8 JOURNEY TO THE SHORES 
netic force, but the wind blew too strong for 
procuring the observation to any degree of ac- 
curacy. ; 
The fineness of the following day induced us 
to set up the different instruments for examina- 
tion, and to try how nearly the observations 
made by each of them would agree; but a squall 
passed over just before noon, accompanied by 
heavy rain, and the hoped-for favourable oppor- 
tunity was entirely lost. In the intervals be- 
tween the observations, and at every opportunity, 
my companions were occupied in those pursuits 
to which their attention had been more particu- 
larly directed in my instructions, Whilst Dr. 
Richardson was collecting and examining the 
various specimens of marine plants, of which 
these islands furnish an abundant and diversified 
_ Supply, Mr. Back and Mr. Hood took views and 
Sketches of the surrounding scenery, which is 
extremely picturesque in many parts, and wants 
only the addition of trees to make it beautiful. 
The hills present the bold. character of rugged 
sterility, whilst the valleys, at this season, are 
clothed with luxuriant verdure. 
It was not till the 14th, that, by appointment, 
the boatmen were to assemble at the house of 
Mr. Geddes, to engage to accompany the Expe- 
dition. Several persons collected, but to my 
