228 
VOYAGE OF THE POTOMAC. 
[February, 
ceives universal reprehension among these people. But believ- 
ing that he had advanced too far to recede, he resolved to go on 
with firmness, but with every requisite caution. He therefore 
changed his plan so far as to land at Soo-soo, to reconnoitre and 
make inquiries. He did so, and the next morning's sun lighted 
his little well-freighted bark on her way to the frigate. 
His feelings, on thus approximating to the big ship, which had 
just poured such a cataract of ruin on the pirates of Quallah- 
Battoo, can more easily be conceived than described. He him- 
self describes them in a style of frank simplicity that is highly 
amusing. His first idea, on becoming sensible of the vessel's 
actual magnitude, was, " No enough piculs of pepper to load 
such big ship !" On rowing alongside, he was instantly recog- 
nised by Mr. Barry, second officer of the unfortunate Friendship, 
who invited him on board, and pledged himself for his protection 
and kind treatment. 
Reassured by this unexpected welcome by an old acquaint- 
ance, Mahommed was soon on the spardeck of the Potomac, 
where the first thing that arrested his attention was the splendid 
naval uniform of the officers ; a costume which he had never 
seen before. But from the commanding deportment and golden 
epaulets which distinguished one individual on the quarterdeck, 
he was at no loss as to where his respects were first due. Con- 
ducted by Mr. Barry, he timidly proceeded aft, and uncovering 
his head, made a low and almost reverential salam to the com- 
modore ; while the latter, with a smile of welcome, took him by 
the hand, and assured him of his friendship and protection. 
Nearly bewildered with joy at this unlooked-for reception, Ma- 
hommed produced the letter of Captain Endicott, which the com- 
modore perused, and again bid him welcome. The young rajah 
then pointed to his canoe, and spoke of the refreshments it con- 
tained ; on which the commodore ordered them to be passed on 
board, and presented his visiter with twenty dollars as a compen- 
sation. By this time, Mahommed was almost beside himself with 
pleasure, not unmingled with pride, as he said to himself, " What 
the rajah and my mother say to this ?" 
The commodore then assigned Mahommed to the care and pro- 
tection of a middy, who conducted him through various parts of 
the ship, and explained every thing which his wondering inquisi- 
