June 1828. 



INDIANS CROSS THE STRAIT. 



147 



On the 21st of June, after a heavy north-east gale, we had 

 an unusually fine day. The hills at the bottom of Magdalen 

 Channel were more distinct than we had ever noticed them, 

 and Mount Sarmiento was particularly clear; indeed its out- 

 line was so sharply defined, that the distance did not appear to 

 be more than ten miles. This extraordinary transparency of the 

 air was at first considered a presage of wet weather ; yet the 

 clear and sharp appearance of the distant land was unlike that 

 which usually precedes a fall of rain. The long series of rainy 

 Weather we had experienced made us look for a good result 

 from such an unusual atmosphere, and we were not deceived. 

 The following day our hopes were still further confirmed by 

 seeing three Indian canoes, coming across the Strait, towards 

 us, from Lomas Bay, which they would not have attempted 

 had they not been sure of its continuing fine ; for their canoes 

 are ill adapted to encounter the short cross sea found during 

 bad weather in mid-channel of the Strait. 



Although the presence of the natives did not in general 

 please me, because it naturally put a stop to all work ; yet, on 

 this occasion it was agreeable, as it tended in some measure to 

 enliven the monotonous manner in which we passed our days. 



Upon reaching the bay, the Indians did not approach the ship, 

 but paddled into the coves under Point Santa Anna, where our 

 boat was employed watering. Mr. Graves went to them, to 

 prevent mischief, and found they were the same party who 

 had before visited us. When our boats returned, they paddled 

 over to the wigwam at the head of the port, about a quarter of 

 a mile beyond our tents, and began to repair it, and by sunset 

 were housed and sheltered for the night. We had, however, so 

 lately experienced their treacherous disposition, that no confi- 

 dence was placed in appearances. Sentinels were posted at the 

 tents, to give the alarm, should any of them approach ; and at 

 eight o'clock a volley of musketry was fired, by way of intimi- 

 dation, and to impress them with the idea that we kept a watch 

 upon their movements, and were prepared. 



While the wigwams were repairing, a few of the Indians 

 visited our tents ; but were not allowed to pass within a rope 



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