xx INTRODUCTION. 
to be supposed, from the many interests, and their inexperience in 
naval duties, that all could agree that the particular objects of their 
several departments received the proper consideration. Each would 
naturally look upon his own as the most important. They were not 
aware of my instructions, and of the duties that were enjoined upon 
me ; and I think did not take into consideration the loss of time I 
had met with from various causes, and that my intentions were at 
times unexpectedly frustrated. Besides, it was my duty to look to the 
essential objects of the Expedition, which were entirely unknown to 
them. They are now, after the cruise has passed, I believe fully 
satisfied that it was not possible, without sacrificing the greater 
interests, to give more attention than I did to subordinate parts. 
I cannot avoid bearing testimony to their perseverance, industry, 
zeal, and strict conformity to the rules and regulations laid down for 
the government of us all. The result of their labours will shortly be 
before the public, and will show the manner in which they have per- 
formed their duties. They messed with the ward-room officers, 
and received all the privileges, respect, and attention due to that 
rank. 
In the following Narrative, it may perhaps be necessary to state, 
that although our time was limited to a few days at some of the places 
we visited, yet the number of officers and gentlemen engaged under 
rny command, enabled me to have every thing worthy of notice 
examined. The result of our observations, I am satisfied, will give a 
faithful representation of the countries and islands, during the period 
of our visit. 
I received every facility for obtaining information from our consuls, 
as well as from missionaries and American residents abroad. Some 
of them furnished me with interesting documents, connected with the 
past and present state of the countries where they reside, and procured 
from the different governments many valuable official papers. Indeed, 
the facilities met with have evinced a desire in all to further the under- 
taking with which I was charged. 
To the Governor of New South Wales, Sir George Gipps, my 
acknowledgments are particularly due, for his generous liberality in 
ordering me to be furnished by the Colonial Secretary, E. Deas 
