X PKEFACE. 



170° east — embracing a wide field for observation : 

 and comprehends bird's eye views in Australia, 

 New Zealand, and other British possessions in 

 the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans, also in 

 the Malay, Mascarenha, Azore, and Abrolhas' 

 islands. 



Throughout the recital, I have confined my- 

 self entirely to facts, without drawing on my 

 imagination for coloring ; but I have been forced, 

 from a fear of being too voluminous in this, my 

 first effort, to omit much that came under my 

 observation during the voyage, which at some 

 future period I may find time to lay before the 

 public. 



Before taking leave of the subject, I would, if 

 it were in my power, press upon the notice of 

 the Federal government the necessity of cherish- 

 ing and encouraging this important branch of our 

 commerce. 



If good seamen are to be formed anywhere, it 

 is in the whaling-service of this country. Here 

 it is, on a three or four years' voyage, that a 



