918 BOTANICAL INFORMATION. 
ing of one 24-pound and two 12-pound brass pivot howitzers, of the 
same description with those above-mentioned, and also small arms of a 
similar character with those used in the Vincennes. The brig Porpoise 
is armed in the same manner as the steamer Hancock, with the ad- 
dition of two 32-pound long guns; as is also the survey and supply 
ship John P. Kennedy, with the exception of the 32-pound cannon. 
This ship is about 500 tons burden, and is also barque-rigged. The 
schooner Fenimore Cooper is an elegant model of a pilot-boat, about 
90 tons, and armed with one 12-pound brass pivot gun, and small 
arms similar to those used in the other vessels. All the boats of the 
squadron, especially the launches, are whale-boats, and one boat of each 
vessel is provided with a brass 12-pound pivot-gun. Each vessel is 
also furnished with life-buoys, with port-fires attached, a number of 
India-rubber boat floats, and a full supply of life-preservers. Among 
the additional means of carrying into effect the objects designed, the 
Expedition is provided with the most improved astronomical, surveying, 
and magnetic instruments, the most of which have been manufactured 
in the United States, and with the utmost care and accuracy, and they 
have been very highly spoken of by all who have had the gratification 
of seeing them. The chronometers, being about thirty in number, are 
of the best quality which could be procured. Besides the complement 
of officers of the Navy, who, under the direction of Commander Ringgold, 
will have the charge of the astronomic, hydrographic, and magnetic de- 
partments, an efficient scientific corps is attached to the Expedition. 
All the departments of Natural History will be attended to. Compe- 
tent draughtsmen are also provided; and among the scientific gentle- 
men there is a photographist, chemist, taxidermist, artist, and a ma- 
thematical instrument maker. In truth, care has been taken in the 
organization of this service, to furnish it with every means of success. - 
The Vincennes is fitted up especially under the eye of Commander 
Ringgold, and a more beautiful, comfortable, and splendidly arranged 
ship probably was never before seen. Her beauty and splendid ar- 
rangements do not consist in tawdry colours and gilding, for she has 
nothing in her but plain white and mahogany ; but it consists in having 
a place for everything, and everything in its place, and in the occupa- 
tion of every possible nook and space, for some valuable purpose. A 
more perfect arrangement and disposition could scarcely have been de- 
vised. In the cabins of this ship are contained a most valuable library 
