APPENDIX. 435 



every reason to be satisfied), perhaps some expression of opinion may 

 be looked for on my part. 



I confess then freely that I have been actuated somewhat by selfish 

 considerations. A visit to New Zealand is a point which I have more 

 at heart than any other in these seas, and I conceive the time allotted 

 by no means too much to be employed between Australia, New Zealand, 

 and the Tonga Islands. Perhaps, if I had every thing at my disposal, 

 I should feel tempted to touch at some southern point of New Zealand, 

 before proceeding to the Bay of Islands ; but there would be danger in 

 this, both by land and water, besides the risk of losing the main points 

 of observation. Farther than this, I should not think of attempting. I 

 should therefore deprecate any change of plan, which would lead to a 

 change of destination, but of course should not expect my individual 

 voice to weigh against the general good of the Expedition. 



Charles Pickering. 

 To Charles Wilkes, Esq., 



Commanding Exploring Expedition. 



U. S. Ship Vincennes, 



Sydney Cove, Dec. 23d, 1839. 

 Sir, — 



You will proceed to New Zealand by the first opportunity, and 

 attend to the following duties. 



1st. You will make hourly observations of the tides. 

 2d. Observations of the temperature, at eight, twelve, and six; 

 winds, weather, &c. 



3d. Collect all specimens possible for the scientific corps, and other 

 departments of the Expedition. 



4th. Keep a journal, and note all the information you can obtain 

 relative to New Zealand, and make a report in writing to me. 



You will take with you a tide-staff, three thermometers, watch, 

 stationary, &c. 



I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, 



(Signed) Charles Wilkes, 



Commanding Exploring Expedition. 

 Mr. J. W. Waldron, 



U. S. Brig Porpoise. 



