SUGGESTIONS TO TOURISTS. 345 



at both. They fell, and upon examination of the ani 

 mals and the surroundings, he realized the fact that he 

 had lost his way, was near his home, and in a sportsman 

 like manner had killed a heifer and colt belonging to 

 himself. 



Finding nothing very attractive about the settlement, 

 we departed for the Crystal river oyster bars. These are 

 situated about four miles from the main land, and should 

 be visited by every sportsman who is fond of superior 

 bivalves. By landing on the bars at low water, large 

 and delicious oysters can be gathered in any quantity. 

 We found them to be fat, and of the most excellent flavor. 

 Leaving the oyster bar, we headed for the Withlacoochio 

 river, distant ten miles. The opening of this river can 

 be easily detected by the presence of a large saw-mill at 

 the westerly side of the river s mouth. We encamped 

 for the night near the mill, and the next morning com 

 menced ascending the stream. We ascended for several 

 miles, but in consequence of the height and density of the 

 timber, we found our sail useless ; as we were not inclined 

 to pull against the rapid current, and as the river did 

 not seem to present any sporting attractions, we re 

 turned to the mill and encamped for the night. 



Next morning, at seven o clock A. M., we hoisted sail 

 and headed for Cedar Keys. Not being disposed to fol 

 low the trend of the coast and dodge oyster-bars and 

 nigger-heads, we steered a course by compass, and reached 

 the Keys at one P. M., at which point ended the cruise 

 of the good boat Spray. We have wandered some little 

 in this, as well as in other lands, but our trip, extending 

 over a period of two months, we shall always review as 

 the most pleasant one we have ever taken. Having 

 found our tour so enjoyable and satisfactory, we feel dis- 

 15* 



