448 Ireland's account of 



and which is probably that on the chart called No. 1, to the 

 eastward of Hannibal Island.* 



" Upon disembarking, the natives accompanied them 

 round the island in search of food and water, but they were 

 so exhausted by fatigue and hunger, that they could scarcely 

 crawl. Upon their return to the place where they landed, 

 they threw themselves on the ground in despair ; as it was 

 evident from the ferocious bearing and conduct of the 

 savages, who stood around their party grinning and laughing 

 in the most hideous manner, that they were exulting in 

 the anticipation of their murderous intentions. In this 

 dreadful state of suspense, Mr. Clare, the first officer, 

 addressing his companions, recommended them to be 

 resigned to their fate ; and read to them, in a most im- 

 pressive manner, several prayers from a book which he had 

 brought with him from the wreck; after which, commend- 

 ing themselves to the protection of the Almighty, they laid 

 down, and worn out by severe exhaustion, were soon asleep; 

 but it was to them the sleep of death ; for no sooner had 

 they composed themselves than, as Ireland describes, he 

 was roused by a shout and noise, and upon looking up saw 

 the Indians murdering his companions by dashing their 

 brains out with clubs. The first that was killed was poor 

 Ching, and after him his companion Perry, and then Mr. 

 Mayer, the second officer : — after which the confusion 

 became so great, that Ireland could not distinguish what 

 passed. The last however, that met his fate was Mr. 

 Clare, who in the attempt to make his escape to the canoe. 



* On their way to it the canoe passed, first, three islands on 

 the right (northward), and one on the left (southward). The 

 main land was also distinguished from Boydan Island, and 

 appeared to be about twelve or fourteen miles off, which agrees 

 very well with the islaud it is supposed to be. 



