AT SEA. 
51 
At six this morning we met with the south-east trade wind ; it 
blows very fresh, which is doubly acceptable, as it prevents the 
oppression of the heat of the sun, which is now within a few miles 
of being vertical. The change from the chill breezes of the south- 
west to a tropical climate has been so rapid, that most of us 
are unwell. 
December 15. — Latitude IV 53' south, longitude 95" 06 east. 
The trade wind continues very fresh, and the heat moderate. Yester- 
day, for the first time, we saw several flying-fish, and some few birds ; 
which, from their distance, I could not ascertain to belong to the 
land ; though, from their manner of flight, I suspected it. We go, 
on an average, 200 miles per day. 
December ^4. — Yesterday we met with the S. W. wind, accom- 
panied with very heavy rain. It has driven us on better, but this 
evening seems inclined to calms. 
December ^6. — We spent our Christmas^day as nearly as possible 
on the Line. At twelve we were 1 7 miles south, and before the day 
was over, were just north. In the evening it was perfectly calm, in 
consequence of which we placed lanterns in the rigging, and, with 
the soldiers' wives for partners, joined in a merry dance. The scene 
was very gay, for the soldiers covered the sides of the vessel, the 
poop, and the rigging. 
December 31.— -Latitude 5« 10' S. longitude 93° 52,' E. The last 
day of the year has given me the first sight of Asia; for at six this 
morning the coast of Sumatra was visible, at the distance of four- 
teen leagues. The mountains are very lofty, and, in general, clouds 
hang over them. At twelve the rain fell on the land, and rendered 
the whole invisible. 
VOL. I. H 
