INTRODUCTION. xxiii 
the operations of the Squadron. These I have thought it necessary to 
lay before the public, in order that it may have a full view of the 
whole of the operations in which the Squadron was employed, and 
may be able to examine and compare the orders under which we acted, 
with the duties which have been performed. The Narrative will 
embody all those which we executed, and will thus enable all to judge 
how the work was conducted. I have a strong desire also that the 
whole should appear, in order that the Expedition may stand before 
the country and the world, in its true merits. When they become 
aware of all the facts, they will be able to see the injustice that has 
been done it, — will wonder at the extraordinary reception that awaited 
its return, and the persecutions I met with, as the reward of the 
arduous labours of four years. These I cannot but feel were unjust, 
particularly as they were carried on without any hearing whatever, 
and even without any examination of the results, or any inquiry rela- 
tive to the extent of the duties, or the manner in which they had been 
performed. This, however, is not the place to speak of these things. 
I had, at an early day after my appointment, assigned the 10th of 
August as the time for our departure, and had assured the President 
that at that time I should be ready, and would sail ; but that it was 
entirely impossible for me to fix an earlier day. I feel much satisfac- 
tion in reflecting on the confidence the President and Secretary placed 
in me. It was fully appreciated. The exertions of all were bent to 
fulfil this pledge, although almost all those connected with the enter- 
prise doubted the possibility of getting off so soon. Every thing, 
however, was completed, and I left Washington on the 10th of 
August. 
On my arrival at Norfolk, I found every thing in a state of forward- 
ness, and the Squadron in Hampton Roads, whither they had dropped 
down on the 8th of August. The names of the pilot-boats were now 
changed to the Sea-Gull and Flying-Fish, as had been agreed upon 
with Mr. Paulding; and they were placed under command of Passed 
Midshipmen Reid and Knox. 
I was well aware, from my own observations and the reports made 
to me, that we were any thing but well equipped for such a cruise. 
