5 '.v<. .<■■;, * '''%^i; ix ;.<)■•;■' vy* ■H:'ymsi >VjO %,^^^ ^^<< ^^ .. N c „ •<, f ^ ,. i0^[< ' " « /• ''^. o'^ ^ ^^: '^'^^' ^- iw^ ■0 ^ //.-'-^.v ^ vOC' r>0 ■^^\- .-^ ■c/> aA \' ^ .^ 'S^^^k^^%^ a\^^^^- 4 ^ y^^^-- o 0^ $ 'i A^ ■|S^7^^% ■- ^^^#^A .c,^ ^ Cv .."t^ . ^ <- '^ . ^^. '^^A v^^ ^M'^P^^.^ ,0o^ . V 1 f . ^Z;., .x^ <^ S^ .0 o o-'',.../>^7..- "' . * . , ^- ' \^ .^^^ ^^ ■y^ ,- W. serene, soft, pleasant air, peculiar to this region. SOth. Now about 1200 miles short of Malta. The bold, picturesque, and changing views we have yesterday and to-day had, of the mountains of Grenada, amply compensate for the tardiness of our progress. While we are experiencing the heat of a scorching sun, nearly vertical, it is pleasant to behold the glittering snow extending downward from the summit of the highest mountains about half way, and appearing to rest upon a belt of clouds suspended at that altitude. Below that re- gion appear cities, towns, villages, watch towers and cottages, all white and beautiful, seeming to hang upon the dark declivities like the nest of the eagle. Jufy 1st. Sail all this day in full view" of the coast of Algiers, distant 15 leagues. Health and appetite much improved. Wind lulls at evening, which is remarkably serene and pleasant ; the stars more brilliant, and the Galaxy more luminous than AT SEA. 25 I ever saw while on land. Many stars in the train of the galaxy are distinctly visible, which 1 had never before seen. At 4, P. M. passed the re- nowned city of Algiers, that nest of pirates and robbers, and,- to the disgrace of civilized Europe, their common nuisance. 2d and 3rf. Algiers yet in view. Atli. Independence. Serene, pleasant weather. While the people of ' our free and happy country' are celebrating the natal day of their national free- dom, enjoying and abusing the good things of that favored land, we are near the middle of the Medi- terranean sea, shut out from the participation with them in the festivities and exercises of the day, •* O fortunatos, nimium sua si bona norint Agri- colas." bth. In the course of the afternoon saw several large shoals of the black fish, so called, being a smaller species of the Grampus, weighing, as is said, from 20 to 25 cwt. 6th. Sunday. The wind having hauled a little more to the N. and the brig having stood N. E. 2| days, being now between 40^ and 41° N. Lat. in sight of, and near the island of Sardinia, tacked ship, and stood S. S. E. toward the coast of Africa, with a light breeze. This is the 9th day since we entered the Me- diterranean, at which time, from our then favorable prospects, w^e confidently expected to have reach- 2* 26 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. ed Malta before this time. But disappointments attend us in all conditions of life, both by land and sea ; and, as I believe, generally, if not invariably, for our real and ultimate advantage. Our present prospect is unfavorable to our arrival at that island within a w^eek from this time. It is now^ 39 days since we sailed from New York. The E. S. E. wind, which so long, at this season, prevails here, comes off from Egypt, and the desert of Lybia, is called the Sirocco, and always attended with an unpleasant sensation of languor, dull head-ache and drowsiness, so uncomfortable in a long sea- voyage. A fine dust is observable in the atmosphere, which affects the eyes. Divine^ service by Mr. King. I am now prepared to say of this pious and faithful servant of Christ, that he well deserves that high estimation in which he stands, both in the Old and New World. At 12 o'clock, Lat. 40° 25', E. Lon. 6"^ 45' ; difference of time between this and New York, 5 hours 30 minutes. Ith. Clear and very warm morning : Sirocco again at 10, A. M. but soon settles away into a dead calm. Several of the sailors plunged into the sea to swim and bathe. In the evening attended prayer, in accordance with the monthly concert. Mr. King performed the service with his usual ability ; he also gave us an interesting account of the com mencement and progress of that excellent institu- tion in France by the Protestants, while he was at AT SEA. 27 Paris. The first meeting was composed of himself, one other American, and a Protestant Frenchman, in an obscure upper chamber. It is now attended by vast numbers, even in France. Kth. Saw two white whales pass the brig ; this day in Lat. 37° 47', Lon. 8° 42' E. a mourning dove perched upon our stern, and after resting 10 or 15 minutes, took her flight, in a direction toward the African coast, distant about 70 miles. Though I regretted she made us so short a visit, I wished her a prosperous voyage. The length of time we have been on the Mediterranf^an, and the Sirocco and calms we have experienced, begin to render our voyage somewhat irksome. We have yet before us a voyage of considerable length. In addition to this, we still remain in profound ignorance of the state of affairs in Greece, and whether our destination will be Poros, Egina or Syra. We expect, however, at Malta to obtain information which may decide that question, and also whether we proceed from thence with or without convoy. \Qth. Passed the island of Galita, Lat. 37° 30', E. Lon. 9° 15', in fair view, distant about four leagues ; P. M. saw the African shore for a long stretch, S. E. off Galita. Breeze and current 3 to 5 knots ; fast approaching Cape Bon, which we have long and anxiously looked out for. Prospect of seeing Malta by the end of the week brightens. 11^//. Serene and very warm. On sounding, 2S JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. found 55 fathoms, and again, 30. At half past 10, A. M., made Cape Guardia, S. S. E. distant 3 leagues, and about 2 leagues N. W. of Cape Car- thage. 12 o'clock off the bay of Tunis ; island of Zembra, a naked rock, standing near the east en- trance of the bay, in plain view ; 4 or five miles beyond which, we discover Cape Bon. At 5, P. M., with a fair but gentle breeze, passed Cape Bon ; now about 180 miles to Malta. At 7, P. M . spoke a French frigate, standing S. S. W. : to our question, " where bound ?" the answer was, " cruizing." 8, P. M., made the island Pantellaria. Clear night, with a fresh breeze, N. N. E. ; Lat. by observation, 37° 30', Lon. 10° 12' E. IWi. At 8, A. M. Pantellaria bore S. E. 2 leagues distant. This interesting island deserves particular notice in the journal of a voyager. It is situated Lat. 36° 48', Lon. 11° 58' E. and belongs to Sicily : 30 miles in circumference; volcanic: — products, wine, finest raisins, and other fruits, among the cheapest and best fruits in the Mediterranean. Population estimated at 4,600 ; language and dress a mixture of Italian and Arabic. Land high, and in clear weather may be seen from the deck of a ship 15 leagues. Within the summit is a great natural curiosity, a lake, 4 miles inland, the remains of a crater,) of an unfathomable depth of water. The town and castle at the head of a cove, on the S. W. side of the island. Here stands AT SEA. ^9 a huge church, several chapels, and a Capuchin establishment, all which are plainly seen from our deck, about 5 miles distant. P. M. upon a nearer view (N. E.) of this island, several handsome villa- ges appear more plainly. The ascending roads, hedges, and vineyards are distinctly visible. I3th, Sunday, Early this morning, hopes were entertained of seeing the long looked for island of Malta before night ; but at 10 A. M. breeze dies away, and leaves us for the remainder of the day in a dead calm ; heat of the sun extremely oppres- sive. Mr. King performed divine service. It de- serves particular notice, that the performance of this duty has a powerful influence in the preserva- tion and promotion of sobriety and good order among all on board. I4th. About 9, A. M. a gentle breeze, from S. S W. ; 4 knots, A ship of war, supposed of the U. S. standing west, passed about 2 miles distant. At half past 2, P. M. had the great satisfaction to make Malta, over our larboard bow, 25 or 30 miles distant. This day passed by Rome, and part of the island of Sicily ; the latter in sight. I5th. Malta yet in sight, but no nearer than at sun-set last evening. About 12 o'clock a breeze sprang up, and afforded us the satisfaction of ap- proaching Malta in a fine, pleasant afternoon. At 4, P.M., towers, churches, fortifications, vineyards, &c. &c. appeared, presenting a most animating 30 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. view of this far-famed island. At 6 P. M, passed St. Paul's harbor, near the shore ; the wind had lulled, and the calm afforded a fine opportunity for viewing that memorable place, where the Apostle was shipwrecked ; Acts, xxvii. In reading the account of this shipwreck, I had ever experienced some difficulty in comprehending how there could be a place formed on the coast of an island, where *' two seas met." But in viewing the spot pointed out, where the ship was '* thrust in," the difficulty was removed. The island of Gozo lies west of the main island, .(Malta,) and is separated from it only by a strait, from half a mile to a quarter of a mile in width. When a violent Euroclydon (east wind) prevails, and the seas run high, a powerful current is forced in at each end of this strait, which ranges nearly north and south. The ship was driven in at the north end, and struck in a small nook on the Malta side, about forty rods from the entrance. This strait must have been, I think, the " creek with a shore," which was dis- covered, and " into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship." For, while lying off to the north, the entrance of the strait has the exact appearance of the mouth of a creek or river. To commemorate this event, the Roman Catho- lics have built a small marble chapel, which yet stands, within 40 or 50 feet of the water's edge, AT SEA. 31 where they say the ship " was broken with the vio- lence of the waves." About two miles east of this chapel, on a handsome elevation of ground, stands a neatly built and populous city, surrounding an ele- gant church, erected in honor of St. Paul, and bearing his name. This they pomt out as the place where Publius, the chief man of the island lived, and whose father, Paul healed. At half past 6, the pilot boats swarmed out of the quarantine harbor, and were soon along side of us. I counted 18 of these boats, all ingeniously constructed and beautifully painted, manned wholly by Maltese, with all the motley costume, language, complexion, and characteristics of that active peo- ple. All clamored for employment, to conduct the brig into the harbor ; some in Arabic, others in Italian, some in Spanish, French, English, and many in all those languages mixed together. One would have thought another confusion of tongues had taken place. After an hour's delay, in hearing this loud and confused jargon, Capt. Page agreed with two of the boats to conduct us into the quar- antine harbor, for the customary price for the like service, to be ascertained by the American consul. A string of boats was immediately formed at our bow ; and at 9 P. M. we dropped anchor in the quarantine harbor. It was a delightful evening and night ; the moon shone with great lustre. It was the eve of one of their fete days, observable 32 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. by the Romish church. The jinghng of belis, for which the Maltese are remarkable, the illumina- tions and brilliant fire- works, presented a scene to me, novel, and not without interest. The profu- sion of incense burned in the churches, perfumed the air to such a degree, that it was plainly percep- tible for more than half a mile from the city. " The islands of Malta, Gozo and Cumino occu- py an extent from S. E. by E. to N. W. by W. of eight and a half leagues. Cape St. Dimitri, the N. W. end of Gozo, lying in Lat. 36° 3', Lon. 14° 10', at 50 miles S. E. half E. from the S. E. end of Pantellaria ; and point Benhisa, the S. E. end of Malta, in Lat. 35° 49' 30'', Lon. 14° 33' 30". Malta is celebrated for the magnificence of its capital, the grandeur, extent, and strength of its fortifications, and its importance to England. In the Odyssey of Homer, this island is mentioned under the name of Hyperia> and it is recorded that a colony of Phoenicians was established upon it, 1500 years before the Christian era. It was sub- sequently called Ogygia ; and while bearing this name, the Phoenicians were driven from it by the Greeks, who about 736 years before Christ, called it Melitaion or Mehta, whence its present name is derived. Here the Greeks established the worship of Apollo, their favourite, and Archons governed the island. In rather more than 200 years after the first settlement of the Greeks, the Carthagini- AT MALTA. 33 ans disputed their right of possession, and the island was for some time divided between them ; but ultimately the Carthaginian power prevailed, while both the Greek and the Punic, or Phoenician lan- guages were equally spoken. At length the riches of Carthage, which had flowed to Malta, rendered it a desirable acquisition to the Romans, by whom it was afterwards captui^ed : and thus was intro- duced a third language, and a third admixture of national habitudes and customs. On the division of the Roman empire, Malta fell to the lot of Con- stantino, when the ancient energy or ferocity^ de- chned and expired. In 454 of the Christian era, the Vandals had entered Sicily, and taken posses- sion of Malta, from which, ten years afterwards, they were driven by the Goths. Under Justinian, however, in 553, Belisarius landed, and re-united Malta to the empire, from which time its opulence again increased ; but it has never recovered its former splendor. In 870, the Arabs were in pos- session of Malta, but were driven out the same year, by the Greeks ; 34 years after, they entered a second time, and exterminated the Greeks, al- though the rest of the inhabitants were in general spared and protected. A system of piracy now ensued, and the Maltese became the ablest corsairs in the Mediterranean. In 1090, the Normans took possession of Malta, and they afterwards ceded the island to the Germans. It continued in subjection 3 34 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. to the emperors for 72 years, and then fell under the dominion of France ; but shortly after, Roger, Admiral of Arragon, subdued the island, and it became a fief of the kingdoms of Arragon and Cas- tile ; but was ultimately united to Sicily. Such were the changes which had taken place in the government of these islands, when the emperor Charles Fifth added them to his vast dominions. This potentate seems to have been the first who understood the real value of these possessions, and who appreciated them as deserving that value from their commanding situation, over all the adjacent seas. In 1530, he made choice of the order of St. John, of Jerusalem, and established the knights of that order, conditionally, as perpetual sovereigns of the islands of Malta, Gozo, ther. Most or all the vines of the purple kind are suffered to grow about five feet high, and rest upon small poles supported by crotches get in the ground. The vines of the other kind have no ar- tificial helps to support them, and many of the 84 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. heavy clusters rest their heads upon the ground. In the middle of the vineyard is a well of fine water. It is 24 feet deep, walled up with brick ; the descent to the water is 12 by 8 feet in width, with stone steps from the top to the water, which, for irrigating the garden, is raised by two wheels^ turned by a mule or a jack. On the same ground are pomegranates, figs, apricots, peaches, apples, olives, cotton, and many other kinds of plants and fruit trees ; all of which, except the peaches and apples, appeared luxuriant and flourishing. I had also in this walk an opportunity of seeing a great number of the ancient tombs, cut in the rock, a coarse, porous kind of lime stone, many of which w^ere evidently designed for whole families ; others for single bodies. A great part of them now so far filled up with earth and rubbish, that they are but from two to four feet deep. The Greeks, to prevent a violation of these tombs of their ances- tors, have planted olive and fig trees in them, that cattle and other animals may avoid stepping into them. Returned to our lodgings at sunset, much fatigued, bringing with us two clusters of grapes, each of which I should consider, if at home, ample compensation for a hard day's work. Fortius speaks highly of our country, particularly of New Haven, and of the civilities and kindness he re- ceived there from Judge Baldwin and many others* He informs me, that by direction of the Presi-* poRos. 85 dent, he is engaged to take the charge of a school at the monastery in Poros, to which island he ex- pects to go within a hw days. 20th. At 7 this morning, with Messrs K. and S. engaged a caique, and made preparation to sail to Poros ; had a fair wind, pleasant passage, and ar- rived there at 12. Busily employed, the remain- der of the day, in making arrangements for distri- bution. 21^^. Poros, Having settled upon a mode for the distribution of part of the cargo hiere, at Me- thana, and in that part of the Morea opposite to Poros, Mr. K. and myself, accompanied by our Greek servant Antonio, engaged a caique for our return to Egina, leaving Mr. S. to proceed in the distribution. But the wind being directly ahead the whole day, prevented our attempting it. 22 from whom they had a right to look for sympathy and protection, and from whom is due a greater debt than they can ever pay, it is indeed wonderful that the Greeks have preserved even the name of their religious faith. In respect to their political and moral character, they also stand equally and eminently distinguished. The genius of ancient Greece has never departed from the descendants of Solon and Socrates — of Leonidas and Archimedes. Of this, no further evidence need be adduced, than the maintenance of their struggle for nearly eight years, against the whole force of the Ottoman empire. Unyielding firmness, bravery, and love of coun- try, are inherent in the very nature of the Greek. During the present conflict, sacrifices have been made, and deeds in arms performed among them, which want nothing but the pen of the historian, to be enrolled with the most glorious of those achieved by their ancestors. The public sense, both in Europe and America, has been greatly abused by certain publications calculated to create prejudice against the whole nation of Greece. Avarice, degeneracy, and barbarity have been laid to their charge, and, to crown the whole, piracy. No charitable allowances appear to be made for the extremity of distress and sufferings under which they have labored ; — their country devasta- ted by a war of extermination — their trade annihi- 1 16 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &LCs lated — in a state of revolution — without a govern- ment of their own, to watch over and direct their moral conduct ; — thousands of their friends and relatives perishing by famine occasioned by their enemies — their wives, daughters and sisters violated and slain — their infants butchered as in sport by the Turks : these considerations have found no place in the mindsof those whose prejudices forbid any apology, even for such vices and irregularities as have actually been adopted by this wretched people. That avarice is found among the lower classes is not denied. And that necessity has been the cause of this vice is equally true. If they are degenerated, where shall we look for the cause but in their oppression and degradation ? "A wounded spirit, who can bear !'' That they are barbarous, is denied. It is true, indeed, that after the often repeated acts of the most appalling cruel- ties committed by their invaders in the massacre of many thousands of the unarmed and inoffensive Greeks, the latter, in a few instances, adopted the law of retaliation, by putting to death a few Turks found in arms, and waging war with them on their own soil. If in any instance, the Greeks have ex- ercised cruelty, they were first taught it by the Turks. The Greek is, by nature, , kind, gentle, and affectionate, in all the relations of domestic life, as well as noble and generous toward his enemies. Piracies they have committed ; but in a manner SYRA. 117 and under circumstances, which serve greatly to mitigate the offence. In no instance have they tlireatened the persons, or destroyed the Hves of those from whom they have taken property. It cannot be said, however, that these acts w^ere either poHtic or justifiable. But who are those against whom these acts have been done ? Euro- pean merchants, carrying provisions, arms and munitions of war to the Turks. In addition to this, it will be remembered, that many individuals of these nations had volunteered their mihtary servi- ces with the Turks, and were then actually engaged with them in prosecuting the war against the Greeks. It is but just, also, to consider, that at this period of time, the people of Greece, and especially of the islands whose support is derived from commerce, were in the most extreme need of those articles which were taken from these vessels. Their fami- lies were in a state of starvation. By the Levitical law, even theft was justifiable to satisfy hunger. Remove all legal restraint from the best regula- ted government on earth ; abolish the law, and all legislative and executive authority — leave men to act by their own moral sense alone, and where could be found a city, a town, or a village, in which would not soon be associated banditti of the idle and profligate, who would, in the face of day, rob and plunder their very neighbors ? 10 118 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C» Consider the Greeks as they really are : ^ nothing extenuate, nor set down aught in mahce/ and io their character more will be found to admire than to censure. However the present war between Russia and Turkey may terminate, little doubt can be enter- tained, that the issue will be such as to ensure to the Greeks their emancipation from the Ottoman yoke. And it requires not the spirit of prophecy to predict the approaching downfall of that corrupt- ed and tyrannical dominion. It is now holden to- gether but by a rope of sand. All the Barbary powers, from Fez to Egypt, inclusive, claim to be absolute and independent sovereignties, possessing the right of declaring war, making trea^ties, coining money, conimissioning officers of their armies and navies ; and to do all other acts of sovereign states. The Pachas in every part of the empire, constitute another body of petty tyrants. All these live in perpetual jealousy and hatred of each other, and of the Sultan. Mehemet Ali, Bey of Egypt, and father of Ibrahim Pacha, without doubt the most efficient man in the empire, waits only for a hint from the European powers, to raise the standard of revolt against his nominal master, the Grand Seignior. Such an event is devoutly to be wished. 16tk. Made an acquaintance with one of the Greek chieftains, or captains of one of the mountain clans, who has distinguished himself in several bat- SYRA. 119 ties fought with the Turks, at and about Missolong- hi. His interesting manner and conversation dis- cover the qualifications he possesses for the duties of his office. These captains either are brave men themselves, or the offspring of those brave men whom the Turks could not subdue ; and therefore, soon after the commencement of the revolution, made terms with them, and to secure their attachment, gave them a sort of feudal tenures. They are princi- pally descended from cultivators and shepherds. Some of them have been corrupted by coming in contact with, and exercising sway under the Turks. In general, they are simple in their manners, excel- lent mountain warriors, keen plunderers, and cruel only toward their enemies, which they attempt to justify upon the ground of retaliation. They lean to democracy, fi-om a love of their wild liberty, from a jealousy of the Primates and Fanariots, and from a dread of being put down by a foreign king. Their passions on the latter subject have been heated to a high degree. The Turks taught the Greeks to be plunderers. Their exactions drove the cultivators and shepherds into the mountains, where they have, from neces- sity, lived like wolves, become freemen, outlaws, and plunderers. Hence avarice has become the prcvaiHng vice in Greece. Those who survived d»e slaughter and depredations of the Turks, grew 120 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. warlike ; sometimes the terror, sometimes the al- lies of the Turks, and, at last, the devoted friends of Grecian Hberty. Such was the origin of most of the captains, or chieftains. It must not, how- ever, be supposed, that these captains are the only plunderers ; many of the primates possessed power and wealth under the Ottomans, and were as grasp- ing as the soldiers. It seems to be agreed by those best acqainted with the progress of the war in Greece, that the introduc- tion of European military tactics has been of essen- tial disservice to the Greeks. That kind of guerilla warfare commenced and carried on by the mountain w^arriors, was best calculated to annoy the Turks > These soldiers were intimately acquainted with all the passes and gorges of their mountains, the defiles and fastnesses, through and by which the enemy must pass in moving with their artillery, cavalry, and military baggage from one part of the country to the other. In such places, a small body of Greeks, even without discipline, harassed and destroyed many detached bodies of the Turks, of much great- er numerical force : the Greeks, concealing them- selves among the rocks and behind trees, poured a most destructive fire upon their enemy, while the latter wasted theirs without effect. But, generally, whenever the combatants have come in contact, upon open and plain ground, with a force numeri- cally equal, the Turks have rcjmained masters of SYRA. 121 the field ; particularly when a body of their cavalry constituted a part of that force. The Turk is no where else so formidable as when on the back of his war-horse ; these are all of the Arabian breed, and for mettle, docility, speed and courage, are superior to al] others in the world. They are early trained for military service ; and such is the power of discipline over their motions, that when they charge, the cavalier, after giving a direction to his horse, drops the reins upon his neck, and employs both hands in using his arms, consisting of a cara- bine, four pistols and a cimeter. A light tap on the side of the horse's neck, given by the rider, instantly turns or wheels him. On this charge, at full speed, the cavalier first fii-es his carabine, then his pistols, one after the other, and last of all, draws his cimeter: one brace of the pistols mount- ed in holsters, the other suspended at his girdle. Several English, French, and Italian military officers, some of whom had served under Napoleon, all men of experience and tried bravery, offered their services to the Greeks : they were readily accepted. The reputation for military science they brought with them, promised much aid to the cause of Greece. Their first efforts were bestowed upon the Greek officers and soldiers, in the intro- duction of that discipline, and those rules of prac- tice in war, which they had been taught in their former service. But these, it was soon found, 10* 122 JOURNAL OF A fOtJtt^ 8lC. could not be successfully applied in that kind of warfare, which, of all others, was the most advan- tageous to those in whose service they had now engaged. Many of the bravest soldiers in Greece, under the command of these officers in open field, were cut down by the cimeters of the Turkish cavalry. The defeat of Gen. Braddock was occa- sioned by his ignorance of the mode of Indian war- fare in our country : the discipline and bravery of his troops availed nothing against the ambuscade artfully laid by his enemy. A single hint, modestly suggested to him by Washington, had it been sea- sonably attended to, would have saved the general and his army. I7th. Severely attacked with an inflammation in njy eyes ; an epidemic, now very prevalent among the people of this island. I8th. Some prospect of a passage to Smyrna by a Genoese brig, which is expected to sail from hence this day or to-morrow, wind permitting. Breakfasted this morning upon a bird called in modern Greek the pianos. It is in size a little above that of our robin — plumage speckled, except on the back, which is a light brown. It much re- sembles our brown-thresher in its colors, length of tail, and legs ; beak short, soft, and flexible, with a broad head and wide mouth, in that particular much resembling our whip-poor-will. The pecu- liarity of this bird, and what renders it deserving a SYRA. 123 place in the journal of a traveller, is its food. It subsists by sucking the milk of cows, sheep and goats, principally the latter ; and is by ornitholo- gists denominated the goat-sucker. It is a solitary bird, and not gregarious at any season of the year. Two are seldom seen together, except during the time of laying and incubation. It nests on the ground ; and never soars, but skims along near the surface ; and hence, I conclude, derives its Greek name. At 10 A. M., hired a boat and went on board a Genoese brig, II Giovane Francisco, Capitano Jo- seph Amedio Austraudo, which came into this harbor last evening, and is bound to Smyrna. — Agreed with the Capitano, who says he shall sail to-morrow, should the wind be favorable, to take my passage with him. But having been so often disappointed in respect to engagements of this na- ture, I can place no great confidence in this. 19^/^. Early this morning, procured a boat and went with my trunks and other baggage on board the Genoese brig, accompanied by my friend Dr. Korke. The Capitano Joseph Amedio Austraudo very coldly told me he had no room for my bag- gage, nor accommodations for any passenger. X claimed a positive engagement, and at a settled price, (6 dollars.) I scolded and threatened — but all I received in return was, ^pazienza^ seignour, pazicnzd! I Patience indeed, thought I. But I 124 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &CC. have not a stock of that article sufficieiit to deal with such fellows. On my return to the wharf, vexed with disappointment, I called at the Austrian brig II Redentore, from Trieste, and agreed with the captain for my passage to Smyrna, for which I am to pay him 10 dollars, with the addition of 50 cents per day for the time I shall be on board and not find mj/self. Though the brig is large, and accommodations good, nothing but the neces- sity of my being at Smyrna as soon as possible, has induced me to give this sum. Instead of being at Smyrna, as I intended and expected, by the first of this month, I have now great reason to fear I shall not be there 'till the last of it ; and if so, shall be in danger of being too late to obtain a passage to the U. S. this season. The captain having disposed of his cargo of wheat, assures me he shall sail on Monday next, should the wind be fair. Left my trunks on board the brig, as a kind of entering wedge. Being now, as I hope, about to pass into the Turkish dominions, and there being no American consul here, I find it necessary to apply to the British vice consul, Antonio Nicolo Vitalis, for a passport, certifying also that I am an American citizen. Having brought with me no official document of citizenship, found some difli- culty with the consul on that head ; but by the kind assistance of Dr. Korke, at length prevailed. At 7 P. M. supped on board ; plentiful meal of SYRA. 125 fish of different kinds, served up in Italian style, with a variety of cookery — eoarse, brown, hard bread, with a quantum sufficit of olive oil and Greek wine — all very good. I ate with a better appetite, my health being much improved, and having now before me a fair prospect of seeing Smyrna within ten days. ^Oth. At 9 A. M. went on shore — visited Dr. Korke's school, with great satisfaction. There is something in the Greek character distinguishable from that of all other people with whom I have had any acquaintance. Sprightliness, animation^ vivacity, docility, and gentleness of temper, are strikingly visible among the children — while those more advanced in life, assume the gravity, hauteur and indolence of the Turk. — Slept on board the brig. 21^^ Fine, clear morning, but wind yet N. E. The autumnal equinox has a more durable effect upon the state of the weather here than in the U. S. It is not unusual that the N. E. and E. winds prevail for 30 days, commencing about the 10th of September. It here goes by the name of a Levanter, and is at this season of the year, a great interruption to the trade between Syra and Smyrna. It strikes the traveller as a thing worthy of some notice, that at the landing place, and near the sanita oflice, scores of boats are crowded to- 126 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. gether through the day, whose employment is to convey people to and from the different vessels lying here, of which there are hundreds now in the harbor. As soon as you appear on the mole, dozens of these boatmen will rise up in their boats, all bawling out * capitano, capitano,' (a title they bestow upon all Franks) inviting you by their ges- tures to take a seat in their boat; and if by chance you walk so near them that they can catch your hand, you are dragged into their boat sans cere- monie. For this service, the customary reward is 10 paras — about two cents. But if you cannot make the change exactly, but have to receive change, you are sure of being imposed upon and cheated, either in the amount or kind of money you receive of them. This vice extends to their petty dealers, nnechanics and all others of the lower class. From morning to 9 in the evening, these boats fill the harbor, sailing round among the vessels, each boatman crying out, * Oct-b-o-o — Oct-o-o-o.' Having received an invitation to dine to day ^with the British vice consul, in company with Dr. Korke, went on shore at 10 A. M., and on my way to the consul's house, in the upper town, call- ed on Dr. K. whom 1 found in his school. At the close of the forenoon exercises, at the request of Dr. K. I made a short address to the children and spectators, upon the importance of early edu* SYRA. 127 cation ; which Dr. K. interpreted in modern Greek. From thence we cHmbed up a rugged, serpentine, precipitous path to the house of the consul, where we were received with the utmost politeness and attention. The consul is said to provide the best dinners of any man in Syra, if not in Greece. Oars, 1 thought, afforded strong evidence of the truth of the fact. I am not ac- customed to notice the particulars of a banquet, which might be observed and long remembered by a gourmand ; but in justice to the consul, the skill and taste of his family, servants, and cooks, I cannot say less than this, that the dinner was plentiful ; that the varieties in meats, number of courses, different kinds of vegetables and fruits, a profusion of the best wines, cordials, &c. &c. ^c, fairly entitle it to the appellation of superb, ac- cording to the modern use of the word. This table, thought I, vrhile at dinner, does not well accord with the idea of starvation among the Greeks, entertained by me when I left the U. S. — also while at Poros, Damala, and Egina ; but it must be remembered, the consul lives at Sijra. He is a native Greek, about 50 years of age, ac- tive and energetic ; was bred a wine merchant — in the skillful management of which business, con- nected with some speculations carried on here during the piracies, he has become opulent. He is hospitable, generous, and kind to foreigners — 128 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. speaks French and Italian, and is a keen sports- man. From the early part of June to this day, not a drop of rain have I seen ; and but a few solitary clouds have appeared to oheer the sight of a for- eigner, roasting daily under a vertical sun. In the afternoon, arose in the W. and N. W. some dark clouds, attended w^ith gusts of wind, which, at times, were violent. Several vessels in the har- bor dragged their anchors, and three or four part- ed their cables ; — squalls in the evening, attended with light showers of rain. It was very grateful to my feelings to hear the drops pattering upon the deck, while I lay snugly bunked in the cabin, serenaded by the capitano, and four or five other snoring Austrians. 22rf. At 12 last night the wind hauled, and came on to blow from the N. E., where it yet stands, forbidding all attempts to pass through the bogaz. Our capitano, like the Genoese of the long name, often says to me * pazienza, signor, pazienza,' in a smiling, good natured way. It is said, misery loves company. If consola- tion can be drawn from such a source, surely I have abundant cause to be content ; for many other vessels around us are anxiously waiting for a fair wind to waft them to Smyrna. At lO, A. M. went on shore to walk and to wear away time. In addition to what 1 noted under the 8th inst SYRA. 129 being now more fully informed respecting the city and business of Syra, have to remark, that the principal street is about a quarter of a mile in length, and from 10 to 13 feet in width ; paved with large, shapeless stones, irregularly and uneven^ ly laid, w^hich being a species of marble, and con- stantly travelled upon, are as smooth and slippery as glass, and without great caution expose the tra- veller to fall every moment. In the centre is a ditch, two feet wide and eight inches deep, bottomed and walled with stone. The design of this is, to carry off* the water in the rainy season. A kind of awning, made of old canvass, is suspended over the street about ten feet from the ground, so that neither the sun by day, nor the moon by night can shine here. This whole street, together with many others which go off* at right angles from it, ten to twenty rods in length, is filled with mer- chandise and tradesmen of every name in the dic- tionary. At one door you will see a dry goods merchant ; at the next, a tinker, next a toy shop, then a tailor, a druggist, a grocer, a tinner, a bar- ber, a jeweller, a vintner, a shoemaker, a confec- tioner, and so on to the end of the chapter of oc- cupations. The blacksmith, on account of the fiery nature of his trade, is obliged to take his sta- tion where he can have a little more elbow room. I saw many of them at their work, both at Poros, Egina and Syra. None of them had any other 11 130 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, ifec. shop than what was made by a blanket or a piece of coarse cloth strained horizontally upon poles, supported by four crotches, set in the ground. The spike of the anvil is driven into the ground^ leaving the face about four inches above the sur- face. The smith, sitting cross-legged upon the ground, plies his hammer and tongs, while the wife, or in her absence a journeyman or appren- tice, sitting in like manner, strikes for the master. The bellows are made with two pipes and two distinct lobes, each of which is a goat skin sewed up, except an aperture on the upper side to admit the air. These also rest on the ground, and are wrought by a child standing on his knees between the two parts. The slits or apertures are bound by small, round pieces of wood, which are opened and closed by the hand of the blower, while he alternately raises and depresses the skins. By this simple apparatus they perform all the heavy iron work used in ship-building. They use chdr- coal only. This, for want of a more suitable ma- terial, is made by charring small shrubbery on the mountains, most of which, is less in thickness than a man's finger. It is brought down in baskets on jacks, principally by women and children, it is scarce and expensive. The ship-carpenters make use of but very few^ tools in their occupation. At Egina, I had occasion frequently to pass through a ship-yard, near our SYRA. 131 lodgings. A brig was then on the stocks, about which several men were at work. An adze was the principal tool used by them. With this, they hewed and shaped both their straight and curved timber, with wonderful exactness. I never saw, in any of their ship-yards, either an axe, hatchet, chisel or proper saw. And yet their models, in all classes of their vessels, are acknowledged, by foreigners, to be of the first order. Their caiques are constructed and rigged in a manner peculiar to themselves, and exceed all other vessels of their tonnagCj both for speed and safety, on a rough sea. But with all this bustle, crowd, and irregularity in the streets at Syra, it is to be understood, that but a small part of the inhabitants are actively em- ployed there in person. Every day in the week, and particularly Sundays, the locandas, which are numerous here, are filled with idlers and loungers, smoking their long pipes, sipping hot coffee, a la Turk, drinking lemonade, almonade, wine and other liquors ; all engaged through the day, play- ing billiards, cards, and other games of hazard, of which they are excessively fond. Any day in the week, you may count in an hours' time, by visit- ing the locandas, more than a thousand men ; many of whom are foreigners, engaged in these amusemriUs — or rather, idle and vicious practices. Yet it jjs but justice to add, that I have never seen 132 JOURNAL OF A TOUR^ &C. one of the native Greeks, here or elsewhere, in a state of intoxication. '23d. Strong wind yet continues N. N. E., and affords no hope of being soon unchained from Syra ; — almost despair of seeng America this year. But every thing is in the hands of a kind and overruling Providence, which it would be impious to distrust. Went on shore this afternoon ; call- ed on Dr. K. and spent two hours with him in his school. The more I see and learn of the Greek children, the more I admire their vivacity and docility. Where could American charity be bet- ter bestowed than by sending the gospel, religious tracts, and other school-books, for the benefit of these children ! 1 was much pleased at the method used by Dr. K. with his youngest class, — tenor fifteen boys, from six to nine years of age. Arranged on one side of their sanded table, with their wooden pen- cils, their attention was directed to a painted board elevated in front of them, on which was presented one of the letters of the alphabet. The head of the class pronounces the name of the letter aloud, w^hich is responded by each of the class. They then use their pencils, forming the letter in the sand. These lessons are continued from day to day, until the class are able to form every letter and character of the alphabet. They then pro- ceed with monosyllables, and onward to long words SYR A. 133 and sentences. Thus the pupil acquires the knowledge of reading and writing simultaneously. Might not this mode be profitably adopted in all our infant schools ? 24^/z. This afternoon, the wind having hauled a little more to the N. and somewhat moderated, the captain concluded to attempt a passage through the straits. At half past 5, A. M., weigh- ed anchor. On leaving the harbor, the wind freshened into a stiff breeze. Passed the bogaz about 12 o'clock at night. 25^A. At 2 o'clock this morning, the wind haul- ed again into the N. E. and blew a gale directly ahead. At 6 A. M., gale increasing, reefed top- sails; at 9, sea frequently broke over us ; at 12, the tempest increasing, reefed the mainsail ; at 1 P. M., finding it impossible to proceed, and not having sufficient sea room to beat safely, the Cap- tain about ship and stood back for Syra, where we arrived 24 hours after our departure. We encountered nothing in passing the Atlantic and Mediterranean to Poros, of equal fatigue and dan- ger with this short trip. 2Gtk. Syra, Gale yet continues. At 7 A. M. went on shore ; dined at Draco's ; called again on Dr. K. ; spent the remainder of the day and night with him, enjoying the company and hospitality of that truly good man. 27th, A young Greek gentleman, by name De- 11* 134 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. metrius Stamatiades, a native of Samos, ha^ agreed by consent of his elder brother and other friends, to go out to America with me, and to take passage, for that purpose, in the same brig with me, to Smyrna. The object in view, is to place him at Hartford for education, under the particu- lar care of C. Sigourney, Esq. His brother, to furnish money for his passage to the U. States, and letters to Mr. Offley, their friend, the American consul at Smyrna, for all further assistance of which Demetrius may stand in need. He is a youth, between 18 and 19 years of age, of respect- able family and connections, of unblemished mo- ral character ; of a remarkably kind and gentle temper, amiable in his manner, and beloved by all acquainted with him. This character of him I received from Dr. Korke, who for three or four years has been intimately acquainted with him and his reputation. He is a good scholar, speaks and writes with elegance the modern Greek, French and Italian languages. For the sake of form, and to get along with the Turks at Smyrna, his passport is to show that he. goes out in the character of my servant. At 2 P. M., the bro- ther of Demetrius informs me, that by reason of so short notice, D. cannot be prepared to take his immediate departure for Smyrna, but must first see his mother at Samos, his father being dead, and take a few days for the necessary preparation I SYR A. 135 of clothing, books, &c. for so long a voyag^e ; that he shall send him on to the care of Mr. Offley, to join me at Smyrna within six or eight days. Called at the Casino, principal coffee-house in the city, and the only one where the Smyrna news papers are taken, and after sipping a small cup of hot black cofiee, read the Smyrna Gazette, printed in French ; had the mortification to find, that the brig Tenedos, Capt. Loring, had sailed for Boston on the 30ih of August ; that the brig Rhine, Capt. Robbins, arrived there from Boston on the same day. The hope, therefore, that the Rhine will not have sailed also, before my arrival at Smyrna, is but faint. 28^A. Spent the greatest part of the day on shore with my kind friend Dr. K. ; took a walk with him to the N. E. corner of the island, from which, at one view we counted 16 cities, towns, and villages, on the south side of the island of Tinos, distant about seven miles. The f^opulation of the principal city is said to be considerably greater than that of Syra. On our return to the city, called on and paid our respects to Anthimus Gazes, the famous lexicographer of Greece. His lexicon, in three large quarto volumes, is esteemed the best and most erudite of any extant. It was print- ed at Venice, and has gone through two editions. The author, in his personal appearance and con- versation, may truly be said to be a most interest- 136 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. ing old man : though now but 63, he has the marks of advanced age. His life has been employed in close and assiduous application to study and liter- ature. He is a native of Syra, but has spent thirty years of his life in Germany, and seven at Athens. He stated to me, that his lexicon had cost him ten years of hard labor, * day and night,' as he expressed himself ; that he * had become familiar with the lamp, by the light of which, he had turned over many books/ He is tall, with a handsome figure of person, and wears his beard at full length. 29th, At 3 this morning, a light breeze S. W. for the first time within thirty days. At 4, weigh- ed anchor, and made sail ; advanced about two miles out of the harbor, and were there becalmed Hill 8 ; a light wind then sprang up from the N. W^itli which, by beating, we approached and pass- ed the bogaz at 12. This strait, in the narrowest part, is about two miles broad, made by the ap- proximation of the islands of Tinos and Miconos. At 1 P. M., wind died away into a calm. This condition, though unpleasant to an impatient voy- ager, afforded a most animating view of the neigh- boring islands. The atmosphere was serene and clear. From the deck of the vessel, and without the aid of a glass, I distinctly saw and counted twelve islands, part of the Cyclades, viz. : Tinos, Andros, Zea, Thermoea, Ura, Sephino, Paros, Anti AT SEA. 137 Paros, Naxos, Miconos, Nicaria, and Delos ; the latter of which, is famous in Grecian history, for being the birth place of Diana and Apollo, and for having upon it the temple of Apollo, and the oracle of Delphos. On a near approach to the city of Miconos, counted 27 wind mills, standing within the city ; the whole of which, though popu- lous, does not cover half a mile square. It would be impossible for me, should I make the attempt, to describe the beauty and brilliancy of a sunset- ting view, on such an evening as this, among these and other islands " (nittentes Cyclades)" in the Archipelago. The serenity of the sky, the lively tints formed by reflection and refraction of the rays of light, rising, changing, and fading away in succession, and the soft, but rich gilding of the mountain tops, form altogether an enchanting prospect. 30^/i. Calm continues. Having only cleared the bogaz and entered a broader sea, where we ex- pected wind enough from some quarter or other, we remain becalmed all clay long, with the melan- choly company of five other vessels ; nothing to cheer our spirits but a view of the neighboring isl- ands, a glassy sea, and a large shoal of dolphins, (the first I ever saw) playing about the brig. Sev- eral unsuccessful attempts were made to spear some of them, for a closer inspection of their beauty. 138 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, n of its local position^ and convenient harbor, is used a& a stopping place by most ships passing through the Mediterranean from Gibraltar, Malta, &c. to the eastern parts of Greece, Constantinople, Smyrna, and other places in the Archipelago and Levant seas. From these circumstances, it has become famous for the vast number of pilots produced here. It is an occupa- tion by which many, if not most, of the men living in towns bordering on their harbor, obtain a living for themselves and families. Oct. VWi. Wind yet favorable. At sunrise^. Serigo in view, bearing S. W. 6 miles distant. From 8 to 10 A. M., squally, with showers ; reef- ed sails. Afternoon, fair wind arid good weather 'till 4 ; from that time, the remainder of the eve- ning and through the night, black clouds, squalls^ copious showers, with thunder and lightning ; pro^ gress varying, from 6 to 11 knots. Nothwith- standing the violent agitation of the sea, this gal- AT SEA. 181 lant ship moved along with but little comparative rolling or plunging. Had I been in a brig, with the same weather, must have suffered greatly by sea sickness. Having now cleared all the islands in the Archipelago, the remainder of our voyage to Malta and onward, is considered less dangerous and unpleasant. Oct. I5th, Squalls, thunder, lightning and copi- ous showers — blowing a gale. At 8 A. M., alarm sent into the cabin to Capt. D. " there's a man overboard." The ship was under such way, and the gale so powerful, that I felt but little hope of his being saved. But the man caught a boling among the many thrown over for him, and was taken up, with but little injury. Gale continued with increasing violence through the remainder of the day and night. Being now on the same sea, the same place in it, and at the same season of the year, St. Paul encountered that memorable storm recorded in the 27th chapter of the Acts, brought most feelingly to my mind, the dangers and suffer- ing of tlie apostle and those in the ship with him. *No small tempest lay on us,* Capt. D., his 1st Lieut., Mr. Newel, and several others who had been long engaged in sea service, agreed in saying, they had never experienced such a night — in re- spect, particularly, to the rolling of the ship. Be- ing now near the middle of the broadest part of the Mediterranean — a long rake from the N., even 15* 1^ JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. from the head of the gulf of Venice, the seas had^ by force of a strong N. wind long continued, ac- cumulated a magnitude and height, unusual in any part of the world. By the care and skill of the captain, his officers and men, the ship was put and kept in the best condition to encounter the tem- pest* But through the night, I witnessed such scenes as I cannot describe, and hope never again to experience. By the tremendous rolling of the ship, tables, chairs, trunks, bottles, dishes, table- furniture, maps, books, charts, nautical instru- ments, 'though secured by elects, cords and other fastenings, as is usual on such occasions, broke away, and strewed the cabin floor with a motley collection of articles, some of which were broken, and many others greatly injured. Little sleep was enjoyed among us this night, even by the oldest and most hardened children of Neptune. The immense weight of the guns upon the upper deck? strained the ship to such a degree, that the grating of her timbers, was, to me, truly frightful. ' Things that love night, love not such nights as these.^ C)ct. I6th. At 5 this morning, gale continues, but without any increase of violence. 12 o'clock, wind sensibly abated, but without any diminution of swells. Capt. D. had kindly favored me with the use of a cot, without which my condition must have been vastlv more uncomfortable. At 9 P. AT SEA. 18S M., the swells had so far abated that \V»e all enjoy- ed a fine night's rest. Oct. 17 th. After a pleasant night, with a fair wind, we are blessed with a clear, fine morning ; progress, 4 to 6 knots. At half past 1 P. M. made the island of Malta, bearing N. N. W. distant about 50 miles. Wind continuing fair but lights through the afternoon, were 20 miles short of Mal- ta at sun-set. Feel anxious to learn at Malta my destiny respecting a passage from thence to America. I8th. Another clear and pleasant morning. At sun-rise, Malta in plain view, distant 8 miles : had the satifaction to see from the deck, and with the naked eye, the far-famed Mount Etna ; also a con- siderable extent of the S. coast of the island of Sicily. It being nearly a calm, did not arrive off the mouth of the Valetta harbor till 1 P. M. I I now learn the Java is not to land here ; but heave to and send in one of the boats, to deliver and receive letters, &:c. Wrote and sent in by the boat a hastily written letter to my family ; also requested Lieut. Shubrick, the officer of the boat, to call on Mr. Eynard, the American consul, state my situation to him, and inquire as to the prospect of my obtaining a passage to Gibraltar, England, or the U. States. The consul returned for ans- wer, that after 15 days quarantine at Malta, he thought it probable I might obtain a passage to 184 JOURNAL OF A I'OUR, &C. Gibraltar ; tlhough that was somewhat doubtful, as the sickness at that place was so mortal and alarm- ing, that but little intercourse between the two pla- ces, for a considerable time was to be expected ^ that according to the latest information, the yellow fever now prevailing at Gibraltar carried off from 70 to 85 persons daily. I hesitated, but after a few moments' reflection, concluded that the Java would probably be at Port Mahon within 15 days from this time ; — that from thence, after a short quarantine of 3 or 4 days, L might procure a pas- sage to Gibraltar sooner upon the whole than to land here and undergo a quarantine of 15 days. Oct. \Qth. The wind having been light, and not altogether favorable during the last night, we ad- vanced but little on our voyage. The atmosphere being clear and serene this morning, presented a most sublime view of Mount Etna and the coast of Sicily. The form and figure of this stupendous monument could be traced with- out the aid of a glass. While I was feasting my eyes upon it, a long bright cloud, some hundreds of feet below the apex, was seen suspended, which added great interest to the view. A column of smoke from the crater was also visible, as well as the snow near the summit, which served to , render the features of the mountain more dis- tinctly discernible. In the course the ship sailed, ^ AT SfiA. 185 the weather continuing fine, had Etna in sight till 4 P.M. Oct. 20th. Strong breeze, easterly. At 6 A. M. made Cape Bon — said to be the north-eastern ex- tremity of Mount Atlas, bearing N. W. distant 10 miles. At 1 1 A. M. doubled the Cape, and enter- ed the bay of Tunis. At 3, P. M. dropped anchor off the scite of an- cient Carthage, about 3 miles from the Gdletta, 2 miles S. of Cape Carthage, and half a mile from the nearest shore. At 4 P. M. the boat of the American consul, Dr. Heap, visited the ship, and informed the captain, that such were the present quarantine regulations, that the ship could not take pratique till to-morrow morning, 10 o'clock. At 6 P. M. the consul in person came off in his boat, at- tended by his drogoman, a kind of janizary, in Turkish costume, armed with an attaghan, in a silver scabbard, and a brace of gold mounted pis- tols. The consul, dismissing his boat, remained with his attendant, and slept on board. During the supper, and' till late in the evening, the conver- sation between Capt. D. and the consul was inter- esting, and, to me, very entertaining. He is an active, intelligent man, and appears to be well ac- quainted with the policy and present measures of all the European courts — of the Porte, and all tho powers of Barbary. 186 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. It was agreed this evening, between Capt. D. and the consul, that, as pratique might not be ob- tiined till to-morrow afternoon, Capt. D., the con- sul, myself, and such officers of the ship as might choose to go, take a boat in the morning, go up the bay to the city of Tunis, and, on our return, visit the Goletta, and take a view of the ruins of Carthage. LETTER V. Bay of Tunis, Oct. 21^^ 1828. Dear Sir, At 7, this morning, the broad red flag of the Sul- tan was hoisted on the ramparts of the Goletta, and saluted the Java with 21 guns from the upper tier of the fortress. This etiquette was wholly un- expected by Capt. D., it being unusual for the Turks to give or receive salutes. But after a mo- ment's consultation with his officers, Capt. D., un- willing to be outdone in courtesy by the Turks, re- pfied with handsome interest. The wind being fair, and a good breeze, Capt. D. deemed it his duty, as a public officer, to improve the opportunity, and hasten as fast as possible to Port Mahon. This occasioned an alteration of arrangements made AT SEA. 187 last evening, which I very much regret ; as it w^ill prevent me from seeing Tunis, and the most inter- esting parts of the ruins of Carthage. It is now settled upon, that as soon as pratique can be ob- tained, the ship weigh anchor and sail. But it be- came necessary that a boat go on shore at the Go- letta, to receive the order of pratique. Capt. D. had the goodness to offer me a seat in the boat, accompanied by Lieut. Harris and the consul. We landed at the Goletta at 10 o'clock, A. M. The order of pratique not having arrived, I improved my time with diligence in viewing this ancient fortress, the canal upon which it stands, the lake, and some of the ruins of Carthage on the isthmus, near the Goletta. But 1 was choaked off in the midst of this/ea.9^ of soul, at 3, P. M. by the arrival of the order of pratique. We returned immediately to the ship. I was surprised at the saltness of the water in this bay. Lieut. Harris had kindly lent me his camlet cloak, to protect me from the spray ; the wind blowing fresh down the bay. I found it of essential service : the water frequently splashed over us, and wet our clothes. On arriving at the ship, I found the cloak covered with a thin incrus- tation of salt, and, on motion, made a crackling noise, similar to that of a thin glazing of ice. The short time allowed me on shore, afforded no opportunity for viewing the principal and most in- 188 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. teresting part of the ruins of Carthage ; but from the deck of the ship, and in our passage to and from the Goletta, enough could be seen to give a feeling sense of the denunciation made by one of the Roman senators — * delenda est Carthago.' After entering the bay, and while lying at an- chor there, I had the great satisfaction to take a peep into the plains of Zama ; that memorable ground, on which was fought the great battle be- tween Hannibal and Scipio Africanus. The victory gained here by Scipio, gave a death blow to the glory of Carthage, and in its consequences, proved the downfall of Rome. One of the historians, speaking of this battle says, with great truth and propriety, — ' Rome fell under the walls of Car- thage.' So interesting is every thing associated with this once powerful city, and connected with its history, and with that of Rome, that I cannot deny myself the gratification of inserting here a compressed his- torical account of it, in the language of Chateaubri- and, who, on his travels in 1806, visited Carthage. * Hannibal and Scipio met in the plains of Zama; the one celebrated for his victories, the other re- now^ned for his virtues : both worthy of represent- ing their great nations, and of disputing the empire of the world. At the departure of Scipio's fleet for Africa, the coast of Sicily was lined with an immense con- BAY OP TUNIS. 189 course of people, and a great number of soldiers. Four hundred transports and jfifty triremes covered the road of Lilyboeum. The galley of Laelius, the admiral of the fleet, was distinguished by three lights : the other ships carried one or two, accord- ing to their size. The eyes of the world were fixed on this expedition, planned for the purpose of obliging Hannibal to leave Italy, and finally de- ciding the fate of Rome and Carthage. The fifth and sixth legions, who had been present at the bat- tle of Cannae, burned with impatience to fay waste the country of their conqueror. The day of departure at length arrived. With the morning's dawn, Scipio appeared on the stern of Lelius's galley, in sight of the fleet and the mul- titudes that covered the eminences on the shore. A herald raised his sceptre and commanded si- lence. " O gods and goddesses of the earth," cried Scipio, " and ye divinities of the sea, grant a pros- perous issue to this enterprise ! May my plans turn out to my glory, and to the glory of the Roman people. May we on some future day return joy- fully to our homes, laden with the spoils of the enemy ; and may Carthage experience the calam- ities with which she threatened my country!" With these words, a victim was slain : Scipio threw the reeking entrails into the sea ; the sails were hoisted at the sound of the trumpet, and a fair wind wafted the whole fleet from the shores of Sicily. The day 16 190 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. after their departure, the Romans descried the continent of Africa and the promontory of Mercu- ry. Night came on, and the fleet was obliged to cast Anchor. At sun-rise, Scipio, perceiving the coast, inquired the name of the promontory nearest the vessel. " It is Good Cape," (Cape Bon,) re- plied the pilot. Qn hearing this name of happy omen, the general, saluting the fortune of Rome, ordered the prow of his galley to be turned to- wards the place pointed out by the gods. The landing was effected without molestation. Consternation pervaded both the city and the country ; the roads were covered with fugitives, men, women, and children, with their flocks : you would have taken it for one of those great migra- tions, when whole nations, by the wrath or will of the gods, forsake the tombs of their ancestors. Terror seized Carthage ; its citizens ran to arms ; the gates were shut, and soldiers stationed on the walls, as if the Romans were already preparing for the assault. It was at this juncture, that the Carthaginians recalled Hannibal fi'om Italy. He shed tears of rage : he accused his fellow citizens ; found fault with the gods ; and reproached himself for not having marched to Rome after the battle of Can- noe. Never did a man, quitting his native land, to go into exile, feel such profound grief as Hannibal, on leaving a foreign shore to return to his country. BAY OF TUNIS. ' 191 He disembarked on the coast of Africa, with the veterans who had accompanied him in Spain, Gaul and Italy ; who could show more fasces taken from praetors, generals, and consuls, than were carried before all the magistrates of Rome. Hannibal had been thirty-six years absent from his country ; he had left it when a boy, and returned when advan- ced in life, as he himself observed to Scipio. What must have been the reflections of that great man, on revisiting Carthage, whose walls and whose inhabitants were almost strangers to him ! Two of his brothers were dead ; the companions of bis childhood had disappeared : fresh generations had succeeded each other : the temples, crowded w^ith the spoils of the Romans, were, doubtless, the only places that Hannibal could recognize in this new Carthage. Had not his countrj^men been blinded by envy, with what admiration would they have beheld the hero, who for thirty years had been shed- ding his blood for them In a distant region, and cov- ering them with immortal glory ! But when ser- vices are so eminent as to exceed the bounds of compensation, they are repaid with nothing but ingratitude. Hannibal had the misfortune to be greater than the people among whom he was born, and was doomed to live and to die in a foreign land. 192 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, ifec. He led his army to Zama. Scipio pitched his camp near Hannibal's, The Carthaginian general had a presentiment of the infidelity of fortune ; for he requested an interview with the Roman chief, to offer proposals of peace. A place was appoint- ed for the interview. When the two captains met, they continued si- lent for some time, overpowered with admiration of each other. Hannibal at length spoke as fol- lows : " The gods, O Scipio, decreed that your father should be the first of the hostile generals whom I should meet in arms in Italy : those same gods command me to come this day, unarmed^ to demand peace of his son. You have seen the Carthaginians encamped at the gates of Rome : the noise of a Roman camp is now heard within the walls of Carthage. I left my country a child ; I return to it mature in years ; long experience of good and bad fortune, has taught me to judge of things by reason, and not by the event. Your youth, and prosperity, which has not yet forsaken you, will perhaps render you hostile to peace : amid success we think not of adversity. You are about the same age that I was at Cannae and Thra- symene. Consider what I have been, and learn from my example, the inconstancy of fortune. He who addresses you in the language of supplication,, is that Hannibal who encamped between the Tiber and the Teverone, ready to assault Rome herself^ BAY OF TUNIS. 193 deliberated what he should do with your native land. 1 have carried terror into the fields of your fathers, and am now reduced so low as to implore you to spare my country a similar calamity. No- thing is more uncertain than the chances of war : a moment may blast all your glory and your hopes. Agree to peace, and you remain the arbiter of your destiny ; fight, and you resign your fate into the hands of the gods." To this studied harangue, Scipio replied with greater frankness but with less eloquence. He re- jected as unsatisfactory the proposals made by Hannibal ; and both sides prepared for battle. It is probable that the interest of his country was not the only motive that induced the Roman general to refuse a compromise with the Carthaginian com- mander, and that Scipio could not withstand the desire of trying his strength with Hannibal. The day after this interview, both armies, com- posed of veterans, and headed by the two greatest captains of the two greatest nations in the world, advanced to contend, not for the walls of Rome or Carthage, but for the empire of the world, the stake of this last struggle. Scipio placed the hastati in the first rank, the principes in the second, and the triarii in the third, leaving equal intervals between these lines to form a passage for the Carthaginian elephants. Light troops, dispersed in these spaces, were, as occasion 16* 194 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. required, to fall back upon the heavy armed sol- diers, and to discharge upon the elephants a shower of arrows and javelins. Lselius covered the left wing of the army with the Roman cavalry, and Masinissa commanded the Numidian horse on the right. Hannibal drew up eighty elephants in front of his army, the first line of which was composed of Ligurians, Gauls, Baleares, and Mauritanians ; the Carthaginians constituted the second ; and the Bruttii, posted in their rear, formed a kind of re- serve, on which the general placed very little de- pendence. Hannibal opposed his cavalry to the Roman horse, the Carthaginians to Lselius, and the Numidians to Masinissa. The Romans first gave the signal for the attack. At the same time they setup such shouts that the elephants fell back affrighted on the left wing of Ilannibal's army, and threw the Numidian horse into confusion. Masinissa, availing himself of this circumstance, rushed upon them, and put them to flight. The rest of the elephants, which had advan- ced against the Romans, were repulsed by the light troops, and produced the same accident in the right wing of the Carthaginians, as had befallen the left. Thus, in the very first onset, Hannibal was left without cavalry, and unprotected on both flanks. Urgent reasons, not recorded in history, doubt- less forbade him to think of retreat. The infantry BAY OP TUNIS. 195 having engaged, Scipio's troops easily routed the first Hne of the enemy, entirely composed of mer- cenaries. The Romans and the Carthaginians were now opposed to each other : the former, in order to reach the latter, being obliged to pass over heaps of carcases, broke their line, and were on the point of losing the victory. Scipio perceived the danger, and changed his order of battle. He ordered the principes and the triarii to advance into the first line, and placed them on the right and left of the hastati ; by w hich means he formed a larger front than Hannibal's army, already weakened by the loss of its cavalry, and the first line of his infantry. The Carthaginian veterans maintained the glory which they had won in so many engagements. Among them were to be seen, distinguished by crovtms, common soldiers, who had, with their own hands, killed generals and consuls. The Roman cavalry, returning from the pursuit of the enemy, charged the old companions of Hannibal in the rear. Surrounded on all sides, they fought to the last gasp ; and gave up their standards only with their lives. Hannibal himself, after having done all that could be expected of a great general and a valiant soldier, escaped with a few horse. Being left master of the field of battle, Scipio be- stowed great praise on the skill displayed by his rival in the conduct of the engagement. Was this 19& JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. generosity or pride ? Perhaps both ; for Scipio was the victor, and Hannibal the vanquished. The battle of Zama put an end to the second punic war. Carthage sued for peace, and obtain- ed it, but upon such conditions as announced her approaching ruin. Hannibal, not venturing to rely on the faith of an ungrateful people, aban- doned his country. He wandered about among foreign courts, every where striving to raise up enemies against the Romans, and every where pursued by them ; giving weak monarchs advice which they were incapable of following, and learn- ing from his own experience that neither glory nor misfortunes are a recommendation to crowned hosts. It is said that he met Scipio at Ephesus, and that in conversation with his conqueror, the latter asked : * In your opinion, Hannibal, who was the greatest general that ever lived V * Alex- ander,' replied the Carthaginian. * And who was the second V rejoined Scipio. ' Pyrrhus.' * And the third V ' Myself * But what would you have said,' cried Scipio, laughing, * if you had conquer- ed me ?' * In that case,' replied Hannibal, * I should have placed myself above Alexander" — an expression which proves that the illustrious ex- ile had learned in courts the art of flattering, and that he had at the same time too much modesty and too much pride. The Romans could not be easy as long as they Bay of TUNIS. 197 knew that Hannibal was living. Solitary, pro- scribed, and oppressed with adversity, he seemed to them to counterpoise the fortune of the capitol. They were humbled by the idea that the world contained a man who had vanquished them, and who was not affrighted at their greatness. They sent an embassy to Asia, to demand of king Pru- sias the death of his guest. Frusias had the base- ness to give up Hannibal ; on which that great man swallowed poison, saying : * Let us deliver the Romans from the terror excited in them by an old man, exiled, unarmed, and betrayed." Scipio underwent, like Hannibal, the penalty attached to glory. He ended his days at Liter- num in voluntary exile. It is remarkable that Hannibal, Philopoemen, and Scipio, died about the same time, all three of them victims to the ingrat- itude of their respective countries. The African had the following well known inscription engraven on his tomb : UNGRATEFUL LAND OF MY NATIVITY, THOU SHALT NOT POSSESS MY BONES. But after all, proscription and exile, which plunge vulgar names into oblivion, draw the eyes of all to such as are illustrious : successful virtue dazzles — but, when persecuted, it charms. Car- thage herself did not long survive Hannibal. Scipio Nasica, and the most enlightened senators^ 198 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. were solicitous to preserve a rival to Rome : but who can change the destinies of empires ! The inveterate hatred of the elder Cato proved trium- phant, and on the most frivolous pretext, the Ro- mans commenced the third Punic war. They first had recourse to the most flagrant per- fidy to disarm their enemies. The Carthaginians, having in vain solicited peace, determined to bury themselves under the ruins of their city. The consuls, Marcus and Manlius, soon appeared under the walls of Carthage. Before they commenced the siege, they performed two solemn ceremonies ; the evocation of the tutelar divinities from that city, and the devoting of the birth-place of Hanni- bal to the- infernal gods. — The consuls, however, were vigorously repulsed. The genius of Hanni- bal had revived in the besieged city. The wo- men cut off their hair and twisted it into cords for the bows and military engines. Scipio, the second Africanus, then served as a tribune in the Roman army. Some veterans, who had seen the first Scipio, were yet alive, and among the rest, the celebrated Masinissa. This Numidian monarch, more than eighty years of age, invited the youthful Scipio to his court, and it was upon the supposi- tion of his interview, that Cicero composed the beautiful passage of his Republic, known by the appellation of Scipio^s Dream. Scipio =^mi!ianus, appointed to the consulship BAY OF TUNIS. 199 through the favor of the people, received orders to continue the siege of Carthage. He first sur- prized the lower town, which was called Megara, or Magara. He then attempted to block up the outer port by means of a mole ; but the Cartha- ginians opened another entrance to the harbor, and appeared at sea to the great astonishment of the Romans. They might have burned Scipio's fleet ; but the hour of Carthage was come, and confusion pervaded the councils of that unfortu- nate city. It was defended by one Asdrubal, a cruel man, who commanded thirty thousand mer- cenaries, and who treated the citizens with as much rigor as if they had been enemies. The winter having passed in the enterprises above- mentioned, Scipio, in the spring, attacked the inner port, denominated Colhon. Being soon master of the walls of this harbor, he pushed forward into the great square of the city. Three streets led from this square up a gentle declivity to the cita- del, known by the name of Byrsa. In the houses of these streets, the inhabitants defended them- selves with such obstinacy, that Scipio was obliged to besiege and reduce the houses one by one. This struggle lasted six days and six nights. One party of the Roman soldiers forced the retreat ol' the Carthaginians, while another was employed in removing with hooks the dead bodies that lay in heaps in the houses, or were tumbled into the 200 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. streets. Many of the living were thrown into the graves indiscriminately with the dead. On the seventh day, deputies appeared in the dress of supplicants ; they merely begged the lives of the citizens who had taken refuge in the citadel. Scipio granted their petition, excepting only from this favor, the Roman deserters who had gone over to the Carthaginians. Fifty thousand persons, men, women and children, were thus permitted to depart from Byrsa. On the most elevated part of the citadel stood a temple consecrated to Escula- pius. In this temple, the deserters, to the num- ber of nine hundred, entrenched themselves. They were commanded by Asdrubal, who had with him his wife and his two children. This des- perate body of men withstood for some time the efforts of the Romans ; but being driven by de- grees from the court of the temple, they shut themselves up in the temple itself. Asdrubal, im- pelled by the love of life, and secretly deserting his companions in misfortune — his wife and his children, went, with an olive branch in his hand, and threw himself at Scipio's feet. Scipio imme- diately ordered him to be shown to the deserters, who, boiling with fury, set fire to the temple, vent' ing the most horrible imprecations against Asdru- bal. When the flames began to issue from the edi- fice, a female, attired in her most sumptuous ap- BAY OP TUNIS. 201 parel, made her appearance, holding two children by the hand. This was the wife of Asdrubal. She looked about among the enemy who sur- rounded the citadel, and recognizing Scipio, ' Ro- man,' cried she, * I pray not that heaven may wreak its vengeance upon thee ; thou foliowest only the laws of war : but mayest thou with the divinities of my country, punish the perfidious wretch who betrays his wife, his children, his country, and his gods ! As for thee, Asdrubal, Rome is already preparing the chastisement due to thy crimes. Unworthy chief of Carthage, go and be dragged at the chariot-wheels of thy con- queror, while this fire shall snatch me and my children from slavery.' With these words, she dispatched her children, thiew them into the flames, and precipitated herself after them. All the deserters followed her example. Thus perished the city of Dido, of Sophonisba, and Hannibal. Florus says, that some idea may be formed of the magnitude of this catastrophe, when it is known that the conflagration lasted seventeen whole days. Scipio shed tears for the fate of Carthage. At the sight of the flames con- suming a city once so flourishing, he reflected on the revolutions of empires, and repeated these verses of Homer, in allusion to the future destinies of Rome : * A time will come when the sacred 17 202 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. walls of Ilion shall perish, together with the war- like Priam and all his people/ Corinth was destroyed in the same year as Car- thage ; and a youth of Corinth repeated, like Scipio, a passage in Homer, when he beheld his native city in ashes. Who, then, is this man, that is thus summoned by all antiquity to the fall of states, to the spectacle of the calamities of nations ; as if there could be nothing great or tragical with- out his presence, as if all human woes were under the protection and under the empire of the bard of Ilion and of Hector ? No sooner was Carthage destroyed, than an avenging deity seemed to rise from its ruins. The manners of Rome became depraved ; she began to be distracted by civil wars ; and this corruption and these broils commenced on the Punic shores. Scipio himself, the destroyer of Carthage, died by the hands of his relations ; the children of that Masinissa who contributed to the triumph of the Romans, slaughtered each other on the tomb of Sophonisba ; the possessions of Syphax enabled Jugurtha to seduce and to vanquish the descend- ants of Regulus. ' O venal city,' ! exclaimed the African prince as he left the capitol. ' O city ripe for ruin, if thou meetest with a purchaser' ! Jugurtha soon afterwards obliged a Roman army to pass under the yoke, almost in sight of Carthage, and revived BAY OF TUNIS. 303 the ignominious ceremony, as if to gratify the manes of Hannibal. Falling at length into the hands of the Romans, he lost his presence of mind amidst the triumphal pomp. The lictors stripped him, took the jewels from his ears, and threw him naked into a ditch, where this monarch justified to his last gasp what he had said concern- ing the rapacity of the Romans. The victory gained over the descendants of Masinissa, occasioned, however, that jealousy be- tween Marius and Sylla, which soon plunged Rome into mourning. Vanquished by his rival, the fugitive Marius sought an asylum beside the tombs of Hanno and Hamilcar. A slave of Sex- tilius, the prefect of Africa, brought Marius an order to quit the ruins which served him for a re- treat ; ' go, tell thy master, retorted the grim con- sul, ' that thou hast seen Marius, a fugitive, seated on the ruins of Carthage.' * Marius and Carthage,' said an historian and poet, * mutually reconciled each other to their fate ; and both having fallen, they forgave the gods.' At length the liberties of Rome expired at the feet of Carthage, destroyed and enslaved. The vengeance is complete ; a Scipio falls in Africa under the sword of Caesar, and his body is buffet- ed by those waves which bore the triumphal ships of his forefathers.' 5 P. M. Weighed anchor, and having a fair 204 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. wind, filled away for Port Mahon. On leaving the bay and passing round Cape Carthage, had a melancholy view on our left, of the desolations of the city which once stood here, the rival and the envy of Rome. From our deck, were visible, in a dilapidated state, some of the massy columns of the ancient aqueducts — sad memorials of her former splendor. At 6 P. M. doubled the Cape, and laid our course for Minorca; fresh breeze — 7 to 11 knots. Oct, 226?. FinCj bright morning ; wind continues fresh and fair. Since leaving the bay of Tunis, yesterday, our average progress has been 10 knots ; fair prospect of seeing Mahon to-morrow morning. Oct, 23d, At break of day, made the island of Minorca ; Port Mahon bearing N. ; distant 10 miles. With a good breeze, the Java entered the harbor and dropped anchor at 8 A. M. Here we find at anchor also, the Delaware, Com. Crane^ the Lexington, Capt, Hunter, and the Fairfield, Corvette, Capt. Parker. Though the passage from Vourla to this port has been uncommonly expeditious, being but 12 days, our stops at Malta and Carthage included, yet it is mortifying to learn, that the present regu- lations of the port require twenty days quarantine, so that during that period, at least, I am pinned at Mahon, should ever so many vessels sail from PORT MAHON. 205 hence in the mean time, for the United States, or for Gibraltar. But notwithstanding this discoura- ging circumstance, I am now satisfied that the course I decided upon at Smyrna, being but a choice of difficulties, was the best. Within an hour after the Java was moored in this snug har- bour, a change of weather was observable. The wind hauled and came on to blow from the N. E., attended with black clouds, sharp lightning and heavy peals of thunder. Had we been four hours later in our approach to the island, it would have been impossible for the ship to enter the harbour, but w^ould probably have been driven back to the coast of Africa. LETTER VL Port Mahon, Oct. 24th, 1828. Dear Sir, Cloudy boisterous morning. Wind blowing a gale from N. E., — thunder and drenching showers of rain. The reflection that we so narrowly escaped the present tempest, awakens sensations of joy and gratitude. Early this morning, and be- fore the storm had assumed so threatening an as- pect, the Lexington, by order of Com. Crane, was 17* 306 JOURNAL ar a totjr, &e. towed out and sailed for Smyrna. Some conceto for her safety is entertained. Had at dinner to day, among many other good things at table, fresh stringed beans ; the first I have tasted since the last year ; — desert, Sardini- an pears, with grapes and apples, the growth of this island — all of the richest quality. My health and appetite now being good, the plentiful sup- plies of eatables and drinkables on board the Java, afford me an opportunity to make up, in a good degree, for the ill health, privations and starva- tion of the past summer. This port, next to Smyr- na, is remarkable for the superior quality of meats and vegetables. The prices are reasonable. The great number of ships of war, as well as merchant vessels of different nations which stop here and perform quarantine, refit, &c. in addition to the time spent in the course of business and duty, ren- der Mahon a kind of common market place, where vast sums of money are expended, much to the advantage of the Mahonese. Oct, 25th, Clear, fine morning. To lessen the embarrassments of intercourse between the ship and the quarantine ground, several of the natives^ besides the sanidads (health officers) put them- selves into quarantine, and bring out ill boats, an abundance of all kinds of meats, fish, vegetables and fruits ; also carry on shore and wash clothes for the officers and men. The distressing sick- Pont MAtto]S\ , 20t liess, which, for sometime past has prevailed at Gibraltar and Marseilles, has so alarmed the Dons^ here, that they have added five days to the time of quarantine, usual at this port, and enjoined upon the sanidads the most rigid observance of all quar- antine regulations. Oct, '*ZQth, Sunday. From the inaction and dull- ness incident to quarantine confinement, 1 find great relief in perusing some American publica- tions of a moral and religious character, with which the library of Capt. D. is well furnished. * Home, sweet home' ! Every thing relating to Aome, is interesting to every American when in a foreign country. The cheering influence of the Java's band of music, deserves particular notice. It consists of fourteen men, all natives of Mahon. They play with all the skill, spirit and animation for which the Balearic islands and Italy are so justly admired. The officers of the ship have in- troduced some of the best pieces of Church mu- sic ; among which, and best of all, is Old Hun- dred, which, particularly on the Sabbath, is never omitted in the morning and evening exercise of the band. This old acquaintance of mine is never sounded here, without irresistibly drawing from my eyes a tribute of tears. It awakens reminis- cences of my youthful days, far gone by, and ele- vates the soul in feelings of devotion, at once im- pressive, solemn and sublime. The Rev. Mr. 208 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. Hayes, chaplain of the Java, being now on his travels in France, no pubUc religious exercises on board are performed. Oct, 27th. After breakfast, w^ent on shore, with Lieut. Saunders, Mr. Harris, the purser. Dr. Terril, and some other gentlemen, accompanied by a san- idad ; viewed the Lazaretto, &c. i^c. On this elevated ground, had a commanding prospect of Georgetown, Mahon, and their environs, and in the distance, of Monte Toro (Bull mountain), with the monastery, and other white buildings connected with it ; all which appear to great advantage. The monks of this establishment, which is on the summit of the mountain, like other holy men of the * holy CathoHc church,' in this region of the world, live comfortably, in their elevated station, enjoying many of the good things of this life, and are had in reverence of the good subjects of * his most Catho- lic majesty.' In the late revolution, as it is here called, their funds were secularized ; but are now restored, though not to the extent they were for- merly enjoyed. Leavmg the Lazaretto, we paid a visit to the Delaware, and had conversation with several of the officers of that superb ship. Comm. Crane being in ill health, we were disappointed of the pleasure of seeing him ; our vigilant sanidad not permitting us to go on board. Called also on the Congress, a fine brig from Boston, which came out i PORT MAHON. 209 with naval stores, in company with the Fairfield. Had hopes of a passage in her to the U. States, but found she was to go first to St. Lucar, for a cargo of salt, and from thence, after a delay of 20 or 25 days, the captain, at present, knew not whither. Although I enjoy good health, and * live as w^ell as heart could wish,' on board the Java, ex- periencing the utmost kindness and attention of Capt. D. and his oflicers, yet my solicitude to be in motion homeward^ is so great, that my present situation is not the most agreeable. Oct, 28tli, Went again this morning on shore, and spent an hour or two at the Lazaretto. The quarantine regulations made the present season by the Spanish government, are very embarrassmg to the American and all other vessels trading to the Spanish ports in the Mediterranean. There are now in this harbor, riding out quar- antine, five American brigs, with their cargoes, originally bound to Malaga, Barcelona, and other Spanish ports; all which have been obliged to come here to perform a quarantine of 20 days, before they can enter the ports of their destination. This costs them, back and forth, from 25 to 30 days sail, in addition to port charges, which are very considerable. The reason ottered for this, as I anj informed, is, that there is no other Spanish port in this sea, suitable and convenient for quarantine* 210 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. Mahon, otherwise poor, derives essential benefit from this circumstance. Oct, 29th. Had the curiosity to view a cameHon on board the ship, brought by the master of arms from Smyrna. A description of this singular ani- mal is unnecessary. In the course of the last night it laid 14 eggs, similar in form to the egg of the small turtle, and nearly an inch in length. At 1, P. M. Capt. D. informed me, he had just received an order from Com. Crane, to sail to- morrow for Algiers, with some despatches : expect- ing to return again to Mahon without delay, and here perform tlie remainder of his quarantine, of which 12 days are yet due. I immediately obtained a boat, and visited the American brigs in the har- bor, indulging a hope of obtaining a passage in some one of them, as far at least as Gibraltar ; but found they would all take pratique before the expiration of the Java's quarantine. This puts an end to all expectation of commencing my home- ward voyage for the next three or four weeks ; for should I go on board any other vessel here, before the expiration of the Java^s quarantine, this would subject that vessel to an additional quarantine. Under these untoward circumstances, I conclude to stick to the Java, and take a trip in her to Algiers. Oct. 30th. Early this morning, preparation waj5 made to haul off — pilot sent for, anchor weighed. AT SEA. 211 &c. There being several ships at anchor in this part of the harbor, it took more than an hour's time for the Java to work her vs^ay through, so as to be in a situation to hoist sail, and get under way. On entering the open sea, we found the wind fresh, but unfavorable and fluctuating, attended with a heavy and sickening swell. Through the afternoon, black clouds, thunder, lightning, and frequent squalls. These continued through the night with an increas- ing tempest. At 1 o'clock at night it appears by reckoning now made, that we have advanced on our course but 60 miles, having been out of harbor 16 hours. Oct> 31.9/. Stormy, dark morning: wind fluctu- ating, and blowing a gale. The gratification of my desire to see Algiers, 1 now find will be dearly bought. But dangers surround us in every condi- tion through life ; and teach us to rely not upon our own strength, but upon the good providence of God. At 8 A. M. gale increases ; swells enor- mous : life-buoy lost overboard, the fastenings hav- ing given way by the rolling of the ship. This curious machine, lately constructed on board, was so contrived as to float, whatever the state of wind and weather. A lock was placed in it with a match and lamp, in such a manner, that when thrown overboard in the night, the lamp would be lighted up by the fire given by the stroke 212 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. of the lock, and would continue to burn, above the surface of the water, six or seven hours. At 2 P. M. wind began to moderate, clouds broke away, and swells lessened ; but an unplea- sant, sickening rolling of the ship continued through the night. About 2 in the night, according to the ship's reckoning, niade our longitude for Algiers, off about 30 miles. But this part of the Barbary coast being dangerous to approach, especially in the night, with the wind N. E. as it now is, we lay off, waiting for day light, which advanced very slowly. November IsL Off Algiers. At 7, A. M. made the coast of Barbary ; wind fair, a lively breeze, tacked ship, and stood in for the bay of Algiers. At 8, on Hearing the bay, and having a more dis- tinct view, found we had a little overrun our lon- gitude, and laid our course accordingly. At 9, rose up in prospect before us, the city of Algiers, that old and memorable nest of hornets. Wind brisk and fair, the Java proudly advanced toward the batteries at the foot of the city, in a style be- coming the reputation of our navy in this quarter; and having approached sufficiently near, hove to. The consular boat soon appeared, coming off with Mr. Hodgson, charge d' of airs, in the absence of Mr. Shaler, the American consul, and received the despatches from Com. Crane at the ship. The boat was manned with 12 Algerine oarsmen, with 1 BAY OF ALGIERS. 213 two * turban'd Turks,' with their long grey beards, to add dignity to the transaction. The whole, with the exception of Mr.' H., were the most savage looking animals I ever beheld. The sea ran higli, and so tossed and surged the Algerine boat, that it was with some difficulty they could approach suf- ficiently near the ship to receive the budget, with- out endangering their boat and themselves. At length, Capt. J), tied the bundle of papers in a handkerchief, and threw it toward the boat ; but it fell short, and caused these children of Ishmael considerable trouble to fish it up. At first, I felt some apprehension of their drowning, but calling to mind the old proverb about hanging, I dismissed all my fears of their ever drowning. The wind blowing a stiff breeze directly inland, it became necessary, for the safety of the ship, either to an- chor immediately, or tack and stand off : the latter was adopted ; and at 2 P. M. we were under sail on our return passage toward Minorca. 1 much regretted that I could not go on shore, and take a more leisurely and particular view of this formidable strong-hold. But in my present position, the tout ensemhle of the city, fortifications — the Dey's town and country palaces and gardens, were seen to greater advantage than a nearer sta- tion could have afforded . The city appears to be of a triangular form, the shortest side of which is bounded by the sea. It 18 214 JOURNAL OT A TOl/R, SlC. rises from the water side to a great eminence, and the apex is crowned by one of the Dey's^ palaces. The city is so compactly built, and the streets so narrow, that, in the distance, it has the appearance of one entire, connected building, of immense mag- nitude ; all in the oriental style, flat roof^, and white-washed or painted. At 3 P. M. cleared the W. entrance of the bay. At 4, discovered^ two French frigates over our starboard bow, distant four miles. We took them to be part of the French squadron now employed in blockading Algiers, lying off at present, on ac« count of the rough weather. One of them tacked and stood toward the Java as intending to hail ; but on the Java hoisting her colors, the Frenchman stood away and joined her consort. It is hoped that this blockading squadron is but a prelude to something more efficient. Though the front of the city of Algiers at the water's edge is a continu- ed rampart, well mounted with cannon and deemed impregnable, yet the Algerines, like Achilles, are vulnerable in the heel. If I am rightly informed, their principal defence, on the rear of the city, is a single fortress, fort Emperor. In the strength of this garrison, they place great confidence. It is confidently believed, by those military mcQ who are best acquainted with the situation of Al- giers, that a well disciplined army of Europeans, might, under the protection of an armed fleet, land AT SEA. 215 m the vicinity of the city, and by a rapid and cir- cuitous march, advance to fort Emperor, and by a vigorous assault, carry the fortress. This done, the way would be open to march in and take up the whole hivey with all the honey this piratical banditti have for so many years been laying up ; the avails of tribute, robbery, and ransom. Head wind, frequent and powerful squalls, with heavy swells, continued through the night* Nov. 2d, Off' Algiers. At 5 this morning, two strange vessels of large size were discovered over our larboard quarter, apparently bearing down upon us, and within cannon-shot distance. It was yei too dark to distinguish flags on either side. Capt. D. expected to be hailed by them, but that not being done, ordered the drum to beat *to quarters.' The immediate stir and bustle was as- tounding through the ship. Within six minutes both decks were cleared, the hammocks all stowed, and every thing in readiness for action. The strange ships silently passed on, within pistol shot, and very civilly left us to put up our artillery at our leisure. As soon as it was sufficiently light, we perceived them to be the same two French frigates we saw yesterday. 4 P. M. head wind continuing, we are yet in sight of Algiers, about 25 miles distant. Our French neighbors-in-law still hang about us, under reefed top-sails. Nov. 4tk. About 12 last night, a light wind •216 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &LC, sprang up, and after vacillating an hour or twa^ settled down again, N. E. At sun-rise this morn- ing, we found by observation, that during the calm^ the ship had drifted by the current, at least 10 miles toward the Barbary coast, which is yet in plain view from our deck ; so that we are now at a greater distance from Mahon than we were yes- terday morning. The ship being heavy, and but a dull beater, we make little progress this day. It is a matter, however^ of some consolation to the mariner, w^hen a head wind prevails, that any change must be for the better. Nov. 6th. At day-break, made the Cabrea (goat)^ a small rocky island, about 9 miles S. of Majorca* ; Upon the first sight of Cabrea, we were within musket shot distance of it ; and had not the shore been bold, and the water deep, our ship would have been in some danger, the weather being thick and dark. The S. coast of Majorca is also in plain view, nearly the whole length of that island. The '■ wind having again settled down into the old cor« ncr, we had no other resource but that of beating, by w^hich we advance but slowly toward Mahon, yet distant 85 miles. At 11 P. M. the wind haul- ed into the E. S. E. and with a fresh breeze enabled us to lay our course directly for Mahon : 7 to 9 knots. Nov. 7th. Daylight presente.d to our view Monte Toro and the S. coast of Minorca ; Rabbit island PORT MAHON. 217 being but four miles distant from us. The Java, with a fine breeze gracefully moved in, and drop- ped anchor near the Delaveare, at half past 8 A. M. having been absent on her tour to Algiers ex- actly eight days. She has yet 10 days of quaran- tine to perform ; the Dons refusing to allow us any credit for our 8 days absence. We are happy to learn by an American brig just arrived from New York, which on her way touched at Gibraltar, that the sickness at ' the rock,' had, in a great de- gree, abated ; that now but 16 or 17 was the aver- age number of deaths daily. Nov, 8tk. JPort Mahon. Bright and pleasant morning. The state and temperature of the air here, is the most agreeable, that can be imagined at any season of the year and in any country. Went on shore, and again visited the Lazaretto. This noble establishment covers about 35 acres of ground, inclosed by a beautiful wall of grey stone, 30 to 40 feet in height, w^ith folding doors or gates on each of the four sides. Within, there are par- tition walls, of the same materials and height, run- ning at right angles with each other, inclosing many elegant court yards, and promenades of various lengths, from 10 to 25 rods, and in width from 50 to 100 feet : in several of these are gardens, taste- fully laid out, in whfch are cultivated a great va- riety of beautiful flower shrubs, and ornamental trees. These gardens are irrigated by water con- 18^ 218 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C« ducted by subterranean aqueducts intopontanos or ^ reservoirs ; and from them distributed in small channels to every part of the garden. It is said to contain within the outer walls, 141 lodging chambers, seven magazines, two infirma- ries, with all the accommodations suitable to such an establishment. I took great satisfaction in viewing many of the chambers, gardens, &c. Every thing here has the appearance of cleanliness ^ and comfort. The whole was built by the Span- iards, at an immense expense of money and labor, and does honor to the Spanish nation. The harbor of Mahon, for convenience and safe- ty, is said to be second to none in the world. The entrance is narrow, and easily defended ; on the west side of which stood the strong fortress of St» Philip, built in the time of Charles V. This ' se- cond Gibraltar,' formerly so called, was blown up by order of the Spanish government in 1783, pur- suant to a stipulation in their treaty with England, and is now in ruins. The length of this harbor is two and a half miles, its breadth, varying from half to a quarter of a mile, indented with coves on each side, -deep water, and good holding ground through- out : the whole inclosed by a natural wall of lime- stone rock, from 6 to 20 feet high above the water, and appears like mason wdrk. Five islands, or islets, strung along, at convenient distances from each other, and near the middle line of the harbor, PORT MAHON. 219 are covered by naval arsenals, ware-houses, hospi- tals, dock-yards, &c. &lc. The shores of all these islets are so bold, that the largest ships ride at the water's edge. The Americans, French and Dutch, have naval depots here, many of whose ships winter in this port, which serves as a kind of rendezvous for them at all seasons of the year. Ncjv. 9th. This charming morning reminds me of a clear and serene New England May morning ; and awakens sensations which serve to render me somewhat unquiet in my present condition ; and yet there are attending circumstances of a charac- ter calculated to remove gloomy impressions. Within a few cables' length from the Java, are now at anchor, the Delaware and the Fairfield ; the American colors proudly waving at their mast heads, in the immediate presence of a French line- of-battle ship, of 74 guns, a Dutch admiral ship, and several other armed vessels : all within a com- pass so small, that all the bands of music of the several ships are distinctly heard by each other. A reciprocity of national airs, so readily played by all these bands, serves to cherish and keep alive that good feeling which now exists among the offi- cers and men of these different nations. It is also pleasant and animating to see the scores of beauti- fully painted sail-boats of the native islanders con- stantly gliding about among the ships in this smooth and delightful harbor. This is their way of riding 220 JOtTRNAL OP A TOUR, &C. out, and taking an airing, in lieu of coaching. These parties of pleasure, together with those persons necessarily employed in the intercourse between the ships and the citizens, supplying the former with provisions, fruit, &c., makes the water-scene, of a pleasant day, lively and interesting. The number of Americans belonging to the ships of war now here is about 1750; French and Dutch, about 2000 : in addition to which, are 35 or 40 merchant vessels, of different nations. These af- ford a ready and fine market for the islanders. The small acquaintance I have with the order and rules observed on board ships of war, prevents me from attempting to say much about them. But I will notice some of them which have come with- in my own observation, particularly on the Sab- bath, and have been put in practice this day. Half an hour before day, the men were all ' turned out,' hammocks stowed away in the nettings as usual. Then commenced the work of scouring decks with flat stones, called ' holy stones,' mops and brushes. This occupied an hour. The next thing was coiling up and adjusting all the ropes on the decks — snugging up the loose rigging about the masts, spars, dkc. ; then breakfast ; after which, scouring all the brass, copper, and iron about the guns, windlass, binnacle, wheels, railings and gang- way, not forgetting the spit boxes — hoisting out the boats and Captain's gig, for the necessary PORT MAHON. 221 communications through the day ; washing, comb- ing, shaving, shifting hnen, or woollen, as the case may be — brushing hats, coats, vests, and panta- loons ; blacking boots and shoes — and indeed overhauling the whole dress : so that every man, of whatever grade or station, was sufficiently clad and cleanly to appear at church or in any public assembly. I could not but observe among the men a cheerfulness and kind feeling which this sleeking up seemed to inspire. By English newspapers of Sept. 7th, arrived yesterday in an American brig, last from Gibral- tar, it appears, that the sickness at the rock has in a great degree abated, and the alarm subsided ; but by other and more recent intelligence, the deaths there are yet 17 or 18 daily. Nov. \Qth. Mahon. It is understood on board this morning, that Com. Crane goes on board the Fairfield to day, and sails directly for Tunis, and from thence to Smyrna, where he expects to win-^ ter ; that his orders to the Java are, that after the expiration of her quarantine, she go to Toulon, with the purser, Mr. M., to procure money for the Mediterranean squadron, and then repair to Smyr-? na. Whether I continue on board till her arrival at Toulon, depends on the good or ill success I may have in my endeavors to procure a passage to the U. S., Gibraltar, or England. At 2 P. M. Com. Crane went on board the Fairfield, hoisted 222 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, Sit. his broad pendant and received her salute of thir- teen guns. At the same instant, the pendant of the Delaware was dropped. Nov. lltL Mahon, Another N. England May morning. A brace of woodcocks was brought on board by the captain's steward, I was surprised in observing the difference between this and the American cock. The former is double the size of the latter. The beak not as long by an inch ; the black bars on the head, not so bold and distin- guishable ; the two forward quills of each wing are clothed with as much feather as the other wing quills. I could perceive no essential differ- ence in the flavor or taste of this delicious bird. It is here as well as at the other Belearic islands, a bird of passage ; and has just begun to make its appearance here for the present season. ,They continue here through the winter months in great plenty, and afford the finest sport. I hope to have an opportunity of making some further acquaint- ance with them. Nov. V2th. Took a boat after breakfast, and spent the principal part of the day, calling upon the several American vessels now at anchor here : hoping, by some of them, to obtain a passage home- ward : but returned to the ship with no better prospect than when I left it in the morning. Nov. \'5th. Received information this morning that the brig Ann, Capt, Eldridge, from Philadel- PORT MAHON. S23 phia, now in this harbor, on quarantine, is expect- ed to sail for Malaga within a few days. I imme- diately procured a boat and a sanadad., called at the brig, and upon enquiry, found she was calcu- lating to sail in six or seven days. I engaged a passage in her, in preference to going to Toulon in the Java. Nov. \4:th» The weather yet continues warm and pleasant. The climate here is most inviting. Every thing on land wears the appearance of a summer month. We have daily at dinner an abundance of the finest fresh grapes. Fish are also very plentiful and of an excellent quahty, especially their salmano. One kind of their shell- fish deserves particular mention. It is called the date fish, on account of the resemblance its bears in its form to that fruit. It is found only in masses of limestone rock, at and near the edge of the sea ; and is procured by breaking up the rock with a heavy iron hammer. The fish or oyster is inclosed in a thin delicate shell like that of a mus- cle, and is from two to five inches in length, and from half an inch to an inch and a half in thick- ness, deposited in a smooth mould or cavity from three to twelve inches within the surface of the rock. The shell in no part, as far I could disco- ver, adheres to the rock ; neither does there ap- pear any aperture or fissure by which water or any other substance could be conveyed to the 224 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, ifec. domicil of this home bred tenant. This fish is es- teemed a great delicacy, and is sold at a great price, on account of the difficulty and labor of pro- curing it. To gratify curiosity, I procured a ham^ mer and broke out a few of them ; but soon found the labor greater than the profit. Nov. 1 5th. Have the pleasure to learn this morning that the brig Ann is now re-loading her cargo of cocoa at the Lazaretto, and is expected to sail for Malaga on Tuesday next ; — that Lieut. Saunders, and Mr. Harris, of the Java, having ob- tained leave of absence, have also engaged a pas- sage in the same brig. The Java takes pratique to-morrow, and is to sail for Toulon within three or four days. I expect therefore to have two or three days to enjoy a little more free locomotion on shore, after a confinement on shipboard of 37 days. I have great reason to be thankful, that amidst all my disappointments, an opportunity seems now to be presented by which I may ad- vance, at least one step further, on my way toward home. Nov. 16th. The Java having obtained pratique at 8 this morning, I went on shore into the city, accompanied by Mr. Goldsborough and several other young gentlemen, midshipmen. After walk-' ing through several streets, we entered the princi- pal church, during the performance of divine ser- vice. This church is remarkable for the profu- PORT OP MAHON. 225 sion of its gilding and paintings, as well as for its organ, which is said to be inferior to none in the world, except that of Haerlem. I was charmed with the music, the sounds of which, on our en- trance into the porch of the cathedral, were like those of the human voice. The streets are re- markably clean and neat, paved principally with flint stone, and, though not wide, are straight, and appear well. The mhabitants are industrious and civil ; yet a multitude of beggars of both sexes and ail ages are met in the streets, particularly about their churches. The population of Mahon is variously estimated from 20,000 to 25,000, of which the priests form no inconsiderable portion, and are as thick as * toads after a rain.' Some days since, Capt. D. employed ten or fifteen Malionese caulkers, who are excellent work- men at that business. Being desirous to finish that work as soon as possible, and the weather now being fine, Mr. N. the first Lieut, enquired of them yesterday, whether they were willing to continue their labor through the Sabbath. They replied — they had no objection as it related to their consciences, but if they should work, they should be compelled, each of them, to pay the priest, as an atonement, $20,00. Mr. N. thought the price too great, and dismissed them till Mon- day. This is one among the many corruptions of the Romish church. Every sin has its fixed price 19 226 JOURNAL OF A TOUR^ &e^ of pardon. It is not strange therefore, that the- stupid ignorance in which most of them hve and die, should lead them into the indulgence of any sin, from the punishment of which, money will protect and exonerate them. The present de- plorable condition of the Spanish government, has,. in a great measure, grown out of the abuses and corruptions of their reHgion. It is ascertained that one third part of all the real and personal property of that kingdom is owned by ecclesias- tics ; hence it is easy to conceive the immense influence which the priests are able to exert over the people of this enslaved country. On my return to the ship, took a view of the navy-yard, and of the upper harbor. Several French and Dutch ships are now at anchor here, where a large fleet might be moored with perfect safety. Nov. I7th. Pratique for the ship having been obtained yesterday morning, the ship's crew were permitted according to custom, to receive on board this evening, their friends and acquaintance from shore, for a little ' merry making.' This ship having often been in this harbor and spent considerable time here in the course of service in the Mediterranean, many acquaintances were formed between the crew and the islanders, in their intercourse with each other — purchasing provisions, clothing, &c. So that pratique is con- PORT MAHON. 25J7 «Mered among them a kind of jubilee. In con- versation with Capt. D. on the subject of this prac- tice, he observed, it was impossible to avoid it without the certainty of incurring a gi-eater evil ; that if his men should be denied this privilege, they would steal away in the night, swim on shore, and resort to houses where they would find the TTieans of intoxication ; that quarrelling and blood- shed would ensue, as had often been the case, and particularly when they came in contact with the crews of ships belonging to other nations ; that it was an established custom among ships of war at • this and other maratime ports, and that under all these circumstances it would be difficult, if not impossible to prevent it, consistently with the peace and safety of the ship. Nov. I8th. A fresh breeze from the S. blowing directly into the harbor, prevents the Java from sailing this day for Toulon, as was expected. I learn also, that the brig Ann, by reason of some delay in obtaining her necessary papers, will not sail for Malaga till to-morrow. At 10 A. M. went on shore accompanied by Mr. Robinson, school- master of the Java, and Mr. Goldsborough. We landed our boat at the scite of fort St. Philip, and viewed the ruins of this once formidable fortress. This garrison occupied a space of at least three miles in circuit, of which but Httle is now left above the surface of the ground, except a few 228 JOURNAL OP A TOUK, &C. sombre stone buildings occupied by a small guard of Spanish soldiers. The subterranean excava- tions in the solid rock, which were but partially destroyed by the explosion of the works, yet re- main to astonish the traveller. Many of these are more than 100 feet in length, vaulted by arches- varying in height from 20 to 40 feet, and in width from 25 to 35 feet ; lighted by square apertures or embrasures, opening to other central rooms of the same description. Between each of these rooms, is a row of pillars or columns chiseled out of the natural rock, about 4 feet square, ornament- ed with regular pedestals, mouldings and capitals^ and appear to sustain the immense mass of super- incumbent roofs. These excavations, from 20 to 75 feet below the surface of the earth, are carried in different directions more than a mile in length. Over a considerable part of them^ fields of groun(J are now cultivated and sown with wheat, barley and other crops. On others we saw herds of cat- tle feeding. It is affirmed by those best acquainted here, that these subterranean abcxJes are suflScient- ly capacious to lodge all the present inhabitants of Mahon and Georgetown. Viewing these ruins^ and contemplating the vast expense of time* money and labor bestowed here and at the Laza-. retto, the adage so well known in Europe, forcibly struck my mind : — ' The Spaniards for buildings the French for taking, the English for holding/ PORT MAHON. 229 On our return, called upon the Ann, viewed her t:abin and other accommodations. At 3 P. M. the Dutch and French ships in this harbor, together with the Java, saluted with 21 guns each, in honor of the birth day of her majesty the queen of the Netherlands, sister of Nicholas, Emperor of Rus- sia. To say the least of these illustriobs person- ages, they made considerable noise in this part of the world, and for two or three hours especially. Nov. I9th. By the politeness of Lieut. Ramage, now, in the absence of Com. Crane, first officer of the Delaware, and who breakfasted this morning on board the Java, went with him in one of the Delaware's boats, and took a view of that * noble vessel,' said by competent judges to be inferior to none now floating on water in any part of the world. After spending an hour, admiring the majesty, good order, and cleanliness of this floating castle, Lieut. R. kindly sent the same boat to convey me and my baggage on board the brig Ann, which is expected to sail for Malaga this evening or to morrow morn- ing. At 4 P. M. Messrs. Harris and Saunders came on board, with their trunks and other bag- gage, in one of the boats of the Delaware, and ac- companied by Lieut. R., who obligingly assisted with his men, to get up the Ann's anchor, and haul her off' from the mole. At 5 P. M. under sail, and with a fair breeze came out of the harbor of Mahon. 19* 330 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. The brig being small, (150 tons) and sailing di- rectly before the wind, tumbled and rolled to such a degree, that I had but an uncomfortable night : not having sufficient room to sling my cot, took my lodging in one of the state rooms. In taking leave of the Java this morning, I found it difficult to suppress the emotions awakened in my mind by that deep sense of gratitude 1 felt for the kindness and attentions I had received from Capt. Downes and his officers, while on board that ship. My obligation to them is strengthened by the consideration of the peculiar situation in which they found me at Smyrna. Indeed, it is but justice to remark, in this place, that the officers of our navy, in the Mediterranean service, and, as far as I am acquainted, elsewhere, are greatly distinguished for their urbanity and gentlemanly deportment, and are highly respected among all those with v^rhom they have become acquainted in the East. Nov. 20th, At 2 P. M. made Formentaria, a small island, lying a little S.'of Ivica. Had a fine run through the day and night, average 8 knots. Nov. 2lst, At 7 A. M. off Cape Pales. At 2 P. M. made Cape de Gatt, bearing N. N. W. dis- tant 30 miles ; serene and bright evening ; full moon : average progress, the last 24 hours, 7 knots, Nov, 22d. Enjoyed, through the day, a most sublime and animating view of the bold and ^cloud capp'd' mountains of Andalusia and Grenada^ MALAGA. 231 their summits covered with snow. 3 P. M. off Velez Malaga, and at 5, arrived at Malaga, exactly three days from Port Mahon. LETTER VII. Malaga, Nov. 23d, 1828. Dear Sir, Before we had dropped our anchor, was invited on shore by Messrs. George and William Read ; two young gentlemen from Philadelphia, brothers, and now merchants here. Landed in company with Capt. Eldridge, and Messrs. Harris and Saunders. Called and paid our respects to the American consul, Mr. Barrell. Received great attention and civility, both from Messrs. Reads and the consul. Dined, by invitation, with the former gentlemen, in whose company and that of the con- sul, spent the evening. .Capt. E. Messrs. S. and H. and myself, took lodgings at a respectable hotel nestt the Alameda, kept by signor Don Colerado, In the course of the afternoon, walked with Mr. G. Read, through several streets of the city — viewed the exterior of the great Cathedral church, and sev- eral Moorish buildings, towers, walls, and castles, all of which, except the church, are in a dilapidated SSS JOURNAL Of A TOUR, StC. state. Invited by the consul to dine with him to- morrow, in company with Capt. E. Mn H. and Mr. S. Walking at 6 o'clock, this evening, on the Ala- meda, where two or three thousand people were en- gaged in the same exercise, at the sound of a bell, all stopped instantly, took off their hats, and stood about a minute in silent prayer, conformably to a rite in the Romish church, thanking God for the mercies of the past day. Every one then putting on his hat, bid those about him, * good night ;' the evening being now ended and the night commen- ced. This done, all continued walking as before. This beautiful promenade is, by my pacing, 1180 feet in length, and 180 in breadth, in three divisions, a little elevated in the centre, deck-wise, covered with a fine, soHd gravel ; a border on each side, tastefully ornamented with flower shrubbery, in- termixed with marble statuary and seats ; all of excellent workmanship. At the west end is a large reservoir, covered by a building, on the east side of which is painted Neptune, holding his trident, and mounted on two sea-horses, floundering through the billows of the ocean. Within this building is a wheel, by which the water is raised, and from thence conducted in pipes under ground to the east end of the Alameda, and there thrown by jets d^eau into a marble fountain of exquisite workmanship. There are MALAGA. 233 several other marble fountains within the city^ which are a great accommodation to the inhabit- ants. At 8, this evening, while sitting with the Messrs. Reads, at their house, a small, sharp sounding bell was heard at the porch of their front door. Mr, G. R. mformed me, that this was a call for money to be given in charity, to hire the priests to say mass for departed souls in purgatory ; that every night through the year, this call was punctually made at the door of every house, by men appoint- ed to that service, in the several districts, the eccle- siastics only excepted ; that in this way large sums were annually collected, which went into the pockets of these holy padres- He assured me it was a common thing here, that when a considera- ble number of persons had recently lost friends^ but were too poor severally to hire a priest to say mass foptheir departed souls, they joined together, and made up a lottery, paying a piaster (about seven cents,) for a ticket. By the scheme of this lottery, there is but one prize ticket ; the fortunate holder of that, is enabled, by these means, to purchase a mass for the soul of his departed friend, while all the others are left without any such benefit. This is one method among innumerable others, by which the priests obtain wealth and influence. How of- ten have I had occasion, since I left the U. S. to think and speak of * our free and happy country," * Ubi bene, ibi patria,' 234 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. Malaga, Nov. 2ith, Walked an hour before breakfast, on the Alameda. After dinner with Mr. B. the consul, went through all the tedious and vexatious rules and ceremonies of custom house regulations to land our baggage. Spent the even- ing at Mr. R.'s, in a circle of * social fellows/ principally Americans. Encouraged with a pros- pect of obtaining a passage to the U. States, in the ship Factor, Capt. Floyd, who expects to sail from hence within 15 or 20 days. The leisure I now have affords me opportunity to insert a short his- torical account of the city. Malaga, a small, but very ancient city of Spain, in the province of Grenada, was built by the Phoe- nicians several centuries before the Christian era, and was called * Malasha/ on account of the great quantities of salt fish sold here. In process of time it passed successively under the dominion of the Carthaginians, Romans, Goths, and Moors. That it was a place of importance under the Romans? may be inferred from the wrecks of monuments discovered in its vicinity. Some of the remains which have been found on the eminences where the light-house is placed, and where the castle called by the Moors * Gibrol-faro,' stands, have been thought to have belonged to a magnificent pharos, or perhaps a temple, built on the spot by the Romans. It was not till the year 1487, that Ferdinand and Isabella recovered Malaga, after an MALAGA. 235' obstinate resistance, from the dominion of the Moors. It is situated on the north coast of the Mediter- ranean, at the bottom of a deep bay, on a soil of slate and limestone. To the south, it has the sea : to the west, it opens into a fertile plain, watered by two rivers ; and to the east and north it is protect- ed by lofty mountains, the tops of which are some- times covered with snow, and the sides with olive, almond, orange and lemon trees, and vineyard grounds. The town cannot be called handsome, though the houses are high : the streets are narrow, ill- paved, and dirty. It has no public square ; it has, however, a marble fountain, very finely executed, which was a present from the republic of Genoa to Charles First. The population of Malaga is now about 85,000. Of the buildings, public or private, the one more particularly worthy of notice is the Cathedral, begun in the year 1528, and not yet finished. It is 360 feet by 180, and is 135 in height. The choir, in this edifice, is admirable, on account of its carved work, which represents, in very bold relief, the twelve apostles, and the most distinguished saints. The port of this town is large and secure. It has water for first rate ships of the line, and holds 400 merchantmen and 19 men of war. Ships may 236 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. sail in and out with every wind, and are well shel- tered in the harbor. Malaga has considerable trade, particularly with England and America. It consists of broadcloths and iron- ware which it takes from the English ; of mercery goods from Germany, and more especial- ly from Hamburg ; spices, cutlery, tapes and laces from Holland. It furnishes these countries, as well as Italy and the northern nations with wine, fruits, sumac, anchovies and oil. Its exportation of wine alone amounts to 400,000 quintals yearly, and that of raisins 250,000 quintals. The soil in thfe vicinity of this city is fertile and well cultivated, producing great quantities of wheat, and all sorts of grain ; olive trees are abundant, supplying 500 oil presses in this district alone. Fruit trees, such as the almond, fig and lemon, are also very plentiful. The number of vineyards is immense : and they yield grapes of different species and of delicate quality. About 300,000 quintals are dried annually ; 750,000 quintals of wine are made yearly. Ih the district of Malaga there are 14,000 wine-presses, chiefly employed in making the rich wines, which, from the nature of the coun- try, are called mountain. The inhabitants, blended with many foreigners, and occupying a most beautiful country, in a mild climate, and under a fine sky, are lively, industri- ous, and active. The men are polite and prepos- MALAGA. 237 sessing ; the women, lively, gay, and alluring, are accounted the most agreeable in Spain. Nov. 25th. Walked this morning through the fruit and vegetable markets, vv^hich are supplied with a profusion of those luxuries for which this jfine climate is distinguished. Oranges, lemons, sugar cane, fresh grapes, raisins, figs, almonds, let- tuce, celery, onions, apples, pears, melons, cabba- ges, beets, carrots, pomegranates, egg plant, toma- toes, chesnuts, quinces, hazlenuts, and many other vegetables, among which are several, not known in New England. Sweet potatoes, of an excellent quality are abundant in these markets. I counted sixteen full cartloads of this article in one train coming into market, drawn by oxen of the finest form and size, in a high state of flesh, all harnessed without bows, but with an abundance of tassels and other ornaments attached to their heads. ■ In the flesh market are sold by women, sausages, brains, and the offal, of different animals. The fish-market is also well supplied with a great vari- ety of excellent fish. By the polite attention of Mr. Relf, an English gentleman from Yorkshire, I walked with him, af- ter breakfast, into the fine level country lying west of the city, between the two small rivers which empty into the sea about four miles distant from each other. Between these rivers is a flat of four miles in width, and seven or eight in length, for- 20 238 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &;C. merly covered by the sea. The high road to Gib-- raltar, distant 75 miles, lies through this extensive plain, all of which is a soil of the richest quality. The lots are of various dimensions, from 10 acres to 300 acres each, and are bordered by deep and broad trenches, on the banks of which are thick hedges of prickly pear of immense growth, or of cane ; and are from six to ten feet broad, and from twelve to fifteen feet high. These fields are interspersed with farm-houses, and elegant gardens, tastefully laid out, with pontanos and aqueducts to irrigate them through the dry season. On these grounds are raised, wheat, barley, maize^ sweet potatoes, flax, hemp, oats, oranges, citrons, lemons, peaches and apples, with all kinds of garden vege- tables. On some of these fields, the farmers are now sowing and ploughing in their wheat. In oth- ers, the wheat is at this time a foot high, very thick and flourishing. We passed over several lots, where scores of the peasants were digging their sweet potatoes. They first cut and carry off* the haum, which they feed out to their oxen, mules, jacks, and goats. In one view, we counted up- wards of one hundred yokes of cattle, ploughing in wheat. Nearly one third part of these teams ,J were composed of heifers yoked together, of a good size, beautiful form and large growth. The oxen are the handsomest and best formed of any I ever saw ; all of them good beef. Their ploughs are the MALAGA. 239 most wretchedly constructed things imaginable. The beam, body, and handle, are formed of the natural crooks of a tree, nosed with a pointed shield of iron or steel, which roots up a furrow four or five inches deep, ten inches broad, and lays the mould equally on each side. No chain connected with the plough is used. The beam reaches to the yoke, and is lashed to it by a cord. They plough back and forth on the saftie side, without marking out lands or stetches. As they usually employ on these grounds from ten to fifteen ploughs, with a yoke of oxen to each, they mark out their work by running a plough from end to end of the field in the form of a semicircle. They commence by placing the whole of the teams on the curved line ; when the forward team arrives at the end of the piece, they all wheel about and return on the same line. In this mode, the increase of the fiirrows in the middle of the piece is in proportion to the width of the middle to that each way toward the ends, so that no short furrows are made. On seeing their oxen work, both with the cart and the plough, I am fully convinced the Spanish method of harnessing oxen is preferable to ours. They use no bows ; the draught is applied to the head, that part of the ox where his greatest strength lies ; there is no pressure, therefore, by the bow on any part of the neck, to impede the free circula- tion of the blood, nor render the neck sore by 240 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. pinching or chafing. A broad band of leather, padded and quilted, is brought round the forehead, filling the space between the eyes and the horns, and fastened to the yoke by staples and buckles. The length, form, and size of the yoke is much like ours, but in fastening the tongue of their carts to the yoke, they are much in fault. It is placed the under side of the yoke, and lashed to it in the same manner as their pr6ugh-beams, A staple and ring is much better, for two reasons: 1st, the har- nessing and unharnessing is more conveniently and quickly done — 2d, the tongue of the cart has room to play or vibrate to the right and left in the ring without suddenly forcing the oxen by these motions. I noticed that the Spaniards, when they unharness from the cart or plough, seldom disen- gage the yoke from the tongue of the cart or beam of the plough. On the south side of this extensive plain, and ad- joining the sea, there is a portion of ground, from 50 to 100 acres, exclusively appropriated to the keeping and fattening swine of mature growth. There are no inclosures or pens : the swine are kept in herds from 20 to 100 each, and are fed in long troughs ; in other troughs fixed in the ground, and level with the surface, the hogs are supplied with water, brought in subterranean aqueducts. The swine-herds, with their families and dogs, dwell in small cabins on the ground, built with reeds or MALAGA. 241 cane-poles, and thatched with straw or grass. . The different herds are kept separate from each other ; this is done principally by the care and attention of the dogs, each of which knows every hog be- longing to his herd. The number of swine I viewed here to-day is not less than 500, all, of which are black and extremely fat, weighing upon an average, if butchered, 400 lbs. each. They are small frames, short-legged, and of fine form and proportions. On our way returning to the city, called in and viewed the famous saw-mill establishment ; in which six perpendicular, and several circular saws are carried by steam. The quantity of stuflf sawed here, and made up into boxes for raisins, lemons, and other fruits, is very great. Nov. 26th. Walked before breakfast on the Alameda, and through the fruit market. Found the square where the market was yesterday morn- ing, now clear, and a gallows erected near its cen- tre. Learned, that a man was to be hanged there at 10 o'clock. The hangman was making the ne- cessary preparation about the gallov/s for this aw- ful work. At 10 A. M. went with Capt. E. and Messrs. H. and S. to the place of execution. The criminal had committed four murders beside that for which he was now to suffer. The last was aggravated by circumstances of extreme cruelty. He assassinated and then robbed his uncle. His 20* 242 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C- money, and that of his friends given in bribery, had shielded him from the punishment his crimes de- served ; but his means being now exhausted, he was unable to buy off the penalty of the law, and must pay the forfeit with his life. A large collec- tion of spectators, estimated at 10,000, filling the market square, and at the balconies, windows, and tops of the surrounding houses and towers, appeared to witness this disgusting spectacle. A company of armed infantry, and a small troop of horse form- ed a hollow square around the gallows. The suf- ferer was ushered in, riding upon a donkey, attend- ed by the hangman and about a dozen priests, car- rying in their hands small crucifixes. After a few moments spent in prayer, at the foot of the broad ladder, the executioner ascended it, leading the criminal, who, as he went up, kissed each step of the ladder. He was clad in a long white gown^ girded about him, with a close white cap on his head, decorated with a cross of red cloth sewed upon it. An elderly priest followed up the suffer- er, holding a crucifix at his breast, and dictating a form of prayer for the by-standers, to which the convict responded. During this time the hangman was placing the fatal cord about the neck of the sufferer, who then spoke in an audible voice of warning to all, asking their prayers for him, and requesting all those who forgave him, to hold up their hands. Some hissings and grumblings were MALAGA. 243 heard among the spectators, but few hands went up. I thought it * not a vote.' The executioner, standing a httle higher on the ladder, had already- placed his left leg over the left shoulder of the criminal, and while the priest was praying, thrust aside the crucifix, and springing upon the shoulders of the convict, turned him off the ladder, and continued upon him, placing a handkerchief upon his face, several minutes, and then, holding on by the body, slid down. The priests continued for some time at the foot of the ladder, holding in their hands crucifixes and lighted lamps. The body of the sufl[erer, according to the usage here, is to hang till 4 P. M. The office of executing criminals in the province, or, -as it is yet called, the kingdom of Grenada, as well as in other parts of Spain, is regulated by law. A single individual is appointed for the whole pro- vince ; and travels from place to place, as duty calls him. Having once accepted this appoint- ment, he can never resign it, but by his own death. His necessary qualifications are, poverty, cruelty, activity, and total destitution of kindly feelings and of moral character. He is permitted to live only in those parts of the cities which are called * butch- ers' quarters.' He is not paid by the job, but has a regular salary established by law. Every person throughout the province occupying a stall in the markets, and every store where goods are S44 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C* sold, is compelled to pay him a small sum annually 5 this he rigorously exacts, being his own collector, and wearing on the front of his cap a small steel ladder, as a badge of his office, and a warrant of his authority. From this single source of revenue, I am well assured the sum received by the hang- man of Grenada amounts to between three and four thousand dollars annually. In several other provinces of Spain, the sum is much greater than this. The present hangman of Grenada, who, when he received his appointment, was wholly destitute of property, is now rich ; he lately mar- ried his eldest daughter to a young gentleman, and gave with her, as a marriage portion, thirty thou- sand dollars. By this same hangman law, a court is estab- lished, which is holden at the prison from which the criminal is taken for execution, immediately after execution done. As soon as the hangman has finished his work at the gallows, he is arrested and brought before this court. After waiting a reasonable time, if no friend of the deceased con- vict, or other person appear to charge the hang- man with unnecessary cruelty, or other improper conduct in performing the duty of his office, he is discharged. But if complaint be made against him, and supported by evidence, the court order him to be confined in the same prison, during their plea- sure. MALAGA. 245 The method of originating crinninal process and prosecuting the suit in the king's court, is singular ; and is well calculated to afford opportunity for bribery and corruption. Scrivinos are appointed for each district. They generally consist of needy young men who have acquired a smattering of criminal law, and the forms of process. Their official duties are to receive complaints for mur- der and other crimes, to issue writs of capias and subpcena, and bring the party and witnesses before them as courts of inquiry. The scrivino makes a record of the charges brought, with all the testi- mony exhibited on either side. This record is sealed by him and delivered to the king's solicitor, who enters it on the docket of the court having jurisdiction of the crime charged. On trial before this court, the record of the scrivino is to be con- sidered as absolute verity, unimpeachable and conclusive upon the parties. The destiny of the accused, therefore, rests upon the evidence sent up in the record. A few doubloons seasonably slipped into the hand of the scrivino, works a wonderful effect upon the state of the evidence as placed on the record, and not unfrequently pre- sents to the court a case of manslaughter or justi- fiable homicide, whereas, if truly recorded, would show one of wilful, deliberate murder. But if the accused and all his friends are moneyless, and no hope of a douceur can be entertained, the record 246 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. contains a true representation of the case. After sentence of death is pronounced, the convict has but two ways by which he can hope to escape the penalty of the law. One is, the king's pardon ; the other, by a trick of the * holy catholic church.' But as the latter requires a large sum of money, this * benefit of clergy' is rarely obtained ; the convict and his friends having generally exhausted all their means in * buying out the law' on his former trials for like offences. The thing, how- ever, when done, is managed in this way : the priests, on certain days of their own appointment, carry the host in procession under a canopy through the streets. On meeting this procession, ^ every knee must bow.' If, by mere chance, and without calculation, this holy brotherhood, passing through the streets, should meet or fall in with the convict and /i?5 procession on their way to the place of execution, he is at once claimed as an in- nocent man : the padres alledging that by this special interposition of divine providence, is mani- fested the innocence of the supposed criminal. But before he is given up by the arm of civil pow- er, to this privilege of sanctuary, these fathers are obliged to make oath that the meeting was purely providential, and not premeditated nor designed. This entitles the convict to free admission into the bosom of their church. Mi* G. Reed this day received a letter from one MALAGA. 247 of his friends at Gibraltar, written two days since, in which he states the number of deaths there, since Sept. 1st. to be 1610, but that the number of deaths and new cases are now comparatively small. Nov. 27th, Took an early walk on the Alame- da, through the different markets, and around the great cathedral church ; viewing with astonish- ment this stupendous edifice. It is said to cover as much ground as St. Pauls' at London. In the year 1528, the bishops and clergy obtained a royal grant from Philip, then king of Spain, ap- propriating a certain portion of the public reve- nue arising in the province of Grenada, for erect- ing dJid. finishing this church. It is not yet finish- ed : but, for more than two centuries last past, not a dollar has been expended upon it. In the plan and design of the edifice, a tower w^as to be placed on each of the four corners of the roof. One only is finished. The pillars of the other three are erected, but no dome is thrown over them. In the finished tower are placed nineteen bells, w^hich chime admirably. The expense of building this cathedral, thus far, is variously estimated, from 15 to 20 millions of pounds sterling, — a greater sum than all the present churches and meeting houses in New England, and, perhaps may be added, in the United States, cost in building. The present king of Spain, about two years ^ 248 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. since, sent a message to the reverend archbishop, bishops, and clergy at Malaga, informing them that the financial concerns of the kingdom were greatly embarrassed by reason of the late troubles in their country ; that the state of the treasury was low, &c., requesting to be informed whether the revenue which had been appropriated for building their cathedral, might not now be applied to some other public use. To this royal message, the con- clave gravely replied, ' their church was not yet finishecV And so the matter rests, and will pro- bably so rest for a century or two yet to come. The king is not insensible that his throne stands or falls by the influence of the ecclesiastics. At 11 A. M., accompanied by Mr. Relf, walked out of the city, and over the same grounds we visited the day before yesterday. We extended our walk to the bank of the west river. It is speaking within bounds to say, that more than one thousand acres of this vast savanna, are this year cropped with the sweet potatoe : great quantities of them are shipped to Gibraltar and other places in Spain, France and Portugal. This land never rests ; for no sooner has it rewarded the farmer with one crop, than he begins to prepare it for another. In September he sows barley, and hav- ing reaped it about the latter end of April, or the first week in May, he immediately puts in maize or Indian corn, which comes oflf about the middle of MALAGA. 249 September. But before this ripens, he puts in sandias (melons) or some other esculent, which yields him a third crop in the course of the same year. In November he sows wheat, and in June reaps it. The produce of both wheat and barley is from 15 to 24 for one, — having sown of the former 2 bushels to an acre, and of the latter, be- tween 3 and 4 bushels. Flax is put into the ground about the last of September or beginning of October, and comes off^ in May : but hemp, which is sown in April, continues on the ground till August. These, with cucumbers, (garbanzos) peas, French beans, lettuce, (alfalfa) form a rich variety of crops which, cherished by a bright sun and fed by abundant streams from the pontanas, prove a never failing source of plenty. — In the spring they abound with oranges and lemons ; in summer they have plumbs, cherries, figs, apri- cots and nectarines; in autumn they gather grapes, and in winter a rich variety of fruits sup- plies their tables. Thus Ceres and Pomona ap- pear to be engaged in a never ceasing contest which shall most contribute to the wealth, com- fort and prosperity of this favored region. Spent the evening at our lodgings in the aoree- able conversation of Mr. Gordon, a Scotch gentle- man, and several Spanish, English, and American gentlemen, now resident in Malaga. Nov. 28th. By the politeness of Capt. Robbing 21 250 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. of the brig Argus, of Boston, now lading here, was introduced to Mr. George Loring, formerly of Boston, now a wealthy wine merchant, established here. Received an invitation from Mr. L. to dine with him on Sunday next. Nov. 29th. The people here consider this time as the commencement of spring. Green peas and string beans are now in perfection ; and yet the most delicious grapes of the past vintage are fresh and sound. At 9 A. M. went with Mr. George Read and viewed the interior of the cathedral, and heard the organ accompanying the morning ser- vice. I was astounded at the grandeur and ele- gance of style and taste, which are displayed in every part of this splendid edifice. In hastily casting an eye over the different parts, the col- umns, pillars, statues, altars, arches, gilding, paint- ings, crucifixes, chandeliers, lamps, organ, (fee, of which I shall attempt no minute description, I ex- perienced a degree of giddiness and confusion of intellect, somewhat greater, I thought, than I usu- ally labor under. Passing through the streets this afternoon, I no- ticed a tall, stout, coarse looking man, rather shab- bily dressed, carrying a broad leathern belt slung over his shoulder, to which was appended bunches of keys of various sizes and forms ; his whole car- go, as I should judge, consisting of more than one thousand. He walked civily along, gingling his MALAGA. 251 keys, without saying a word to any body. I learn- ed, upon enquiry, his business was to supply all those who had broken or lost a key, and that he carried so great a variety about him, that every one might be furnished with such as suited their locks, and with small expense. Dec. \sL Much pained to learn, that by reason of a dispute arisen between the captain of the Factor and his consignee, respecting a charge of commissions made by the latter against the former, for supplies furnished the ship while at quarantine in this harbor, the ship is in danger of being delay- ed a longer time than was expected. The ill state of my health deprives me of the pleasure of dining this afternoon with my fellow travellers, Messrs. E. H. and S. at Messrs. Reads, to which we were yesterday invited. Dec, ^M. Went with many others this afternoon, to see the much talked-about-?/zo/zs^er, a bull, three years of age, having two heads and five horns. This wonderful lusus naturce was bred in Anda- lusia, and has been exhibted as a show in France and several other parts of Europe. It is impossible for me to give a scientific description of it. In all its parts back of the shoulders, there is no deformity. On the right side of the lieads^ the ears, horns, eyes and muzzle, are of proper size and form. On the left side is a lump or protuberance of the size and form of the body of a small dog. This 252 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. appears to be an additional animal with the head* turned back and connected with the main head.; and has upon it two horns of full growth, with u fifth which is much smaller, and appears like an antler or sprout from the root of one of the large horns. It has (our eyes, all of which are of proper form ; but the tw^o outer eyes only are visible, ex- cept by pressing back the jfleshy parts where the junction of the two heads is formed. On the right side of the gullet, about ten inches back of the mouth, comes out a flexible tube, abqut an inch in diameter, covered with skin and hair ; this, pass- ing under the neck, comes up and enters the body of the additional animal, if it may be so called. Through this tube, or rather, hose, part of the masticated food is conveyed to it. ^ '^ ^ * * * I am of opinion, on viewing this singular phenomenon, that this addi- tion contains a maw and other parts of the intes- tines of a perfect animal. Dec, 3d: Having been invited by Mr. Loring to call on him as often as I should find it conven- ient, I availed myself of his civility, and paid him a visit this afternoon. This gentleman is a native of Boston, and is now about fifty years of age. In the earlier part of his life he was employed as a ship-master, trading to Spanish America and other foreign parts. The course of that business MALAGA. 233 led him to this city about twenty years past ; soon after which he commenced the business of a wine- merchant. He soon established himself, married a Spanish lady, and has a family of several chil- dren ; his eldest son is now at school in Boston. By his gentlemanly deportment and integrity, Mr. L. has become the most distinguished wine mer- chant in Malaga. He retains all the affability and engaging manners of his native state, coupled with all the correctness and economy of an accomplish- ed merchant. I took great satisfaction in viewing his extensive establishments, the vast quantity and different qualities of his wines, the order and ar- rangement of his buildings, process of fining, fer- menting and putting up his wines. He is now in in partnership with a Swedish gentleman. Dec, 4th. Cloudy, windy morning ; blowing a gale from E. S. E. and called here and at other parts of the Mediterranean, a Levanter. These winds rarely continue more than forty eight hours at one time ; and are made welcome to those na- vigators who are on their voyage through the Mediterranean into the Atlantic ; as it affords them a favorable opportunity for passing through the straits of Gibraltar. Regret much that the Factor is not prepared to commence her voyage, and take the benefit of this Levanter. Walked this afternoon with Capt. Robbins to the fruit stores of Loring & Co., where we saw be- 21* 254 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, i&C tween thirty and forty persons busily employed in packing and boxing up raisins, lemons, oranges^ citrons, 6lc, now engaged for several cargoes. Some hundreds of boxes are packed and branded here daily. Mr. Bela, the supercargo of the ship Factor, having agreed with Messrs. Rein & Co. to ship a quantity of lead, now at Almeria, for the N. York market, the ship yesterday sailed from this harbor for Almeria to take in the lead as part of her car- go, and from thence to return to this port, and finish the remainder of her lading at Malaga. But by the Levanter the ship was driven back intO' port last evening, having slipped her cable in the offing whei^ she first anchored. This unfortunate occurrence serves to retard her departure for the U.S. Dec, 5th. Capt. Eldridge, not finding market for his cocoa here, has concluded to sail to-mor- row for Barcelona. Messrs. H. and S. with my- self, went on board the Ann, took our trunks and other baggage, and put them on board the Factor. In doing this, however, we were obliged again to go through all the vexatious ceremonies and ex- pense of custom-house inspection. Dec. 6th. Levanter continues, but somewhat moderated. At sun-rise, and again at 12 o'clock, cannon were fired, at the light-house and battery, in honor of the birth^day of her majesty the queen ALMERU. 255 of Spain. Breakfasted, by invitation of Capt, Floyd on board his ship, and viewed the accommo- dations for passengers. Wrote to my family, by Capt. R., who expects to sail to-morrow for Boston. Dec, 1th, Capt. F. having invited me, I have agreed to go with him on his trip to Almeria, for the lead. At 3 P. M. under way, with a fair wind, which continues through the night. Dec, Sth. At sun-rise, off the bay of Almeria, Cape de Gatt in sight, bearing E. N. E. ; tacked and stood in for the harbor. At 1 P. M. came to anchor. At 5 P. M. visited by a health-boat from shore. Our bill of health, passports and papers examined. Ab?ieria, Dec. 9th, After breakfast, went on shore with Capt; F., were conducted to the health office, custom house and police offices ; had our passports indorsed ; delivered the supercargo's letter to Messrs. McDonald, O'Connelly & Co., who inform us that the necessary license for shipping the lead on board, cannot be obtained from the proper au- thority till the 12th inst. ; that the lead must then be taken in at Roquetas, near Adra ; that it would be best for the ship to continue in this harbor till that time,on account of the swell and surf at the Roque- tas landing place in rough weather. Invited by Mr. O'C. to dine with him, at 2 P. M. Among the variety of viands, wines and fruit, 256 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. at this excellent dinner, was a Grenada mountain ham, SO much esteemed by the gourmands of France and England. It is cured in snow and sugar with- out smoke, and with little or no salt. It is known abroad by the name of sweet-ham. LETTER VIII. Almeria, Dec, llth, 1828. Dear Sir — After breakfast, went on shore with Capt. F. ; called on Mr. O'C. and inquired concerning the " license : were obliged to call again at the police office, and go through the farce of renewing our passports. No people in the world manage to make money out of a little thing, like Spaniards. After paying the customary fees, and making our bows, both of which appeared to be well accepted, w^e walked, in company with Mr. O'C, through the principal streets of this very ancient city, the last in Spain from which the Moors were driven.^ * It was stated to me by several Spanish gentlemen, both here and at Malaga, as a fact, recorded in the annals of Grana- da, that at the final expulsion of the Moors, in 1487, a royal order was made by Ferdinand and Isabella, that the families of ALMEIIIA. 257 Almeria is a walled city, its population about 20,000. The fortifications are low, inconsiderable, and much out of repair. Within the walls of the city are three churches, one of which, St. John's, is very ancient ; one other, without the walls, of later date, and style of architecture. There are also two convents of nuns, and three of friars. The city is compactly built, on a low flat of alluvial ground, of great fertility. the Moors then remaining in Spain, should be transported to the African shore, and landed in Morocco, at the expense of the Spanish government. For this purpose, Spanish vessels were employed, and contracts made with the masters for a cer- tain stipulated price per head, for all the Moors they should transport. They were shipped principally at Malaga and Al- meria. Several of these vessels performed two trips in a day and night. This despatch excited some surprise among the Spanish officers ; and upon inquiry, they found, that as soon as these vessels had advanced 20 or 30 miles from the harbors, the Moors were thrown overboard, and suffered to perish in the sea. This accounted for the speedy return of the vessels for a fresh cargo. But such was the spirit of the nation at that period, and such their hatred of tlie Moors, that no mea- sures were taken to punish the perpetrators of these acts of cruelty. ^V^hen we consider these barbarities, and those exer- cised by Pizarro and other Spaniards upon the unoffending and defenceless natives of South America, none can be found so blind as not to see the manifestation of the divine displeasure of an avenging God, visited upon this now wretched, impover- ished and degraded nation. That cupidity, that auri sacra fames^ which impelled the Spaniards to acts of unexampled cruelty, has entailed a * curse not causeless,' upon their country. 258 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. The chief officer of the city and district is a gov- ernor, who is vested with civil and mihtary juris- diction ; and as judge, also, is the first executive officer, and protector of foreigners. The export trade from this city is lead, barilla, and wheat ; but lead forms the principal article, amounting to 35,000 tons annually. The ore is rich, producing, when smelted, about 70 per cent. The lead mines in the mountains of Grenada were formerly the exclusive property of the king, and produced a large revenue to the crown. During the late revolution, they were almost wholly neg- lected. Since that period, a different order is es- tablished. All the minas plumo (lead mines) on the mountains of ^Grenada, are now considered as common, w^ithout any individual ownership. Any person wishing to occupy them, or any part of them, takes possession ; and during his occupancy, pays certain duties or customs, amounting in the whole, to 12 per cent, on the smelted lead, of which 7 per cent, goes to the church, and the re- mainder to the king's treasury. Upon a discon- tinuance of occupancy for six months, any other person may take possession, and work the mine on the same terms. The wealth and resources of Almeria consist principally in the product of these mines. Messrs. Rein & Co., merchants at Malaga, are now occupying sixteen smelting furnaces, in the vicinity of Almeria, at each of which 17,000 ALMERIA. 259 quintals of lead are annually manufactured. These constitute but a small portion of the mines wrought within the district of Almeria. Walked this afternoon, attended by Mr, 0*C., upon the wall, and through the different parts of the city, viewed the churches, convents, nunneries, gardens, old Moorish walls, castles, and towers, the latter of which are much impaired by time. In conversation this morning with Mr. * * ^ ^^ who is a Roman Cathohc resident here, but a gentle- man of liberal mind and extensive information, speaking of the corruptions and abuses which had crept into their church, he stated to me as a fact, within his knowledge, that about two years past, while an English ship lay off Roquetas, to which place she was bound for a cargo of lead, there came on a severe gale of wind from the S, E. which endangered the safety of the ship ; — that the Catholics in Roquetas offered up public prayers in their churches, that the ship might be driven on shore and wrecked, so that an opportunity might be afforded them for plunder ; the owners and crew of the ship being, as they supposed, heretics. The permit being now procured, the Factor was ready to sail for Roquetas, about 8 miles west of Almeria, and take in the lead ; but there being a strong easterly wind, it would be impossible for the boats to bring off the lead, on account of the swell and surf at the landing place. 260 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. Roquetas, Dec. I2th. The wind having hauled to the N. E. weighed anchor, at 5 A. M. and under light sail dropped down to Roquetas, and anchored a mile and a half from the shore, near the old Moorish castle ; but the wind continuing, the surf was so great, that no communication <:ould be had with the shore this day. Dec. I3th. Fine, still, clear morning. All hands employed in discharging ballast overboard, to make room for the lead in the hold. Launches from shore commenced bringing off lead, at 9 A. M. Shipped, in the course of the day, 82 tons. At ^ P. M. went ashore, viewed the village and the old Moorish castle near the water's edge, now in ruins. The population of the village is about 3,000. They have two churches, but no fortification, mole, dock or wharf. The small plat of ground on which the village stands, is low, gravelly and unproductive. The inhabitants live principally by working the lead mines, and by bringing the lead into market at Roquetas, where it is bought and shipped. Their village lies at the foot of the mountain, on which, and within a few miles of the village, vast quanti- ties of lead are smelted. At 2 P. M. the last launch with lead went off to the ship, and at 4 was stowed away. Whole num- number of pigs or bars shipped, 3963, weighing from 120 to 135 lbs. each. MALAGA. 261 The ship being now ready to take her depart- ure, the evening and night being clear and pleasant, with a good moon ; at 12 o'clock weighed anchor, and, favored with a land breeze, stood out to sea. Dec. IGt/i, At sun- rise, off Adra. Wind being light, advanced but 15 or 16 miles the whole day ; but were compensated by a serene atmosphere, and sublime view of the snow-capped summits of the mountains of Grenada. Dec, 18th, At sun-rise, off Velez Malaga. At 3 P. M. wind hauled to N, W. and enabled the ship to stand in for Malaga harbor, where she an- ^ chored at 4 P. M. Malaga, Dec. I9th. After breakfast, went ashore, and spent the day in the agreeable company of my fellow-passengers. We are all cheered with a prospect of the Factor being ready to sail in eight or ten days for the U. States. Dec. 20th. Walking to-day through the streets, and on the docks, I counted from fifteen to twenty crosses, some of which are standing single, and others affixed to the walls of houses, castles, and watch towers. I had also seen many standing by the road-side, in my rambles out of the city. I was informed these crosses were erected to mark the spot where persons had been assassinated. On each of them, or on the wall to which they were attached, if the victim had been a man of any distinction, his name, age, office, and time when 22 262 JOURNAL OF A TOUR^ &,C. murdered, are inscribed. But the principal design of these disgusting memorials, is attributable to the pious fathers of the church. They feel such yearn- ings for souls in purgatory, that they let no untried means escape them, to draw money from the peo- ple, either for the use of the living or the dead* * Here,' say they, ' a poor soul was suddenly sent to his long account, with all his imperfections on his head, unannealed ; not a moment's time allowed him for repentance or absolution ! And will you, can you be so unchristian, as to refuse a small sum for a mass to relieve his soul from purgatory ?" This appeal to conscience is mad^ with such power as seldom fails of success. Dec, 2lst. Agreeably to invitation, called at 11 A. M. on Mr. L. to ride with him into the country. We took the road N. up the dry bed of the river, a broad and convenient highway, from 20 to 40 rods wide, walled on each side, to prevent overflowing in times of freshets from the mountains. About two miles from the city, we alighted, and commit- ting the horse and chaise to the care of a servant, walked off half a mile to the right, through a narrow lane, to take a view of the aqueduct conveying water from the mountain into the city. It is con- structed in the Roman manner, upon arches across the ravines and gorges of the mountain, and con- ducted by excavation through some of the highest hills. It is built of stone, tiles and bricks ; and is MALAGA. 263 3^ feet broad, and 4 feet deep, and now carries water sufficient to turn a grist-mill. Directly under the visible stream, is another of the same capacity, divided from the upper by a horizontal partition of tiles. The upper stream is the property of a com- pany of individuals ; the under, belongs to the king. From the upper stream, the owners of several plantations, orange and lemon groves, vineyards, and gardens, through and near which this aque- duct passes, are supplied with water for the pur- pose of irrigation. Each of these owners has on his grounds a pontano, from 20 to 80 feet square, and from 10 to 15 feet deep, floored and walled with stone. These are filled by pipes conducting the water from the aqueduct. Each proprietor pays a stipulated price for this privilege. The surplus water is carried into the city, where it is distributed in pipes through several streets, for the accommodation of families. The under stream is used solely for public convenience. A few reser- voirs in the public squares, and at some of the cor- ners of the principal streets, are filled from it, and afford the finest watering places for cattle, and for other uses. The remainder, passing under ground, is discharged through a large conduit, into the har- bor at the wall of the mole. This furnishes to vessels lying in port, one of the most convenient watering places in the Mediterranean. A boat, with empty casks, is rowed up to the mole, and 264 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. with the aid of a hose, the water is conducted into them, with but Httle labor. The length of the aqueduct is about ten miles, and is constantly kept m good repair: the water is clear, and of the best quality. We visited several seats and plantations of great value, built and laid out with correct taste. The orange and lemon groves, now loaded with fruit, present a most charming view. Peas and beans in great abundance and variety ; some in blossom, some podded, and others suitable for plucking. The jessamine, apricots, peaches, and many arti- cles of flower shrubbery, in full bloom. The buds of the alijiond swollen, and will blossom in four or five days. Delightful climate ! We called at the noted seat lately owned and occupied by an English family, of the name uf Powers. The mansion house, offices, out houses, gardens, gravel walks, reservoirs, vistas of the most beautiful cypress trees, orange and lemon groves, form, altogether, a kind of terrestrial para- dise. On this small plantation, containing only 34 acres, are now standing 750 lemon trees, 480 or- ange and 430 cypress trees ; all of which are irri- gated when necessary, from aqueducts and reser- voirs on the premises. The Powers family is now extinct ; and the seat is offered for sale. Returned into the city at 3 P. M. and dined with Mr. L. MALAGA. 265 Dec. 2'2d, The brig Thomas, Capt. Ring, bound to New York, warped out this afternoon, and, wind permitting, sails this evening. Had the pleasure to dine with Mr. Relf, on board the Factor. He has kindly favored me with the loan of a large file of London newspapers, of June, July, August, and September last. Dec. 23d. Wore away the day, walking in dif- ferent parts of the city. Among other things, viewed the now vacant square, near the water side, which, till within a year or two past, was used as a bull-baiting amphitheatre : that popular amuse- ment, with all its cruelty, to which the Spaniards are so firmly attached. The brig Jasper, from New^ York, arrived here last night, after a short passage of 34 days, bringing letters and newspa- pers, by which it appears the presidential election terminates in favor of Gen. Jackson. Dec. 241/1, At 10 A. M. lighters began to come off* with wine, raisins, &c. : was much pleased to hear Mr. Bela, the supercargo, give notice to Capt. F., that he should have the whole of the remaining cargo on board, and the necessary papers prepared, so that the ship might sail on Sunday next. Brig Malaga from Boston arrived here this morning. Dec. 25th. Christinas. All here to-day is bustle, processions, music, frolic, dissipation, masses, ring- ing bells, and merry-making. The commemora- tion of the nativity of the Saviour, in all Catholic 22^ 266 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, i&C. countries, seems to be fixed upon and used as a day of general license for indulgence in such irregu- larities and practices as would disgrace the follow- ers of the false prophet. Dec.26th. Cloudy,dark morning, wind W.; brig Thomas yet lying off. At 2 P. M. dined with Mr. L. ; learn that among other irregularities, or rather regularities here, three men were assassinated in this city on Christmas eve, and four or five others stabbed, but not mortally. This being but a com- . mon and ordinary occurrence, is but little noticedy and has not in it sufficient interest to awaken in- quiry among the citizens. It is coldly observed, by some of them ; ' the number is quite as small, and indeed rather smaller than is usual on such occasions.' Part of the ship's crew employed in watering for the voyage, but no hope of getting off till Monday or Tuesday next. Dec. 27th. Went on shore, and dined with Cap- tains F., R. and Gillet, at ' old John's.' The re- mainder of the day busily employed assisting Mr. Leach, one of the passengers, procuring and ship- ping passengers' stores. Among other things, Mr. E. this day shipped 24 tons quicksilver, brought round from Seville. Spent the evening very pleasantly, w^ith Capt. Stroud, from London, on board his brig, accompa- MALAGA. 267 nied by Capts. Woodward and Andrews from England, all now at anchor in this harbor. Dec. 28th. At 11 A. M. called on Mr. L., and by invitation rode out on horseback with him to- ward Velez Malaga, about five miles. Had the satisfaction to see scores of vine-dressers now em- ployed with their pruning-hooks in the vineyards. They cut away every new branch at the old stock, excepting three or four, and on these they leave but four or five buds for the next year's growth. The stumps stand in rows about five feet apart from each other, and when pruned, have the ap- pearance of a field of dead shrub-oak stumps, six or eight inches high. Dined with Mr. L. and slept on shore at *old John's.' Good bed and clean sheets. In this place I would remark, that since my ar- rival in Europe, and throughout my tour thus far, I have often been led to the most painful reflections upon the intemperate use of ardent spirits, which 80 alarmingly prevails in my own country. It is with great satisfaction 1 am warranted to say, that while in Greece, Asia Minor, Malta, Tunis, Port Mahon, and Spain — in the whole about six months, I never saw a native of either of these countries in any degree intoxicated : but in most of them, many Enghsh, Scotch, Irish, Russians, and (I blush for shame when I say it) Americans, in a state of sottish drunkenness. These are wine countries. 268 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. It has often been remarked, that the inhabitants of all such countries are distinguishable from others by their disuse of intoxicating liquors. This is literally correct, so far as I have had opportunity of judging. The wines generally drunk there, pos- sess but a small degree of intoxicating properties, not even as great as the w^ell made and v^ell wrought cider of New England, and are the com- mori and every day beverage at the table. It is said* by the wine-merchants, and wine-adul- terers in the U. States, that it is necessary to add spirits to all imported wine, in order to prepare it for a sea-voyage, and prevent an acetous fermenta- tion. This is not true, and is used only as a pre- tence, under which they drug and poison most of their wines, increasing the quantity by articles of less value, thereby enabling themselves to in- crease their profits. All foreign wines, properly fermented and fined, suffer no deterioration by the longest voyages, and through the warmest latitudes ; but rather increase in their richness and flavor. Both in Greece and Spain, I have had frequent opportunities of witnessing the process of ferment- ing and fining their wines. Immediately after passing through the press, the wine is placed in vats or casks, in a cool under-ground room or deep cellar, where the temperature is regulated by ven- tilators. If, by reason of too great warmth, the MALAGA. 269 fermentation be too active, and in danger of be- coming acetous, cooler air is admitted through the ventilators. By exposure of new w^ine to the sun or a heated air, it soon becomes acetous, and makes the best vinegar. After wine is once prick- ed, as it is termed, it can never, by any process, be restored. Brandy, sugar, water, sweet cider, and many other articles of a more deleterious nature, may be, and often are thrown in, to make such wine saleable, but its vinous properties, the real juice of the grape, are forever lost ; and this com- pound liquor becomes a poison of the most destruc- tive character. Temperance in eating, also, is not less remark- able and praisew^orthy among these people, than temperance in drinking. It is indeed astonishing to an American to observe, with how small a quantity of animal food, the Greeks and Turks, particularly, sustain themselves, and preserve their health, activity and strength. No people have I yet seen, who possess all these in a higher degree. Much the greater part of the animal food they use, is cooked in soups, with an abundance of vegeta- bles of various kinds. These soups rest lightly and easily upon the stomach, and impart health and vigor to the constitution. Dec, 2lst, At 6 P. M. the shipment of the cargo w^as finished, excepting a few articles of provisions for the passengers. The mizen and forward &70 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. hatches were closed. Messrs. H., S. and L. brought on board their bedding, trunks, and other baggage. Expect the ship will haul out to-morrow, and set sail at evening, should the wind be fair. Though extremely anxious to commence the voyage, 1 am not without apprehensions respecting the dangers and hardships with which such a voyage, at this season of the year, must necessarily be attended. Jan. \st, 1829. Wind being W. and blowing fresh, the ship could not be warped out of the har- bor, if otherwise ready : sadly disappointed in my hope of commencing our voyage on the commence- ment of the new year. At 3 P. M. dined with Mr. L. in company with ten gentlemen, part of whom are Americans, part Spaniards, part English, and the remainder Germans. After dinner, took my leave of Mr. L. and his family, with feehngs of the deepest gratitude for the kind attentions, hospitality, and favors received of that gentleman, since my arrival at Malaga. Jan. 2d. The ship being now ready to sail, at 1 1 A. M. got up our stern anchor, kedged out, and hoisted sail at sun-down, wind light from off land. Messrs. Loring, Barrel, Relf, Reads, Nixon, Plows, and several other gentlemen, came off in boats to take leave of us, and wish us a pleasant voyage, and safe arrival at New York. From all the above named gentlemen, we had received such kind at- tentions and civilities during our long residence AT SEA, 271 among them, that the parting ceremonies were at- tended with tender feehngs, on our part at least. On leaving the harbor, we were met by a head wind, which continued fresh through the night. The ship labored and plunged heavily, as was ex- pected from the kind of cargo with which she was laden. Jan, 3d!. Head wind continues. At sun-rise, made the rock of Gibraltar, distant 25 miles. At 8 A. M. off Marbella, a town about 30 miles W. of Malaga, and famous for the vast quantity of plumbago (black lead) manufactured there. Con- tinued through the day beating against a strong head wind, advancing but slowly toward the straits. At evening, ran in under the N. shore, and lay in calm water through the night. Jan. 4th, The rock of Gibraltar, Europa point, Apes hill and Ceuta, all in plain view ; the former about 10 miles distant, bearing W. N. W. Now in sight, more than 100 sail, in and about the bay and rock, waiting, like us, for a fair wind to waft us through the straits. From this to the 13th inst. such was the preva- lence of westerly winds, that we were all compel- led to beat about, lying off and on, and heaving to day and night ; several times driven back nearly to Malaga 1 most of the time attended w^ith dark, thick weather, squalls, rain, thunder and lightning; 272 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. and in danger of running foul of each other, during the dark nights. Jan, Hth, At 2 this morning, to our great joy, a hght breeze sprung up, E. N. E. ; set the sails, and laid our course for the gut. At 7 off the rock ; wind freshens to a stiff breeze. At 9, passed Ta- riffa light — 90 vessels, in one view, shaping their course with /us, under a press of sail. At 12, off Cape Spartel. At 2 P. M. passed through Trafal- gar bay, and at 4 took my last view of Europe and Africa. May that kind Providence which has protected me thus far, give me a prosperous voy- age to my native shores. Jan. \Gth, Passed the Madeiras during the last evening and night, leaving them about 100 miles to the N. — our course S. S. W. At 12 o'clock, our Latitude 3r 28', W. Lon. 15^ 20'. Jan. I9th. At 8 A. M. made the islands of Pal- ma and Ferro, two of the Canaries, bearing E. S. E, about 30 miles distant, having passed Teneriffe before day light. Jan, 28th, Strong breeze N. W. ; ship rolls heavily ; at 8 A. M* passed a brig to windward, course N. E. Now near the middle of the Atlan- tic ; 26 days from Malaga, and 15 from Gibrahar. Saw yesterday and to-day several grampus whales, sheer-waters, and large shoals of flying fish. Feb, 1st. Weather clear, and uncomfortably warm. Wind N. but light ; 3 knots. AT SEA. :Zi6 Saw this forenoon two Tropic birds. This rare bird, I understand, is never seen, except at and within the tropics. It is of tlie size of the white gull, plumage white, with a pointed tail, in the form of a marUn spike, 18 inches in length. They are of a solitary character, never seen in flocks, and but seldom in pairs. Gulf-weed, in small parcels. Lat. 19%58', Lon.45°21'. Feb, 26?. Clear, warm and calm. At day-break, this morning, a multitude of small fish was discov- ered about the ship. Hooks and lines were imme- diately put in requisition, and great sport enjoyed, by taking as many as were desired. This excellent fish is of the shape and size of the black, or rock- fish of America, and takes the bait with great avidity. About 8 A. M. the dolphins appeared in schools of hundreds. Of this most beautiful of all the fishes of the sea, we took but three. Many were lost by breaking our hooks, or tearing out the mouth, just before securing them on deck. The beauty and variety of colors displayed by this sin- gular fish, exceed any description in my power to give. Their weight from 14 to 18 lbs. Feb. 3d, Saw this day five large whales, one of which came near the ship, and aflbrdcd us a fiill and fair view of its enormous magnitude. Vast numbers of dolphins around the ship, but none caught Saw many instances of that strong and active fish chasing the Hying fish with a velocity really sur])rising. The dolphin is, at sea, amont^ 23 274 JOURNAL OP A TOUR, &C. the smaller fishes, much like the hawk on land, among birds. Feh, 4th, Warm and calm : had great sport this forenoon, taking 6 dolphins ; also saw 5 or 6 large whales, with one calf, near the ship. Dreary prospect of a long voyage. Lat. 20° 40', Lon. 48° 14' W. Feb. 13th. This day, Lat. 24° 31', Lon. 60^ 58', by chr(5rjometer, spoke the schr. Only Son, Capt. Warren, from Lisbon, bound to Wilmington, out 37 days. Capt. F. went on board her, and ob- tained a small quantity of bread, some rice and tobacco, of all which we stood in need. Feb. I5th. Having now left the trade winds, and encountered the tug of the voyage, no hopes can be entertained of good weather and pleasant sailing for the remainder. At 9 P. M. took in top- gallant sails, wind blowing a gale. Ship labors much, plunging heavily against a dead sea. Feb. [Gth. Gale continues with increased vio- lence. At 6 A. M. the bars of lead on the spar deck fetched away, and many other things, both between decks and in the cabin were thrown into confusion. At 1 P. M. storm increases, with black clouds, violent squalls, copious showers, and tre- mendous peals of thunder : most of the sails taken in, or reefed, and the ship laid to, with her helm lashed. No observation taken this day. Feb. 2lst. This may be marked as a day of trou- ble. At 2 P. M. the ship, by the stroke of a heavy AT SEA. 275 sea on her stern, pitched her bowsprit, anchor- stocks, and fore-castle many feet under water. The shock was tremendous. The stern boat, with all her fastenings, and one of the davits, ripped off in a second, and lost. The captain, first mate, and . passengers, with soup plates in their hands had commenced their dinner. The shock instantly threw^ us all from the table, into a promiscuous heap on the forward side of the cabin. Every plate was broken ; each bosom and coat pocket received a share of the soup. The meat dishes, with their contents, accompanied with all the plates, knives, forks, and other vessels on the table, went into the same heap of ruin, and most of them broken. A flood of water rushed down the com- panion-way, and gave an hour's employment for the steward with his buckets. Feh. 23c?. Gale continues without abatement ; losing latitude so dearly gained. At 4 P. M. a heavy sea broke over us, with a noise like the re- port of a cannon ; part of our bulwarks, on the weather side stove in, and a greater part on the leeward side carried away. Ship labors ; rolling heavily ; leaks gain upon the pumps. Lat. by chronometer, 3P 24', Lon. 69^ 10. Put on al- lowance of water. Feh. 26th. The increased violence of the gale, attended by squalls and loud peals of thunder, ex- cited some alarm among the stoutest on board. Al 2 P. M. double reefed top-sails. At 7 lay to, 276 JOURNAL OF A TOUR, &C. main-top sail split. By order of Capt. F. threw over- board 180 bars of lead. Leaks increasing, gained upon the pumps the last 12 hours. Feb. ^Ith. Gale being less violent this forenoon, overhauled and repaired the pumps. At 9 A. M. unlashed the helm. P. M. ; gale increasing, with enormous swells, a further quantity of lead thrown overboard: Our course N. N. E. Lat. SS'* 29', Lon. 72^ 30'. Feb, 28th, Lead between decks fetched away, and a further quantity thrown overboard. No ob- servation. March 2d. Close reefed top-sails ; wind N. W. leaks gaining fast on the pumps : no observation. March 5th. At 7 A. M. soundings, 45 fathoms ; at 12 o'clock, 25 fathoms ; spoke ship Telegraph : no observation. March 1th. Dark thick weather ; snow and sleet. At 6 P. M. advanced within 8 or 10 miles of Sandy Hook, but as no pilot boat appeared, lay off through the night, in the course of which, fired two guns, for a pilot. March 8th. At 8 A. M. pilot came out, and at 6 P M. we arrived at New York, after a long and tedious voyage of 66 days from Malaga. The kind attentions 1 have received from the Chairman and other gentlemen of the Greek Com- mittee, since my arrival here, deserve my particu- lar and grateful acknowledgments. 1 ACCOUNT OF THE AGENTS For the Distribution of the Car^o of the Brig^ Herald. f;;j='An apology is due to the donors of these charities, for the delay of the Agents to publish their account at an earlier period. This delay has been occasioned by the long protracted illness of Mr. Stuyvesant, both in Greece and since his return. 1, An acxiount of the provisions and clothing distributed to the poor re- siding in and opposite to Poros, at Apathia, Katara, Tacticupolis of Methana, to those living in the woods and mountains, and to those who at different times were brought from slavery in Egypt. The number of families who received were - - 1190 The No. of individuals who received provisions - - 4798 The No. of do. do. clothing - - - 3585 Flour and meal distributed at those places • • barrel 365 Bread do. da - - - - 13 Beans and peas do. do. • - • • - 28 Beef and pork do. do. - • 19 Potatoe flour do. do. - - - - - 1 Boxes of clothing do. do. - - - boxes 62 The following were the numbers of the boxes and the places from whence they came, viz. No. 138 Prom Middlebury, Conn. 2 From Lebanon, Conn, 144 " Hudson Female Associa- 3 " Norwich, " tion, N Y. 36 " Slierman, " 145 " " " 72 " Washington," 148 " Hillsdale and Claverack, 91 " Onondaga Court House Columbia Co. N. Y. Village, N. Y. 152 " Durham, " 113 " Providence, R. I. 153 " Wheatland, 115 " " " 157 " Rochester, " 121 " Pawtucket, " 160 " Rensellaer and Albany 133 " Chesterville, in Saybrook, Co, N. Y. Conn. 163 " Fairport, " 23* 278 APPENDIX. No. 168 173 181 183 200 210 212 215 218 219 226 228 229 241 242 245 252 Prom Goshen, N. Y. " Albany, " " WatertowTi, Jefferson Co. N. Y. " Sacketts Harbour, N. Y. " Troy, " " Parma, " " Greece, Monroe Co. " " Marcellus, " " Pittsfield, Mass. " Ellsworth, in Sharon, Conn. " New Berlin and Colum- bus, N. Y. " West Bloomfield, N. Y. « (( {( (( " Dorchester, Mass. (( (( a " Windham, Conn. " Plattsburgh, N. Y. No. 253 Unknown where from 262 From Monkton, 266 " Whitestown, Oneida Ca N. Y. 268 " " " 271 272 275 272 278 280 288 291 293 295 303 307 317 Penfield,Monroe Co.N.Y. <( (( Martinsburgh, " Buffalo, •' (C tc Unknown, FrankHn, Conn. Canterbury, " Rodman* Le Roy and Belleville, N. Y. SandyhiU, " White Creek, Cambridge and Jackson, N. Y. Evans Mills, " Mendon, Mass. 2. An account of the provisions and clothing distributed to the refugees in the island of Egina. The No. of families who received were of individuals who received provisions were of do. do. clothing of barrels of flour and meal distributed were do. of bread do. of beans and peas of boxes of clothinsj distributed were 1756 6401 3336 272 2 4 30 No. 8 Prom Norwich, Conn. 108 " Pall-River Village, Mass. 118 " Masonsville, Thompson, Conn. 1 12 " Providence, R. 1. 120 " Pawtucket, • " 124 " Goshen, N. Y. 136 " Chazy, " 154 " Wheatland, " 166 " Schoharie, " 171 " Albany, " 186 " Homer, " 196 " New Hartford, Oneida Co. N. Y. 197 " Valley Palls, Mass. 198 " Westford Society, Ash- ford, Conn. No. 213 Prom Rochester, N. Y. 214 " Hanover, N. J, 224 " Bethlehem, Conn. 231 " West Bloomfield, N. Y. 248 " Butternuts, " 247 " Catskill, *• 257 " Poughkeepsie, " 299 " Martinsburgh, 70 " Whitehall, " 302 " Henderson, " 61 " Glens-falls, '' 315 " Sullivanville, Chittenan- go, N. Y. 327 " Leicester, Mass. 320 *' West Mendon, Mass. 117 " Albany, N. Y. 319 " H. Piatt, Jun. APPENDIX. 279 3. An account of the provisions and clothing distributed at Navarino, and among tliose who live in the neighbouring mountains of Navarino, Arcadia, Sotirie, Petrochori, Chasanaga, Pisaski, Sumanaga, Giuvaliovori, Niclena, Pispisa, Platanos, Chores, Sapriki, Veristia, Potamia, Muzusta, Gargaliani, Pyrgos, Pedemenos, Miniaki, and Paniza. The No. of families who received were - - 850 of individuals who received provisions were - 4151 do. do, clothing, . 3767 of barrels of flour and meal distributed, were • 210 of do. of bread .... 6 of boxes and tierces of clothing, were - - 32 No. No. 17 From Tomkinsville, N. Y. 156 From Durham, Conn. 20 It Hartford, Conn. 155 " Wheatland, N. Y. 21 a " " 159 ' ' Meredith, " 23 (t (( c 182 ' « Watertown, " 25 " Berlin, Britain Society, 199 ' ' Middlebury, Vermont. Conn. 237 ' ' Berkshire, Mass. 38 C( New Miiford, Conn. 255 ' •' Shenectady, " 56 a Sandisfield, Mass. 258 ' * Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 02 (( New Haven, Conn. 259 ' ■' North East Dutchess Co, 63 c « N. Y. 65 <( (C 260 ' ' Gorham, Conn. 66 li tl 286 ' ' Sweden, N. Y. 81 (I Stillwater, N. Y. 290 " Lisbon, Hanover, N. Y. 90 (( Woodbury, Conn. 311 ' ' New York City, 142 c. New Preston, " 312 ' ( (C 146 l( Hillsdale, N. Y. 314 ' £ «( 150 (( Cattskill, " 356 ii .^^ _^:-^ai%' G > ,A^' > ./. ^^ <." .vie, ^<. ■' "' ' ' oC^ ,z, ^ » « ^ -A 1 Vj. -O^ , » % ■>..^ "^^ ^:*^ ^:^:^^ ^',-.^^-,■^ . /^^m -i- ' « I 1" \' ?hfea