May 1830. guanacoes — muuray narrow. 439 



four fine guanacoes feeding close to the water. Tbey did not 

 seem to be much alarmed ; but walked away from us round a 

 projecting part of the shore, which prevented our getting a shot 

 at them. They appeared to be much larger than those I had seen 

 near Port Desire, on the Patagonian coast, their bodies being 

 far heavier, and their tails longer and more bushy. These dif- 

 ferences might be the natural result of a different climate, as 

 cool weather, with plenty of food and water, would probably 

 increase their size. I would not delay, on their account, hoping 

 to fall in with others, but pushed on along the shore. These 

 animals were near what is called in the chart ' Windhond Bay.** 

 In the afternoon, we were again among rocky mountains and 

 deep-water shores, and being so fortunate as to get a fresh 

 breeze from the S.E., made much progress before night. We 

 saw several canoes, full of natives ; but did not turn aside to 

 speak to them, as time was too precious. 



" 6th. A very cold and blowing morning, the wind being 

 against us, yet we made better progress than I had hoped for, 

 as our boat proved to be so excellent ; and whether sailing or 

 pulling, was all we could wish for. This night we bivouacked 

 close to the Murray Narrow, but took care not to land till 

 after dark, and then carefully concealed the fire, so that our 

 rest might not be disturbed by visits from the Fuegians. A 

 sharp look-out was, of course, kept by the watch ; and by my 

 two dogs, who were very useful in that way. 



" 7th. Soon after we set out, many canoes were seen in chase 

 of us ; but though they paddled fast in smooth water, our 

 boat moved too quickly for them to succeed in their endeavours 

 to barter with us, or to gratify their curiosity. The Murray 

 Narrow is the only passage into the long channel which runs so 

 nearly east and west. A strong tide sets through it, the flood 

 coming from the channel. On each side is rather low land, 

 rising quickly into hills, behind which are mountains : those 

 on the west side being high, and covered with snow. When we 

 stopped to cook and eat our dinner, canoes came from all sides, 

 bringing plenty of fish for barter. None of the natives had 

 any arms ; they seemed to be smaller in size, and less disposed 



