408 APPENDIX. 
XXIV. 
SAILING INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE RELIEF, NOT TO BE OPENED 
UNTIL AT SEA. 
U. S. Ship Vincennes, 
Rio de Janeiro, December 18th, 1838. 
Sir, 
You will sail from this harbour, and follow strictly the following 
instructions, which are intended for your government. 
1st. You will proceed with all possible despatch with the Relief, 
under your command, to Orange Harbour, and there await my 
arrival. 
2d. Orange Harbour is situated in latitude 55° 30' 50" S., and 
longitude 68° 00' 23" W. 
3d. You will pursue such a course as will take you on soundings 
about latitude 45° S., and continue on them all the way to Terra del 
Fuego, as near as you can to the land, westerly winds prevailing 
most of the way. 
4th. You will pass through the Straits of Le Maire, and double 
close around the southeast point of Terra del Fuego, keeping in with 
the land, until you are up with the Hermit Islands ; you will then 
have your port open to you clear of hidden dangers. 
5th. A plan of Orange Harbour is among your book of charts No. 
1079. 
6th. On your arrival there, you will set up tide-staves, similar to 
those now in use by us on the Island of Enxados, and keep an hourly 
register of the rise and fall. 
7th. At Orange Harbour, you will employ your crew in cutting 
fifty cords of the best wood, and deposit the same at the most con- 
venient landings, for the use of the squadron on its arrival. 
8th. You will fill up with water, and have your stores and provi- 
sions ready for any delivery. 
9th. Your anchorage will be within Burnt Island, where you will 
establish the light sent you, which you will place in charge of some 
careful person, to be kept lighted during the night. In the event of 
its failing, you will keep a bonfire on shore, as a night-signal for the 
squadron. 
