ANNOBONB. 
47 
bable the ‘Albert’ will touch here, a letter was left 
for Captain Trotter, advising him of our proceedings, 
and pointing out where wood and water were to be 
obtained. To ensure its delivery, and as a return for 
his civility, we gave the head man of the little fishing 
establishment a trifling present. The settlement only 
contained four persons, who have about equal pre- 
tensions to the title of lawful chief, but they cordially 
united in thanking us for this unexpected piece of 
generosity. 
Took our departure from the little isle of Rollas, 
where we had spent a week very pleasantly and pro- 
fitably. Although there were some relapses, and even 
newcases,there was a decided improvement in the general 
state of our sick. The superiority of the climate south 
of the Equator, was very apparent as we advanced; 
some have even said that the sick feel the benefit 
immediately on crossing the Line. This appears 
paradoxical, but from whatever cause, the improve- 
ment was palpable with us. The wind being strong 
against us, we made but slow progress. 
October 2,7th . — Saw the land of Annobone at 
daylight, but did not reach the anchorage till the 
afternoon, as in addition to the obstacle of a head 
wind, the wood we had procured at Rollas was so wet, 
that it was with difficulty the steam could be kept up. 
On nearing the island we observed the town in a state 
of great commotion ; a few canoes cautiously pushed off 
from the beach, and one man, M^ho called himself the 
