Sheerness.] TERRA AUSTRALIS. 5 
those accidents to which ships employed in examining new, or little isoi. 
known coasts, are more peculiarly liable. To Mr. Whidbey, the amuuy ' 
master attendant, who had served in the expedition of captain Van- 
couver, I was also much indebted, for his valuable advice and assist- 
ance in the selection of the proper stores. Both these officers con- 
stantly took pleasure in promoting whatever could be useful to the 
voyage, or add to our comfort and convenience ; and in some cases, 
our wants, and even wishes, were anticipated. 
February 16, I was promoted to the rank of commander. On February, 
the 14th of the following month, the guns, twelve six-pounders, with March, 
their ammunition and a chest of fire works were received ; and the 
provisions and stores being all on board on. the 27th, and the ship 
ready for sea, we dropped out to the Nore. I was anxious to arrive 
upon the coasts of Terra Australis in time to have the whole of the 
southern summer before me; but various circumstances retarded 
our departure, and amongst others, a passport from the French 
government, to prevent molestation to the voyage, had not arrived. I 
took advantage of this delay to remedy an inconvenience, under which 
we were otherwise likely to suffer. The quantity of provisions neces- 
sary to be carried out did not leave room in the holds for more water 
than fifty tons ; but by removing ten of the long guns, and sub- 
stituting a few light carronades which could be carried on the upper 
deck, ten tons more of water might be received, without reducing 
our efficient strength ; for the ship was too deep to admit of the 
guns below being used in bad weather, whereas the carronades 
would be always serviceable. My application to have this exchange May. 
made, was complied with ; and on May 20 it was effected. 
On the 22nd, a set of astronomical and surveying instruments, 
for the use of myself and officers, was sent down by direction of the 
Navy Board; as also various articles for presents to, and barter with, 
the native inhabitants of the countries to be visited, and many for 
our own use and convenience. Amongst the latter were most of 
the books of voyages to the South Seas, which, with our own indi- 
vol. 1. E e 
