258 DOTTINGS ON THE ROADSIDE. [Chap. XVI.—B. P. 
tainly not to be wondered at when it is considered 
that wind and current were against us, and that the 
old ship had a heavy pair of paddle-wheels to drag 
through the water in addition. 
On this coast, during the period of the trade-winds, 
from November to May, a large body of water is 
forced round Cape Gracias k Dios, and along the shore 
to the southward, causing a current in that direction 
more or less strong in proportion to the force of the 
wind; so that at this season, unless the trade veers 
well to the eastward or northward, it is a very difficult 
matter for even a Baltimore clipper to get north, and 
therefore it was a hopeless task for the old 1 Gorgon.’ 
However, fortunately, we were not dependent on sails 
alone, and finding it useless to contend against wind 
and current I ordered the steam to be got up. 
From Greytown to Monkey Point, which forms the 
eastern extremity of a commodious anchorage, now 
called Pirn’s Bay, the course and distance is north 
about 38 miles. But as we were using steam we 
coasted along the land, which curves gently to the 
N.N.W. for about 30 miles, and then turns more 
sharply until it reaches Monkey Point. 
By this means every one on board had the oppor¬ 
tunity of becoming practically acquainted with the 
appearance of the shore, and the nature of the pilot¬ 
age, for future use if needed. 
The land near the beach as far as the mouth of the 
river Rama is low, densely covered with trees, and 
fringed with sand, upon which the surf breaks heavily; 
so much so, indeed, that it is hazardous for even a 
