CAPE OF GOOD HOPE. 
447 
one story in height, and is situated some hundred yards on the western 
declivity, and is in some measure sheltered from the easterly winds. 
It contains a handsome suite of rooms, and, when compared with the 
old house, seems quite a palace. At the time of our visit it was occu¬ 
pied by Lieutenant Smith, of the artillery, and his assistants, who have 
charge of the magnetic observatory. The house has never been 
finished: the death of the Emperor of course rendering its completion 
unnecessary. It is said that during his life he never visited it, nor 
would he allow any one to consult him about its plan, declaring that 
he would not remove to it. 
Napoleon seems to have engrafted himself on the memory of the 
islanders; and all the events and little incidents occurring to him 
during his residence, are remembered and cherished by them with 
pleasure. His chief complaint regarded the system of espionage under 
which he was placed, from the hour in which he gave himself up to 
the English to that of his death. It has been asserted, and up to this 
time without contradiction, that Sir George Cockburn, who com¬ 
manded the Bellerophon, in which vessel Bonaparte was transported 
to St. Helena, was ordered to make minutes of every conversation 
that took place during the voyage. These memoranda have been 
already published in Boston, and their authenticity, although denied, 
seems to be unquestionable ; for the publication emanated from the 
private secretary of Sir George; who, while making out one fair copy 
of the minutes, made another for himself. Although the ministry may 
have thought themselves justified in taking this course at the time, 
yet it seems, at this time, scarcely reconcilable with a high sense 
of honour ; and notwithstanding Sir George may have considered it 
necessary to obey implicitly his orders, still the fact that he lent him¬ 
self to such a service must injure his reputation. 
In justice to Sir Hudson Lowe, it must be stated, according to what 
I heard at the island, that his treatment of his royal captive was in 
strict conformity to his instructions, and that, as far as his orders were 
concerned, he was allowed no discretion. Many of the inhabitants 
know that he tried in several ways to ameliorate the condition of his 
prisoner, but he was not permitted to do so. 
I trust that what I have said upon this subject will not be construed 
as disrespectful to a high-minded and friendly government, or be cast¬ 
ing any odium on the many honourable and courteous British officers 
it has been my good fortune to meet in many parts of the globe, and 
who have extended to me and my officers the most grateful civilities; 
but I could not forbear the expression of my sentiments when I con- 
