North Coast: Torres' Strait.] INTRODUCTION. xxv 
western reef, and was surrounded with dry sands. Besides these, Binm and 
there were other low isles, called the Six Sisters, in sight, to the ^iST" 
south-east; and a long, flat island, bearing S. 33 0 to 46 0 W. over the 
dry Dungeness Reef ; in the west, also, there were islands visible, at 
a greater distance, and much higher, than the others. The Strait, 
instead of becoming clearer, seemed to be more and more embar- 
rassed with dangers, as the vessels proceeded westward. The lati- 
tude of this anchorage was g°5o'j- south, and the longitude 1^55' 
east. 
Sept. 10. The boats sounded the channel to the north-west, between 
Dungeness and Warriours Islands ; and finding sufficient water, the 
vessels got under way, at noon, to follow them. There were many 
natives collected upon the shore of Dungeness Island, and several 
canoes from Warriours Island were about the brig. Presently, captain 
Portlock made the signal for assistance; and there was a discharge of 
musketry and some guns, from his vessel and from the boats. Canoes 
were also coming towards the Providence; and when a musket was 
hred at the headmost, the natives set up a great shout, and paddled 
forward in a body ; nor was musketry sufficient to make them desist. 
The second great gun, loaded with round and grape, was directed 
at the foremost of eight canoes, full of men ; and the round shot 
after raking the whole length, struck the high stern. The Indians 
leaped out, and swam towards their companions ; plunging con- 
stantly, to avoid the musket balls which showered thickly about 
them. The squadron then made off, as fast as the people could 
paddle without shewing themselves ; but afterwards rallied at a 
greater distance, until a shot, which passed over their heads, made 
them disperse, and give up all idea of any further attack. 
In passing the deserted canoe, one native was observed still sitting 
m it. The other canoes afterwards returned to him ; and, with 
glasses, signals were perceived to be made by the Indians, to their 
friends on Dungeness Island, expressive, as was thought, of grief 
and consternation. 
VOL. I. £ 
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