S O O L O O. 359 



of this vessel, great exposure was necessary to effect this survey, I 

 found both officers and men cheerful and willing. The parties were 

 organized, — the first to proceed to the north, towards Balabac Island, 

 to survey the intermediate shoals and reefs, under Lieutenant Emmons 

 and Mr. Totten ; the second to the south, under Lieutenants Perry 

 and Budd ; and Mr. Hammersly for the survey of the shoals of 

 Balambangan and Banguey, and their reefs. The examination of 

 the Mangsee Islands, and the reefs adjacent, with the astronomical 

 and magnetic observations, &c, devolved on myself and those who 

 remained on board the ship. 



The weather was watched with anxiety, and turned out disagree- 

 able, heavy showers and strong winds prevailing; notwithstanding, 

 the boats were despatched, after being as well protected against it as 

 possible. We flattered ourselves that these extensive reefs would 

 produce a fine harvest of shells ; but, although every exertion was 

 made in the search, we did not add as many to our collections as we 

 anticipated. Some land-shells, however, were found that we little 

 expected to meet with, for many of the trees were covered with them, 

 and on cutting them down, large quantities were easily obtained. Mr. 

 Peale shot several birds, among which was a Nicobar pigeon ; some 

 interesting plants and corals were also added. On the island a large 

 quantity of drift-wood was found, which with that which is growing 

 affords ample supplies of fuel for ships. No fresh water is to be had, 

 except by digging, the island being but a few feet above high-water 

 mark. 



Although the time was somewhat unfavourable, Lieutenant Em- 

 mons and party executed their orders within the time designated, and 

 met with no other obstructions than the inclemency of the weather. 

 This was not, however, the case with Lieutenant Perry, who, near a 

 small beach on the island of Balambangan, encountered some Sooloos, 

 who were disposed to attack him. The natives, no doubt, were under 

 the impression that the boats were from some shipwrecked vessel. 

 They were all well armed, and apparently prepared to take advantage 

 of the party if possible ; but, by the prudence and forbearance of this 

 officer, collision was avoided, and his party saved from an attack. 



The island of Balambangan was through the instrumentality of 

 Mr. Dairy mple, as heretofore stated, obtained from the Sooloos for a 

 settlement and place of deposit, by the East India Company, who 

 took possession of it in 1773. Its situation off the northern end of 

 Borneo, near the fertile district of that island, its central position, and 

 its two fine ports, offered great advantages for commerce, and for 

 its becoming a great entrepot for the riches of this archipelago. 



