434 THE ANTARCTIC MANUAL. 
three, the aurora burst out from the south-western horizon, streaming 
up and concentrating in the zenith, and attended with quick flashes of 
every variety of tint.. The wind was moderate from the south-west, 
and a squall of hail passed at the time. In latitude 47° S. they first 
encountered phosphorescence in the water. On the 17th they made 
the land of New South Wales, and continued to experience a variety of 
weather until the 21st, when they arrived off, and anchored within, the 
Heads of Port Jackson. 
The next day they proceeded up the harbour and “anchored off 
Sydney Cove. The ship was much shattered, but her officers and crew 
all in good health. Here they were kindly received, and no time was 
lost in proceeding to make the necessary repairs. The collector was 
kind enough to give them permission to land everything that might 
be necessary, when and where they pleased. The powder and fire- 
works were received in the public magazine, and when called for were 
politely sent in a government boat, free of expense. The railway for 
merchant-vessels was found too light to trust the Peacock upcen it. 
Mossman’s Cove, on the north shore, was then resorted to, not only as 
a convenient place for making the necessary repairs, but as affording 
more security for the crew against the crimps and rum-shops. 
The day after my arrival I visited the Peacock in order to examine 
into her condition, and could not withhold my astonishment that she 
had been able, after undergoing such damage, to reach a distant port. 
The visible injuries have already been stated, in speaking of her acci- 
dent. On their arrival at Sydney, it was found that her stem had been 
chafed to within one and a half inches of her wood ends, and strained 
throughout. After a full examination of the circumstances, I felt it a 
duty I owe to Captain Hudson, as well as to his officers and crew, to 
state that I am well satisfied, that his coolness, decision and seamanship, 
with the good conduct of his officers and men in the perilous situation 
in which they were placed, are worthy of the highest encomiums. The 
preservation of the ship and crew, and her subsequent navigation to a 
distant port, reflect the highest credit upon her commander and upon 
the service to which he belongs. 
Sydney was now much crowded with people, and,several balls were 
given, to which we had the honour of an invitation. That of the St. 
Patrick Society was attended by the chief people in the neighbourhood 
of Sydney, including the governor and most of the officers of the crown. 
It was given in the New Court-house, and was a handsome and well- 
conducted entertainment, Two military bands were in attendance; 
quadrilles and country dances followed each other in rapid succession ; 
rooms were provided for cards, refreshments, teas, lemonade, etc.; and 
towards the close of the evening the company was ushered in to an 
elegant supper, which was partaken of standing. 
T was struck with the beauty and general appearance of the ladies, 
