230 Captain Anderson on the peculiarity of the tides 
the Veer Gat until the flats and mud banks become dry ; at 
which time the current of tide in the Slough changes, and 
runs to the S. Westward into the West Scheldt by Ramme- 
kins ; thus making the current of tide run nine hours one 
way, and only three hours the other. This may be account- 
ed for in the following manner: when it is high water in the 
Scheldt, and the tide of ebb sets down the river, it sets over 
the extensive flat between the north-west point of South 
Beveland and Rammekins into the Slough, until the flat be- 
comes dry, which occasions the tide to continue the same 
course as before, although the water is falling. But when all 
the flats become dry, and the water is confined within the 
proper limits of the respective channels of the West Scheldt, 
the Veer Gat, and the Slough ; and the Veer Gat being then 
only about 30 yards or less in width, three or four times nar- 
rower than the Slough, the water through the Slough cannot 
any longer find a vent through the Veer Gat, and therefore 
seeks one by the West Scheldt, where there is sufficient space 
for it; and hence the tide in the Slough changes and runs out 
by Rammekins into the Scheldt. 
It would scarcely have been important to mention this pecu- 
liarity, as it is confined to a very small space, and where ves- 
sels of any considerable burthen never perhaps passed before 
the above mentioned expedition, and never may again; had 
itnot on this occasion presented one of the greatest obstacles,* 
next to the continual adverse gales, which the transports had 
to contend with, in getting into the West Scheldt; and which 
could not have been overcome, but by dint of the most labo- 
rious and persevering exertions ; and also as it furnishes a 
* This obstacle, I confidently believe, was never known to the Commander in 
Chief, down to this moment. 
