HOSPITALITY OF THE INHABITANTS. 



83 



sheltered from the westerly winds by the Loo rock ; but upon an observation of the locality, 

 the Commodore was satisfied that in blowing weatlier it would be difficult even for a steamer to 

 get safely out from such an anchorage, and he therefore j^ositively forbade the removal of the 

 vessel to the spot indicated. The anchoi'age anywhere in Funchal bay is unsafe in the winter 

 season, and vessels lying in the road, when expecting a gale from S.E. around to W.S.W. 

 generally put to sea, and remain out until the return of fine weather. In fact, Funchal, which 

 lies on the south side of the island, has only an open roadstead, with a very rocky and uneven 

 anchorage. The whole island is a mass of basalt. From November to February gales prevail 

 from the southeast and southwest, rendering the roadstead very dangerous. 



Funchal Cathedral, Madeira. 



Funchal still retains its character for hospitality, and by no one was this virtue more 

 gracefully exercised towards the members of the expedition than by Mr. J. H. March, who for more 

 than thirty years has filled the ofiice of consul of the United States, and in the enjoyment of 



