VOYAGE TO SPITSBERGEN. 31 



disappear, especially in time of storm. After they 

 first approach from the north, the appearance of 

 the ocean is materially altered. They are divid- 

 ed into columns of five or six miles long, and 

 three or four broad ; and, in their passage, the wa- 

 ter is propelled before them like an impetuous cur- 

 rent. Sometimes they sink for a little while, then 

 rise again to the surface. When the sun shines, 

 the appearance of this finny tribe is most beau- 

 tiful, being similar to a spacious field of variegated 

 gems. 



They afford a sure subsistence to vast multitudes 

 of birds, of whales, and other fish ; and, to com- 

 plete their destruction, man himself joins in the 

 common chase. 



For this purpose, vessels from many nations used 

 to rendezvous in Bressay Sound, to lay in treasures 

 of this useful species.* 



" The Dutch formerly carried on this fishery very extensively. 

 It has, however, been on the decline with them ever since the year 

 1703. They had then about 500 busses in Shetland, under the 

 convoy of four ships of war, but a French fleet of six ships of war 

 sent out for the purpose, fell in with the Dutch, and, an engage- 

 ment taking place, the Dutch Admiral's ship was sunk, on which 

 the remaining three ran away and made their escape ; whereupon, 

 the French fleet sailed for the entry of Bressay Sound, sent their 



