles off the breakers; therefore we were under a necessity of hauling to the southward for self-preservation, and very narrowly escaped clearing the rocks: After running about three leagues, saw an opening, where we hoped to find a good harbour; Bore away for the opening, we were here again surrounded with rocks and breakers, with a hard gale of wind and a great sea, the oldest seaman on board never saw a more dismal prospect; we ran in before the wind for about two leagues; expecting every rise and fall of the sea to be a wreck, but Providence at length conducted us to an indifferent place of shelter: We were now in a most wretched condition, having no boat to go ashore in, to seek for provender, and the greatest part of the people on board are so regardless of life, that they really appear quite indifferent whether they shall live or die, and it is with much intreaty that any of them can be prevailed on to come upon deck, to assist for their preservation.

The people's names in the cutter are as follow, viz.

Wednesday the 4th, hard gales at W.N.W., and a great sea without; served out flour and a piece of beef to two men for a week's subsistence; the weather is so bad that there is no other food to be got.

Thursday the 5th, little wind at S.W., with heavy rains; at six this morning went under sail, but could make no hand of it, therefore were obliged to put back again: As soon as we came to an anchor, the boatswain employed himself in making a raft to get ashore with; this raft was made with oars and water barrels; when it was made, and over the side, it would carry three men, but it was no sooner put off from the vessel's side but it canted, and obliged the people to swim for their lives; the boatswain got hold of the raft, and with some difficulty reach'd the shore; when he came off in the evening, he informed us he had seen a beef puncheon, which gave us some reason to apprehend some other ship of the squadron had suffered our fate.

Friday the 6th, this morning went under sail, the wind at W.N.W., with fresh gales and heavy rain, the wind came to the westward, and a great sea, so that we could not turn out over the bar: In our putting back we saw the cutter, a very agreeable sight, which gave us new life; in the evening anchored at the place sailed from, the carpenter and others went ashore to get shell-fish, which we stood in great need of; at night the proper boat's crew would not go ashore with the boat as usual, but made her fast a-stern of the vessel, with only two men in her, she never being left without four before; at eleven at night one of the men came out of her into the vessel, it blowing very hard at N.N.E., in half an hour shifted to N.W., and rainy weather, that we could not see a boat's length: At two the next morning the cutter broke loose from the stern of the vessel; we called from on board to James Stewart, the man that was in her, but he could not hear us: In a short time we lost sight of her, believing she must be stove among the rocks. The loss of the cutter gives the few thinking people aboard a great deal of uneasiness; we have seventy-two men in the vessel, and not above six of that number that gives themselves the least concern for the preservation of their lives, but are rather the reverse, being ripe for mutiny and destruction; this is a great affliction to the lieutenant, myself, and the carpenter, we know not what to do to bring them under any command, they have troubled us to that degree, that we are weary of our lives; therefore, this day we have told the people, that unless they alter their conduct, and subject themselves to command, that we will leave them to themselves, and take our chance in this desolate part of the globe, rather than give ourselves any farther concern about so many thoughtless wretches. Divided the people into four watches, to make more room below. The people have promised to be under government, and seem much easier.

Sunday the 8th, this morning the people requested provisions to be served; it being four days before the usual time, we think the request very unreasonable. We laid the inconveniences before them of breaking in upon our stores, considering the badness of the weather, and the length of our passage, that if we are not exceedingly provident in regard to serving out provisions, we must all inevitably starve. They will not hearken to reason, therefore we are obliged to comply with their demands, and serve out provisions accordingly. Several of the people have desired to be put on shore, desiring us to allow them some few necessaries: We wanted to know what could induce them to request our putting them ashore in this remote and desolate part of the world: They answered, they did not fear doing well, and doubted not but to find the cutter, which, if they did, they would go back to the northward, otherwise they would make a canoe; therefore insisted on going ashore. On their earnest intreaties the body of people agreed to their request: We haul'd the boat close in shore; the people who chose to stay behind were eleven in number, we supply'd them with proper necessaries, and they signed a certificate, to inform the L---- s of the A----y, that they were not compelled to stay, but made it their own choice, and that they did it for the preservation of themselves and us.

A Copy of their Certificate.

"These are to certify, the right honourable the lords commissioners for executing the office of lord high admiral of Great Britain, &c. That we, whose names are undermentioned, since the misfortune of losing the cutter, have consider'd the ill conveniences and difficulties to be attended, where so great a number of people are to be carried off, therefore we have requested and desired the officers and company remaining of the same vessel to put us on shore, with such necessaries of life as can be conveniently spared out of the vessel. We, of our own free will and choice, do indemnify all persons from ever being call'd to an account for putting us on shore, or leaving us behind, contrary to our inclinations. Witness our hands, on board the Speedwell schooner, in the latitude 50° 40' S. this 8th day of November, 1741. Which was signed by the following people, viz.

Monday the 9th, at ten at night, we weigh'd and rowed out of the bay, at day-light got about four leagues right out, every way surrounded with rocks and breakers, with a great western swell: We found it a very difficult matter to get clear of these rocks and breakers; they reach along shore eighteen leagues, and without us at sea eight leagues; I take it, that from the land they are fourteen leagues in the offing, those sunken rocks appear like a low level land. This coast is too dangerous for shipping, the wind being three parts of the year to the westward, which blows right on the shore, with a large western swell, that seldom or never ceases; it always blows and rains, it is worse here than in the rainy season on the coast of Guinea, nor can we as yet distinguish summer from winter, only by the length of the days. Steered out of the bay W. by N., then S. by W., then S. At noon I had a good observation in the latitude of 50° 50' S., the northmost point of the bay bore N.E. by E. seven leagues, the southmost point of land S.S.E. twelve leagues. This coast, as far as we have come, lies N. by E. and S. by W. by the compass.

Tuesday the 10th, at four this morning made all the sail we could; steering S.E. in order to make the land, at six steer'd in E.S.E. at seven made the land; at eight saw a point of land bearing S.E. distant six leagues, which, when a-breast, seeing no land to the S. I take the point for Cape Victory, and the four islands we see I believe to be the islands of Direction, which Sir John Narborough gives an account of, excepting the distance, they exactly answer his description; therefore, by the latitude, in yesterday's observation, and by the distance we have run since, we are now at the opening of the Streights of Magellan. At ten in the morning, hard gales at N.W. steer'd S.E. the cape bearing E. distant four leagues; at noon bore E. by N. distant six leagues; haul'd the main-sail down, and went under a fore-sail. I never in my life, in any part of the world, have seen such a sea as runs here, we expected every wave to swallow us, and the boat to founder. This shore is full of small islands, rocks, and breakers, so that we can't haul further to the southward, for fear of endangering the boat, we are obliged to keep her right before the sea. At five broach'd to, at which we all believ'd she would never rise again. We were surrounded with rocks, and so near that a man might toss a biscuit on 'em: We had nothing but death before our eyes, and every moment expected our fate. It blew a hurricane of wind, with thick rainy weather, that we could not see twice the boat's length; we pray'd earnestly for its clearing up, for nothing else could save us from perishing; we no sooner ask'd for light, but it was granted us from above. At the weather's clearing up, we saw the land on the north shore, with islands, rocks and breakers all around us; we were oblig'd to put in among 'em for shelter, finding it impossible to keep the sea, we were in with the land amongst them, and compell'd to push thro', looking death in the face, and expecting every sea to bury us; the boldest men amongst us were dismay'd, nor can we possibly give an account in what manner we have been this day deliver'd. After sailing amidst islands, rocks, and breakers, for above a league, we got safe into a good harbour, surrounded with small islands, which kept the sea off; here the water was as smooth as in a mill-pond. We call this harbour the Port of God's Mercy, esteeming our preservation this day to be a miracle. The most abandon'd among us no longer doubt of an Almighty Being, and have promis'd to reform their lives.

Wednesday the 11th, the wind much abated, with rain. This morning weigh'd, and ran farther in. In the evening we saw two Indians lying on their bellies on the top of a steep rock, just over the vessel, peeping with their heads over the hill. As soon as we discover'd them, we made motions to them to come down; they then rose up, and put on their heads white feather'd caps; we then hoisted a white sheet for an ensign: At this they made a noise, pronouncing Orza, Orza, which we took for a signal to come ashore. We would not suffer above two men to go ashore, and those disarm'd, lest we should put them in fear. The Indians had nothing in their hands but a club, like our cricket-batts, with which they kill their seal. As soon as they saw the two men come ashore they walk'd away, and when they perceiv'd our men follow'd them, and gain'd ground of them, they took to their heels, frequently looking back, crying Orza, Orza, beckoning the people to follow, which they did for a mile or two along-shore, out of sight of the vessel: Then the Indians fled to the woods, still wanting our people to follow them; but being disarm'd, they were apprehensive the Indians would bush- fight them, so they thought proper to give over the pursuit, and to return to the boat.

Thursday the 12th, hard gales at W.N.W., with rain. At six this morning we again saw the two Indians, they made the same noise and motions to come ashore: At which I went with four of the people; the Indians walk'd and ran as before, looking back, and making signs to follow, which we did till we got to the place where the canoe lay with the four Indians in her. The two Indians got into the canoe, and put her off the shore before we could get nigh them: As soon as we got abreast of the canoe, they made signs as if they wanted clothing; we endeavour'd to make them understand we wanted fish, and would truck with them; they had none, but signified to us they would go and get some: They had a mangey dog, which they parted with to one of the people for a pair of cloth trowsers; this dog was soon kill'd, dress'd, and devour'd. Here we found plenty of muscles, which gave us great relief, having scarce any thing to subsist on for this week past.

Friday the 13th, very uncertain weather, and squally, the wind variable from W.N.W. to S.S.W. This morning all hands ashore a-fishing. Lieutenant E----rs of the marines kill'd a large seal or sea-dog, it is exceeding good food, and we judg'd it to have weigh'd seventeen score.

Saturday the 14th, little wind at W.N.W. and close weather, with rain. At five this morning cast loose, and steer'd south out between the islands, the weather clearing up, we saw the south shore: It first appear'd like a large island, stretching away to the westward, and at the west end two hammacoes like sugar-loaves, and to the southward of them a large point of rocks, steer'd S.E. until the point bore W. then steer'd S.E. by E. I took the point for Cape Pillar, and was fully assur'd of our being in the Streights.

Sunday the 15th, at three this morning cast loose, and row'd, but could not get out, so were oblig'd to put back, and make fast, it blowing hard, with thick weather all day, in the evening it clear'd up. This day several people drove a trade with their allowance, giving silver buckles for flour, valued at twelve shillings per pound, and before night it reach'd to a guinea, the people crying aloud for provisions, which are now so scarce, that several on board are actually starving thro' want.

Monday the 16th, at three this morning cast loose, being little wind, and steer'd up the Streights S.E. by E. the wind at N.W. At eight o'clock got a-breast of Cape Munday, at nine the cape bore W. distant four leagues, at noon running along shore, made two openings, which put the rest of the officers to a stand, not knowing which to take for their right passage. Asking my opinion, I gave it for keeping on the E.S.E. passage, the other lying S.E. by S. On which they said, Sir John Narborough bids us keep the south shore on board. I answer'd, that Sir John tells us E.S.E. is the direct course from Cape Pillar: I'll venture my life that we are now in the right passage; so we kept on E. by S. half S. After running a league or two up, and not seeing Cape Quod, nor any outlet, the wind blowing hard, we were for running no farther, whereas one league more would have convinc'd every body, but they all gave against me, that we were not in the right passage: The wind being at W.N.W. we could not turn back again; so that we were oblig'd to put into a cove lying on the north shore, where we found good anchoring in four fathom water: No provisions to be got here, being a barren rocky place, producing not any thing for the preservation of life. This afternoon died George Bateman, a boy, aged sixteen years: This poor creature starv'd, perish'd, and died a skeleton, for want of food. There are several more in the same miserable condition, and who, without a speedy relief, must undergo the same fate.

Tuesday the 17th, at five this morning, weigh'd, and row'd out, it being calm; at seven a fresh breeze right up the sound, we could not turn to windward not above a mile from where we last lay, we made fast along-side the rocks; all hands ashore a-fishing for muscles, limpets, and clams; here we found those shell-fish in abundance, which prov'd a very seasonable relief. Just before we got in, one of the men gave a guinea for a pound of flour, being all the money he had.

Wednesday the 18th, the wind at W.N.W. in hard squalls, with hail and snow. This morning cast loose, and stood over to the southward, believing the tide to run stronger and more true than on the north-shore, hoping shortly to get out of the sound, which is not above a league in the wind's eye. At two o'clock got into a cove on the south side, made fast along side of the rocks; all hands on shore getting muscles and other fish.

Thursday the 19th, fresh gales W.N.W. with hail and snow. This morning cast loose, and sail'd out, but could make no hand of it, our boat will not work to windward; put back from whence we came, and sent the people ashore to get muscles. This night departed this life Mr Thomas Caple, son of the late Lieutenant Caple, aged twelve years, who perish'd for want of food. There was a person on board who had some of the youth's money, upwards of twenty guineas, with a watch and silver cup. Those last the boy was willing to sell for flour; but his guardian told him, he would buy cloaths for him in the Brazil. The miserable youth cry'd, Sir, I shall never live to see the Brazil, I am starving now, almost starv'd to death, therefore, for God's sake, give me my silver cup to get me some victuals or buy some for me yourself. All his prayers and intreaties to him were vain, but heaven sent death to his relief, and put a period to his miseries in an instant. Persons who have not experienc'd the hardships we have met with, will wonder how people can be so inhuman to see their fellow-creatures starving before their faces, and afford 'em no relief: But hunger is void of all compassion; every person was so intent on the preservation of his own life, that he was regardless of another's, and the bowels of commiseration were shut up. We slip no opportunity, day or night, to enter into the suppos'd right Streights, but can get no ground. This day we serv'd flour and a piece of beef between two men for a week. Captain P----n, of his majesty's land forces, gave two guineas for two pounds of flour; this flour was sold him by the seamen, who live on muscles. Many of the people eat their flour raw as soon as they are serv'd it. The wind and weather not permitting us to go out, the men were employ'd in getting wood and water.

Tuesday the 24th, this morning it being calm, row'd out, at eight o'clock had the supposed right Streights open, having a breeze at W.N.W. S.E. by E. through the first reach, and S.S.E. through the second, then saw three islands, the largest of which lies on the north-shore, and there is a passage about two miles broad between that and the islands to the southward; there is also another passage between that island and the north- shore, of a mile and a half broad. Before you come to those islands there is a sound lying on the south-shore: You can see no passage until you come close up with the island, and then the imaginary Streights are not above two miles broad. Steer'd away for the island S.E. about two leagues, then came into a narrow passage, not above a cable's length over, which put us all to a stand, doubting of any farther passage. The wind took us a-head, and the tide being spent we put into a small cove, and made fast. At seven in the evening, being calm, cast loose, being willing to see if there was any opening, but to our great misfortune, found none, which very much surpriz'd us. The lieutenant is of opinion, that we are in a lagoon to the northward of the Streights. This I cannot believe, and am positive, if ever there was such a place in the world as the Streights of Magellan, we are now in them, and above thirty leagues up. If he or any of the officers had given themselves the trouble of coming upon deck, to have made proper remarks, we had been free from all this perplexity, and by this time out of the Streights to the northward. There is not an officer aboard, except the carpenter and myself, will keep the deck a moment longer than his watch, or has any regard to a reckoning, or any thing else. It is agreed to go back again.

Wednesday the 25th, little wind with rain. At eight this morning row'd out, and got about a league down; here we could get no ground, and were obliged to put back again.

Thursday the 26th, little wind; row'd out, got about five leagues down. This day we were in such want of provisions, that we were forced to cut up the seal skin and broil it, notwithstanding it has lain about the deck for this fortnight.

Friday the 27th, little wind and close weather. This morning cast loose and row'd down, had a fresh breeze at north, steer'd W.S.W. into another opening on the south-shore, hoping to find a passage out of the lagoon, as the lieutenant calls it, into the right Streights. After going two leagues up saw there was no opening, put back and made fast where we came from, being determined to go back and make Cape Pillar a second time, which is the south entrance of the Streights. Got abundance of large muscles, five or six inches long, a very great relief to us at present.

Sunday the 29th, hard gales from N.W. to S.W. with heavy rains. Great uneasiness among the people, many of them despairing of a deliverance, and crying aloud to serve provisions four days before the time. Finding no way to pacify them, we were obliged to serve them. We endeavoured to encourage and comfort them as much as lay in our power, and at length they seemed tolerably easy.

Monday the 30th, fresh gales at W. with continual rain. This day died three of our people, viz. Peter Delroy, barber, Thomas Thorpe and Thomas Woodhead, marines, they all perish'd for want of food: Several more are in the same way, being not able to go ashore for provisions, and those who are well cannot get sufficient for themselves, therefore the sick are left destitute of all relief. There is one thing to be taken notice of in the death of those people, that some hours before they die they are taken lightheaded, and fall a joking and laughing, and in this humour they expire.

Tuesday, December the 1st, 1741, little wind, and fair weather, which is a kind of prodigy in those parts. In the morning put out of the cove, and got four leagues down; then the wind took us a-head, and we put into another cove where we got muscles and limpets. At four this afternoon saw an Indian canoe coming over from the north-shore; they landed two of their men to the leeward of the cove, they came opposite to us, and viewed us, then went back, and came with the canoe within a cable's length of our boat, but no nearer, so that we had no opportunity to truck with them.

Wednesday the 2d, little wind, with rain. At nine this morning row'd out and got about a league farther down; the wind beginning to blow fresh, we put into another cove, and found plenty of shell-fish, which kept up our spirits greatly, for it is enough to deject any thinking man, to see that the boat will not turn to windward, being of such length, and swimming so buoyant upon the water, that the wind, when close haul'd, throws her to leeward: We have been seventeen days going seven or eight leagues to windward, which must make our passage very long and uncomfortable.

Friday the 4th, little wind at S. and fair. This morning rowed out, at ten got down, where we saw a smoke, but no people; we saw a dog running along shore, and keeping company with the boat for above a mile; we then put in, with a design, to shoot him, but he soon disappointed us, by taking into the woods. We put off again with a fine breeze, steering N.W. by W. down the Streights. The carpenter gave a guinea this day for a pound of flour, which he made into cakes, and eat instantly. At six in the evening abreast of Cape Munday; at eight abreast of Cape Upright, being fair weather. Intend to keep under sail all night.

Saturday the 5th, little wind and fair: At four this morning I saw Cape Pillar, bearing W. by N. distant eight leagues; saw a smoke on the south shore, and at noon we saw a smoke on the north shore, but we did not care to lose time: At three o'clock saw Cape Desseada, bearing from Cape Pillar S.W. distant four leagues, at four o'clock wore the boat, and steered E.S.E. The lieutenant was now fully convinced we have been all along in the right Streights, and had we run but one league further, on Monday, Nov. 17, we had escaped all this trouble and anxiety: As for my own part, I was very well assured, from the first entrance, that we were right, but the lieutenant would not believe that it was Cape Pillar on the S. shore coming into the Streights, but thought we were in a lagoon to the northward; so that we have been above a fortnight coming back to rectify mistakes, and to look at Cape Pillar a second time: At eight o'clock came abreast of the smoke seen in the morning. The people being well assured that we are actually in the Streights of Magellan, are all alive. Wind at W.S.W.

Sunday, little wind at W. with rain; at three this morning abreast of Cape Munday; at six abreast of Cape de Quod, opposite to which, on the south shore, saw a smoke, on which we went ashore to the Indians, who came out on a point of land, at the entrance of a cove, hollowing and crying, Bona! Bona! endeavouring to make us understand they were our friends; when ashore, we traded with them for two dogs, three brant geese, and some seal, which supply was very acceptable to us; we supped on the dogs, and thought them equal in goodness to the best mutton in England. We took from the Indians a canoe, made of the bark of trees, but soon towed her under water, and were obliged to cut her loose; steered N.E. by E. At eight o'clock abreast of St Jerom's Sound; at twelve abreast of Royal Island.

The Indians we saw in the Streights of Magellan are people of a middle stature, and well shaped, their complexion of a tawny olive colour, their hair exceeding black, but not very long, they have round faces and small noses, their eyes little and black, their teeth are smooth and even, and close set, of an incomparable whiteness, they are very active in body, and run with a surprising agility, they wear on their heads white feathered caps, their bodies are covered with the skins of seals and guinacoes. The women, as soon as they saw us, fled into the woods, so that we can give no description of them.

Monday the 7th, fresh gales at W.N.W. and fine weather; at six this morning abreast of Cape Forward, steered N. by E. At nine abreast of Port Famine, at twelve at noon put in at Freshwater bay, and filled one cask of water, having none aboard; at one o'clock put out again, steered N. by E. expecting plenty of wood and water at Elizabeth's Island; at nine at night passed by Sandy Point, it bore S.S.E. and the island St George E.N.E. distant three leagues.

Tuesday the 8th, at four this morning, being calm, weighed, and rowed towards Elizabeth's Island, it bearing W.N.W. At four in the afternoon anchored off the northmost in eight fathom water, fine sand, about half a cable's length from the shore put the vessel in, and landed some people to see for wood and water. In the evening the people came aboard, having been all over the island in search of wood and water, but found none; here indeed we found shaggs and sea-gulls in great numbers, it being breeding time, we got a vast quantity of their eggs, most of them having young ones in the shell: However, we beat them up all together, with a little flour, and made a very rich pudding. Elizabeth's Island is a beautiful spot of ground to appearance, with very good pasture, but it is entirely barren of any thing for the support of man. This day John Turner, marine, perished for want of food.

Wednesday the 9th, at four this morning weighed, and steered E.N.E. for the Narrows, with the wind at S.S.W., when abreast ef the Sweepstakes Foreland, steered S.S.E. on purpose to look for water; after going along shore about six leagues into a deep bay, we saw a fine delightful country: Here we saw the guianacoes in great numbers, ten or twelve in a drove; they are to be seen in such droves all along the shore for several leagues.

The guianacoe is as large as any English deer, with a long neck, his head, mouth, and ears resembling a sheep; he has very long slender legs, and is cloven-footed like a deer, with a short bushy tail of a reddish colour; his back is covered with red wool, pretty long; but down his sides, and all the belly part, is white wool: Those guianacoes, though at a distance very much resembling the female deer, are probably the sheep of this country; they are exceeding nimble, of an exquisite quick sight, very shy, and difficult to be shot: At noon, finding neither wood nor water, wore to the northward, at three got abreast of the Foreland, hauled in for Fish Cove, which lieth just round the eastern point; here we expected to land and shoot some of the guianacoes, but when abreast of the Cove, the wind blew so hard right out, that we were obliged to bear away for the first Narrow, it being impossible to get in. At eight this evening entered the first Narrow, meeting the flood, which runs here very strong; at twelve came to an anchor in five fathom, about a mile off shore. The tide floweth on the western shore seven hours, and ebbs five. This day Robert Vicars, marine, perished with want.

Thursday the 10th, at four this morning weighed, and came to sail; at six got out of the first Narrow, hauled in for a deep bay on the north shore to seek for water: The boatswain swam ashore, and in half an hour afterwards came down on the beach, and brought us the news of finding fresh water. It being rocky ground and ebbing water, the vessel struck; we were obliged in this exigence to slip the cable, time not permitting us to haul up the anchor, we stood off, and on the shore till half flood, then went in and took the cable on board: After landing some people with casks to fill, hauled the anchor up, and went about two miles farther out.

Friday the 11th, at three this morning the boat struck upon the tide of ebb, it ebbing so fast we could not get her off, in a quarter of an hour's time the boat was dry; we were favoured with little wind and smooth water, otherwise she must have stove to pieces, the ground being very foul; it ebbs dry above a league off, and there is shoal water a great deal further out, so that it is dangerous for a ship to haul into this bay. While the boat was dry got all the water casks out of the hold, and put them ashore to be filled. At six hauled the boat off, having received no damage; at eight, it being four feet flood, run the boat close in shore and took off our water, the whole quantity being four tons, out of which we were obliged to leave two puncheons, one quarter-cask, with three muskets, a funnel, and some other necessaries, and were very much concerned lest we should also leave some of the people ashore. The wind blowing hard, and the sea tumbling in, we were under a necessity of hauling off and putting to sea, for fear of losing the boat. Since we left the island where the Wager was lost, we have several times very narrowly escaped being made a wreck, and sometimes have been preserved when we have seen our fate before our eyes, and every moment expected it, and when all the conduct and ability of men could have availed nothing. Any one who has been a witness of those providential deliverances, and doubts the being of a Supreme Power, disqualifies himself from any title to all future mercy, and justly deserves the wrath of an incensed Deity. This day, at noon, being well out of the bay, and nigh mid-channel over, steered E.N.E. for Cape Virgin Mary, with a fine gale at S.W. At one we saw the cape bearing N.E, by E. distant nine leagues; at seven in the evening saw a low point of flat land, stretching away from the cape S.S.E. two leagues; at eight little or no wind, steered E. by S. at twelve at night doubled the point, the wind at W. right in the middle of the bay, where we filled the water; in land lie two peaks, exactly like ass's ears. We would advise all vessels from hauling into this bay, it being shoal water and foul ground. As for every other part of the Straights of Magellan, from Cape Victory to Cape Virgin Mary, we recommend Sir John Narborough, who in his account is so just and exact, that we think it is impossible for any man living to mend his works. We have been a month in those Streights, from our first sight of Cape Pillar to Cape Virgin Mary. The whole length of the Streights, the reaches and turnings included, is reckoned one hundred and sixteen leagues.

Saturday the 12th, little wind, and fair weather. At one this morning steered N. by W. At four the wind came to N.W. Tacked and stood to the westward; the two points stretching off from the cape bore N.W. by W. distant two leagues. At noon, the wind being at N.E. steering along shore from the cape, saw on the shore three men, on mules or horses, riding towards us; when they came abreast of us, they stopped and made signals, waving their hats, as though they wanted to speak with us; at which we edged close to the shore, where we saw to the number of twenty; five of them rode abreast, the others were on foot, having a large store of cattle with them. On sight of this, we anchored within a mile of the shore. The cape bore W.S.W. distant seven leagues, the swell tumbling in from the sea, would not permit us to speak with'em, by their motions, actions, cloathing, and by their whole behaviour, we took them for Christians: It being a plain level land, they rode backwards and forwards like racers, waving white handkerchiefs, and making signs for us going into a bay, which lay about a league to the northward, which we designed to do on the tide of ebb. The flood being very strong against us, they waited on the shore till the tide was spent; we weighed and stood to northward, the wind blowing right in from sea, and a great swell, we could not clear the land, so that we wore and stood to the southward, and very narrowly escaped clearing the breakers off the pitch of the cape, which lay about two leagues out at sea to the southward. At nine at night the cape bore W. distant six leagues; stood out to sea till eleven o'clock, then wore and stood in, the wind shifting to N.N.E. The next morning we steered in for the bay, and saw those people again; but the wind soon afterwards veering to the westward, and blowing strong, we were obliged to bear away: We could not by any means come to the knowledge of these people; whether they are unfortunate creatures that have been cast away, or whether they are inhabitants about the river Gallegoes, we can't tell.

Tuesday the 15th, fresh gales and fair weather. This morning saw the land; the southmost point bore W.S.W., the northmost point N.N.E. At eight saw two ledges of rocks, running two leagues out from a point of land which makes like an old castle. At noon the extremes of the land bore W. by N. distant three leagues, had a good observation, latitude 49: 10 S. Course made this twenty-four hours is N. by E. half E. distant 104 miles, longitude in 74: 05 W.

Wednesday, the 16th, at noon abreast of Penguin island, not above half a mile from shore. We saw on this island seals and penguins without number, the shore being entirely covered with them. We find the penguin exactly to answer Sir John Narborough's description; therefore we beg leave to give it the reader in that excellent navigator's own words: "The penguin is a fowl that lives by catching and eating fish, which he dives for, and is very nimble in the water; he is as big as a brant goose, and weighs near about eight pounds; they have no wings, but flat stumps like fins; their coat is a downy stumped feather; they are blackish grey on the backs and heads, and white about their necks and down their bellies; they are short-legged like a goose, and stand upright like little children in white aprons, in companies together; they are full-necked, and headed and beaked like a crow, only the point of their bill turns down a little; they will bite hard, but they are very tame, and will drive in herds to your boat-side like sheep, and there you may knock'em on the head, all one after another; they will not make any great haste away." We steered N.W. by N. for the harbour of Port Desire: The going into this harbour is very remarkable; on the south side lies, one mile in the land, an high peaked-tip rock, much like a tower, looking as though it was a work of art set up for a land-mark to steer into this harbour; this rock is forty feet high. At five o'clock got into the harbour, run up to Seal Island, which lieth about a league up; here we killed more seal in half an hour than we could carry off, being obliged to leave the greatest part of what we killed behind. The people eating greedily of the seal, were seized with violent fevers and pains in their heads. While we were at Port Desire we had seal and fowl in abundance. The carpenter found here a parcel of bricks, some of'em with letters cut in them, on one of those bricks these words were very plain and legible, viz. Capt. Straiton, 16 Cannons, 1687. Those we imagine have been laid here from a wreck. The carpenter with six men went in search of water, a mile up the water's side; they found Peckett's well, mention'd in Sir John Narborough's book; the spring is so small, that it doth not give above thirty gallons per day, but the well being full, supplied us. The people grow very turbulent and uneasy, requiring flour to be served out; which, in our present circumstance, is a most unreasonable request; we have but one cask of flour on board, and a great distance to run into the Brazil, and no other provision in the boat but the seal we have killed here: Nay, they carry their demands much higher, insisting that the marine officers, and such people as cannot be assisting in working the boat, shall have but half the allowance of the rest; accordingly they have pitched upon twenty to be served half a pound of flour each man, and themselves a pound. This distinction the half-pounders complain of, and that twenty are selected to be starved. While we were at Port Desire, one day dressing our victuals, we set fire to the grass; instantly the flames spread, and immediately we saw the whole country in a conflagration, and the next day, from the watering-place, we saw the smoke at a distance, so that then the fire was not extinguished.

Friday the 25th, little wind, and fair weather; went up to our slaughter- house in Seal island, and took on board our sea-store, which we completed in half an hour's time; turned down the harbour with the tide of ebb, in the evening, the wind at N.E. could make no hand of it, so bore away for the harbour again, and came to an anchor.

Saturday the 26th, at three in the morning, sailed out of Port Desire harbour; steered out E.N.E. At six Penguin island bore S. by E. distant six leagues, and Cape Blanco N.W. by N. four leagues. This day I took my departure from Cape Blanco; I judge the cape to lie in the longitude of 71: 00 W. from the meridian of London.

Monday the 28th, moderate gales, and fair. This day served out all the flour in the boat, at three pound and a half to each man. We have now nothing to live on but seal, and what Providence throws in our way.

Friday, January the 1st, 1741-2, fresh gales and fair weather, with a great sea. At ten last night shifting the man at the helm, brought her by the lee, broke the boom; and lost a seaman overboard. The greatest part of our seal taken in at Port Desire, for want of salt to cure it there, now stinks very much; but having nothing else we are obliged to eat it. We are now miserable beyond description, having nothing to feed on ourselves, and at the same time almost eaten up with vermin.