CHAPTER XVI. 



OREGON TERRITORY. 



STRAIT OF JUAN DE FUCA. 



In approaching this strait, I have elsewhere mentioned that the 

 coast, to the southward of Cape Flattery, is a dangerous one, on ac- 

 count of the numerous outlying rocks, and the prevalence of the almost 

 daily fogs, which prove of serious difficulty and anxiety to all naviga- 

 tors. Many of these rocks are isolated, lie at the distance of several 

 miles from the coast, and surrounded by water of the depth of 10 to 

 15 fathoms. The coast is high and iron-bound. On account of the cur- 

 rents, it is desirable to avoid this part of the coast, as they set for the 

 most part on it from the northwest. I therefore deem it preferable, 

 for vessels bound into the Strait of Juan de Fuca, to make the land 

 of Vancouver's Island to the northward, which is visible a long dis- 

 tance to seaward, and can be perceived before that of the mainland to 

 the southward of Cape Flattery. Having attained the latitude of 48° 

 30' north, a due east course will lead a vessel to the centre of the Strait, 

 into the fair channel-way, with the highland visible on both sides. 

 Off Cape Flattery lies Tatooch Island and the Duncan Rock. Be- 

 tween these there is a safe passage. We passed through it in the 

 Vincennes. It is well, however, not to attempt it unless with a favor- 

 able tide and a commanding breeze. Duncan Rock is a few feet 

 above the water : when the sea is high it breaks entirely over it. 

 To the north of the Duncan there is a small shoal, with three fathoms 

 on it. When the tide is strong, it shows the position by whirls. 

 From Tatooch Island, at the distance of five miles east-southeast 

 (true), lies Scarborough Harbor, formed by a small bay and Neah 

 Island, which lies off its eastern point. This harbor is protected 

 from all but north and northwest winds, to which it is entirely 

 exposed. It affords temporary anchorage for vessels bound in or out. 



