2i6 
THE ALDABRA ISLES 
plenty of subsistence in the abundance of fresh turtle 
meat and turtle eggs. Moreover, the sea appears to be 
rich in fish. 
The only disadvantages are the imperfect communica¬ 
tion with the neighbouring colonies, and the great dis¬ 
tance from them; the Seychelles, for example, with which 
there is at present most intercourse, lying at a distance 
of 550 nautical miles. Steamers are not in the habit of 
calling at Aldabra, but a schooner comes from the 
Seychelles two or three times a year. It is most quickly 
reached by means of the well-built sailing ships from North 
Madagascar, to which the current from East Madagascar 
renders assistance. Landing is somewhat difficult, owing 
to the roughness of the surrounding sea. 
Aldabra and the neighbouring low coral islands, Cos- 
moledo, Assumption and Astow, are in the possession of 
England, and are under the government of the Seychelles. 
At present an English factor has taken these islands into 
profitable management, paying for each of them a monthly 
rent of five dollars. 
