10 



THREE YEARS IN THE PACIFIC. 



wards" her. Yet this is not that warm, adoring sort of love, 

 inspired by womanj but rather such attachment as we feel for 



a favorite dog or horse. Though the F be not a perfect 



specimen of naval architecture, she is looked on favorably by 

 those, trained to command and range the various sail," and 

 her accommodations, both for officers and men, will bear com- 

 parison with those of any sloop-of-war in the service. 



Having prepared every thing for my voyage, in June, 1831j 

 I found myself on board, waiting only for a favorable wind. I 

 had parted from my friends. Recollection is still fresh with 

 the conflict between the anticipation of new scenes and the 

 regret of separation, the resolution to part without a sigh, the 

 benedictions of parting friends, the gazing after one, the ma- 

 ternal blessing and last advice, breathed in tones of affection. 

 The words of a mother at such a time are like a warning voice 

 from Heaven, and like that voice, too frequently disregarded ; 

 — one's feelings almost bubble up at the thought, in spite of all 

 that philosophy may teach ! 



" It is a bitter trial to forsake, 

 E'en for a season, in this changeful world. 

 The things we cherish !" 



One morning, while looking over the beautiful bay, and 

 gazing on the fair city of New York, that seemed to rise out 

 of the bosom of the waters, the boatswain shouted, in the deep, 

 gruff tone, peculiar to those of his office, all hands, up an- 

 chor ahoy !" 



The first lieutenant, the moving spring of the active and 

 ready crew, stood upon the poop, trumpet in hand. The offi- 

 cers were called to their respective stations ; the capstan bars 

 placed and manned ; the messenger passed. Silence reigned 

 " fore and aft. " The " first" applied the trumpet to his mouth,- 

 and in an under tone, gave the order, heave round." 



The <'lads" stepped away to the music of the merry fife, 

 and with light hearts, timed " Off she goes" till the anchor 

 was apeak. 



" High enough," cried the second lieutenant, who was sta- 

 tioned on the forecastle. 



