APPENDIX. 563 



XI. 



U. S. Ship Vincennes, 



At Sea, Nov. 29th, 1841. 



Sir, 



You will proceed to Strong's and Ascension Island, survey their 

 harbours, obtain all the information in your power, and at the former 

 make examinations for the wreck of the Waverley. 



From thence you will pass to Manilla, through the Straits of 

 Bernadino, where you will arrive without fail by the 10th of 

 January, 1842. 



You will run for all islands and reefs lying in your track, and 

 obtain all the information in your power, relative to the supplies they 

 afford ; inquire into the character of the white men residing on them, 

 and collect as many curiosities as possible. 



You will be particular in your intercourse with the people of 

 Strong's and Ascension Islands, as they are reported to be in pos- 

 session of a bad set of runaway white men. 



All the information you can obtain must be carefully noted. 



I shall expect you to execute the duties committed to you with 

 promptness, and I may fall in with you prior to your reaching 

 Manilla ; but this will make no difference in your operations. 



At Manilla, you will await me or orders. Wishing you a pleasant 

 cruise. 



I am, &c, 



Charles Wilkes, 



Commanding Exploring Expedition-. 



Acting-Master S. R. Knox, 



U. S. Schooner Flying-Fish. 



