TRAVELS IN THE CALIFORNIAS 
131 
Tedious. On the 16th a breeze fills their sails, and the ships 
stand away for the harbor de la Magdalena. Here they are 
enveloped in a fog* so dense that a man cannot be seen at 
six paces. The Capitana runs into the harbor, but the Almi- 
ranta is compelled to turn her prow seaward. When the 
fog clears up, therefore, they have lost sight of each other. 
The people of the Capitana mount the hills which skirt the 
harbor, and build signal fires on the heights. These are seen 
by the people of the Almiranta; but mistaking them for the 
fires of the Indians, continue to stand off. The Captain-Gene¬ 
ral now becomes very anxious for the missing ship and fri 
gate; and, as soon as the gale abates, sails in quest of them. 
He first explores the bay of San Jago; but not finding them 
there, proceeds to Magdalena, and, to the joy of all, anchors 
near the frigate. 
They weigh anchor again on Sunday morning the 28th 
of July, and that they may not be parted again, the Capitana 
takes the frigate in tow. A gale which comes on from the 
northwest after they leave the harbor, prevents them from 
standing as far from the shore as they desire. But they bear 
away along the coast, and soon after heave in sight of a bay 
which seems to be formed by the mouth of a river. This 
the frigate is sent to survey. But ascertaining the mouth to 
be crossed by a line of impassable breakers, they continue 
their voyage. On the eighth of August they discover another 
bay. Being now very much in want of wood, water, and 
fresh food, some soldiers are sent on shore to search for them. 
The country, however, is perfectly barren and destitute of all. 
An island is in sight which promises the required aid. It 
proves to be small, with a soil of gravel and sand, and 
thronged with gulls. The creeks are frequented with im¬ 
mense numbers of sea wolves, and a great variety of fish. 
The boat is sent out with fishing tackle, &c., and in an hour 
two men take a supply for both vessels. 
Transfiguration day is passed here; and Padre Antonio 
celebrates mass. After service, the sergeant and some soldiers 
