— 12 — 



The night was gloomy, and heavy clouds hung on the ho- 

 rizon indicative of rain ; but now and then a few stars would 

 peep out from the dark canopy, and cheer us on our way. 



The wind failed, and the men had to use their oars through 

 the labyrinth of vessels that crowded the harbour of Port 

 Louis. 



All was stni, save the plash of the oara as we glided 

 through the silent waters. 



After considerable rowing, we reached the Light ship- Its 

 rays flashed brilliantly across the waves, and can be seen for 

 many miles, cheering the mariner on his way, or guiding him 

 safely into port. Now we were fairly out or the deep waters 

 of the Indian Ocean ; and a light breeze springing up, the 

 oars were laid by, and our pretty little boat,',the Beautiful Jane 

 sailed like a duck. 



Our crew were selected from the most skilful fishermen of 

 Grand Bale ; and our Skipper, an old Creole, knew every 

 rock, reef and current round the coast. 



The night being dark, a watch was set, lest we should run 

 into any of the little fishing boats bound in a dilQFerent di- 

 rection. 



The night passed away pleasantly spinning yarns about 

 sharks and other monsters ; together with a highly coloured 

 description of what I might expect to see on the morrow. 



When daylight appeared we found ourselves some miles in 

 a northerly direction from Gunner's Quoin. With us the sea 

 was smooth, though there was a swell from the North. 



Round Island stood due east from us, at a distance of about 

 10 miles. 



We were favored with a fine breeze, which increased as old 

 Sol raised his head from the ocean. The morning was bright 

 and clear, doubly welcome and refreshing to those who had 

 been breathing only the heavy atmosphere of Port Louis for 

 some time ; and especially to me who had been suffering for 

 some days from fever. 



Though tolerably calm with us, we could see the white foam 

 breaking over the Quoin as the waves beat against its bold 

 cliffs 



