Transcription

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On the 19th. day of January 1801, a commission was signed by the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty for Lieut. Mattw. Flinders to be lieutenant of His Majestys ship the Investigator, (late Xenophon) ['then lying in the harbour of Sheerness' has been inserted in pencil] and being the senior officer, I took the command, and J. H. Martin Esq. her former commander, considered himself superseded.
        On the 25th. my commission was read on board the ship, then lying in the harbour of Sheerness.
        She was lately out of dock, having been coppered, and was now new rigged, but had nothing on board but some iron and shingle ballast, and a little present use provisions.
        I immediately made application to the Navy Board to order the proper officers of the yard to furnish us with such proportions of stores, without reference to the usual mode of fitting ships of war, as I should judge expedient for the service upon which we expected to go; This order was immediately complied with, as was

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another for forty chaldrons of coals.

               The journal of proceedings on board the ship is then as follows

Jan. 1801 Winds Transactions on bd. Investigator - Sheerness
Sund. 25 Noly. A.M. Mustered the ships company, and received fresh beef - Snow at times
Mon. 26 N.W. Moderate breezes with snow. A.M. Surveyed the pursers stores. Empld. occasionally
Tues. 27 N.W. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Held surveys upon the Boatswains and Carpenters stores; but the guns being shifted from 32 pound carronades to long 6 pounders, the gunners stores were all sent on shore, and I did not take them upon charge. Fresh breezes and cloudy wr.
Wedn. 28 W.N.W. Prepared to throw out the shingle ballast to receive coals. Otherwise employed occasionally
Thurs. 29 W.N.W. Strong breezes in the morning which prevented us from moving to moorings nearer in shore. Moored ship again and struck topmasts. Recd. fresh beef, 516 lbs.

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[Jan. 1801]
Rems., applications, orders &c.

[Sun 25]
Applied to have the present master superseded, which was acceded to and the choice left entirely to me

[Mon. 26]
Applied for Joseph Robinott to supersede the present cook, which was complied with & his warrant given

[Tues.27]
Applied to the Commissioners of the victualling for our casks to be new, and to prepare 18 months salt and 12 months dry provisions to be prepared; as also for the usual allowance of extra articles

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Jan. 1801   Winds Transactions &c. Investigator Sheerness
Frid 30 Wtly. Transported the ship to her moorings, and took them in. Employed throwing the shingle ballast into a lighter. Received fresh beef 179 lbs. I launched the 6 oared cutter
Sat. 31 SSW. Employed clearing the holds to receive coals
Feb.
1801
Sun.
1 Wtly. A.M. Mustered ships company and read the articles of war. Recd. beer & bread fr. lighter
Mon. 2 WSW Returned our cables (one excepted) and hawsers. A.M. employed on shore about the cables and drawing boatswains stores
Tuesd. 3 S.W. Employed taking in 351/4 chaldron of coals, in which the ground tier is to be stowed. Recd. 161 lbs of fresh beef
Wed. 4 WSW. Recd. 2 chords of wood. Employed in the hold stowing the ground tier. A.M. Read the articles of war & punished John Fuller Marine with 12 lashes for contempt to his serjeant - Washed and aired below
Thurs. 5 Wtly. Mod. and cloudy. Employed in the holds and in occasional duties
Fri. 6 Wtly. Returned various old carpenters stores. Joiners from the yard employed on board as usual, and shipwrights cutting scuttles in the ports -

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[Jan. 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Fri. 30]
Made application to the Commissioners of the victualling for water casks, being the second; and to the Sick and Hurt Board for a medical man to be sent down to us -

[Feb. 1801]
Feb. 6. Recd. orders to take on board as much stores and provisions as the Investigator could store, with all expedition, and repair to the Nore, keeping the ship ready for sailing. Recd. also a new establishmt. for the ship, amounting to 83 including 15 marines. Warrant officers being allowed by this new order, I applied for Charles Douglas - the boatswains mate to be Boatswain, and Russel Mart of Sheerness Yard to be Carpenter, which was complied with; but my application for John Whitewood to be acting gunner was not. I requested also of my Lords Commissioners that such men, who from age or other causes should be found unfit for such a voyage as the present intended should be discharged, and the complement filled up with healthy young men who should be volunteers; and in consequence, V. Ad. Græme received orders to act accordingly, so soon as we should go out to the Nore.

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Feb. 1801   Winds Transactions &c. Investigator Sheerness
Sat. 7 NNW Fresh breezes and cloudy. Returned some Boatswains & Carpenters stores. Employed slinging buoys &c. &c. on board. Recd. 169 339 lb fresh beef
Sun. 8 NWtly Recd. some Boatswains stores. Mustered the people
Mon. 9 WNW Recd. 18 tons of water. Employed stowing in the holds
Tuesd. 10 Noly. Fresh breezes & cloudy. Shipwrights and Joiners employed on board about various jobs. Returned all the provisions in the ship, a small quantity for present use only excepted. A.M. Got off our anchors, making together 5 bowers, 2 streams and 2 kedges. Recd. 106 lbs fresh beef
Wed. 11 Etly. Fresh breezes and rainy at times. Employed occasionally on board the ship.
Thur. 12 East Carpenters &c. as usual. Do. Wr. with snow
Frid. 13 E.S.E Do. Wr. Discharged the clerk and 3 men into H.M.B. Explosion, after captain M. my predecessor. Employed on board occasionally
Sat. 14 Etly. Fresh breezes with hail and snow. An officer and men at the yard drawing stores. Cleared out the sail room and overhauled the few sails on board. Found that the mice had got at them. Recd. 114 lb of fresh beef

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[Feb. 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Sat. 7]
Informed the Victualling Board that the ship was waiting for water casks, and applied for some additions and alterations in the provisions they had ordered Applied to the Navy Board, for two carronades to be mounted abaft, and for our launch to be fitted so as to receive one of them; both of which were complied with.

[Thur. 12]
Informed the victualling board that we were still waiting for water and provisions, and applied for coopers tools, weights and measures, which were given

[Fri.13]
Applied to have the present master surveyed for sick quarters; and to the Board of Ordnance for cylinder powder, and a chest of fire works.

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Feb. 1801   Winds Rems. H.M.S. Investigator - Sheerness
Sund. 15 E.N.E. Fresh breezes with rain and hail. Received Boatswains stores. A.M. Mustered ships compy.
Mond. 16 E.N.E. Employed at the dock yard drawing Boatswains stores. Carpenters &c. on board
Tues. 17 Eastly Fresh breezes and cloudy. Recd. a lighter loaded with Boatswains stores. A.M. Employed at the yard. Recd. 140 lbs of fresh beef
Wed. 18 E.S.E. Employed variously. Mr. R. Purdie (Surg. Mate) joined. Employed at the yard & occasionally
Thurs. 19 Etly. Read the commanders commission. Employed as necessary. Entered Mr. Wolsey -
Frid. 20 E.N.E. Received two lighter loads of Provisions Employed in the holds and at the Yard
Sat. 21 Vble. Recd. Boatswains, Carpenters and Pursers stores. Employed stowing them away. Recd. 270 lbs of fresh beef
Sund. 22 S.W. Employed as above.
Mond. 23 S.W.bS. Fresh breezes with rain. Employed in the holds. A.M. Recd. a variety of provisions
Tues. 24 S.S.W. Recd. more provisions for sea, and 168 lbs of fresh beef. Employed stowing away provisions.

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[Feb. 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Mon.. 16]
Applied to the Victualling Board for permission to draw for 2 years necessary money - 18m. granted

[Thur. 19]
Applied to the Navy Board for one of the two whale boats, which had been built at Deptford for us, to be exchanged for a 4-oared boat to be built at Queenborough according to my directions - rejected at first, but complied about 3 weeks afterwards

[Sat. 21]
Informed the Victualling Board that such hand mills as I had applied for, could be procured at Port Jackson for £4 or 6; on which they ordered me to procure two

[Sun. 22]
Obtained 10 days leave of absence; which was afterwards extended to 14 on application. My business in town was partly to forward the providing of the requisite instruments, books, charts, stationary, articles for presents and barter &c. &c. &c.

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Feb. 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Sheerness
Wed. 25 S.S.W Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed in the holds. A.M. Carpenters &c. on board -
Thurs. 26 S.S.W Strong breezes with rain. Got T.Gt. Mts. down upon deck & struck Lr. yds. Empld. occasionally
Frid. 27 S.W Yard carpenters &c. on board. Employed putting the ship to rights. Entered Mr. Sinclair. Recd. fresh beef 264 lbs.
Sat. 28 S.W Unstowed the fore hold, got up 6 ton of iron ballast and placed it abaft, to trim the ship. -
March 1801
Sund. 1 West Fresh breezes with rain. Employed in the fore hold. Mustered ships company.
Mon. 2 WNW Fine weather. Employed variously. Recd. 265 lbs of fresh beef
Tuesd 3 N.W. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed making points for the new sails -
Wed. 4 N.W. Recd. water. Employed on board in the hold and fitting the gun tackles & breechings
Thurs. 5 S.W. People employed in the dockyard and in the holds. Carpenters and painters on board. Recd. spare spars on board
Frid. 6 Vble Empld. stowing the booms. A.M. People employed principally at the dock yard. Ansd. signal for weekly accts. as usual this day.

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Mar. 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Sheerness
Sat. 7 SE Mod. and cloudy. Recd. water per lighter. Empld. in the holds. Recd. 251 lbs fresh beef
Sun. 8 S.W. Employed as before, and in receiving 7 bower cables - Do. Wr.
Mon. 9 S.S.E. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Empld. in stowing away various stores
Tues. 10 Southly. Carpenters and Joiners on board. People employed at the dock yard, and in various duties on board. Recd. 243 lbs fresh beef
Wed. 11 Vble. Empld. Getting off sundry stores, and in occasional duties on board
Thurs. 12 W.b.N. Recd. sundry stores and 4 tons of beer. Retd. Hops and Molasses which we were unable to stow. Shipwrights coppering the ship a streak higher up
Frid. 13 W.N.W. Squally. Struck Lr. Yds. and T. Gt. Mts. Employed in the yard, and stowing away stores. Coiled shroud hawsers &c. in the magazine. Recd. 8 men from H.M.S. Hydra. Ansd. signl. for weekly accounts
Sat. 14 Vble. Recd. 105 lbs fresh beef. Recd. 12 six-pounders, 2 eighteen pound carronades, and gunners stores. Recd. a proportion of our sails

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[Mar. 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Mon. 9]
Wrote to the Board of Ordnance to hurry the gun carriages, musquets &c. &c. nothing of which was yet received, and also to the admiralty for 8 men, volunteers from H.M.S. Hydra, both of which were complied with, as also to have Mr. Gray superseded whom they had appointed as gunner

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Mar. 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Sheerness
Sund. 15 Wtly. Fresh breezes and rainy. Empld. fitting up the guns. A.M. Bent sails -
Mon. 16 WSW Employed coiling away hawsers &c. A.M. Recd. 65 half barrels of powder and stowed it away. Washed below
Tues. 17 WSW Empld. stowing shot cases &c. in light room, the ship being much by the head. A.M. Began painting the ship. Recd. a variety of fireworks from Woolwich, with directions. Recd. 275 lbs fresh beef - 6 lb short of weight.
Wed. 18 Wtly. Strong breezes. Struck lower yds. Empld. Occasionally on board, being unable to get anything from the yard. Painters employed
Thurs. 19 WSW Fresh breezes. Recd. some small stores. Opened a cask of pork, contents 63 pieces - 1 short. Ansd. signal for weekly accounts a midn.
Frid. 20 S.W. Squally. Got off 4 tons iron ballast to bring the ship by the stern. A.M. Recd. some stores. Employed lashing and scouring
Sat. 21 WSW Heavy squalls. Struck Ln. yds. per signal. A.M. Employed occasionally. Hoisted up the cutter to repair. Recd. 224 lbs fresh beef -

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[Mar. 1801]
Remarks, letter, orders &c

[Wed. 18]
Informed the Navy Board of the difficulty I found in obtaining a master, and submitted it to them whether some additional pay or encouragement ought not to be given. In answer they agree to give 3d. per day more than the rate allows, in lieu of all pilotage.

[Fri. 20]
Entered Mr. Crossly, Astronomer & his servant, as supernumeraries. Applied for a survey on surgeons stores.

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Mar. 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Sheerness
Sund. 22 WSW Recd. a five-oared whale boat from the dockyd. A.M. Restowed the booms. Recd. a four-oared whale-boat from the yard. Empd. clearing ship.
Mon. 23 West Employed as in the morning. A.M. Brought off the launch (a 32 gun frigates) and a spare rudder, in parts. Recd. 20 baricoes - Loosed sails to dry
Tuesd 24 Vble. Employed stowing away the rudder on the quarters, and spars. A.M. Loosed sails; otherwise employed occasionally
Wed. 25 WNW Squally with rain. Furled sails. A.M. Fine wr. Loosed sails. Recd. 198 lbs fresh beef -
Thurs. 26 Wtly. Hoisted in the launch & furled sails. A.M. Recd. beer and water, and returned empty casks. Employed clearing ship & securing
Frid. 27 Wtly. A.M. Thick wr. and almost calm. At 7, made signal for pilot with a gun. At 10 slipped the moorings and made sail out of the harbour. At 11, brought to at the little Nore & furled sails - in 11 fms. with small bower. Ansd. signl. for Weekly Accts.
Sat     Veered away with the ebb and moored ship: the Garrison point bearing S.W.

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[Mar. 1801] Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Thurs26]
Applied to the board of Ordnance for Francis Jennings to be apppointed Armourer, which was complied with and his warrant inclosed to me

[Fri. 27]
Reported the Investigator at the Nore waiting their Lordships orders, being ready for sea; and informed them of no books, charts, instruments, stationary, articles for presents and barter, or the men of science, having joined. Recd. for answer, that the men of science had been hastened down to join

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Mar. 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Sheerness
Sat. 28 WNW about 11/4 mile. Employed rounding the cables. A.M. Cleaned below, and loosed all sails to dry. Empld. pointing the cables. Recd. fresh beef 260 lbs fresh beef -
Sund. 29 Wtly. Light breezes & fine wr. Empld. pointing cables and about occasional jobs. A.M. Mustered the ships company and read the articles of war. Ansd. signal for all lieutenants. Loosed sails to dry. Washed and cleaned below
Mond. 30 Wtly. Do. weather. Furled sails. Part of the people on shore upon leave. A.M. Fitted travelling backstays. Making boats fenders &c.
Tues. 31 E.b.N. Modt. & fine weather. Discharged 8 men into H.M. Zeeland pr. order Vice Ad. Græme, and recd. 8 volunteers for the voyage in lieu. Empld. in various jobs of securing for sea, & about rigging. Recd. 218 lbs Fr. beef
April
Wedn
1 Etly. Carpenters on board from the yard. Scrubbed hammocks. Employed working up junk &c.
Thurs. 2 East Recd. 4 tons of water. A.M. Loosed sails to dry and scrubbed hammocks. Employed working up junk and in various occasional jobs.
Frid. 3 Eastly Furled sails. Employed otherwise as above. A.M. Washed below and secured ballast in the after part of the ship. Our carpenters putting together the spare rudder for shipping. Answered signal

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[April 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Wed.1]
Sent up the two-monthly books, up to 26th. last, and a sick ticket, with two allotments, and letter advising the Navy Board of them and requesting an acknowledgment of their receipt

[Thurs 2]
Recd. an admiralty order, to receive on board Mr. Rennell and victual him as a supernumerary.

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Apr. 1801   Winds Transactions &c. - Investigator, Little Nore
Frid.3   S.S.E. signals for the guard and for weekly accounts Came in H.M. gun brigs Express & Advice, and out of harbour the Vesuve and Plumper.
Sat. 4 S.S.E. Vble. Mod. & fine wr. Empld. working up junk & fitting the spare rudder together. A.M. Retd. the guard. Recd. fresh beef 269 lbs. - Unshipped the rudder, and tried to ship the spare one but could not -
Sund. 5 N.b.W
No.
Shipped the rudder again and hoisted in the spare one to be examined. A.M. Mustered ships compy. and gave part of them leave
Mond. 6 Vble. Fresh breezes & cloudy wr. A.M. Fine wr. Up T. Gt. yards as usual. Carpenters came off from the yard to examine the spare rudder and compare it with the old, which we unshipped for them. Having made the requisite alteration, we hoisted it out, and shipped it without difficulty. Punished Thos. Leach Marine, with 12 lashes for absenting himself beyond his leave. Ansd. signal and took the guard. Recd. 407 lbs fresh beef
Tuesd 7 S.W. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Hoisted in the spare rudder, took it to pieces and restowed it on the quarters. Came out of harbour H.M.S. Camilla 20 guns. A.M. Returned the guard. Employed berthing the hammocks and working up junk

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[April 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Sund 5]
By desire of Sir J.B. applied to V. Ad. Græme for leave of absence from the 9th. to the 19th. following, which was granted - Whilst in London, my publick employments were to hasten the mathematical instruments, forward the ordering of the necessary stationary and books, and articles for presents and barter; and put some necessary letters to the govr. of New South Wales under weigh; particularly relating to the brig Lady Nelson, a colonial vessel, but commanded by Lt. James Grant commander of the Supply hulk there. I obtained through the kindness of Mr. Dalrymple the Hydrographer, every certain information relating to New Holland, which I brought down with me; and copies of every chart lodged in the Admiralty Office were prepared for me and afterwards sent down; that is, such as related to the objects of our intended research

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Apr. 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Little Nore
Wed. 8 Vble. N.b.E. Strong breezes & squally. Employed working up junk. Struck T.Gt. masts. A.M. Up T.Gt. masts and yards. Mended sails. Employed otherwise working up junk
Thurs 9 Vble.W.bN Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed making points and ropebands- Mustered ships compy. AM. Recd. 3 tons of beer and 4 of water pr. lighter.
Frid. 10 W.b.N Do. weather. Working up junk. A.M. Struck T.Gt. masts. Ansd. signal to take guard and for weekly accounts. Cleared hawse and mustered per clerk of the checque
Sat. 11 NWtly Employed as before. Came out of harbour H.M. Ships Ranger and Ruby, and sailed the latter. Recd. fresh beef 209 lbs. Employed airing the sails
Sund. 12 No. N.E. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed about the sails &c. A.M. squally with snow
Mon. 13 N.E. Vble. NEbN Fresh breezes and squally. Employed staying the masts and setting up rigging. Took the guard per signal -
Tuesd. 14 E.N.E. Squally wr. A boat belonging to the Mary hired cutter picked up 2 of the crew of a boat which had been upset in the mouth of the harbour and brought them to us; found they belonged to the Griper gun brig. A.M. More moderate. Sent the 2 men to their vessel and returned the guard. Employed working up junk and fixing the splinter netting afresh

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Apr. 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Little Nore
Wedn 15 Vble. Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. A.M. Up T.Gt. masts. Recd. carpenters stores, and 306 lbs of fresh beef, short of weight 6 lb - Loosed sails
Thurs. 16 Vble. Furled sails. Employed working up junk
Frid. 17 Eastly Fresh breezes and cloudy. A.M. Fine wr. Dried small sails. Mended the rounding of the cables.
Satur 18 Vble.
S.b.W.
Recd. 251 lb of fresh beef, short of weight 6 lbs. - Cleared hawse. A.M. Fine wr. Sent the T.Gt. masts down and unrove the rigging. Punished Wm. Brown (Seaman) with 12 lashes for neglect of duty, and Ollof Wastreem with 8 lashes for leaving the boat when on duty. Sent a boat on duty to H.M.S. Ruby below the Great Nore
Sund. 19 Wtly
N.W.
Returned the T.Gt. rigging to the yard and received new. Employed fitting it. Cleared hawse. Mustered per clerk of the checque A.M. Up T.Gt. masts and set up the rigging Answered signal for all lieutenants
Mond. 20 Vble. Westly Light airs. Employed staying the T. and T.Gt. masts and setting up the rigging. Shipwrights from the yard employed on board
Tuesd. 21 W.b.N Do. weather. Employed occasionally. Recd. 3 tons of beer and 4 tons of water, and 242 lbs. of fresh beef. Employed clearing the lighter

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[April 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Thurs 16]
Applied from London to have my leave of absence extending until such times as as the instruments &c. &c. should be ready and every necessary arrangement made; it being considered that my presence may be more useful in London than at Sheerness. - In answer, the Admiralty extended my leave one week, or until the 26th.

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Apr. 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Little Nore
Wedn 22 WbN. Vble. E.N.E Fresh breezes and cloudy. Opened beef No.62. Contents 42 pieces. Washed below. Employed as necessary
Thurs. 23 E.N.E. Employed making points and rope bands, and A.M. loosed sails to dry
Frid. 24 Eastly Furled sails; otherwise employed as before Recd. 298 lbs of fresh beef. Ansd. signl. Weekly Accts.
Sat. 25 E.b.N. Mustered ships company per clerk of the checque. Washed below, loosed sails and took the guard per signal
Sund. 26 E.N.E. Furled sails. Employed as necessary. A.M. Cleared hawse. Mustered ships company and them clean as usual on this day, and read the articles of war
Mon. 27 Etly. Arrived and anchored H.M.S. Isis. A.M. Washed below and cleared hawse. Took the guard per signal. Employed working up junk
Tuesd. 28 Etly. Fresh breezes and fine weather. Rowed guard. Loosed sails to dry. Recd. 275 lbs fresh beef
Wedn. 29 E.b.N. Employed about the rigging. Employed making fenders for boats and in other occasional jobs. Took the guard per signal
Thurs. 30 E.N.E Fine weather. Employed principally in working up junk. Returned the guard
May
Frid.
1 Etly. Employed as before and occasionally. Took the guard per signal. Recd. 300 lbs fresh beef, 3 lbs short

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[May 1801]
Remarks; letters; orders &c. &c.

[Tues. 28]
Represented to the admiralty (by Letter 37) that the guns now on board were more than sufficient to combat Indians, and that they prevented us from carrying the quantity of present use water that was requisite; and understanding that a passport was to be obtained and was now daily expected, I begged leave to request "that their Lordships will be pleased to order, that ten of the "twelve long six-pounders now on board may be taken out; and "that in lieu, the ship may be supplied with six twelve-pound "carronades and two more swivels; which guns, in addition to two "eighteen-pound carronades now on board, I consider to be "sufficient to repel the attack of any Indians with whom we are likely to meet." I also requested to be supplied with a pocket time piece.



May 1st. Wrote to the Victualling Board requesting to know the proportion of wheat which ought to be issued in lieu of bread; whether one pound and a half of wheat for one pound of bread would be proper; or if not, begged to receive their instructions upon the subject. Answer. One pound and a quarter to be issued for a pound of bread

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May 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Little Nore
Sat. 2 Vble East Mod. with showers of rain. A.M. Fine weather. People washing their clothes. Returned the guard
Sun. 3 Vble.
N.W.
Employed variously. A.M. Up T.Gt. yards &c. as usual every fine morning. Took the guard per signal. Punished R. Hetherly with 12 lashes for quitting the boat and staying on shore without leave
Mon. 4 Etly. Light winds & fine wr. A.M. Working up junk and employed in various duties. Returned the Guard
Tuesd. 5 S.E. Etly. Cloudy. A.M. Modr. and clear wr. Took the guard per signal. Cleared hawse. Recd. 326 lbs of fresh beef, 6 lbs short of weight. Loosed sails to dry
Wed. 6 N.E. b.E. Mod. and cloudy. Furled sails. Employed making matts &c. Anchored here H.M. gun brig Manly. A.M. Returned the guard. Empd. working up junk
Thurs. 7 N.E. Served 1/2 allowance of spirits, there being no beer on board though demanded 8 days. A.M. Took guard pr. signal. Employed about the rigging and other necessary jobs. Served spirits -
Frid. 8 N.E. Fresh breezes and fine wr. Received 3 tons of beer and 5 of water. A.M. Ansd. signal for weekly accounts and returned the guard
Sat. 9 Vble. N.W. Mod. breezes. Recd. 277 lbs. fresh beef, 5 lbs excess of weight. A.M. Washed below. Punished Thos. White with 18 lashes for staying several days on shore beyond his leave. Employed working up junk. Took the guard per signal.

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[May 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

Tues. 5
Wrote to J. Mathews Esq. Agent Victualler at Chatham, stating the shortness of weight in the fresh beef, which had been as follows - March 20 lbs, April 39, May 5th. 9 lb; and requested that caution might be given to the boatmen, that the weight of beef might hereafter agree. Answer, that the master of the brig would take oath, that none had ever been cut off in his vessel; that the quarters were weighed in presence of 3 clerks, and not until the beef was cold. (Note, the letter had its some effect, for the next beef was 5 lb greater than charged).

May 5. Wrote to the Admiralty requesting them to order the Investigator to be paid six months wages; the resident Commissioner (Coffin) having objected to paying her until sailing orders were arrived. - This was complied with.

[Sat. 9]
Wrote to the Navy Board requesting them to stop the Allotment of Wm. Kemble - Marine, he being discharged as being a deserter from the Inneskilling or 6th dragoon regiment -

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May 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator, Little Nore
Sund. 10 N.N.W. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Punished Thos. Brown with 24 and Thos. Reynolds with 18 lashes for exceeding their leave 6 days, and running from their officer. A.M. Mustered ships company and read the articles of war
Mon. 11 N.W. Mod. & clear wr. A.M. Loosed small sails to dry. Took the guard pr. signal. Recd. 304 lbs of fresh beef. Employed as necessary
Tuesd
Tuesd 12 NW. Vble. Mod. and cloudy. Lent 15 men to H.M. advice brig Advice, pr. Order V. Ad. Græme. Cleared hawser A.M. Fresh breezes and clear. Returned the Guard. Recd. beer and water pr. lighter
Wed. 13 Vble. Do. weather. Working up junk A.M. Commissioner Coffin came on board and paid the ship up to June 30. Last. Took the guard per signal
Thurs. 14 Vble.
N.W.
South'ly
Fresh breezes and cloudy. Sailed into the harbour H.M.S. Arrow, and came out the Bittern and anchored here. A.M. Light airs and cloudy. Unmoored ship, hove short on the small bower, and received a pilot on board. At 9 weighed and made sail for the great Nore; but the wind being too light for the flood tide to be stemed And becoming more scant, dropped the best bower in 15 fms. The Garrison point bearing S.W. Veered to a third of a cable on the weather becoming squally.

Transcript for a055031031

[page 31]

[May 1801]
Remarks. letters, orders &c.

May 9th. Recd. a letter from Navy Board, charging me with various Mathematical &c. instruments as in the letter is expressed; all of which had been received the preceding day

[Tues. 12]
Wrote to the Navy Board, representing, that from the greatest part of H.M. ships being at sea I was not able to find a fit person, a volunteer, to fill the office of master; and requested them "to "select an officer whose character at their Board is such as to be "presumptive proof, that his abilities and conduct will enable him "to be an useful assistant to me in carrying on the service in "which we are about to engage." I represented that perfection in Astronomy was not absolutely requisite, so much as sobriety, activity, a desire to be useful, and good knowledge and experience in common seamanship and navigation

[Wed. 13]
Wrote to the Navy Board for documents for 6 men, claiming pay for different ships, and for permission to antidate the entry of Mr. S. W. Flinders. Complied with in answer.

[Thurs14]
Recd. orders from Vice Adml. Græme to proceed with the sloop under my command to the Nore so soon as paid; and to give the ships company no opportunity of desertion. Recd. a large chest of Stationary from the Navy Office, and three French voyages of Discovery.

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[page 32]

May 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator at the Nore
Frid. 15 Vble.
S.Etly
Wstly.
Fresh breezes and squally with showers of hail and rain. At 1/2 past noon, weighed and made sail. Tacked ship occasionally. At 3, came to with the small bower in 5 fms. and moored ship. Furled sails, and returned the 15 men to the Advice who had come on board to receive their pay. Lying here H.M.S. Zealand V. Ad. Græme and several small ships. The extreme of Sheppy I. S.E.b.S. and the garrison point at Sheerness West. Waited on the commg. officer to report the ship. A.M. Squally, with rain at times. Ansd. signal for weekly accounts. Empld. as necessary
Sat. 16 S.W.
Wtly.
Strong breezes. Struck T. Gt. Masts A.M. Fresh breezes and fine wr. Hoisted out the launch and made other preparation for getting out our guns, according to my letter of April 28. Recd. 323 lbs of fresh beef
Sund. 17 S.S.W Fresh breezes and cloudy. Anchored here from the harbour H.M.S. Hydra. Employed in occasional duties. A.M. Took the guard per signal.
Mond. 18 S.b.W Cloudy, with hard rain. A.M. Returned the guard. Sailed H.M.S. Blenheim for Yarmo. Recd. 121 lb of fresh beef. Employed as necessy.
Tues. 19 Calm
Vble.
Calm with rain. Sailed H.M.S. Hydra. Punished Thos. Smith with 18 lashes for leaving the his boat, being coxon, and attempting to desert A.M. Fine. Loosed sails to dry. Shipwright on board from the yard to fit ports for carronades

Transcript for a055033033

[page 33]


[May 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Sat. 16]
Applied to the Navy Board for documents permission to pay five men bounty, who claim it; and also four others who come to us as prest from the Zealand. In answer, they only permit one.

[Sund 17]
Applied to the victualling for provisions to complete our stock; having received intelligence from Sir J. B. that we might expect to sail shortly, which were sent on 22nd.

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[page 34]

May 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator at the Nore
Wedn 20 Vble. Fine weather. Furled sails: otherwise employed as necessary. A.M. Employed getting out ten of the twelve long six pounders, with their accompanying stores, and receiving in lieu six twelve pound carronades and two more swivels with their shot and other stores
            Our arms are now as follows
18-pound carronades, stern chases ------ 2
12 do.,on both sides ------6
6 pound long guns, on to the focas shift ------2
1/2 pound swivels, to shift ------6
Musquetoons -----, to shift------2
Musquets black, independent of Marines ------ 40
Pistols ------braces 15
Cutlasses ------- 30
Tomahawks ------ 20
Half pikes ------ 30
Besides several pairs on of pistols, double and single barrelled guns with and without bayonets, belonging to individuals
Seven shipwrights from the yard victualled on board -
Thurs. 21 Vble. Eastly Light winds and cloudy. Employed stowing away gunners stores. A.M. Employed in jobs about the rigging and occasionally. Answd. our signal No. 219.

Transcript for a055035035

[page 35]

[May 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c. &c.

May 21.
Applied to the Admiralty to have the officers and crew paid up to the end of the month previous to sailing, and also for two months advance; to be paid at the last port we might be at -

[Thurs 21]
Applied to V. Ad. Græme for two marines to complete our establishment. Recd. letter from Sec. of E.I. Directors informing me of their intention to give the gentlemen of the Investigator and myself £1200 for table-money: half of which I am at liberty to draw for immediately and the rest at the end of the voyage.

Transcript for a055036036

[page 36]

May 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator at the Nore
Friday 22 S.Etly
SSW.
Recd. pr. lighter from Deptford 13 tons water, 1 ton of flour and 300 lbs of cheese: also beer for present use. Employed stowing provisions in the places formerly occupied by the guns. A.M. Recd. pr. lighter from the Navy Office, various extra articles for our own use, and for presents to the inhabitants of New Holland and the South sea islands, as pr. list No. . Ansd. Signal for weekly accounts.
Saturdy. 23 Vble.
WSW.
Light winds and fine wr. A.M. Took the guard per signal. Employed securing the water casks in the places formerly occupied by the guns. Came out of harbour a line of battleship, a frigate, and corvette, belonging to the Prince of Orange. Recd. 144 lbs fresh beef.
Sund. 24 WSW.
Vble.
Modt. and clear. Ansd. signal for a lieutt. Recd. some Boatswains and Carpenters stores to complete. Employed preparing for sea; A.M. Returned the guard. Employed as before.
Mon. 25 Vble.
E.S.E.
Received back from the Advice brig 12 of the 15 men lent to her; the remaining three having found means to desert. Sailed to the southward the Dutch men of war and the brig Driver. James Grice, one of the Carpenters crew unfortunately fell overbd. and notwithstanding that great exertions were made to save him, was drowned. A.M. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed as before preparing for sea.

Transcript for a055037037

[page 37]

[May 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

May 23.
Recd. orders from my lords Commissioners to proceed to Spithead without loss of time. Dated 22nd. Which I immediately acknowledged the receipt of.

[Sund24]
Received the private signals from V.Ad. Græme, consisting of the Private Signals by day and night, the Signals to be made to Signal Posts, the Signals denoting the signal posts along the coast, the Day and Night signals established between cruizers and those posts, and the signals to be made at those posts together with their significations being six papers: the receipt of which I immediately acknowledged.

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[page 38]

May 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator
Tuesd. 26 SEtly.
S.E.b E.
E.b.S.
East
Fresh breezes & fine wr. Wm. Chapman, Marine, absented himself from the boat without leave. At 3, brought the pilot+ on board. Hoisted up the boats and at 5, when the ship swung to the flood, unmoored and hove in to half a cable. A.M. At 121/2 light breezes. Weighed and made sail, lying to for considerable intervals drifting with the tide till daylight as also to clear the our buoy. The flood making at 6, came to with best bower in 4 fms. The buoy of the Ouze bearing N.W.b.N. 2 cables length. The Knob S.S.E.1/2 E. abt. mile. The Dutch ships at anchor [the word 'anchor' is represented by a drawing of an anchor] about 1 miles S.b.E. of us. At 11, light airs with rain at times. Shortened in the cable -
Wedn 27 Vble.
W.b.S.
Wtly.
Light airs with rain at intervals. At 3, weighed and made sail. At 4 came to in 12 fms. with best bower. At 6, light breezes. Weighed and made sail over the flats for the Queens Channel. At 81/2, came to with best bower. The Pansand beacon N.N.W. abt. 2 miles. A.M. Light breezes. At 3, weighed and made sail for the Downs. At 8, fresh breezes. At 1/2 pt. 8, came to with best bower in 8 fms. and veered to half a cable. Upper Deal Church W.b.S. and Walmer Castle S.W. - Went on shore to wait on Admiral Lutwidge. At noon, Fresh breezes and cloudy weather

Transcript for a055039039

[page 39]

[May 1801]
Additional remarks, orders, letters &c.

[Tues. 26]
+ Mr. Gibbs of Queenborough Recd. P.M. 285 lbs of fresh beef

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[page 40]

Investigator in the Downs - [Thursday] May 28. 1801

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy. Returned the old cutter and received a new one from G. Lawrence Esq. the Naval Storekeeper in lieu. Having this intention sho the boat had not been exchanged at Sheerness. At 3, the ebb tide began to make when we weighed and made sail to work out of the Downs and down Channel. Tacked occasionally between the Goodwin and South Foreland; and lay to some time for a boat with refreshments. At 8, the So. Foreland E.b.N.1/2.N. (by Comp.) and the town of Folkestone N.W. about 3 miles. Tacked ship offshore.
Tacked, stretching along the coast to stem the tide.
Varble. Breezes and cloudy with squalls
Spoke the cutter, Earl Spencer. In T. Gt. Sails and 1st reef of M. topsail. At 1, tacked ship and also at 4
At 6, tacked and set staysails & T. Gt. Sails
At 8, fresh breezes and cloudy weather. Down staysails and tacked ship
In T. Gt. sails and 2nd reef of F. topsail.
At 10, tacked, off the town of Hythe
At noon, moderate breezes with fine wr. Set M.T. Gt. sail. The So. Foreland bore N.E.1/2. E. and Folkestone North 7 or 8 miles.
Tacked ship in shore. Several vessels in sight

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[page 41]

[Friday] May 29th. 1801. Back to the Downs

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Squally. Dble. reefed M. topsail. At 2 1 and at 31/2 tacked ship. At 4, made more sail, the wind being moderatinged. So. Foreland E.b.N. At 20 pt. 6 the ship touched the ground: hove all aback. The leadsman having found no bottom with 15fm. at 1/4 before six, had left the chains without being relieved; and the supposed dist. of the land by the officer of the watch, being 6 miles, the lead had not been attended to minutely at the time. See for. page Letter book for rest of the account
At 8, stood off shore having passed over the shoal - At 91/2, tacked in shore to get out of the flood tide. At 111/2, tacked to the northward and double reefed the fore and main topsails - So. Foreland N.E.b.E. Dungeness W.S.W.
At 2, tacked, seeing the Foreland light bearing N.b.W.1/2 W. - Close reefed the F. and Mzn topsails.
At 4, strong breezes with thick weather and rain. Put the helm up and ran for the Downs - Struck T. Gt. Masts
At 7, came to: the So. Foreland S.W.1/2 W. Veered to half a cable, and when the leetide made, to a whole one.
Answered the signal for weekly accounts. Found riding here, the Overyssel - Adml. Lutwidge, the Dutch men of war, and several English.

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[page 42]

[Saturday] May 30th. 1801 Downs towds. Spithead.

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy with rain. At 1, the admiral and other of H.M. ships as also the Dutch ship fired a royal salute on the anniversary of the Restoration
At 2, moored, a cable each way
Wrote to Adml. Lutwidge informing him of the desertion of the carpenter of the Trent, who had been sent on board at the Nore for a passage
Moderate breezes and cloudy
At 4 fresh breezes and cloudy weather. Unmoored ship. Swayed up T. Gt. masts and yards and hoisted up the boat.
At 7 weighed and made sail.
At 8, abreast of the South Foreland and one mile distant. Set studg. sails and royals and shifted them occasionally
The Dutch men of war weighed a little before us but we came up with them when carrying all sail; although the Xenophon was the worst sailing ship that could be met with before coppered.
Noon, light breezes and hazy weather. The light house on Dungeness bore N.E.W. abt. 2 leags. - The Dutch ships in company and several small vessels in sight -

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[page 43]

[Sunday] May 3l. 1801 - Investigator towds. Spithead

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and cloudy. Bent the spanker and mz top gant sail. Spoke the Kent Cutter.
Beachy Head W.N.W. abt. 4 leagues
Exercised great guns and fired
At 8, Beachy N.N.W. abt. 3 leagues. Sounded in 161/2 fms. stones and broken shells. Stowed staysails
Light airs inclining to calms.
{The effects of James Grice DD. Sold at the mast this P.M.
Took in studg. sails on the wind shifting
At 31/2 Beachy N.N.W. abt. 3 leagues.
Hazy with rain. Sounded in 20 fms stones. Passed a frigate on the other tack, and shewed our colours
Mod. & cloudy with rain. At 91/4, sounded in 25 fms. speckled sand and stones, and tacked ship - Set stay sails.
Made sail occasionally
Light breezes and hazy with constant rain - No land in sight

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[page 44]

[Monday] June 1st. 1800. Investigator towds. Spithead

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs with constant rain. At 31/4 Sounded in 35 fms. Beachy Head N.E.b.E. 4 or 5 leagues
At 6, Beachy E.b.N.1/2N. abt. 6 leags.
At 71/2 tacked ship and sounded in 28 fms. brown sand and stones
In royals and studg. sails. At 9, tacked.
At 10, sounded in 32 fms.
Moderate breezes and cloudy
Sounded in 35 fms. broken shells and stones
Thick weather with rain
At 6, it cleared a little. Saw the Isle of Wight to windward
I. of Wight N.1/2W. to St. Catharines Pt. N.N.W.3/4W
In royals
Sounded in 33 fms.
At noon, light airs and cloudy. I. of Wight So. point N.W.b.W. Land about Selsea N.1/4W
Tacked ship.

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[page 45]

[Tuesday] June 2. into Spithead

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mode. & fine weather. Made more sail
At 3, fresh breezes; in royals &c. and Tkd. ship. At 4, in 35 fms. stones. Exercised great guns and small arms and fired 2 rounds of powder. At 8, Culver Cliff N.W.1/2 W. 2 or 3 miles.
At 91/4, anchored in St. Helens Road in 81/2 fms. with best bower and veered to 1/3 of a cable. Found here H.M.S. Hannibal and Hydra -
Calm with rain
A.M. At 5, weighed and made sail with a light breeze; but at 6, anchored [the word 'anchor' is represented by a drawing of an anchor] being calm. Buoy of the Warner N.N.E. 1 mile
At 61/2, ansd. Signal 275 by shewing our number (750). At 8 weighed and made sail. At 10, came to at Spithead
Varble. breezes with dull cloudy weather and rain. Veered to a whole cable, but finding we were likely to overlay a ship, hove in again and waited for the tide from St. Helens
Went on shore to wait upon Mark Milbank Esq. Admiral of the White and Comm. in chief here; to shew my orders and to take a weekly account. Wrote to the Admiralty informing them of my arrival, requesting their attention to our being short of complement

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[page 46]

June 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator - Spithead
Wedn 3 Soly.
Wtly.
NEbE
Rainy weather. Hove up the best bower, and dropped the ship in shore. Moored a cable each way. South sea castle E.1/2 N. Block-house Pt.
A.M. Fine weather and rainy showers alternately. Loosed sails. Employed making wads and in other necessary duties
Thurs. 4 Vble. Cloudy with rain at times. Furled sails. Empd. as in the morning. Ansd. signal for all lieutts. A.M. Cloudy. Employed making wads and otherwise working up junk
Frid. 5 WNWW At 1 fired a salute of 19 guns in honour of His Majestys birthday. Ansd. signal for a midshipman A.M. Employed making wads and plats for the cables. Ansd. signal for weekly accounts
Sat. 6 Vble. Employed in jobs about the rigging and as before. A.M. Carpenters repairing the cutter. Opened a cask of beef contents 42 peices right. Recd. 278 lbs of fresh beef.
Sund. 7 Vble. Ansd. signal for all lieutts. Employed making mats &c. A.M. Recd. 3 tons of beer and 5 of water per lighter. Returned empty casks
Mon. 8 Vble.
WNW
Employed stowing water &c. A.M. Working up junk into wads, mats and plats -
Tues. 9 Vble.
WNW
Fine weather. Employed working up junk as before. Mustered per clerk of the checque A.M. Do. weather - Employed as before and occasionally. Recd. 166 lbs fresh beef -

Transcript for a055047047

[page 47]

[June 1801]
Additional remarks, orders, letters &c. &c.

[Wed.3]
Recd. an order from the Navy Board to send up Pay Books &c. up to May 31; and an answer relative to my application of May 12, for a master, hoping that I should find one here and that they would give a warrant immediately and put him on the list from the date of it, after passing. Wrote in favour of Mr. John Thistle of the Buffalo

[Thurs4]
Recd. an order to send up a list and descriptions of three men who had deserted from the Advice, as also the attendant circumstances; which I complied with on the 5th.

[Frid. 5]
Sent up Pay and monthly books, as also some powers of attorney and Tickets -

[Mon. 8]
Applied to the Sick and Hurt Board for Instructions relative to seamen sent on shore in foreign parts

[Tues. 9]
Recd. orders to proceed into Portsmouth Harbour, to dock the ship and get her defects repaired with expedition and return to Spithead; the receipt of which I immediately acknowledged, inclosing the carpenters certificate - See letter 58
Recd. orders from Adml. Milbank to send any men suspected of intending to desert on board the Royal William.

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[page 48]

June 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator - Portsmouth
Wedn. 10 Noly.
WSW
Mode. & fine weather. Ansd. signal for a midsn. Employed preparing to go into harbour. A.M. Light airs & calms. At 4 unmoored and a pilot came on board. Made signal for assistance with 2 guns. Set sail. Sent our boat ahead to tow, and 2 launches from the R. Wm. and Puissant. At 81/2, made fast alongside a lump at moorings in the harbour. At 9, returned all the powder into a lump; and afterwards warped the ship over, and in the No. dock by assistance of the riggers. Hoisted up two boats, and kept one cutter without the dock gates. Got down T.Gt.Yd. masts, and lower yards. Employed clearing ship - Light airs with warm fine wr. Therm. 72
Thurs.
Recd 141 lbs of fresh beef
11 N.b.E. Returned some boatswains stores and received others in lieu. On examining the ships bottom as soon as the tide was out, it was found that she had received no injury, and the water was therefore let into the dock as the tide rose A.M. Up Lr. yards and T.Gt. masts. At 11 cast off, hauled out of dock, and having pilot on board, made sail out of the harbour, and at noon came to anchor with the best bower at Spithead in 6 fms. and moed a cable each way. South sea castle bearing E.b.S. and Blockhouse Pt. N.E.b.N.

Transcript for a055049049

[page 49]

[June 1801]
Additional remarks, orders, letters &c.

[Wed. 10]
The orders marked as received yesterday were received this P.M. by the midshipman. I immediately went on shore to bespeak a pilot, and also a hoy to receive our powder; and settled with the dock yard officers to take the ship into dock by the same time that should bring us into the harbour. But found in the morning that no preparations were made. Whilst getting out the powder, I pressed them very anxiously to take her in this tide, and they complied.

Recd. an order from the admiralty reinforcing their former order to go into dock.
Reported the ship having been into dock, and was now at Spithead waiting their Lordships further orders.
Wrote to the Navy Board to request two months advance might be given to ships company, as well as paying them up to May 31. This was complied with, and the officers were allowed to draw for three in advance.

Transcript for a055050050

[page 50]

June 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator - Spithead
Frid. 12 Noly. Employed clearing ship. Received our powder back from the Hoy. A.M. Fresh breezes. Ansd. signal for weekly accounts Carpenters from the yard making a skylight and fitting hammock stantions in the waist People making small mats &c.
Sat. 13 N.b.E. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Recd. 268 lbs fresh beef. Employed working up junk &c.
Sun 14 N.W.bN. Do. weather. Mended the rounding of the cables. A.M. Mustered & read the Articles of War
Mond. 15 NNW. Fresh breezes and fine wr. Ansd. signal for a mid. A.M. Sailmakers fitting waist hammock clothes. Mustered per clerk of the checque. Entd. Mr. John Thistle master
Tuesd 16 N.b.Wto
W.b.N
Fresh breezes and cloudy wr. Employed making mats for various purposes. A.M. Received 156 lbs fresh beef. Carpenters &c. employed in their respective duties.
Wedn. 17 W.N.W. Employed in working junk up into mats and upon other occasional duties.
Thurs. 18 WNW Ansd. signal for a lieut. And received a draft of 7 men from H.M.S. Royal William. Cleared hawser A.M. Commissioner Sir Chas. Saxton came on board and paid the petty officers company up to May 31. and 2 months advance to them and to the warrant officers

Transcript for a055051051

[page 51]

[June 1801]
Remarks, orders, letters &c.

[Mon. 15]
Applied to the admiralty to have our complement filled up; and amongst the 7 wanted to have a sail maker and 2 carpenters crew included; as also to receive their Lordships directions concerning the mode of bearing the men of science &c. on Investigators books. To this the answer was, that both would be complied with when my sailing orders were issued

[Thurs 18]
Recd. 164 lbs of fresh beef

Transcript for a055052052

[page 52]

June 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator - Spithead
Frid. 19 Vble.
S.S.E.
Fresh breezes with fine wr. Recd. 5 tons of water and one of beer to complete for sea. Recd. an order to attend the Solicitor of the Admiralty in London. A.M. James Leech and Thos. White punished with 8 and 18 lashes for drunkenness and neglect of duty. Ansd. Signal for weekly accounts. Working up junk
Sat. 20 SEbE Mod & fine wr. Recd. 239 lbs fresh beef. Set up the standing rigging. Empld. Otherwise on junk.
Sund. 21 S.E. Do. Wr. Ansd. signal for all lieutenants. A.M. Scrubbed hammocks & mustered ships company.
Mond 22 SEbE East Fresh breezes and cloudy. A.M. Employed working up junk, and in various occupations.
Tuesd 23 E.S.E. Employed as before. Recd. 201 lbs fresh beef. Moderate breezes and hazy.
Wedn. 24 S.E. Fine wr. Employed as necessary. Mustered W.? clerk of the check.
Thurs. 25 S.E. Vble. N.W. Light winds and fine wr. Recd. 170 lbs of fresh beef. Employed in occasional duties.
Frid. 26 NNW Mode. and cloudy. Recd. 6 tons of water and 2 tons of beef. Thos. Smith seaman, punished with 24 lashes for riotous behaviour and fighting. Returned empty casks to the lighter Return'd from my Adm'ty. leave
Sat. 27 N.W.
Vble.
Light airs and hazy. Recd. 385 lbs fresh beef. Cleared hawser. Punished 3 men with 12 lashes each for attempting to desert. Mustered ships company and read the articles of war.

Transcript for a055053053

[page 53]

[June 1801]
Remarks, orders, letters &c.

[Frid. 19]
Recd. an order through the Commander in chief here to go up to town on admiralty leave; went on shore in the evening accordingly, and in the morning set off in a post chaise for London. On the Wednesday following, I answered to certain Interrogatories relative to a prosecution against the commander of a ship called the Andersons, who had deserted the convoy of His M.S. Reliance in September last, of which ship I was then second lieutenant. On Thursday, my business with the Solicitor was concluded. During the above time, I had frequently attended at the Admiralty Office to attempt the forwarding of of the issuing of our sailing orders, but to little effect the multiplicity of business in general preventing my voice from being heard

Transcript for a055054054

[page 54]

June 1801   Winds Transactions &c. Investigator - Spithead
Sund. 28 WSW Calms. A.M. Fresh breezes. Entered Wm. Carter, ord. Employed in various duties
Mond. 29 S.S.E. Light breezes with fine wr. Employed in the main hold. Mustered per clerk of the checque -
Tuesd 30 S.S.E. Vble. NNW. Modt. with rain at times. People employed in the after hold and coal hole. A.M. Recd. fresh beef (280 lbs.) Cleared hawser.
July
Wedn
1 West Constant showers of rain. A.M. Received 3 tons of beer and one of water. Returned empty casks. Employed as necessary
Thurs. 2 S.S.W. Light airs with showers of rain. Employed working up junk, and in occasional jobs.
Frid. 3 WSW. West N.W. Light breezes and cloudy. A.M. Loosed sails to dry. Ansd. signal for all lieutts. Strong breezes with showers - Furled sails.
Sat. 4 W.b.S Do. weather. A.M. Fresh breezes and fine wr. Loosed sails to dry. Ansd. signal for a lieut., and furled sails. Recd. 322 lbs fresh beef
Sund 5 W.b.S
SSW
West
Sent a boat, with a mate and 12 men to assist H.M.S. Malta by order of the admiral Employed occasionally. A.M. Fresh breezes with variable weather. Received the mate & men from the Malta - Fine weather

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[page 55]

[July 1801]
Remarks, orders, letters &c

[Thurs2]
Wrote the letter No. 64 to the admiralty, requesting instructions relative to the conduct which I am to observe towards French ships, in consequence of the passport; as also towards the ships of other nations with whom the United Kingdoms are at war. Also, whether the taking such letters as the post master might put on board for the C. of G. Hope, would be any infringment of neutrality, if such was to be the conduct of the Investigator. The letter concludes with observing, "that since the end of March "last, the advancement of the seasons makes every days delay "in sailing of bad consequence to the success of the voyage for "which the Investigator had been fitted."
During the months that the ship has been waiting, both at the Nore and at this place for sailing orders, I constantly had the people exercised with the T.Gt. yards whenever the weather would permit; and endeavoured to bring the ships company under good order and government, to which indeed the majority of them were well inclined; but some of the heedless occasionally fell under the lash, though not a man in the ship ever showed any signs of an ill disposition towards a proper subjection to their officers, or to living sociably with each other. Some desertions prevent me from permitting any to go ashore upon leave, since the payment of the ship

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[page 56]

July 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator - Spithead
Mond. 6 W.b.SSouth Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. Ansd. the signal for all lieutenants. A.M. Drizzling rain. Employed in occasional duties.
Tues. 7 S.b.W S.W. Moderate with thick cloudy weather. A.M. Recd. 181 lbs of fresh beef. People employed principally in working up Junk -
Wed. 8 S.W. Mode. and cloudy. A.M. Strong gales. Got the sheet anchor over the side.
Thurs. 9 S.W.
West
Fresh gales with rain at times. At 11, stowed lower yards and T.Gt. masts. A.M. Sent a mate and 12 seamen to assist H.M.S. Malta out of harbour, per signal. Received 160 lbs of fresh beef. Served out spirits this day, having no beer on board. Discharged Wm. Carter (ord.) into H.M.S. Royal William being a deserter from the Wolverene.
Frid. 10   Strong breezes and cloudy. Our men returned from the Malta. A.M. Up lower yards and T.Gt. masts. Sent the mate and men again to the Malta, being ordered by signal. Recd. 3 tons of beer and 3 of water and returned empty casks. Mustered ships company per clerk of the checque.

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[page 57]

July 1810   Winds Transactions - Investigator - Spithead
Sat. 11 West
S.W.
Furled sails, which had been loosed in the morning to dry. Recd. our men from the Malta, she having anchored at Spithead. A.M. Received 364 lbs fresh beef. People empld. working up junk. Drizzling rain
Sund. 12 WNW Fresh gales and squally with rain. Ansd. signal for all lieutenants A.M. Mustered ships company and saw them all clean
Mond. 13 N.W. Mode. and cloudy. Ansd. signal for all lieutenants. A.M. Recd. 302 lbs fresh beef Loosed sails to dry. Recd. 16 bags of bread and 3 firkins to complete for sea. Employed stowing it away & occasionally
Tues. 14 N.W. Rainy weather. Furled sails. Entered Nath. Wright (LM.) Ansd. signal for all lieutenants. A.M. Light breezes and fine weather. Recd. 302 lbs of fresh beef. Loosed sails to dry. Sent a boat manned and armed to attend the execution of one of the Hermiones mutineers on board the Puissant, sheer hulk at Spithead.
Wed. 15 WSW
West
Furled sails A.M. Mode. with rain. Sent a boat manned and armed to attend a punishment round the fleet. Employed as necessary.
Thurs. 16 West Fine weather. Discharged Fran. Le Begle AB. into the Puissant by the admirals order, being ruptured. A.M. Loosed sails. Cleared hawser. Recd. 162 lbs fresh beef

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[page 58]

July 1801   Winds Transactions - Investigator - Spithead
Frid. 17 West SSW. Vble. Furled sails. Mended the rounding. Squally with thunder and lightening; accompanied by large hail and heavy rain. A.M. Ansd. signal for weekly accts. Employed upon occasional duties.
Sat. 18 Wstly
N.W.
Vble.
Light breezes and cloudy with rain at times. Employed lashing and securing for sea. Recd. 3 tons of beer and 4 of water to complete A.M. At 4, made the signal and unmoored ship. Recd. 360 lbs fresh beef; as also 2 barrells of pease, 2 half hhds of oatmeal and 1 of cheese, completing up to 12 months. At 10, made the signal and weighed. Hoisted up and secured two of the boats.
Peter Cartwright, pursers steward, absented himself without leave.
At noon - Passed St.Helens road. Light airs and fine weather with haze. Discharged Geoe. Webb from the books to the civil power, he having been taken out by a writ for £37 - some time since Thomas White having been checked with leave twice we sail with 4 men short of complement.

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[page 59]


[July 1801]
Remarks, letters, orders &c.

[Fri. 17]
This morning I received sailing orders and thirteen pages of instructions, together with the following papers
An order to victual the naturalist, draftsmen and their servants, as also the gardener and miner
An order to victual the astronomer and servant.
A passport from the French Republic signed by the minister of the marine and of the colonies, to prevent us being molested by any of the ships of the republic, and permitting us to put into any of their ports to refit if necessary; on condition that we in no way give offence to them or their allies -.
A memoir from Mr. Dalrymple relating to the winds, on which the instructions are partly founded.
An extract of a letter written by the Duke of Portland to the governor of New South Wales, relating to the Lady Nelson brig.
An answer to my letter No. 64 written July 2.
Wrote to the admiralty acknowledging the receipt of the above, and requesting that twelve months provisions of all species, might be sent out to Port Jackson by the first opportunity, for the Investigator: to be lodged in the government store houses for our sole use

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[page 60]

[Sunday] July 19.1801 Investigator from [England towards Madeira]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original]


Moderate breezes with fine weather
Culver Cliff N.30(W. abt. 5 leagues
Tacked ship, and reefed the F. & Miz. Topsails
Sounded in 20 fms. Needle Pt. North abt. 4 miles. At 1, tacked ship
Needle point N.b.W[R.1].1/2 W. abt. 4 leagues
Light airs with fine weather. Tacked ship - Out reefs and made all sail. Sounded in 27 fms. Cleared below and mustered the ships company.
Set larbd. Studg. sails.
Light breezes and hazy weather.
Needles Point N.E.3/4 N. Some small vessels in sight astern, but no sight of Alderney, which by the lat. is not further distant than the Needles.

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[page 61]

[ Sunday July 19. 1801 Investigator from] England towards Madeira

On getting to sea, I this afternoon issued the following order, directed to the boatswain, gunner, and carpenter of the ship The length of time that the present voyage may be expected to require, making a particular care of the stores a matter of the first importance, it is my directions to Mr. Charles Douglas, boatswain, to Mr. Robert Colpits gunner, and to Mr. Russel Mart carpenter, of His Majestys sloop under my command, that they do not issue any stores of any kind however small the quantity, to any officer or man whatever, without my permission; and if any officer sees the necessity of replacing any thing that may be deficient, or to apply stores to any use that may be wanted, he is requested to mention it to the Commander for his approbation, before he orders the warrant officer to issue; since it cannot be complied with in consequence of this order. It is, however, to be understood, that in cases of imminent danger, or immediate necessity, where timely application cannot be made to me, that the commanding officer be authorized to give such orders relative to the stores as he may judge necessary, and as if this order had not been given -
                                             Mattw. Flinders
To the officers of the ship I also issued some instructions, which are as follow

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[page 62]

Remarks on Sunday July 19. 1801 - Investigator [from England towards Madeira]


Directions to be observed by the officers of the watch.
1st. On relieving the deck, particularly in the night, he is to see that the lookout is attended to, that the ropes are properly belayed and coiled fair, and that the sails are properly trimmed; for he is not to permit a sail to remain set in a slovenly or improper manner because he found it so. The weather lifts, braces, and backstays are recommended to his constant attention, more especially when it blows fresh.
2. The watch is to be mustered at the first quarter hour of the watch; and if any are absent, the officer is himself to inquire into the cause, and to punish the absentees moderately, or to excuse their attendance as shall appear to him proper. In cases of repeated or material neglect, he is referred to the 2nd article of his instructions. The people are to be mustered at any other time or times in the watch if the officer suspects that any are absent.
3. One man at least, is to be kept looking out at night; and in particular cases by day also; and never to be taken off but upon some particular emergency, and to be replaced as soon as possible. The person looking out is to be relieved every hour or oftener, and frequently visited. The day look out is to be at the fore top-mast head, and when it is not constant, a man is

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[page 63]

[Remarks on Sunday July 19 1801 Investigator] from England towards Madeira -


to be sent up to look well round every two hours, as also before dark and at sunset daylight.
4. He is strictly to forbid any person from taking off the attention of the helmsman from the steerage of the ship.
5. It is expected, that from his own observation, he shall know the course which the ship has been steered for each hour, that he may be able to correct any inaccuracies that have been made in marking the log board; and he is to notice whether the mate of the watch applies to the quarter master or helmsman for an account of the ships course, and if he does observe it, he is to reprimand him for the inattention that makes an application to them necessary.
6. He is constantly to inform the Commander of any material alteration in the wind or weather, and not to make any alteration of consequence in the quantity of sail without his knowledge, unless in cases of immediate necessity. With respect to alterations in the course, he is referred to the 4th article of his instructions.
7. The officer of the watch is desired to put the initials of his name upon the log-board at the end of his watch; and is expected to answer for the correctness of what is there marked. If he suspects the accuracy of the copy in the log-book, he

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[page 64]

Sunday July 19. 1801. His Majestys ship [Investigator from England towds. Madeira]


he may examine it before it is brought in to me, which will be regularly done before one oclock.
8. The height of the thermometer in the shade is to be marked at the end of each watch both by night and by day. At noon, a bucket of sea water is to be drawn and the thermometer immersed in it, and its height marked on the log board also. At daylight and at noon, the height of the marine barometer is to be marked in its column on the board.
9. At the earliest opportunity every morning watch the topsail sheets are to be trimmed boused home, and all the sails hoisted up fair and properly trimmed. The upper decks are to be washed when the weather will permit; and at seven bells, the hammocks to be piped up and the between decks swept out. It is expected that of the officer of the morning watch, that he use every exertion to have the sails, the upper and lower decks, the ropes and hammocks in a proper state for the people to go to breakfast at eight oclock. When circumstances will permit they are to be allowed an hour to breakfast.
10. He is to take care that the boatswain and carpenter, or their mates, do examine the state of the rigging, the masts and yards, before the hammocks are piped up. The captains of the tops and of the after guard are to accompany the boatswain

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[page 65]

[Sunday July 19. 1801] Investigator from England towds. Madeira.


or mate in his examination; and whatever is amiss is to be replaced reported to the officer, and repaired as soon as possible
11. The officer of the morning watch and his mates and midshipman are to attend to any duty that may be required from the watch below during the day. The lower deck is to be washed and aired or cleaned, in the best manner that the weather and the duty of the ship will permit; and the officer is to report to me when such things cleaning is done, that I may inspect into it.
12. The hammocks are to be piped down at 6 PM. and afterwards the ship pumped out, the decks swept, (and wetted when within the tropics) and the ropes coiled fair for performing any evolution during the night. These necessary duties are to be completed before 8 P.M.
13. He is desired to be very particular in mentioning to the officer that relieves him, the exact state of the sails, and the orders that may have been left with him, and every other thing which it may be necessary for him to know
An account of the ships situation at noon each day, is expected from the commissioned officers of the ship; and it is wished that this situation may be found by astronomical observation as often as

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[page 66]

Sunday July 19. 1801. Investigator from Eng[land towards Madeira]


often as possible. Attention to this branch of science from the principal officers is of consequence in the present voyage, both from its utility, and as an example to the inferior officers.
As the Commander expects, that when an officer receives an order, he will never lose sight of it until not only the letter of it, but also the intention of the and spirit of the order are fulfilled; so he requests, that the officers will never permit the petty officers or men, either to neglect any duty which they may have ordered, or to execute it any otherwise than completely and expeditiously. A due attention to these points is the very essence of discipline and good order and therefore the Commander begs to press it upon the consideration of the officers very particularly.
From the masters mates and midshipmen of the ship much is expected 1st. In relieving the watch, they are expected to show an example of alertness to the men. They are not to leave the deck without being relieved, or having the permission of the officer of the watch so to do who in that case is answerable for their duty; and this indulgence is not to be abused. They are to be attentive to the orders given by the officer, which they are not only to repeat, but to see them executed

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[page 67]

[Sunday July 19. 1801. Investigator from Eng]land towards Madeira.


and when a particular duty is ordered, the mate or midshipman who is appointed to superintend is in most cases to report when it is executed. They are expected to give manual assistance when circumstances require it, and when a topsail is reefed, or any material duty going on in the top, the senior midshipman is to attend there. The duty of the mizen top is solely to be done by the younger gentlemen, as far as their strength will enable them to do it. Upon all duties, the Commander expects to see them forward and active, and anxious to give every assistance in their power.
2. They are never to take off the attention of the helmsman by talking to him or otherwise.
3. A days work is expected from the masters mates, and from every midshipman who has any expectation of being rated as such. It is to contain the situation by log, the observed latitude as taken and worked by themselves, and the longitude by any astronomical observation that they may be master of. Such as are unacquainted, it behoves to apply themselves and those whose application entitles them to notice will be permitted to work in the cabin, and will have every assistance from the astonomer and Commander, to make them perfect in this part of their profession. They will also be initiated into the manner of making marine surveys and constructing charts; by which means they may make themselves

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[page 68]

Sunday July 19. 1801 Investigator from England.


selves useful in the voyage, and lay a foundation for their own future promotion.
4. On the first day of every month, the mates and such midshipmen as expect to be rated, are desired to send in their journals to the Commander for his inspection; as also a complete watch bill, quarter bill, station bills for tacking and unmooring ship; and an order book in which the present orders are to be inserted, as also such as may be hereafter given out.
Mattw. Flinders


Note. The observations by timekeeper in this log are by Arnolds watch No.1736. Whose error from mean Greenh. time, given from the Portsmouth Academy, at noon July 17. 1801 was 0h: 2': 37'.81 and its rate of losing per day was : 4,41
The altitudes of the the [sun]'s lower limb, given in the column of astronomical observations, are corrected for the dip, and where there is any error it is allowed, but nothing more; it is therefore strictly, the apparent altitude of the [sun]'s. lower limb. When Troughtons circle is used, the altitudes are taken by both handles and the error consequently corrected, and where the [sun]'s center is given by it, but lower limit has been taken by one handle & upper by the other.

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[page 69]

[Monday] July 20. 1801. Towards Madeira.
[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Light breezes and fine weather. The spanker boom being rotten, was carried away by leaning upon it. The carpenter employed repairing it and the cutter which was stove.
Var.? per ampl.? 28°43' West At 7, found 32 fms
St Albans Head N.N.E.
No bottom with 30 fms.
Light breezes with fine weather carrying all sail - Several of merchant ships in sight
Exercised the watch below at the small arms -
At noon, land supposed to be the Start bore N.b.W.1/4W. -
Light breezes and fine weather. Several sail of vessels (of) in sight.

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[page 70]

[Tuesday] July 21. 1801 From England
[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Light breezes & fine wr.
At 3, took departure from the Start bearg. N.b.E. 5 or 6 leags. Bolt tail bore N1/4W -
Bent and set the spanker the boom being repd.
Served slops & tobacco
Took in and set studg. sails occasionally
Steady pleasant breezes with fine wr.
Do. Weather
Stowed the anchors and unbent the cables - Washed between decks - Employed also in placing the boats more conveniently on the quarters - At noon, mode. breezes with fine weather. Set larbd. studg. sails.
A sail in sight, south.

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[page 71]

[Wednesday] July 22. towards Madeira
[Navigational tables & astronomical observations not reproduced - please see the original]

Hazy wr. Made the private signal to 4 three decked men of war; and ansd. their signals No.275 and 84.
In studg. sails. At 5, spoke the Windsor Castle, V. Adm. Mitchell; and went on bd. by desire. At 51/2h, returned, cheered the admls ship and made all sail again. Exercised great guns and small arms, and fired 4 shots.
Fresh breezes & fine wr.
Several sail in sight
Mod. and hazy weather. Made and shifted sail occasionally- Employed in little jobs about the rigging - Exercised marines at small arms- Light breezes with fine weather.

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[page 72]

[Thursday] July 23. 1801 Investigator fr. England
[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Mode. with fine weather a little hazy.
A strange sail in the S.S.W.
Fresh breezes & cloudy
A strange sail in the S.W.
At 8, two luggers, apparently privateers hove in sight - N.W.b.W. They fired a shot to leeward, shewed English colours and steered towards us, one ahead and the other astern: Towards 9, they fired two guns, perhaps to bring us to. We had hoisted the pendant and ensign, and now took in all stud.g sails & cleared for action, but still kept on our course. Seeing our preparations, at 9 they hauled to the wind.
Exercised marines at small arms with powder, and made all sail again -
Steady breeze & hazy weather.

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[page 73]

[Friday] July 24. 1801 Towards Madeira
[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Fresh breezes and cloudy.
In royals & T.Gt. studg. sails
At dusk. In F.T.Gt. sail, Dble. reefed the F. and Miz topsails and bunted the main sail.
Fresh breezes with dull, hazy weather
Strong breezes and cloudy with heavy rain
In all studg. sails
In M.T.Gt. sail.
Strong breezes with some sea running.
Dble. reefed the M.T. sail.
Bent the M. stay-sail.
A considerable sea from the N.E. -
At 10, fine weather. Set jib, main sail, M.T.mt. staysail, and T.Gt. sail, and out 2nd reef of the M.T. sail -
Noon, strong breezes & fine weather, with haze
No vessels or land in sight.

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[page 75]

[Sunday] 26 towards Madeira
[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Light breezes with fine wr.
The reefs out and studg. sails set
Cloudy weather. At 101/2, saw a vessel standing towards us. Made the private signal, which not being answered, took in all studg. sails and cleared at quarters.
At 11, fired a shot at across her, tacked ship and spoke a brig from Lisbon to Stockholm.
Made all sail again at 111/2h -
Fresh breezes and cloudy. In all but the F.T.mt. studg. sail. Saw a brig standing to the eastward. In F.T.mt. studg. sail Squally with rain at times. In T.Gt. sails
Variable airs with cloudy weather.
Set T.Gt. sails and royals -
Cleaned below and aired with stoves
Do. weather. Cloudy weather with haze
No observation

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[page 76]

[Monday] July 27.1801 H.M.S. Investigator towds. Madeira.
[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Mode. breezes and cloudy weather. Set the stay-sails.
In royals & miz. top gant sail - Saw 2 sail steering to the N.Etward
Squally. In first reefs, otherwise made & shortened sail occasionally
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather
Mode. breezes. Set starbd. Studg. sails and royals.
Varble. wind and weather. Out 1st reefs of the topsails
Fine weather. Aired below with stoves. Employed pointing a new fore sail, painting the cutter over the quarter, and airing some boatswains stores -
Exercised the watch below at the small arms.
Mode. breezes and cloudy.
Carrying all useful sail -

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[page 77]

[Tuesday] July 28. P.M. Astronomical observations
[Tables of astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Being much surprised at the magnitude of west variation, and doubting whether a change of place did not materially affect the compasses, Mr. Thistle took the following sets of variations upon the booms, between the fore and main masts, and I took the following on the center of the binnacle
Place of obsn. Latitude 38º:01' No. Longitude 14:00 W. by T. Kr.

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[page 78]

[Tuesday] July 28th. 1801- H.M.S. Investigator
[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Moderate breezes and fine weather. Employed pointing a second suit of sails.
Mode. and cloudy wr.
Hauled up for an hour to get a fair sight of Antares and the Moon, for lunars. See preceding page -
Took in all the studg. sails. Set Miz T.Gt. sail . A sail in sight, N.W.
Cloudy weather.
Employed pointing a second suit of sails -
At noon, the strange sail ahead carrying studg. sails and steering about south - Mode. breezes with fine weather.

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[page 79]

[Wednesday] July 29th 1801. from England towds. Madeira
[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Moderate breezes with fine weather.
At 3, set the T.Gt. and the F.T. mt. Studg. sails.
In T.Gt. studg. sails
In first reef of the topsails
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather.
Fresh & light breezes alternately with dark, cloudy weather
At 2, squally with rain, In jib, staysails, T.Gt. sails, main sail and spanker.
Made sail again gradually, as the wind permitted.
Set starbd. Studg. sails and royals -
Out 1st reefs
Cleaned between decks and aired with stoves
Employed pointing sails -
Moderate breezes & fine weather. Looking out for the 8 stones but see nothing

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[page 80]

[Thursday] July 30. 1801. Investigator fr. England
[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Light breezes with fine weather. Carrying all sail but F. studg. sail which was now set.
We have the mortification to find that the ship makes more than 2 inches of water per hour. This leak commenced yesterday and keeps increasing something
Saw a strange sail to the E.S.E.
At 21/2, having run to near the latitude of a rock or shoal off Porto Santo, hove to and tried the soundings with 70 fms. but got no ground.
Light breezes and fine weather, with a swell from the N.W.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves.
Mustered the ships company.
At noon Light breezes with fine wr. All the plain sails set, the royals excepted

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[page 81]

Observations of [sun] east [moon] taken A.M. July 30.1801 by M.F.-
[This page not reproduced - consisting mainly of navigational data and astronomical observations]

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[page 82]

[Friday] July 31st. 1801. - Investigator off Madeira
[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Mode. breezes and fine weather. At 11/2, tacked ship, but finding a heavy swell stopping her way, and the ship lying up very ill, tkd. again to the southward. Saw Land from the mast head to the N,W. (by Compass)
           Var. per az. on booms - 19°.51' W
                               on binnacle - 22:45. }
                               Obsd. by Mr. Thistle }
Light breezes with fine weather
Light airs and calms. A still, long swell from the N.N.W. - Saw land, suppose [it] to be Porto Santo N.W.b.N.
Bent the cables, and afterwards cleaned below.
Noon, light airs and fine weather, with haze.
Find the ship make less water this last 12 hours, being more
upright.

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[page 83]

[Saturday] Aug. 1st. off the Island Madeira
[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Lowered down the boat, and examined the seams and buts near the watersedge, to find the cause of the leak, but could find none except the seams being somewhat open.
Picked up a small hawks bill turtle.
At 4, Sounded with 200 fms. but found no bottom: the middle line breaking, lost the lead and 2 lines. Hoisted up the boat.
On a light air springing up at 6, made sail, but the long northerly swell, stops the ships way considerably
Light airs and cloudy. We find the ship make water now at the rate of 3 inches in 12 hours only.
Saw the land, and made all sail for it. At 6, the So. most Dezerta W.b.N.1/4.N. Porto Santo N.1/2.W. Madeira No.most Dezerta N.W.1/2W apparently from 6 to 7 leags. distant -
Light breezes with fine weather. All sail set that would draw
On the winds shifting to the southward hauled up to windward of the Dezertas Saw a turtle and lowered down the boat; but were too late -
At noon, extremes of the Dezertas N.71° to 41° W. off shore
8 or 9 miles. Et. extr. of Madeira
N.31°W. Porto Santo N.13°E.

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[page 84]

[Sunday] Augt. 2. 1801 - H.M.S. Investigator [from England: off the Dezertas and Madeira]
[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Light airs and fine weather. Caught another small turtle.
In studg. sails & up courses.
At dusk, the So. point of the So. Dezertas N.5°b.W. abt. 3 leags. Et. most part in sight of the island Madeira N.24°W.
Light airs inclining to calm -
Set studg. sails. Drizzling rain at times
South end of So.most Dezerta N.N.E. 2 or 3 leags. East Extremes of Madeira N.1/2W. to N.N.W.1/2W.
Lowered down the cutter, to examine the nearest Dezerta
At noon, sultry weather.
Extremes of the Dezertas
N.30°1/2E. to N.471/2E. dist. abt. 3 or 4 leags.

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[page 85]

[ Sunday Augt. 2. 1801 - H.M.S. Investigator] from England: off the Dezertas and Madeira

The weather being calm and fine this morning, accompanied by Mr. Brown, Mr. Bauer, and Lt. Flinders, I took the cutter and went away from the ship with the intention of examining the southmost of the rocky island, called Dezertas. In our way, we saw a great number of brown gulls, with white breasts. I shot seven of these, and the first, to our surprise, had about 11/2 fms. of brass wire bound round one wing. There were smaller birds flying round, resembling the sooty pettrel.
We left the ship at 91/2, but owing to the distance being more than we expected, did not get on shore until 3 oclock, on the S.W. part of the island. The cliffs overhang but there was a low ledge under them upon which we landed with difficulty. The shore was too barren to produce amusement even to a naturalist. There appeared to be fish near the rocks but we could only stop to eat. The deep water prevailed almost under the shade of the cliffs. The mass was somewhat stratified irregularly, and had a mixture of iron stone. The base underneath, was black and honeycombed, and had certainly been in the fire. I judged it to be basaltic. We found no water in the spot where we landed, or any signs of inhabitants, a few small birds about the cliffs excepted, like canaries. A gully amongst the cliffs appeared to have been cut out by streams of water from the top, during rains.
We did not get on board, until 9 in the evening. We saw no turtle either going or returning.

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[page 86]

[Monday] Aug. 3. Off Madeira
[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Calm with cloudy weather.
Light airs.
Saw a strange brig N.N.W. At 6 mode. and cloudy. The Dezertas N.E.1/2N. to E.N.E.
At 8, shewed a blue lights for the boat and tacked ship. Shortened sail. At 9, the boat came on board. Hoisted her up and made sail on the starbd. tack.
Center of Madeira N.b.E. abt. 4 leagues.
At 2, being taken aback, filled and stood to the eastward.
Light breezes and cloudy. At 41/2, tkd. ship.
Fresh breezes at times from the N.E.wd. is the true wind in the offing; at other times light airs from the S.W. and off the land. The swell from the N.E.ward. Working up into Funchal Bay; the
tide or current running to the N.E. Observe an English man of war, supposed the Argo, a transport, and several small vessels in the road. At noon Funchal N.N.W. 7 or 8 miles

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[page 87]

[Tuesday] Aug. 4th. into Funchal Bay
[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs off the land and from the S.W. and fresh breezes from the N.E. - Working up to the bay. At 2, lowered down the boats and sent them ahead to tow.
A Portuguese sloop of war and an American brig working in at the same time. Guard boat from the Argo came on board.
At 4 came to with the best bower in 22 fms. and moved with a kedge. Brazen head S.71°E. Loo Fort N.12ºW. Punta de Cruz N.85ºW. off shore 1/3 or 1/2 a mile - Waited upon Captain Bowen of the Argo, and sent an officer to the governor (to say who we were and to request permission to purchase what we stood in need of: he also saw the British consul.
In the evening heeled the ship to port to ascertain the quantity of water she took in at the lower seams.
A.M. Light airs off the land. 16 inches water in the ship in 21/2 hours. Set the carpenters to work to caulk two seams above the copper, all round the ship. Got down the F. and M. topmasts, and T.Gt. masts, examined the rigging and sent up other masts.
Sent empty casks on shore to be filled with water by the Portuguese boats

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[page 88]

Transactions in Funchal Road

August
Wed. 5

Mode. sea breeze and fine weather. Employed rigging the topmasts. Carpenters caulking the ship. A.M. Light land wind during the night, then sea breeze but light. Recd. 6 tons of water by Portuguese boats, and sent empty casks on shore.
Unlashed the casks in the 'tween decks, washed below and aired with stoves. Recd. 212 lbs of fresh beef in our own boat. Employed scraping the new masts, and as before mentioned

Thurs.
6

Light breezes and cloudy: heavy clouds over the mountain at the back of the town. Carpenters caulking as before. Employed principally cleaning between decks, resecuring the casks, and getting the sheet cable out of the fore hold upon the lower deck, and putting casks and various things in its place. Got the bread up out of the bread room, to examine it and the room, and to air them. Started seven puncheons of bread from off the lower decks into the bread room, to be filled with water. Recd. 3 tons of water by shore boat.+ A.M. Recd. 2 hhds of wine for the ship and sent empty casks to be filled with water.
Finished restowing the bread in its place.
N.B.+ The Carysfort arrived P.M. from a cruize, and the Voltigeur from Lisbon.

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[page 89]

Remarks, letters, orders &c.

The preceding A.M. I waited upon the consul, Joseph Pringle Esq. and arranged matters for our being supplied with fresh beef, water, and a small quantity of wine. A Portuguese boat was immediately sent off for the water casks, and a bullock ordered to be killed for tomorrow morning. The consul announced my intention of paying my respects to His Excellency the governor, who appointed 2 o'clock this day for the interview. I accordingly waited upon him in form, being introduced by the consul, who, as I spoke neither Portuguese or French, interpreted between us.
His Excellency expressed his readiness to give us every assistance, and permitted our scientific gentlemen to make excursions into, and examine the productions of, the island; which permission he had deferred giving, when applied for by the officer who first waited upon him. During the short interview, I made no mention of saluting, from there being a senior officer in the road.

In consequence of permission given by the governor, the Naturalist and his assistants, and the two draftsmen set off on th Tuesday Wednesday morning upon an excursion to the Pico Ruivo, the highest part of the island. They made some collections and sketches; but unfortunately when they were coming off on Thursday night, there was a great surf upon the shore, their boat filled and the produce of their two days labour was mostly destroyed - On our first arrival in the road, there [continued on page 91]

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[page 90]

Investigators transactions at Madeira

Frid. 7
Cloudy weather with light winds. Arrived Employed setting up the M. and M.T. mast rigging and in lashing and securing above and below for sea. Weighed the kedge anchor and waited only for our five puncheons of water to put to sea.
Recd. 250 lbs of fresh beef
A.M. Varble. Breezes at first, but moderate sea breezes afterwards. Employed cleaning the ship. Loosed the topsails and fired a gun to hurry off our water, and sent twice on shore after it, fired also a second gun.
Entered Richd. Stanley, ord. seaman, having been sent here sick in a cartel. At 111/2 our the five puncheons of water came alongside, and we began clearing; but a flurry of wind coming on, the ship drove and we were obliged to break off, fill the sails, and heave at the capstan for fear of driving too near the shore. On its lulling again, cleared the boat and sent her away, and about noon weighed and made sail.
Note. The Alexander transport 144 sailed for England this morning, in company with H.M.S. Voltigeur who convoys for part of the way

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[page 91]

Additional remarks upon the [anchor]age &c.
[continued from page 89]
was so little surf, that we always landed upon the stony beach about the center of the town; but the easterly wind blowing then very strong in the offing, caused a swell to roll in, and it was with great caution only that we could land there with safety. The general landing place is at the back of the Loo Fort.
In coming into Funchal Bay from the eastward, the best mode is to come between the east end of Madeira and the Dezertas. If a ship comes near the Brazen Head, she will be becalmed, and must then tow in as we did; but it is best to keep a sufficient distance for the N.E. wind to fill the sails, until she is right off the bay, or even a little west of it. She will then be about 3 miles from the town, and will get the sea breeze from the S.W. with which she will run in to her anchorage.
Note. The Argo 44, anchored very far within the ground marked in our charts; nay, she at first came to close to the town, in 7 fathoms: as did the Carysfort, farther to the eastward off Fort St. Diego (the tutelar saint. I was informed that several anchors were lying about our [anchor]ing place, but although we drove at least a 1/4 of a mile we did not hook any. We suspected our [anchor] to be foul, but it came up clear
The appearance of the town of Funchal is pretty, and picturesque, the hills rising to a considerable height immediately at its back; and the situation of the country houses up the hills, amongst trees and vines

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[page 92]

Some remarks upon the town of Funchal, its [refreshments, inhabitants &c.]

adds not a little to it; amongst this the Convent dedicated to Nossa Seignora del Monte is conspicuous. The houses are almost universally white-washed without side. The town is tolerably large, the people seem to be rather numerous and there is a good deal of activity amongst them near the wher water side, with their imports and exports, considering that they are Portuguese.
In the town, the students of the college and the different ecclesiastics seem to form no inconsiderable part of the superior people. There are several British merchants residing here, who, possess besides their houses of business in the town possess country houses, some of which are delightfully situated.
That of Mr. Murdoch, attracted my notice as the prettiest little place I had ever seen. The hospitality of our countrymen here , prevented me from experiencing the accomodation which a house in the town, dignified with the name of Hotel, afforded: our gentlemen complained of its being miserable enough; and the swarms of fleas &c. by night were no very agreeable addition: the keeper is an Irishman.
Our visit to Madeira was somewhat too early in the season to taste their fruit in perfection. Grapes, peaches & pears were in abundance, but they had little flavour The country boats sold peaches alongside at the rate of 6d. per dozen. Onions were plentiful and fine. They

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[page 93]

[Some remarks upon the town of Funchal, its] refreshments, inhabitants &c.

sell them by number. I paid 8/3 for 300, but they are large. The prices charged for our ships supplies were as follows - Water sent on board in shore boats at 7/6 per ton. Wine of a tolerable quality at 5/8 per gal. besides charges for the casks and boat hire. Fresh beef at 10d. per lb. Which was tolerably good but meat, but was ill dressed. The Best Madeira was £42 per pipe. We got our clothes moderately well washed at an extravagant price.


In first gaining sight of the town of Funchal, we also perceived a two-decked ship in the road, and an encampment to the left of the town. This was the Argo, who with the Carysfort, Falcon and transports had arrived about 9 days before with the 85th. regiment. They made dispositions for landing the troops and attacking the town in case of resistance. The governor was then informed, that H.B. Majesty considering the probability of an attack from the French had sent some troops to assist in the defence of the island and demanded permission for the troops to land was demanded. A council was called by the governor, and it being found that no effectual resistance could be made, assent was given for the troops to land, with their tents, and a place assigned for the encampment. Our troops were also admitted into the Loo Fort and that of the St. Diego which command the town bay on each side; but the Portuguese colours were still

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[page 94]

Some remarks in Funchal Bay


still kept flying, and no interruption given to the administration of government, which, with their trade, still continued in their former channel. The Portuguese sloop of war, which steered for the road at the time we came in, but did not anchor, brought intelligence of peace being concluded with between Spain and Portugal , but that war was continued with France.
In consequence of which, I understood that war was proclaimed against France in the town of Funchal on Wednesday evening.
The Voltigeur having brought despatches for the governor of Madeira from the court of Lisbon, for him to receive the British troops; it was reported, had eased the mind of the governor much, not being quite satisfied that his conduct would be approved of. Some little jealousy seemed to subsist between the Portuguese and British but it was now expected totally to subside and that every thing relating to the defence of the island would be put into the hands of the English as it is requisite it should be, since it appears that their magazines, forts & gun-carriages are in a state almost incapable of defence; and were the Portuguese left to themselves they would most probably remain so.

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[page 95]

Astronomical Observations

My occupations leaving me no superfluous time for astronomical observations I can only say that Mr. Crosley made the latitude of the ship by a single altitude to be 33°.37':44'N
The time keeper No. 1736 differed from the longitude in the Requisite Tables 43'.32" to the east so that the greater a part of the X. lon. called current has been the error of the time keeper. Its present rate of losing was found to be 11'.45 and its error for Greenwich time at noon Augt. 6th was 0h.7' 14'.95 slow.
By the Alexander transport I sent home a monthly book, and a quarterly account of provisions, as also vouchers for the water, beef and wine purchased.
To the Admiralty I wrote the letter No. reporting the arrival of the ship, and mentioned her upper works being leaky.

By the above new error and rate, the timekeeper 1736 was slow for M.Grh. time July 30th. A.M.
The longitudes by time keeper given hereafter, being frequently by Earnshaws No. 465, it is necessary to state, that it was slower than mean Greenh. time. July 17 at noon 0'.29".30 and was losing 4".50 per day; as given from the Portsmouth Academy; and no alteration was made at Madeira

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[page 96]

[Saturday] Augt. 8th. Investigator - Madeira
[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Finding the ship set in shore by the tide, and not being able to keep the ship's head out after we lost the S.W.wind , towed with the boat until we got the true offing wind. Strong breezes. In T.Gt. sails &c. close reefed the F.and M. and handed the mizen topsails. At 3, took departure. Funchal town N.b.E. 3 leags. having previously hoisted up the boat & stowed the anchors. At 6, more steady and moderate; set jib and miz. topsail and out close reef of the F.T.sail.
Strong breezes and cloudy with some following sea.
In jib and main sail.
Mode. breezes with rain - Set M.sail &c. Out 3rd. and 2nd. reefs of the F. and M. and 1st of the miz. topsails -
Fresh breezes and cloudy
Cleaned below and aired with stoves
Set F.T. mt. & F. studg. sails
Unbent the cables
Mode. and cloudy wr.
We find the ship continue to admit water, but only 1 inch per hour
A very dull obsn. taken today, but not thought worthy of notice.

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[page 97]

[Sunday] Aug. 9. Investigator towds. C. G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mode. breezes and cloudy weather. Set all studg. sails &c. that would draw.
Shifted studg. sails occasionally.
At dusk, in royals and lst reef of F. and Mz. Topsails -
In studg. sails. Fresh breezes and cloudy weather, with haze
Took in T.Gt sails.
Fresh breezes and cloudy
Set T.Gt. sails
Saw the island Palma S.E1/2E. 10 or 12 legs.
Set studg. sails.
Lost two log lines. Several albacores about. Served out lines and hooks to the officers and ships company. Cleaned below and mustered the people clean. -
Served lemon juices and sugar in the grog.
Light breezes & hazy wr.

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[page 98]

[Monday] Augt. 10th. H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mode. breezes and hazy.
Shifted studg. sails occasionally. Wetted the decks - Many flying fish about: In royals. Took in starbd. Studg. sails & set jib and stay sails. Set starbd. stud.g sails again. Moderate breezes. Dew falling. Light breezes and fine wr. Set the main royal. The after M.T.mt. cross tree having lifted from the trestle tree at 9; took in all the sail on the main mast, got down the T.Gt. and struck the top mast. Lifted the rigging, secured the cross tree, swayed all up again, set up the rigging, and at noon made all sail as before. Mode. breezes with fine wr. Several flying fish about the ship.

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[page 99]

[Tuesday] Augt. 11th from Madeira towds. C.G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal


Mode. breezes with fine weather. All sail set.
Steady moderate breeze and cloudy wr.
In larbd. F.T. mast studg. sail and main royal.
Steady breeze and fine weather
Set the large studg. sail, called a logie
Found the spanker boom to be sprung in two places
Sailmakers employed making a second logie.
Cleaned below
Steady breeze and fine weather

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[page 100]

[Wednesday] Augt. 12th. 1801 From Madeira.

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Steady breeze with fine weather.
Began to serve one of the casks of wine to the ships company, received at Madeira.
Steady breeze and cloudy weather with haze. Took in the main royal.
Took in & set the M.T.Gt. studg. sail occasionally.
In starbd. Studg. sails & set M.T.Mt. staysail and main-sail.
Cleaned below and aired in the cockpits with stoves.
Fresh breezes & cloudy.

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[page 101]

[Thursday] 13. towds. St. Antonio & the C.G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Steady fresh breeze and fine weather.
Set stay sails between the masts
Lost 2 log lines
Set the jib -
Cloudy with drizzling rain.
In all studg. sails in a squall.
Set the studg. sails again
Fresh breezes & cloudy, with haze.
Cleaned between decks and aired with stoves.
Moderate breezes and cloudy weather.

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[page 102]

[Friday] Augt.14th. 1801. - Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and hazy. Set miz. T.Gt. sail and F.T.Gt studg. sail
Fresh breezes with drizzling rain. Took in the M. royal - Lost 2 log lines off the reel & a log-ship - Set the jib.
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
Squally. In lower & T.Gt. studg. sails & Miz T.Gt sail - Set studg. sails again at daylight.
Fresh breezes & cloudy with haze.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves.
In studg. sails - Exercised great guns and small arms.
Fresh breezes & fine wr. with haze -
Many flying fish about. Some swell from the Eastward

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[page 103]

[Saturday] Augt. 15. Off St. Antonio towds. C. G. Hope

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & fine wr. - On hauling closer to the wind, took lst reef in the M. & Miz. topsails.
Opened No. 41, beef, Contd. 42 pieces, short 8 lbs. -
                     Varn. Per azim obsd.}
                             by Mr. Thistle }13°.51' Wt.
Light airs and fine weather. Looking out for the island St. Antonio.
Hazy. At 121/2" saw the land, and steered for the western most part, bearing S.W., under topsails - At 2, saw some lights on shore. At 31/2, made more sail on the wind slackening. At 4, set the westmost land S.W.b.W. apparently 6 or 7 miles; but at day light we found ourselves not more than 4 or 5 from it, as we saw the surf on the rocks. Sounded with 75 fms.-
Light airs and calms with following swell. Extremes E1/2N. to S.S.W.1/2W. off the nearest shore about 4 miles. Saw a boat rowing in shore: hoisted our white ensign, but they did not come near us.
Cleaned and aired below. Sailmakers putting a 4th reef in a new M. topsail.
Hoisted the whale boat in board to repair her
Extremes E1/2N. to S.S.W. off shore to the S.E. abt. 4 miles - Hazy with clouds over the land. Light variable airs and calms. Etly. Swell

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[page 104]

[Sunday] Augt. 16. 1801. H.M.S. Investigator off [the Island St. Antonio, in her way to the C. of G. Hope]

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


An easterly swell drifting the ship along the land. At 2, a breeze springing up, made all sail.
Employed pointing the 4th. reef of the new M. top-sail.
At 6, took departure from the Highland on the S.W.+ part of St. Antonio, bearing N.E.b.E. dist 4 leagues. In 1st. reef of the top-saills.


+Between these lies something of a bay, which may be that mentioned in Astleys voyages; but we did not see the sandy beach, or any simptoms of that fertility about the island there spoken of. The principal village is said to lie some days journey from this bay, so that a vessel may be there several days, and no body know it.


At 11, in studg. sails and braced up
Fine weather.
Set T.Gt. stud.g sails
In starbd. studg. sails and set the staysails.
Set studg. sails forward, and M. royal
Mode. & fine weather. Sent up every moveable fr. the lower deck; then washed and aired with stoves there and in the cockpit. - Saw all the ships company clean, then mustered & read the articles of war to them. The people dined upon deck today. -
Mode. and fine weather

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[page 105]

[Sunday Augt. 16. 1801 H.M.S. Investigator off ] the Island St. Antonio, in her way to the C.of G. Hope.


The island St. Antonio is of considerable height; so much so as to be seen 15 or more leagues. It appears to be rocky and excessively barren from the sea; although it is said that the vallies are fertile, producing various fruits &c. From one of the gullies, I traced a patch with the glass, leading over the hills, but except the boat, the lights seen last night, and this path, we saw no other traces of inhabitants on this north-west side, which appears to be the greatest length of the island. A very scanty portion of vegetation seemed to be sprinkled over a considerable portion of the island.
From the north extreme, the north-west point, which is a steep bluff, lies W.1/2S. by compass; from thence to the S.W. extreme, which slopes from the high land to a low point, the coast seems to lie about W.S.W. not less than 4 or 5 leagues. The south point runs sloping down from the high land also to a low point, and opened from the south-west point at south, perhaps 2 leagues asunder.
+Some land, perhaps St.Lucia, opened from the south point at S.E.b.E1/2 E. at 5h.20' P.M.
From the unlucky circumstance of losing the observation for the latitude, I can say nothing of its situation from our present observations. When in H.M.S. Supply on March 21st. 1795, I made the high land on the S.W. part of the island to lie in 17°.00' No. and by time keeper corrd. in 25°.17' Wt.; but Mr. Crosley made its longitude, at the same time by lunar observations (80 sights) to be 25°:12' Wt. which I take. This high land is perhaps the highest part of the island, and seems to be about 5' to the N.E. of the south-western extreme; and about 2' inland from the north-west side of the island. There were several birds about.

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[page 106]

[Monday] Augt. 17th. 1801. H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Moderate & fine weather. Carrying T.Gt. and F.T.Mt. studg. sails.
Took in the F.studg. sail.
Mode. and cloudy.
Light breezes & fine Up Main sail.
Out all reefs. Set royals and F. studg. sail.
Light breezes. Cleaned below. Sailmakers putting 3rd. reef into a new miz. top sail. Carpenters repairing the gig
At noon. Light breezes and fine weather with haze. - All sail set Water very smooth.

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[page 107]

[Tuesday] 18th. From Madeira towds. the C.G.Hope

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Steady breezes and fine weather. Broached No. 17, brandy; marked 83 gal. 61/2 short.
Cloudy.
In all studg. sails to pick up a man that had fallen overboard. In 1st reef of the topsails, and made sail again.
Lightening from the southward.
Light airs with heavy shower of rain: thunder and lightening about. Shortened sail.
Set T.Gt. sails and main sail.
Light airs with a long southerly swell. Struck the M.T.Gt. mast, fixed the lightening conductor, and set the sail again. Lowered down the cutter to try the current. She rode by 12 deep-sea and hand leads with 440 fathoms of lines, and found the log ship drift N. by E. about 1/2 knot per hour.
At noon, tacked ship
Light airs and cloudy weather.

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[page 108]

[Wednesday] Aug. 19th. 1801 From Madeira -

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs and calms, with a swell from the southward. Hoisted up and secured the cutter
Varble. airs with threatening weather.
In T.Gt. sails.
Fresh breezes at times, with rain
Set T.Gt. sails and staysails.
Light and fresh breezes alternately, with thick cloudy wr. and drizling rain.
Out 1st. reef of the miz. topsail.
Showers of rain occasionally Aired between decks with stoves. At 10. Squally. In T.Gt.sails and set them occasionally. Took 1st reef in miz. The top sail.
Mode. breezes with cloudy weather. The southerly swell still continues, but takes a direction somewhat from the westward.

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[page 109]

[Thursday] 20th. towards the C. of Good Hope.

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Variable winds and weather: drizling rain at times.
Saw the appearance of land N.E.b.N.
Light breezes and cloudy: southerly swell still continuing.
Up courses
Lightening in the N.E.
Squally. In T.Gt. sails. Set courses and staysails (lower).
Fresh breezes and fine weather. Set T.Gt. sails and upper staysails
Light breezes with rain at times. Set the starbd. studg. sails. Cleaned below and sent up every thing wet to be dried. Exercised the watch below and the boats crews in the use of the small arms
Light breezes & hazy wr. A swell from the S.W.ward.
Served tobacco to the people.

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[page 110]

[Friday] Augt. 21st. From Madeira towards [the Cape of Good Hope]

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mode. breezes and cloudy, with showers at times - Set royals & larbd. studg. sails
In lower studg. sails, royals, & miz. T.Gt. sail.
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
Set fore studg sail.
Light breezes and cloudy, with flashes of lightening.
Heavy claps of thunder with vivid lightening. Two electric balls of fire fell or struck near us.- Shortened sail. Constant heavy rain with thunder & lightening. Caught near a ton of water by spreading the awning; This water was only fit for the stock and for washing.
Finer weather. Made sail -
Noon. Light airs and cloudy weather. All the plain sails set. Some swell from the southward.

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[page 111]

[Friday Augt. 21st. From Madeira towards] the Cape of Good Hope


This morning I gave the following order to the officers and gentlemen of the ship -
The Commander being pleased with the attention that the superior officers of the ship have hitherto paid to astronomical observations, hereby directs, that during the continuance of the ship in the tropical latitudes, or until further orders, that the officers keep every fourth watch instead of every third watch, in the following rotation
1st. Lt. Fowler 2nd Lt. Flinders Mr.Thistle - master Mr. Colpitts Gun Mr. Wolsey Mr. Evans " Taylor " Franklin
      Lound " N. Bell " T. Bell " Sinclair
It is to be understood, that this arrangement is made solely with the intention of giving the officers further time to attend to astronomy, surveying, drawing, and gaining information upon such subjects as may tend to qualify them in the first degree for executing well the arduous task service in which we are engaged; and the Commander therefore trusts, that this accession of leisure will be applied to the purpose for which it is given.
The gentlemen of the quarter deck are included in the same order, and from the same motives.
                      H.M.S. Investigator at sea, August 21st. 1801.
                                           Mattw. Flinders

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[page 112]

[Saturday] Aug. 22. 1801. Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs: nearly calm. The southerly swell still runs, long.
Trimmed sails and set studg. sails on the breeze springing up.
In studg. sails, courses and staysails; preparing for a shift of wind
Light airs. Set staysails
Set the upper studg. sails & main royal.
Fine wr. with haze. Cleaned well below, opened all the scuttles, sprinkled with vinegar and aired with stoves.
Exercised the boats crews at small arms with powder.
Lemon juice continues to be served as before.
People dined upon deck, leaving the lower deck to get a thorough airing.
Got out the dipping needle to try this morning

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[page 114]

[Monday Augt. 24 1801. From Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Varble. breezes with hard rain. In M.T.Gt. sail. Ship pitching considerably to a swell from the southward.
In M.T. Mt. staysail.
{A swallow flying about the ship for these two days past.}
Moderate breezes with fine weather. We find that since the ship has been upon a wind on the starbd. tack, she makes 2 inches of water per hour; as before we went into Madeira.
Cloudy weather.
Set F.T.Gt. sail and staysails. Out 1st reef of the miz. top-sail.
Fitted new slings to the main yard, the old having given way.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves. Dried the peoples clothes.
At noon, moderate breezes with fine weather. Swell considerably abated.

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[page 115]

[Tuesday] 25th. towards the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with cloudy, but not thick weather. Out 2nd. reef of the F.T. sail and set the studg. sail.
At dusk, in F.T. Mt. Studg. sail, and took a reef in the F. and Miz. top sails
Moderate and cloudy.
Do. Weather
Steady breezes: the weather cloudy, but not thick. Out 2nd reef of the F. top sail and set the studg. sail; and let the 1st reef out of the mizen topsail.
Cleaned below, washed with vinegar, and aired with stoves
Our little friend the swallow still keeps about the ship.
Pleasant breezes with thin cloudy weather Very little swell.

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[page 116]

[Wednesday] Aug. 26. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with light cloudy weather. Ship continues to make 2 inches of water per hour; but as we are satisfied of its being near the waters edge, it gives me little uneasiness -
Do.W. Drum & fife playing as usual to the peoples dancing.
Do. weather. Took in the stay sails between the masts.
Our friend the swallow was missing this morning: two days afterwards it was found dead in my state room, under a bureau.
Employed getting the cables out of the main hold, to get at vinigar, suet &c. which was stowed under them.
Moderate breezes with fine weather: much clearer than we have had it lately.

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[page 117]

[Thursday] Aug. 27th. 1801 towards the C.of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Steady breeze & cloudy wr. Employed getting casks from into the M. hold from the 'tween decks and coiling the cables upon deck in their place. By this alteration we gain room in the hold, have the tiers more convenient for working for working the cables, and do not lose any room on the lower deck
Mode. breezes and cloudy, but not unpleasant weather
After breakfast, took in all the sail from the F.T. mast, stayed it and set up the rigging afresh; then made sail under single reefs &c. as before
At noon, steady breeze and cloudy wr. which keeps off much of the heat; and notwithstanding the height of the Ther. we find the temperature very pleasant.

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[page 118]

[Friday] Augt. 28th. 1801 H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mode. breezes with cloudy weather. A swell from the S.S.E. seems to announce the neighbourhood of the S.E. trade wind. The ship pitching considerably, took in T.Gt. sails and double reefed the F.T. sail.
Fresh breezes and squally. Hauled down the jib. Caught a noddy. Instead of the top of its head being white, it was a reddish brown.
Mode. And cloudy weather
Do. wr.
Do.wr. Finding the ship pitch considerably, and fearing to the rains and calm that prevail in the neighbourhood of the African coast, tacked ship at 11 on her falling off to leeward of S.E.
Noon, moderate breezes and cloudy wr. Set jib & T.Gt. sails.

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[page 119]

Some remarks upon the winds


I find but one good parallel to our south-westerly winds in these regions, which is in captain Cooks 2nd voyage. They carried him so far to the eastward that he crossed the line in about 9°. Wt.
The voyage of Peyrouse indeed affords something like it, and the time of year was not very different, but he does not seem by from his table of route, of have had them so constantly from the S.W.
I am myself an advocate for crossing the equator well to the west, as from 24°. to 27°. but this wind from the S.W. militates much against it; it, however, favours a desire I have to ascertain the situation of one or both of the islands called Sable Island or St. Pauls and Penedo de St. Pedrosas also an isle neighbouring to the former. My knowledge of these is only what is given entirely gained from Arrowsmiths general chart, and from the geographical notes of M. Fleurieu prefixed to Perouses voyage. The latter, from M. d'Apres, he supposes its longitude to be near 27° west, whilst Arrowsmith places it in 24°; and the tracks of captain Cook pass so near over the former situation, that I incline towards the latter.
 

Transcript for a055120120

[page 120]

[Saturday] Aug. 29. 1801. From Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather. Rove a new tiller rope, the old being carried away.
Tacked to the S.E. at 4h.
At 8, tacked again to the westward, finding the ship continues to lie up so ill.
Passed about 3 miles to windward of strange sail, on the other tack.
On the ships falling off, tacked at 1, to the S. Eward.
Light breezes and cloudy, with some haze
Cleaned well below and aired with stoves -
Got up the armourers forge.
Do. weather. The water considerably smoother than it has usually been lately

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[page 121]

[Sunday] 30th. towards the Cape of G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and cloudy weather.
Heavy clouds hanging to the eastward.
Fine weather
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
Cleaned below. Mustered the ships compy. at quarters, and their stations for tacking and unmooring ship; and saw them all clean
At noon, light breezes and cloudy weather; with some head swell
Weeks expenditure of water is } 3 tons remaining 52 tons

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[page 122]

[Monday] Aug. 31. 1801 Investigator fr. Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy with haze
Opened a cask of beef No. 54 cont. 42 pieces. 16 lbs short
Do. weather. Thick to the eastward. Water very luminous about the ships bows, and where the waves break
Shower of rain
Mode. and dull cloudy weather, with rain at times
Employed getting the other three cables out of the M. hold into the lower deck and putting casks from the deck into the hold
Moderate breezes with dull cloudy weather.

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[page 123]

[Tuesday] Sept. 1st. towards the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather A swell getting up from the S.W.ward.
Took in the F.T.gallt. sail.
Same luminous appearance in the water as last night.
     


The ship now makes more than 2 inches of water per
Hour, if not more than three and it seems to increase.

Fresh breezes and cloudy.
Took in middle and T.Gt. stay-sails
Do. weather; ship pitching a good deal to the S.W. swell.
In M. T. Gt. Sail
Employed recoiling one of the cables on the lower deck, in a shorter coil.
Moderate breezes with dull cloudy wr. - no observations could be taken this morning or noon. Ship pitching to the swell and uneasy.

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[page 124]

[Wednesday] Sept. 2. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather. Find the ship increases her rate of admitting water.
Drizling rain
Fresh breezes with threatening weather. In 2nd reef of the F. and 1st of the miz top-sail
Double reefed the main top-sail
    



Find that the ship admits more than 5 inches of water per hour.

Fresh breezes & squally. In jib -
Several man-of-war birds, hovering about.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves Employed making points and gaskets Noon. Fresh breezes and cloudy; with a considerable swell from S.S.W.

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[page 125]

[Thursday] Sept. 3rd. 1801 - towards C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


From the circumstance of our being too late to save any great portion of the summer season for the examination of the south east of New Holland, and the necessity therefrom arising to remain as little time as possible at the C. of G. Hope, I was induced still further to consider of means to preserve the health of our people, that no delay might arise from waiting at the Cape to reestablish their health. On consulting with the surgeon we made the following alterations in their victualling.
Oatmeal boiled for breakfast, four days instead of three; and rice being now served in lieu of cheese, it was boiled for breakfast on the other three days.
Pease boiled for dinner 4 days in the week as usual; and on the other three days we proposed to give 1 pint of portable soup to each man, consisting of 2 oz. of the soup, 2 oz. of Scotch barley, and such onions, pepper etc. as the messes might have to add to it, with a sufficiency of water. Thus the people now had would have a hot breakfast every day, and also hot soup every day for dinner, besides the usual meat allowed them.+
I did not think it necessary to issue sour krout so long as the lime juice and sugar continued to be issued to them; but I purposed to change these so soon as we get the weather should become somewhat cooler
+On examining into the surgeons stores almost the whole of the barley was found to be spoiled; and when the portable broth was boiled by itself, no persons chused to take it, I therefore directed that each man should be served with two ounces of it, in the cake, three times per week; threatening those who took it and waisted it with punishment.

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[page 126]

[Thursday] Sept. 3. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original] journal


Fresh breezes and cloudy weather.
Moderate breezes with finer weather. Out 2nd reef of the M. top-sail, and set the T.Gt. sail and jib. At 6, tacked ship to the westward on which we found the ship easier, the swell being from about south; and she does not admit near so much water as on the starboard ^side) (tack) - At 8. In T.Gt. sails
Fresh breezes with fine weather. Took in the jib
Only 7 inches water made the last 4 hours
Set the jib and T.Gt. sails
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. Many men-of-war birds hovering over the ship, and darting at the flying fish sometimes. Our shooters sometimes struck the birds with small shot but did not bring any down.
A small albacore hooked this morning. Noon, fresh breezes and fine weather

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[page 127]

[Friday] Sept. 4 towards the C. of G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and hazy weather
Drizling rain at times
Fresh breezes and squally. Took in T.Gt. sails. Many fish about the ship
Mode. breezes and hazy. Set T. Gt. Sails
Several men-of-war birds about the ship
Employed in the after hold.
Mode. breezes and cloudy with haze.
Water smoother than it has been lately.

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[page 128]

[Saturday] Sept. 5th. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather.
Employed in the after hold. A bonita caught.
Fresh breezes. Took in the F.T. Gt. sail.
Let the 2nd. reef out of the fore top-sail.
Employed in the fore hold.
Moderate breezes and cloudy weather.

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[page 129]

[Sunday] 6th. towards the Cape of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with cloudy weather Set the F.T.gallt. sail
Wetted the decks as usual every evening since leaving Madeira.
Took in the F.T.Gt. sail.
Fresh breezes and cloudy. In M.T.Gt. sail.
At daylight, set the top-gallt. sails Several men-of-war birds and flying fish about the ship.
Moderate breezes and cloudy weather. Cleaned below and aired with stoves; afterwards, mustered the ships company and saw them all clean.
Cloudy, but not unpleasant weather. Last weeks expenditure of water 2 1/3 tons. Remaining 49 2/3 -

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[page 130]

[Monday] Sept. 7. 1801 Investigator fr. Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather. Let the reefs out of the top-sails.
Struck a large porpoise; which yields us 6 gallons of oil, and more 1 1/2 lbs flesh per man.
In 1st. reefs at dusk.
Fine weather.
Light breezes and cloudy weather
Out 1st reef of the miz. top-sail,set royals and T.Gt. studg. sails.
Shortened sail, hove to, lowered down one of the cutters and hoisted her in upon deck; then made sail again.
Mode. with fine wr.

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[page 131]

[Tuesday] 8th. towards the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. with fine weather. In order to give the ships company a days amusement, I permitted the ceremony of shaving and ducking as usual in crossing the equator, to be performed in its full latitude. At the conclusion, they had as much grog given to them as they could drink, the ship having been previously put under snug sail. After the ceremony, hoisted the cutter up on the quarter again -
Cloudy weather, with spitting rain at times.
Moderate breezes and cloudy weather some swell from the southward.
Set T.Gt. sails, jib and stay sails. Lost a log line.
Cloudy with haze Cleaned below and aired with stoves
Do. weather. No birds to be seen these 24 hours

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[page 132]

[Wednesday] Sept. 9th. 1801 Investigator from Madeira [searching for Sable Id. Or St.Paul, in her way to the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate trade wind with fine weather At 11/4 bore away to make the island called Sable or St. Paul. Set studg. sails
At dusk, took in all sail; the three top-sails excepted; afterwds. clewed down the F. and mizn. top sails
Fine weather.
At day light, hoisted the top sails and made all sail.
Opened a cask of beef No. 55. Conts. 42 pieces; short of weight 32 lbs
Steady trade, with fine weather.
Cleaned well below. Opened out all the beds, and aired them, as also the peoples clothing.
Do. weather. Some swell from the So.wd. No birds about, or any indications of land.

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[page 133]

[Wednesday Sept. 9th. 1801 Investigator from Madeira] searching for Sable I. or St. Paul, in her way to the Cape.


At 4, this afternoon, I judged the ship to be on the latitude of this isle, or perhaps somewhat to the south of it, as it is given in the geographical notes, prefatory to Perouses voyage. I ordered the ship to be steered west at that time, allowing the variation to counteract the northerly current, which from the last two days experience I expected would attend us; in this, however, I was deceived, or else the bad steerage counteracted it. At dusk I regulated the sail so as that the part of the horizon behind us to which our view should extend in the morning should meet that of the preceding evening before us. I allowed six leagues each way to be the distance at which any land ought to be seen in a clear evening to the west, and morning to the east; and the view in these points was very distinct at these times. The three warrant officers were now ordered to keep watch forward, and to have the charge of the lookout at night. In the day, a man was kept constantly at the mast head, and the mate of the watch went up also at the conclusion of the watch, and a report made to me by the officer, whether land or any thing was in sight or not.
At noon, the latitude shewed that no current had prevailed, and therefore we were none too far to the south; the ship was ordered to be kept to the northwd. until we should reach the latitude of 30', when we steered in that parallel, looking for land.

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[page 134]

[Thursday] Sept.10th 1801 Investigator fr. Madeira [in search of the island Sable or St. Paul & towds. the Cape]

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with fine weather. Set the starbd. studg. sails. Innumerable quantities of flying fish about, and many bonitas.
At 6 shortened sail to the three top-sails, and braced them bye; keeping a strict lookout ahead.
Opened a cask of pork No.16. Contents 53 pieces: short of weight 10 lbs.
Mode. & cloudy.
At day light, made all sail
Three birds of a whitish colour seen, and a man-of- war-bird.
Do. weather, but more clear
Cleaned below and aired with stoves
A long still swell fr. the Southward
Mode. breezes & fine wr. No birds about.

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[page 135]

[Thursday Sept 10th 1801 Investigator fr. Madeira] in search of the island Sable or St.Paul. & towds. the Cape.


From our situation this day at noon, and having no signs of the neighbourhood of land, I gave up the hope of finding the island; and thought it unnecessary to stand any further to the westward. I had crossed the equator lasts year but 26 to the west, and in 1795, but 0° 4' 7 to the westward of that. The Buffalo crossed last year the parallel of 25 south very lately in longitude 22°:12'W. about which commences the space that if the isle existed between that and 25°W. it must have been repeatedly seen. Upon the whole I apprehend that St. Paul does not lie between 17° and 25°W. in the parallel of 25' south.
To the eastward we have the track of Mr. Perouse but only one degree to the eastward of where our search commences; so that it is but little likely to be found to the westward of 16°, more especially as the birds left us in about that meridian. Between 111/2° and 16° we had many man-of-war birds; and if they are any signs of land, they certainly argue in favour of its situation being between 10° and 15°; and as there are great objections to its lying to the west of the last I am inclined to think, that if there is such an isle as St Paul in latitude 25' south, or thereabout, that it lies between the longitudes of 10° and 15°W.

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[page 136]

[Friday] Sept. 9 11th 1801 from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with fine weather
Took in the studg. sails.
At 2, hauled to the wind & took in royals
In miz. top gallt. sail and stay sails.
Moderate breezes & fine weather; with a southerly swell as before
Took in the M. top-sail to shift the yard, and bent the sail, having a 4th reef in it. At 111/2 set the T.and T.G. sails again.
Steady trade with fine weather; a southwardly swell.
  

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[page 137]

[Saturday] 12th towards the Cape of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes with fine weather. Carpenters employed in making a spanker boom out of a spare F.T. sail yard. Saw a gannet and a blackish bird, like a sheerwater.
1st reefed the M. and Miz. and Dble. Reefed the F. top-sail. Took in the staysails.
Strong breezes. In T.Gs. sails and jib.
Fresh breezes and cloudy; with a southerly swell which makes the ship plunge a little. She now makes more than 5 inches of water per hour, on this larboard tack. At 2 set T.Gt. sails and jib.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves. Sailmakers repairing the old M. top-sail, and putting a 4th reef in it.
Fresh trade and cloudy weather, with a southerly swell

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[page 138]

[Sunday] Sept. 13th 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


throughout.
Fresh breezes and cloudy; with squalls at times and spitting rain. In T.Gt. sails jib and staysails. Rounded in the weather braces a little
Set and took in T.Gs. Ss. occasionally -
Squally at times with cloudy weather. A considerable sea from the S.E.ward; which induces me to allow 1/4 point leeway
Squally at times, but in general more moderate. Set T.Gt. sails.
Weeks expenditure of water 21/4. Remd. 471/4 tons
Strong breezes Squally with spitting rain. In T.Gt. sails. - Cleaned below.
Mustered ships company and saw them all clean.
Sailmakers putting a 4th reef into the M. top sail. A swallow and two sheerwaters seen; and also a gannet flying about the ship. Noon. Set T.Gt. sails. Modt. & cloudy wth. haze.

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[page 139]

[Sunday Sept 13th 1801 Investigator from Madeira] towards the Cape of Good Hope


The fresh breezes that now attend us, and the sea that is running in consequence, are what I did not expect to meet with in our present situation. In consequence of the sea and the general weakness of the ship, I judged it necessary not to come nearer to the wind than abeam; by which means we gain in distance and the ship does not plunge and work so much. When in the cabin, every sea that strikes the ship, excites a sensation as if she was made of quick silver, and is a convincing proof of the weakness of her frame. I now began to think of the means of lightening her upper works as much as possible; to do which, I ordered two 18 pound carronade stern chases, to be struck into the after hold. The rudder, that was lashed in the main and mizn. chains, we took within the ships side, as also trawl-heads, and every thing that is heavy; and in general, every heavy thing upon the upper deck or over the ships side, that could be taken below, or brought more into the center of the ship, was done so; even to the boxes of shot being sent below, and running in the carronades to the innermost part of their carriages. The booms were also lightened almost to one half of the weight upon them, but the principal view in doing this was to ease the supporters of a part of the weight which they were scarcely able to bear. With these precautions we now considered ourselves to be as much prepared for the bad weather as circumstances will permit us to prepare

Transcript for a055140140

[page 140]

[Monday] Sept. 14th 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with hazy weather
Fresh breezes and cloudy
Squally. In T.Gt. sails. Perceive the water to be much smoother, between 6 and 8 o'clock. Afterwards the swell, and the motion of the ship became the same as before
Took in the M.T. mast stay sail.
Strong squall. In jib and mizn. staysail; kept the ship away a little.
At day light, set the jib & mizn. stay sail
Moderate breezes in general but squally at times. Employed in the after hold clearing away to receive the two 18 pound carronades which were payed over with a mixture to preserve them and struck down
Noon. Weather more steady: set T.Gt. sails. A sheerwater seen

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[page 142]

[Wednesday] Sept.16th 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and cloudy.
Set T. Gt. sails. Employed stowing boats oars &c. in the chains.
Fresh breezes and squally In T.Gt. sails.
Do. weather.
Strong squalls at times
Set T. Gt. Sails
Squally with rain. Took in T.Gt. sails
Sailmakers putting a third reef in the oldest mz. top-sail.
Fresh breezes and hazy weather. A brisk running sea from the S.E.

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[page 143]

[Thursday] 17th towards the Cape of Good Hope

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy. Set the M. top gallt. sail.
Squally with spitting rain. Took in the M. T Gt. sail, and top- mast stay-sail. Took in and set the jib occasionally
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather
Set T.Gt. sails, and M. T. mast stay-sail
Do. weather, and the water smoother. Took in and set T. Gt. sails as the wind permitted.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves
Mustered the ships company and saw them all clean
Fresh breezes and fine weather. The sea running from farther aft, and smoother than before

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[page 144]

[Friday] -18th Sept. 1801 Investigator for Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. Some sea running
from the eastward on which account leeway is allowed.
Do. weather squally at times.
Took in T.Gt. sails
Spitting rain.
Set the top. gallt. Sails
Fresh breezes and hazy.
Do. weather
Bent and set the spanker
Armourer employed at the forge.
Do. weather, with the same sea running from the eastward.

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[page 145]

               
[Saturday] - 19th towards the Cape of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather. Let the 2nd. reefs out of the top-sails. Unbent the M. top-sail, and bent the old one again, wh. had a 4th reef put into it.
At sunset; took in 2nd. reefs.
Took in the spanker.
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather
Set spanker, and the middle and T.Gt. stay sails.
Moderate breezes with fine weather. Out 2nd reefs & set mzn. top-gallt. sail.
Cleaned well below, and aired with stoves. Aired the marines clothing. At 11, shortened sail and shifted the gig for painting.
At noon, moderate with fine weather, and tolerably smooth water.

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[page 146]

[Sunday] Sept. 20 1801 Investigator fr. Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy.
Bent the old mzn. top-sail with the 3rd. reef put into it.
Took in the first reef of the mzn. top-sail.
Fine weather with haze.
Light breezes and cloudy. Exercised great guns and swivels. Hove a salt provision cask overboard for a mark, worked ship round and fired each gun and swivel at it in the ship; being two rounds of powder and one of shot.
Light breezes and cloudy. Made sail again.
Weeks expenditure of water 23/4 - remains 441/2 tons

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[page 147]

[Monday] - 21. towards the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs approaching to a calm.
Fine weather with pleasant breeze.
Light breezes and cloudy.
Light airs, and fine weather, with haze.
Employed setting up the rigging, where necessary, fore and aft.
Sunk an inclosed bucket 200 fms. to try the thermometer in the water, which stood at 71º: at the surface 73º.
Caught a small dolphin
Light airs & fine weather with haze.

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[page 148]

[Tuesday] Sept. 22.1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


For the easterly swell.
Light airs & fine weather.
Several gannets about. Passed through many small blubbers
Cloudy weather
Light airs and cloudy.
Too cloudy to get lunars.
Not able to observe any thing of the lunar eclipse: being too cloudy.
Calm & hazy; Swell from the eastward. Many gannets about the ship. Some sheerwaters and man-of-war birds seen.
Cleaned well below and aired with stoves
Unbent the F. top-sail to repair & bent a new one.
Heavy rain since eleven

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[page 149]

[Wednesday] Sept. 23. off Trinidad: towds. the C. of G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Calm with rainy weather: a swell setting in from the southward. At 4, a fresh breeze sprung up. Trimmed sails, and tacked ship to the eastward.
In small stay-sails and T.Gt. sails
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather
Tacked ship to the S.W.ward. The cross-jack yard being rotten, was sprung by the flap of the sail in tacking ship. Squally at times: some head swell.
Mod. & fine wr. Set the M.T.Gt. sails & staysails. Many gannets and some other birds passed the ship. At 61/4 saw Land, supposed to be Trinidad.
Center of the island S.S.W1/2 W. Took in the mzn. top-sail, set the spanker, and got up a spare F.T. sail yard as a cross-jack yard
At noon, a peaked rock or hummock near the Et. extr. bore S.21ºW. by No. 3 Compass. Bluff, western extreme bore 4º to right; and a rock of Martin Vas, from the main top 49º:43' to the left.
Light breezes & fine weather. Set the mzn. top-sail again.

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[page 150]

[Thursday] Sept 24th. H.M.S. Investigator off the is[land Trinidad, bound to the Cape of Good Hope]

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. & cloudy with a southerly swell. Bent the old F.top sail again, being repaired
Several gannets passing towards the land; and some sheerwaters about.
Center of Trinidad S.E.b.E.1/2.E
At 11, the island bore nearly true East.
Fresh breezes & fine wr. Took in F.T.Gt. sail, the ship plunging a good deal to the head swell
At day break, Trinidad in sight N.62ºE Set F.T.Gt.sail.
Light breezes & fine wthr.
Mustered the ships compy. and saw them clean
Got up all the sails out of one sail room and aired it with stoves
Noon, mod. Breezes & fine weather: Swell from the southward.

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[page 151]

[Thursday Sept 24th H.M.S. Investigator off the is[landTrinidad, bound to the Cape of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


In 1795 Mr. Crosley made the center of Trinidad by --- sets of Lunars taken before and after seeing the island, and reduced to it by his best time keeper
The latitude by log at 11 P.M., when the island bore true east, was 20º:30' So. in calculating whh. a proportional part of the current is allowed.

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[page 152]

[Friday] Sept 25. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. Breezes & cloudy. Employed airing the sails and sail room
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
A considerable swell from the southward which makes the ship pitch a good deal.
Moderate breezes with fine weather
Light breezes, and a southerly swell. Cleaned below. Got the sails out of the middle sail room to air, and aired the room with stoves.
Light breezes with fine weather. All the plain sails set

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[page 153]

[Saturday] - 26. towards the Cape of Good Hope.

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes & fine weather: a swell from the southward. Out lst. Reefs & set mzn. T.Gt. sail.
Took in the 1st reefs, and the mzn. T.Gt. sail.
Moderate & cloudy weather
Do. Weather.
Light airs with rain. At 41/2, a fresh breeze with cloudy weather
Fresh breezes with rain. In T.Gt. sails and small staysails
Set T.Gt. sails &c. again.
A sheerwater or two seen
Moderate & cloudy. Set spanker, mz. T.Gt. sail &
F.T. mast studg. sail - Southerly swell still.

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[page 154]

[Sunday] Sept. 27 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy wr. Set the mzn. T.Gt. sail, and the F. top mast and F. stud.g sails
Took in mz. T.Gt. sail, and 2nd. reef of the top-sail. Hauled down the stay-sails between the masts; and took in the spanker. Took in the F. and F.top-mast studg. sails Carried away the lower, standing boom.
Lightening in the S.W. quarter.
In T.Gt. sails. Heavy rain, with thunder and lightening. 2nd. reef the F.T. sail.
Fresh gales and rainy.



Expenditure of water, this week} 21/2 tons
Remaining - 42
More moderate, with cloudy wr. Set T.Gt. sails, and the F.top and lower studg. sails
Rove a new tiller rope
Saw a white bellied sheerwater
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather, with a following sea. Mustered the people, and saw them all clean.

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[page 155]

[Monday] - 28. towards the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes with rain at times. Carried away the F.T.mt. studg. sail boom in a sudden squall. In stud.g sails & T.Gt. sails, but set them again afterwards
In studg. sails. Lost 4 log lines off the reel. A strange sail in sight to the S.S.W. Double reefed the M. & close reefed the mzn. T.sail.
Fresh breezes and starlight night. Lightening in different parts of the heavens
Cloudy. Heavy claps of thunder, with lightening all round. At 2, the rain & squalls came on. In T.Gt. sails, M.sail, and jib. At 4 set T.Gt. sails, but took them in soon afterwards; the squalls frequently returning and obliging us to bear away at times - At 71/2 a heavy squall with rain &c. Clued down the top sails.
Squally at times with rain: fine intervals between the squalls. Clued down and set the top-sails, and otherwise altered the sail as occasion required. A sea running from the Wt.ward.
At noon, fine weather. Under double reefed top-sails and courses. Some sheerwaters and a pintado bird seen.

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[page 156]

[Tuesday] Sept. 29th. 1801. Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and squally with rain at times. Many pintados and sheerwaters in the wake of the ship, and some birds shaped like woodcocks, with white bellies.
Squally at times. Treble reefed the F. and Mz T.sails
Fresh breezes & fine wr.
Do. weather, and finding the baromr. rising - let out 3rd. reefs & set jib & mz. staysail.
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
Set T.Gt. sails
The swell considerably abated.
Mod. & fine weather. Some diamond-winged albatrosses, sheerwaters and pintados about the ship
Out 2nd. reefs.
Found a leak in the larbd. sail room. Got up the sails to dry
Unbent the fore topsail to repair & bent a new one
Moderate & fine weather with haze

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[page 157]

[Wednesday] - 30th. towards the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Altered the course to get into the supposed lat. Of Saxemberg Island, in the parallel of which I propose to run. Set F. and T. mast studg. sails. Strong breezes. In studdg. sails and spanker
Albatrosses, sheerwaters & many pintados about. At dusk, double reefed the topsails & took in the staysails and jib
Passed by a turtle this afternoon, as reported to me.
Fresh breezes and cloudy, with a following sea, somewhat milining from the south
Fine weather
Set F. and F. top-mast studg. Sails; and let out the 2nd. Reefs.
Set spanker
A swell from the W.N.W. but a long under swell comes from the S.W.
Sailmakers repairing the old F. top-sail. Served sour krout and vinegar to the ships company.
Fresh breezes & hazy weather Many pintado birds abt. The ship.

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[page 158]

[Thursday] October 1. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy. Spitting rain at times. The old F.T. sail being repaired, bent it, and set it 2nd. reefed.
Many pintado birds and a few sooty pettrels about. In studg. sails, and double reefed the M. top sail.
A long, heavy swell rolling from the S.W.ward
Dull, hazy weather, with showers of rain at times
Fresh breezes and cloudy. Set M.sail. Out 2nd reefs and set the F.T. and F. studg. sails.
Light breezes and hazy
Cleaned below and aired with stoves Sailmakers putting a fourth reef into the new F.T. sail.
Mustered the people and saw them all clean as usual on Thursday
Light breezes & fine weather with haze. Long swell from S.W.

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[page 159]

[Friday] - 2. In the parallel of Saxemberg Island

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with fine weather. A long S.W.ly swell.
At dusk, in all studg. sails except the F. and F.T.mt. Set jib, M.T. stay sail and spanker
Light breezes. In studg. sails and spanker Up M.sail & M.T. stay sail.
Ship tossinged about unpleasantly by the south-west swell
Set T.Gt. sails & main sail
Light breezes & cloudy wr. At daylight, set larboard studg. sails forward Sent down the M.T.Gt. yard. finding the cross-trees sprung. Down T.Gt. mast and topmast and fitted new cross trees. The swell somewhat abated. Many pintados about the ship
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather.

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[page 160]

Observations concerning Saxemberg Island


From the geographical notes prefixed to Perouses voyage I learn that this island was discovered by John Lindestz Lindeman, a Hollander, in 1670. It is said to lie in 30º:45' S and about the longitude of 19º:40' W. It does not appear that this island has ever been seen since, although many ships have sought for it. Single ships going to India have frequently made its supposed place of situation and thence have steered a few degrees east in the same eastward in its parallel, but without success. I determined to try some degrees on the westward in the parallel side and on the 29th. at noon finding we had passed its latitude I steered a little to the northwd. and then kept on to the east. Our longitude that day was 25º:50' W and about half a degree east of captain Cooks track, in his last voyage. At that time the same lookout was kept as when searching for Sable or St. Pauls Isle, except that the ships rate of going was not so much reduced during the night) as in the former case. The turtle that we passed on the afternoon of the 30th, as reported to me, gave me some hopes of finding it, but otherwise we had no signs of the neighbourhood of land but such as are common in the sout almost every part of the southern oceans. Our track on Oct. 2. passes within a very few miles of the supposed situation of Saxemberg Island and had it lain there, or in that parallel, to the east of between 26º and 20º West it must have fallen under our inspection. I thought it unnecessary to search to the eastward of 19º:40'.

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[page 161]

[Saturday] - Oct. 3. 1801 - towards the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy. Some swell remaining from the S.W. Swayed up the T. and TGt. Masts and set the sails
At dusk, in studg. sails and spanker, and double reefed the top-sails
Strong breezes. Took in T.Gt. sails, and 3rd reefed the F. and Mzn. topsails. Squally with rain and very dark. Took in the jib and main sail
Strong breezes & squally with heavy rain, until the wind shifted to the southward when it cleared and gradually became finer.
At day break. Out 3rd reef of the F.top sail and set the jib and main sail
Strong breezes & cloudy.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves. The swell makes the ship work a good deal, from whence both the decks and sides become very leaky
Strong breezes & cloudy wr. Many pintados about.

Transcript for a055162162

[page 162]

[Sunday] - Oct. 4. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & cloudy, with a long, high swell from the S.W.ward. People making points.
Under double reefed top-sails which I did not reduce at dusk, finding the barometer to rise.
Fresh breezes with thick cloudy weather.



Weeks expenditure of water} 2-2/3 tons Remaining 39 1/3.
Light breezes. Out 2nd. reefs, set staysails, T.Gt. sails and F.T.mt. studg. sail; and afterwards the lower studg. sail and spanker.
A high, rolling swell from the S.W. A sweep having been used as a standing boom for the lower studg. sail, was carried away by a flap of the sail in rolling to the swell. Mustered ships company, saw them clean & read the articles of war. Lowered down a boat to pick up a pintado for the naturalist to examine.
Light airs & dull, cloudy weather.

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[page 163]

 [Monday] - 5th. towards the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs with dull, cloudy weather. Set the M. top-sail.
Calm at times, with rain. Caught an albatross of 9f:9i extent of wing; and two sooty coloured birds marked with white in the fore part of the head. They belonged to the tribe procelaria and are most probably a variety of the sheerwater.
Light breezes with thick rainy weather. The S.Wtly. swell still running, throws the ship something to windward; whence no leeway is allowed.
Fresh breezes & hazy.
Drizling rain.
Double reefed the topsails. Took in T.Gt. sails.
Took the 3rd. reef in the top sails
Fresh breezes & hazy weather. The S.W. swell being almost beaten down, the water is tolerably smooth.

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[page 164]

[Tuesday] Oct. 6. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes with thick, hazy, weather. Many pintados about the ship. Saw Cape hen.
Strong breezes with dull hazy wr. A sea getting up from the eastward. Single reefed the canvases.
Moderate & hazy. Set jib and M.T.stay sail
Thick, cloudy weather
Let out the 3rd. reefs of the top sails. At day break, let the reefs out of the courses, the 2nd. out of the top sails, and set T.Gt. sails, spanker, stay sails, and larboard stud.g sails.
Light breezes & fine wr. Out lst reefs to air. Cleaned below and aired with stoves. Aired the small sails. Got up the ^slop) shoes to air, which were found to be mouldy and a few pairs partly spoiled.
Light breezes & cloudy wr. People working up junk.

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[page 165]

[Wednesday] 7th. towards the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes & fine weather. Fogs spreading over and clearing away again occasionally: at 4 it continued thick.
At dusk, took in studg. sails and 2 reefs in the F. and Mz. and 1 in the M. topsail.
Fresh breezes & thick, foggy weather. Took in the upper stay sails. Hauled down the spanker.
Fresh breezes with thick weather and drizling rain. Took in T.Gt. sails.
Hazy weather.
At daylight, set the top gallant sails.
Fresh breezes with dull, hazy, weather. Cleaned below. Many pintado and a few other oceanic birds about the ship. At noon, a stream of small petrels were seen passing the ship, but at too great a distance of know of what kind
Noon, moderate & hazy.

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[page 166]

[Thursday] Oct. 8. 1801 from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & hazy. Set F.T. and F. studg. sails.
In fore studg. sail. Cut up Pork No. 28, contained 53 pieces, which it answered.
In fore top-mast studg. sails
In upper stay sails. Strong breezes & cloudy wr. Took in T.Gt. sails.
Do. wr.
Set T.Gt. sails, spanker and stay sails
Fresh breezes & fine weather with haze. Cleaned below and aired with stoves. Employed pointing the 4th. reef of a new F.T. sail. Mustered ships company and saw them clean.
Strong breezes & fine wr. Pintandos and some of the small grey petrels about.

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[page 167]

[Friday] - 9th. towards the Cape of Good Hope

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & cloudy weather. A sea following the ship from the N.W. Took in T.Gt. sails. Punished Thos. Flint, seaman, with 12,and Andrew Robinson with 6 lashes for fighting
At dusk, double reefed the M. top-sail.
Strong breezes with dull, cloudy, weather.
Do. weather. At 6, the wind more moderate. Set Middle and M.F. stay sail; and afterwards T.Gt. sails
Cloudy with haze. A few pintado birds about. Passed several patches of sea weed. People employed sinneting oars, making boats fenders, and otherwise preparing the boats for active service.
Fresh breezes & hazy with misty rain at times. A swell following from the N.W.; which seems to prevent the wind from raising any sea: the water being still smooth

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[page 168]

[Saturday] Oct. 10th. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes with hazy weather and misty rain. Took in T.Gt. sails and stay sails.
Set T.Gt. sails and spanker
Fine weather, and starlight
Out 2nd reef of the M. top-sail, and set the fore top and fore studg. sails.
Moderate breezes & fine weather. At daylight out all reefs, set T. Gt. studg. sails, royals and mzn. top gant sail.
Do. weather. Cleaned below and aired with stoves. In T.Gt. studg. sails & royals in a squall. Exercised the ships company at the small arms at a target
Moderate breezes & fine weather Pintados and albatrosses about the ship.

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[page 169]

[Sunday] - 11th. towards the Cape of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes with fine weather. Set F.T. and lower studg. sails, and spanker
Squally. In studg. sails. Treble reefed the F. and took 2 reefs in the M. and mzn. top sails.
Fresh breezes and squally. T.Gt. sail Handed the M. T.Gt. sail
Mod & fine wr. At daylight, let one reef out of each topsail, and set the spanker.
Set F. top and F. studg. sail. Cleaned below and aired with stoves Mustered and saw the ships company clean Set stay sails. Many birds about. Mod. & fine wr.
Weeks expenditure of water} 2 2/3 tons.
Remaining - 36 2/3.

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[page 170]

[Monday] Oct 12. 1801. Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & fine wr.
Hauled up to get lunar observations.
At dusk, took in the studg. sails, & double reefed the miz. top-sail.
Hauled down the spanker.
Mod. & fine weather
Let 2nd reef out of the F. and all of the miz. topsail. Set F.T. and lower studg. sails and spanker.
A long swell from the westward.
Set royals, both M.T.Gt. royals studg. sails & Mz. top-ga'nt sail
People employed working up junk
Noon, moderate breezes and fine weather
Took in royals.

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[page 171]

[Tuesday] - 13th. towards the Cape of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with fine weather. A stream of pidgeon-like birds coming from the eastward
A swell from the south-westward making the ship roll considerably
Took in the T.Gt.sail and a reef in the mzn. top sail
Light breezes with fine weather. In studg. sails and braced up.
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
In stay sails & T.Gt. sails.
At 7, tacked ship & double reefed the top-sails.
Treble reefed the F. and M. top-sails and got down T.Gt. yards; there being a considerable head swell which makes the ship plunge.
Fresh and strong breezes alternately, with cloudy wr.
Swell from the S.W.ward.
Pintados, carey chickens, and small blue petrels about. A pintado hooked

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[page 172]

[Wednesday] Oct. 14th. 1801. Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy, with a south'ly swell thro'out
Mod. breezes: Out 3rd. reefs, sent up T.Gt. yards, set the sails and M.T. mt. stay sail.
At 6, wore ship: the southerly swell having made the ship miss stays.
Fresh breezes and squally. In T. Gt. sails
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
At daylight, set T.Gt. sails out 2nd reefs, and set the stay-sails.
Mod. and cloudy.
People working up junk
Several birds about: some pintados caught with the hook.
Mod. breezes & fine wr.
A southerly swell makes the ship plunge something.

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[page 173]

[Thursday] - 15. towards the Cape of Good Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and cloudy weather with clear intervals at times
Some pintados caught with a hook and line.
Dble. reefed the F. and Mz. topsails
Light breezes. The stay sails and spanker beating about, took them in. Scrubbed the hammks. of the watch.
At daylight, let the 2nd. reef out of the F., and all out of the Mz. top sail, and set the starbd. top and lower studg. sails
Mod. and cloudy. Set the spanker
Mustered the ships company and saw them all clean: afterwards took an account of all their clothing
Moderate breezes & cloudy wr.
The water tolerably smooth.

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[page 174]

[Friday] Oct. 16. 1801 Investigator from Madeira

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. & cloudy weather, with spitting rain & squalls at times. Took in stay sails and spanker.
In studg. sails & double reefed the top-sails.
Fresh breezes and cloudy, with spitting rain at times
Squally. In T. Gt. sails & M. top stay sail.
Set T. Gt.sails & stay sail
Saw the land through the haze bearing E.N.E. Moderate breezes with squalls of rain at times. The thick wr. giving us a partial view of the land only.
Bent cables, unstowed the [anchor]s &c.
Noon. Wt. extreme of the land bore N.b.E. and the high land towards Cape False E.S.E.

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[page 175]

 [Saturday] - 17th. into False Bay - C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Hauled up for the Cape Point, and passed without side the rocks that lie off it. Several whales and thrashers in the bay. The wind very variable, flowing off the land at times. At 31/2, saw the ships in the bay, and at 4 were boarded by the guard boat. Soon after the master of H.M.S. Lancaster came on board to conduct the ship to her anchorage, to which we worked up by six oclock. Furled sails and moored ship: Noahs arck ark bearing E.1/2 S. and the Roman rocks wharf S.W.1/2 W. abt. 1/2 mile
Found riding here H.M. Ships Lancaster, Jupiter, Diomed, Hindoostan, Imperieuse, Rattlesnake and Euphrosyne, & an Indiaman, under the command of Vice Admiral Sir Roger Curtis Bt. upon whom I immediately waited, with my orders and weekly account. Ships draught of water Forwd. 13:6 Aft 13:10
Wind variable from the westward with slight showers of rain at times. A.M. Sent an officer on shore to pitch upon a place for watering on the north side of the bay under the sand hills, where we sunk a cask into the sand and sent two launch loads of empty casks on shore to be filled. Went on shore upon various duties, of which one was to pitch upon a place with the astronomer proper for erecting the observatory and a tent; this we did near the fort on the side of Simmons Bay. Received on board a gang of caulkers from the ships here, who began upon the quarter deck. Received also 219 lbs of fresh beef. Slight showers at times, but in general fine weather: wind from the westward Ther. At noon 59° Bar. 30,07

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[page 176]

Winds
Transactions &c. H.M.S. Investigator - October

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

 
[Sun.]18th

Mod. & cloudy weather. Caulkers employed on board. A party of men on shore filling water casks. Sent several packs and staves of casks to be set up for water and provisions at the cooperage on shore. Sent the observatory and some instruments on shore.
A.M. Caulkers at work as before. People employed picking oakum mostly. Unbent sails and sent them on board the Lancaster to be repaired.


[Mon.]19

.
Fine weather. Struck lower yards and unrigged them. Employed in the holds and rigging the yards.
A.M. Moderate breezes & fine wr. People employed filling the coal hole out of the fore hold, and otherwise as necessary. Caulkers upon the ships bow as before. Noon, fresh breezes at times, with cloudy weather. .
Ther. 59° Bar. 30,07.
Recd. 230 lbs of beef


[Tues.] Oct. 20 Fresh breezes and cloudy with rain. Empld. sending on shore casks & packs to the cooperage &c. &c.
A.M. Mod. & cloudy. Got off a raft of water. Employed principally in the holds stowing it away. Caulkers upon the ships sides as before


[Wed.] 21. Employed as in the morning A.M. Light breeze and cloudy. Discharged 4 men into H.M.S. Lancaster in lieu of 4 received. Received Rice, Pease, Sugar, & spirits from H.M.S.Lancaster to complete as we left England. Employed in the holds. Recd. 130 lbs of mutton.

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[page 177]

Transactions &c. in Oct.1801. False Bay.

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

[Thurs.] 22

Moderate breezes and cloudy. Employed in the holds and otherwise as necessary .A.M. Fresh breezes and squally. Recd. 57 lbs of fresh beef. Struck T.Gt.masts; cleared hawse; and got the sheet [anchor] over the side. Caulkers employed as before upon the sides and upper deck. Entered Mr. Dennis Lacey, Mid. from H.M.S. Lancaster.
Daylight Ther. 61º Bar. 30,07
Noon Th. 67º Bar. 30,05

[Fri.] 23. Strong breezes and squally. Several boats &c. assisting the Countess of Sutherland Indiaman - Egglestone; which ship, in preparing to sail, had got too far over to the north side of the bay, and touched the ground at times. People employed in the holds &c. A.M. Mod. & fine wr. A party filling water. Received 120 lbs of fresh beef; and various boatswains stores in lieu. Some hands blacking the yards. Cooper on shore setting up casks. Carpenters employed as usual with the caulkers.


[Sat.] 24th. Light breezes and sultry. Recd. boatswains stores and beef, pork, suet, raisins and vinegar to complete. Ansd. signal to assist in towing H.M.S. Diomed to the south side of the bay, and a sloop in towards the shore. A.M. Mod. brz. & dull cldy wr. Recd. 130 lbs. fresh beef. Ansd. signal for all lieutent.s. Employed rafting off water casks. Strong breezes and cloudy weather with haze

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[page 178]

Transactions &c. H.M.S. Investigator - False Bay

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Sun.] Oct. 25. 1801 Fresh breezes with frequent small rain & thick weather. Sailed for England the Countess of Sutherland Indiaman. Employed in watering the ship. The caulkers having mostly finished withoutside of the ship, and the upper deck, began upon the lower deck. A.M. Mod. & fine weather. Employed painting the masts, and in stowing the holds. Others scraping without of the ship and otherwise as necessary. Caulkers employed as before Ther. 68º Bar. 30,00. Recd. 132 lbs fresh beef.


[Mon.] 26 Fresh breezes & cloudy. At 1 fired a royal salute in honour of H.M. accession to the throne, as did the squadron. People scraping the ship, and employed in the holds. A.M. Strong breezes with rain at times. Recd. 131 lbs of mutton. Caulkers employed on the lower deck, and under the counter: People principally employed scraping the ships sides and upper deck. Ther. 63° Bat. 29,95.


[Tues.] 27. Strong gusts of wind off the hills at times with dull cloudy weather. Employed as before. A.M. Fresh breezes with small rain at times. Sailed H.M. ships Diomed and Rattlesnake. Got up the cables from the lower deck, scraped and cleaned it well, and aired with stoves: then placed the spare rudder in the

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[page 179]

Transactions in Oct. Refitting in False Bay

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


the tiers and recoiled the cables in the tiers, upon the rudder. Recd. 132 lbs of fresh mutton, and fruit and vegetables as usual.


[Wed.] Oct. 28th. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Paid the ships company for their savings of bread between Aug. 1st and Oct. 20. amounting to £43.14, together with 10 percent advance. Struck the F.T. mast, fitted new cross-trees, reswayed up the mast, and sent up the T.Gt. mast. Carpenters began to paint the outside of the ship. Discharged all the caulkers except two belonging to H.M.S. Lancaster. A.M. Fresh breezes and fine weather. Scraped the upper deck again. Recd. 130 lbs of fresh beef. Punished Wm. Jobb and Edwd. Coward seamen, with 12 lashes each for drunkenness and neglect of duty. Carpenters employed painting the ship, repairing ladders and other necessary jobs. Received our sails from the Lancaster, where they had been repaired.


[Thurs.] 29th. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Swayed up lower yards and bent all the sails. Carpenters fitting the round-house pipes and painting the ship. Fresh gales and fine weather, with some haze. A.M. Mod. & fine wr. Employed staying the masts and setting up the rigging. Cut up two casks of pork & one of beef to their contents & returned the casks. Carpenters empd. as in the afternoon. At noon, almost calm

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[page 180]

Transactions &c. on board H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Fri.] October 30. 1801 Mod breezes & fine wr. Carpenters and painters employed as before. People employed on occasional jobs preparing for sea. A.M. Do. wr. Employed principally in the holds. Discharged Mr. Nat. Bell into H.M.S. Hindoostan per order. Received Boatswains and Carpenters stores, in lieu. Recd. 132 lbs of fresh beef


[Sat.] 31. Mod. & fine wr. Got off the larger astronomical instruments from the observatory. Carpenters empld. as before. A.M. Do. wr. Recd. 170 lbs of fresh beef. Stowed the sheet anchor and swayed up T.Gt. masts. Empld. in jobs about the rigging & otherwise occasionally


 [Sun.] November 1. Mod. and cloudy weather. Employed about the rigging and in occasional jobs. A.M. Fresh breezes and clear wr. Received 69 lbs of beef. Struck T.Gt. masts. Employed refitting the studg. sail gear and securing every thing for sea. Th. 641/2 Bar 30,23

[Mon.] 2. Fresh gales & fine wr. with some haze. Got off the Marquee and the time keepers &c. Unstowed the sheet anchor and pointed the yards to the wind A.M. Swayed up T.Gt. masts, hoisted in the launch and prepared to unmoor as soon as ever the wind should permit. Received 230 lbs of fresh meat; and a weeks allowance of fruit and vegetables from the hospital.

Transcript for a055181181

[page 181]

Refitting in False Bay. 1801

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Tues.] Nov. 3 Mod. & fine weather. Employed occasionally. At night, calm. A.M. Light airs. Sent up T.Gt. yard, cleared hawse, unmoored ship and hove short, but the wind freshening up, into the bay, the ship drove and obliged us to drop the 2nd anchor. Sent down T.Gt. yards. Received 200 lbs of fresh beef, making on the whole 2200 lbs received from the Victualling Office. Light breezes.


[Wed.] Nov. 4th. Light winds with variable weather. Hove up the best bower, and veered to a third of a cable in the small one. Employed in the after hold, and in securing for sea. At 6, a breeze sprung up from SSW, but it was too late to move at that time. A.M. Mode. & fine weather. At 5, cloudy. Up T.Gt. yards. Discharged Mr. John Crosley, astronomer, by request, on account of ill health. Set the sails, weighed, and cheered the Vice admiral as we passed under the stern of the Lancaster. Working out of False Bay, with very variable winds: a boat towing ahead occasionally Heavy clouds hanging over the land, and drizzling rain at times. Set royals & T.Gt. studg .sails. Sailmakers repairing the old hammock clothes. At noon, light breezes with small rain. The Cape Point W.S.W. 2 or 3 leagues. Th. 67º. Bar 30,09

Transcript for a055182182

[page 182]

Errors and rates of timekeepers

[See original journal for navigational data and remarks on this page]

Transcript for a055183183

[page 183]

[Thursday] Nov. 5. 1801 Off the C. of Good Hope

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and fine weather. Hoisted up the cutter & secured all the boats. At 2, observed the water to be very red which seemed to arise from its being full of round animalcules; there being no ground with 40 fms.
Stowed the anchor and unbent one cable. At 6, the extremes of the land SE1/2E. to the Cape Point at N.W.b.W1/2W dist abt. 4 leagues
At 11, found bottom at 48 fms. Wore ship, having missed stays.
Sounded in 50 fms.
At daylight, the farthest land towards C. Agullas SE. b E. Cape False N.E.b.N. abt. 4 L.
Light airs. At 9, sounded in 78 fms. greenish mud. C. False bearing N.E.3/4 N. Cape Point N.N.W.
At noon, no ground with 70 fms. C. False N.E.b.N. Cape Point N.b.W. The extreme towards C. Agullas S.E.bE.3/4E.
A light breeze getting up from the westward

Transcript for a055184184

[page 184]

[Friday] Nov. 6th 1801. Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with fine wr. Set T.Gt. studg. sails
At 6, the land extended from N1/2E. to E1/2N.
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
Took in the middle staysails and spanker.
Squally at times
Set the staysails and the F.T. mt. and lower studg. sails. Fresh breezes & hazy. Took in the T.mt. studg. sails.
A few birds about
At noon, fresh breezes & fine wr. with haze.
Some sea running from the W.S.W.
A strange brig in sight

Transcript for a055185185

[page 185]

[Saturday] - 7th towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and squally. Carried away the lower studg. sail boom. Handed F.T.Gt. sail. Dble reefed the M. and Mz. & 3rd. reefed the F. topsail. The brig passed us astern, shewing a blue flag which we could not well make out. Set T.Gt. sails & M.T. mt stay sail
Mod. breezes and cloudy.
Took in the T.Gt. sails
Fresh gales and cloudy, with a considerable sea from the westward
Squally. Hauled up the M. sail.
A few albatrosses and pintado birds about.
Fresh breezes, and cloudy with fine intervals The westerly swell makes the ship roll unpleasantly.

Transcript for a055186186

[page 186]

[Sunday] Nov. 8th. 1801 Investigator from the C. of G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Strong breezes and cloudy, with rain at times. At 3, set M.T.Gt. sail.
Squally with rain. In M.T.Gt. sail, treble reefed the M. close reefed the fore, & handed the mizen top-sail. Barted the main sail.
Strong breezes and squally, with rain at intervals. A heavy sea rolling after us from the westward.
Heavy squalls at times
Fresh breezes in general, with strong squalls at intervals.
Mustered ships company and saw them clean.
Ship very wet below, the water coming through the sides, ports &c
Fresh gales and cloudy, with a following sea from the westward

Transcript for a055187187

[page 187]

[Monday] - 9th. towards New Holland]

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Strong breezes and cloudy weather, with squalls at times
Unsettled weather
Moderate breezes and cloudy.
Squally at times with rain. The westerly swell a good deal abated. At day light, set miz. topsail & let out double reefs of the F. and M. and set T.Gt. sails, stay sails and spanker.
Let the 2nd reefs out of the top sails and set the F. and F. top studg. sails
Cleaned below and aired with stoves -
Served sour krout & vinegar.
At noon, light breezes with fine weather. Swell runng. from W.S.W.
A few pintado birds and brown albatrosses about

Transcript for a055188188

[page 188]

[Tuesday] Nov. 10th. 1801 Investigator fr. Cape of G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes with fine weather. Set M.T.Gt. studg. sail.
Set spanker. Clear starlight night
Moderate breezes with fine weather: the water smooth
Set stay-sails
Mod. breezes and cloudy.
Do. weather. Some swell from WSW. still remaining
Exercised the watch below in the use of small arms, and fired two rounds of powder
In studg. sails and spanker.
Fresh breezes & hazy weather
Some albatrosses, many pintados, and some other oceanic birds about

Transcript for a055189189

[page 189]

[Wednesday] 11th towards New Holland

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and hazy. Double reefed the top-sails
In T.Gt. sails. Close reefed the miz. and took 3rd reef in the F.T. sail.
Took in T.Gt. sails
Strong breezes and squally wr.
In Main sail, M.T.mt. and miz. stay sails
Squally with rain, accompanied with loud thunder and vivid lightening. Close reefed the F.,3rd reefed the M. & handed miz. T.sail
At 4, more moderate. Out 3rd. reef of the M. top-sail
Unsettled weather, with rain at times
Set 3rd. reefed F. 1st. reefed M. and close reefed miz top sail.
Set M. sail and stay sails
Moderate and cloudy wr.
Set M.T.Gt. sail

Transcript for a055190190

[page 190]

[Thursday] Nov. 12. 1801. Investigator from the C. of G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather. Let one reef out of the Mz. and two out of the F. top sail. Set the F.T. mt. and lower studg. sails
Squally with rain at times. Took in the lower studg. sail.
Light breezes and cloudy. A swell running from the westward.
Light airs
Puffs of wind at times with small rain.
Light breeze springing up. All the plain sails set.
At 9, hove to, and hoisted in the larboard cutter to be repaired
At 103/4 h, filled and made sail. Set the larbd. F. top and M.T.Gt. studg. sails.
Moderate breezes and cloudy weather
Some large albatrosses, some pintados, & sooty petrels about the ship and sitting on the water

Transcript for a055191191

[page 190]

[Thursday] Nov. 12. 1801. Investigator from the C. of G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather. Let one reef out of the Mz. and two out of the F. top sail. Set the F.T. mt. and lower studg. sails
Squally with rain at times. Took in the lower studg. sail.
Light breezes and cloudy. A swell running from the westward.
Light airs
Puffs of wind at times with small rain.
Light breeze springing up. All the plain sails set.
At 9, hove to, and hoisted in the larboard cutter to be repaired
At 103/4 h, filled and made sail. Set the larbd. F. top and M.T.Gt. studg. sails.
Moderate breezes and cloudy weather
Some large albatrosses, some pintados, & sooty petrels about the ship and sitting on the water

Transcript for a055192192

[page 191]

[Thursday Nov. 12 1801] towards New Holland

[Astronomical Observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Whilst the ship was hove lying to, I sent down one of the buckets from the B. of Longitude, 150 fms. A thermometer being immersed immediately, stood at 63°,1, whilst in the surface water it stood at 63°,8. In the open air, when shaded, the themometer stood at 63°,6.
For its relative weight, see the observations in Princess R. Harbour.

[page 192]

[Friday] - Nov. 13th. 1801 Investigator fr. Cape of G. Hope

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and cloudy wr. Carpenters repairing the cutter.
Do. weather
Mod. breezes and cloudy weather
In larbd. studg. sails, stay sails, spanker, and up M. sail.
Fresh breezes & fine weather.
Set larboard studg. sails, main sail & stay sails -
Carpenters repairing the cutter.
Washed and cleaned below.
Moderate breezes and fine wr. with some haze: Water smooth

Transcript for a055193193

[page 193]

[Saturday] - 14th. towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes & fine weather Let 1st reefs out to dry.
Single reefed the top sails
Lightening in the northern quarter.
Hazy weather
Light Mod. breezes & fine weather.
Set stabrd. lower & M.T.Gt. studg. sails
Exercised great guns and fired one round of powder. Let the reefs out of the Mz. top-sail.
Light airs & hazy weather with smooth water.

Transcript for a055194194

[page 194]

[Sunday] Nov.15th. 1801 Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs and hazy weather.
Mod. breez. with drizzling rain at times In studg. sails.
Fresh breezes. Double reefed the top-sails Water very smooth.
Fresh breezes & hazy, moist weather. In T.Gt. sails and small stay sails.
Strong breezes. In jib, M.T.mt. staysail and 3rd. reef of the top sails.
Lightening in the N.E. quarter
Found that the ship had leaked 18 inches in the last ten hours. -
The thermr. on deck unfortunately broken by a man falling against it; this is the third destroyed by one accident or other, and the whole that was supplied by the Navy Board
Sent down T. Gt. Yards -
Mustered the people and saw them clean.
Fresh gales and hazy wr. A sea rising from the northward.
The Navy Board sextant was unfortunately broken, by Lt. Flinders falling with it in his hand, at noon.

Transcript for a055195195

[page 195]

[Monday] - 16th. towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh gales & thick hazy weather, with rain at times. Secured the cutter more firmly on the starbd. quarter
More moderate with cloudy weather Let 3rd. reef out of the M. top sail, and set jib and spanker.
Fresh breezes and fine weather
In spanker
Squally. Took in the jib and M. top stay sail Some albatrosses and other birds about.
Fresh breezes: a shower of rain.
Sent up the M.T.Gt. yard
Served sour krout and vinegar as usual on banian days.
Mod. breezes & fine wr. with haze. Some sea running from the N.W.

Transcript for a055196196

[page 196]

[Tuesday] Nov. 17th 1801 Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with flying showers of rain.
Out 3rd. reef of the F. top sail and sent up the T.Gt. yard Set both fore studg. sails
Mod. breezes and cloudy. Out 2nd. reef of the M.T.sail and set both studg. sails.
Squally at times with small rain. Took in all the studg. sails
Set jib, staysails and spanker, and the fore studg. sail
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
Strong breezes. Took in spanker and F. Studg. sail
Mod. & cloudy. Set the spanker; and soon afterwards the fore studg. sail
Some brown albatrosses and other birds about.
Moderate breezes with flying showers at times

Transcript for a055197

[page 197]

[Wednesday] - 18th. towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with fine weather. Served sweet wort to the ships company.
Saw a whale close under the bows. -
Light airs. Took in F.studg. sail -
Up courses & hauled down the spanker
Clear weather
Set course, staysails, and spanker.
Out all reefs
Moderate breezes & fine wr.
Washed below and aired with stoves
Moderate breezes with fine pleasant weather

Transcript for a055199199

[page 199]

[Friday] - 20th . towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal] ]


Fresh breezes and hazy weather
Set the 3rd. reefs out of the F. and Mz. top-sails
Treble reefed the F. and Mz. T. sails
Carried away the jib stay and haliards
Fresh gales with thick wr.
A sudden shift of wind: trimmed sails and set T.Gt. sails.
Moderate breezes and thick weather with rain.
Let one reef out of each of the top sails.
Set F. and F. top studg. sail; and spanker
Aired below with stoves
Light breezes with dull cloudy weather

Transcript for a055200200

[page 200]

[Saturday] Nov. 21. 1801. Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. Breezes and cloudy wr.
Shifted studg. sails forward and set the spanker.
Many albatrosses about. Set jib and main sail
Mod. breezes and cloudy.
Fine weather with haze
Some westerly swell still following. Out all reefs, set staysails and T.Gt. studg. sails
Set up the M. and Mz. T. mast rigging
Served sweet wort to the ships company.
Took in T.Gt. studg. sails
Moderate breezes & fine weather with haze

Transcript for a055201201

[page 201]

[Sunday] - 22nd. 1801 towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes & fine wr.
Single reefed the top-sails. Carried away the F. studg. sail yard. In spanker studg. sails and T.Gt. stay sail
Fresh breezes & cloudy weather, with haze
Took in middle stay sail
Moderate breezes & fine weather.
Cloudy.
Set larboard studg. sails, spanker, and M.T.Gt. staysail
Moderate breezes and cloudy. Cleaned below and aired with stoves.
Mustered ships company and saw them clean. Read the articles of war, and punished Wm. Donovan (seaman) with 12 lashes for drunkenness and irregularity.
Served sweet wort
Moderate breezes and fine weather.

Transcript for a055202202

[page 202]

[Monday] Nov. 23. 1801 Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes with hazy wr.
Many petrels about the ship
Took in the stay sails
Set staysails and spanker
Set royal and T.Gt. studg. sails
Light breezes and cloudy.
Carpenters employed repairing the cutter.
Mustered the ships companys clothing. Got the slops upon deck to air.
Noon, light breezes & fine weather

Transcript for a055203203

[page 203]

[Tuesday] Nov. 24 towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod breezes and cloudy. In royals and fore studg. sail.
Took in T.Gt. studg. Sails, and double reefed the top sails
Fresh breezes and cloudy. Heavy dew falling
Took in F.T. mt. studg. sail, and small stay sails.
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather: water smooth
Set stay sails, and F.T. mt. studg. sail.
Many small blue petrels about, (Procelaria forsteri)
Bent the cables and turned in the stoppers. Took in the studg. sail
Strong breezes and cloudy with haze. No sun visible
Several whales seen this morning: Sweet wort served as usual.

Transcript for a055204204

[page 204]

[Wednesday] Nov 25th. 1801 Off the island Amsterdam [on the way towards New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Fresh breezes and cloudy weather Several whales seen.
At 7 took in T.Gt. sails, jib, staysails and spanker
At 11 up courses and brought to, with the F.T. sail to the mast.
At 3, wore ship and brought to, with the ships head to the westward.
At 5, filled and made sail, steering to the southward, until we judged ourselves in the latitude of the island; and then steered to the east.
Weather thick and hazy, so as to prevent us from seeing more than two leag. Some whales, many Cape hens and petrels about the ship.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves.
Strong breezes. Took in T.Gt. sails and double treble reefed the top sails

Transcript for a055205205

[page 205]

on the way towards New Holland

[Wednesday Nov. 25th 1801
Off the island Amsterdam]

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Bringing to at 11 P.M. was from supposing ourselves in the longitude of the Isle of Amsterdam, or nearly, for I suppose believe it to be to the eastward of 1h:54' as given in Lord Macartneys voyage. I find it laid down in 77º:40' by H.M.S. Providence which is deduced from three time-keepers from the Cape.
It should seem, that if this last is its true situation and our longitude be correct, that at 7 A.M. we must have been within a very few leagues of it: the 23' difference of easting was the most probably the principal cause that we did not see it, and the thick weather completed it. I did not think it worth while to lose time, by steering out of our way for these two islands; but had the weather been fine, I wished to have sent a boat on shore with the naturalist, to one or both of them.

Transcript for a055206206

[page 206]

[Thursday] Nov. 26th 1801. Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Strong breezes with dull, misty weather. Took in the M.T. mt. staysail
Set M.T.mt. staysail, the wind being more moderate.
Out 3rd. reef of the M.T. sail
Fresh breezes and thick weather, with drizzling rain. Out 3rd. reef of the F.T. sail, and set T.Gt. sails
Mod. breezes and cloudy.
Out 2nd. reefs and set the spanker and staysails.
Set studg. sails
Mustered the ships company and saw them clean.
Moderate breezes and fine weather
Not many birds about.

Transcript for a055207207

[page 207]

[Friday] 27th. towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Freshening breezes and cloudy weather
Passed some bunches of seaweed
Took in staysails, spanker, and T.Gt. studg. sails
Fresh breezes and fine weather Took in all studg. sails.
Moderate breezes & fine wr. Set studg. sails on both sides and M. royal.
In starbd. studg. sails.
Shifted studg .sails. Swayed up the lower yards. Exercised great guns and fired one round of powder.
Moderate breezes with fine weather. A silent, long, swell following from the westward.

Transcript for a055208208

[page 208]

[Saturday] Nov. 28 1801 Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy. Took in staysails and spanker. Set larbd. studg. sails Shower of rain.
Set spanker and staysails.
Fresh breezes and cloudy. In studg. sails and staysails but set them again at daylight
Fresh and moderate breezes alternately, with rain at times. Exercised small arms and fired 2 rounds of powder. Served sweet wort as usual.
Mod. & fine weather with a long westerly swell. Some Cape hens hovering about the ship

Transcript for a055209209

[page 209]

[Sunday] - 29. towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and fine weather. Let the reefs out to air. Set T.Gt. studg. sails
Mod. breezes and cloudy wr. In 1st. reefs of the F. and M. and 2 of the miz. top sail.
In T.Gt. studg. sails and spanker.
Took in all stud.g sails.
Light breezes. Set stud.g sails and shifted them occasionally. Some tropic birds reported to be about the ship.
Set stay sails and spanker
Served sweet wort as usual. Mustered the ships company and saw them clean.
Fresh breezes and hazy wr. In stud.g sails and took two reefs in the mz. Topsail.

Transcript for a055210210

[page 210]

[Monday] Nov. 30th. 1801 Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy.
Squally with rain at times. Took in spanker, T.Gt. sails and staysails.
Double reefed the top-sails
Strong breezes. Treble reefed the F. and Mzn. top-sails
At 1/4 before three, it became nearly calm, when the wind shifted suddenly to the other side: weather thick, with small rain.
Set the M.T.Gt. sail
Squally at times with rain. Set main sail.
Served sweet wort and sour krout to the ships company.
Fresh breezes with fine weather. Few birds about of the usual kinds.

Transcript for a055211211

[page 211]

Lunar observations on the 29th. and 30th. A.M.

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Transcript for a055212212

[page 212]

[Tuesday] Decr. lst. 1801 Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy wr. with rain at times. A high sea following.
Set jib staysails and spanker, and fore studg. sail
Light breezes. Under double reefed top-sails, T.Gt. sails &c.
Changeable weather. Took in the studg. sail and spanker
Light winds and fine wr. Out 2nd. reefs and set the F. and F. top studg. sails, spanker and staysails.
Fresh breezes and cloudy weather
Cleaned below.
Some albatrosses and pintados about the ship. Served sweet wort.
Fresh breezes & fine wr. with a long swell following after the ship

Transcript for a055213213

[page 213]

[Wednesday] 2nd. towards S.W. coast of New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. Carried away the F.T.mt. studg. sail boom.
In staysails and spanker
Squally. Double reefed the top sails
Took in T.Gt. sails. Split the jib
Fresh gales with a high sea running. Treble reefed the F. and M. and handed the miz. topsail.
 Fresh gales and cloudy.
Up M. sail, and set the M. staysail
Took in the F.T. mt. staysail, the sail being split. Set the mzn. top-sail.
Fresh breezes with fine weather. A high sea running from the N.W.ward. Unbent the F.T. mt. stay-sail and bent a new one. Sailmakers repairing sails. Out 3rd. reef of the M. topsail.
Fresh breezes and squally weather. A considerable sea following.

Transcript for a055214214

[page 214]

[Thursday] Dec. 3 1801 Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Strong breezes and squally.
Handed the mz. top-sail
Treble reefed the M. top-sail, and reefed and set the main sail
Lost 2 log lines
Strong breezes and squally. Up M. sail and closed down the top-sails. Set them again after the squall. Lightening all round
Out 3rd. reefs of the F. and M. and set the mz. top sail.
Strong squalls with rain at times
Set T.Gt. sails.
Mustered the ships company and saw them clean.
Served sweet wort
Fresh breezes and cloudy. A considerable sea following the ship.

Transcript for a055215215

[page 215]

[Friday]- 4th. towards New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy wr. A considerable following sea.
Fresh breezes and hazy, with spitting rain at times.
Fresh breezes with thick wr. and drizzling rain
Let the reef out of the M. sail, and the 2nd. reef out of the M. top- sail.
Cloudy wr., with spitting rain at times
Washed between decks and aired with stoves
Noon, fresh breezes and cloudy weather. The sea very little abated

Transcript for a055216216

[page 216]

[Saturday] Dec.5. 1801 Investigator from the Cape

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy. The old F.T. mt. stay-sail being repaired, rebent it.
Double reefed the M. top-sail
Squally with rain at times
Out 2nd. reefs, and set the spanker and studg. sails
Mod. breezes & fine wr. the sea much gone down
Cleaned below and aired with stoves. Served sweet wort
Light breezes & fine pleasant weather

Transcript for a055217217

[page 217]

[Sunday] - 6th. Towards the S.W. coast of New Holland

[Navigational data & astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and fine weather
Shifted the studg. sails
Mod. & cloudy weather.
A silent swell, following from the westward. Made all sail.
Light breezes and dull cloudy weather.
At 10, in studg. sails and trimmed to the wind.
Mustered ships company and saw them clean. Punished Wm. Beach (marine) for drunkenness & consequent neglect of duty, with 12 lashes. Served sweet wort.
Mod. Breezes and cloudy.

Transcript for a055218218

[page 218]

[Monday] - 7th Decr .1801 Investigator from the Cape[of G.Hope to New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather
At 2, in larbd. studg. sails and braced sharp up, expecting soon to make N. Holland
Bent cables
At 7, saw land from the mast head N.N.E. Sounded in 85 fms coral sand.
In jib, staysails, spanker & main-sail
At 9, 80 fathoms coarse coral
At 11, 65 fms. coral sand. Wore ship, and stood off under top- sails and T.Gt.sails
Light winds and cloudy weather
At 2, 80 fathoms, coarse coral bottom
Wore ship
Light breezes and cloudy. 40 fms. coral sand At daylight, made sail. At 5, low land in sight, in patches, from N.N.W. to E bS. from the mast head.
At 9 sounded in 22, and at 10 in 15 fms. coarse sand. Wore round and kept along the coast at 10 being about 4 miles off shore.
At 11, squally weather, with rain. Dbl. reefed the topsails. Sounded in 23 fms. Hauled further off from the land.
At noon, sounded in 20 fms. small shells and broken coral. North extreme being the first land seen N.48º.W. called (A). A barren rock south of it, not in sight. So. extreme about S.45º.E. Country all sand hills

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[page 219]

[Monday - 7th Decr. 1801
Investigator from the Cape of G. Hope to New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land seen this afternoon was scarcely definable. It seem to have been (A) the Wt. most land. From it the land seems to run to the eastward into a bight, and then turns about S.E.b.S. Land was seen all across this bight, equally sandy as the other parts of the coast. (A) seems to be rocky as well as sandy. S.S.E. 3 or 4 miles from A, lies a barren, rocky island, a, with breakers round it, and between them, a lower sloping islet; all too far distant to say much of them: but I judge A to be the south west part of Leuwens Land. At 10, when we wore, in 15 fms., and kept parallel to the coast, our distance off shore was 3 to 4 miles. A ridge of sandy hills seems to front the sea, but here and there a back ridge of more distant land, shews itself. Trees are scattered about the front ridge, and seem to abound in the inland parts
The coast ahead runs very regular, and no dangers appear there: in the bight near A, breakers are frequent, but I think they all belong to the barren islet or rock a.

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[page 220]

[Tuesday] - Dec. 8 1801 Off the south west [coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and squally. Out 3rd. reefs of the F. and mz. top sails. At 3, the south extreme of a steep cape, C, S.60º.E; without which soon after was seen a patch of breakers. Kept out another point. A small island south of and near to C. At 5h:40' Two rocks white at the top, bore S.75.E. At 7h.15' they bore N.29º.E. Furthest land indistinctly seen N.80E. Braced sharp up, and stood off close to the wind, sounding every two hours, except at 10, the bottom coral sand and broken pieces. Fresh breezes and squally weather at 8, but it became finer afterwards. At 1, tacked ship. Out 3rd. reef of the M top-sails & set T.Gt. &c at daylight. Saw the land stretching to the eastward, but C or the white rocks a out of sight, the ship having fallen to leeward. At 5.40 a high, steep cape D. N.25.E, 6 or 8 miles, wh. afterwards proved to be insulated; it appears to be the Cape Chatham of Vancouver.
At 7.15 tacked and steered along the coast from 3 to 6 or 7 miles distant. The two rocks (a) of last night about N.60ºW. Made more sail. At 10h:25' kept more in with the shore. The soundings, sand, small coral and broken shells.
At noon about 4 miles off shore, being divided into points and heads with sandy bays between them

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[page 221]

[Tuesday Dec. 8 1801 Off the South west] coast of New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land continues to be sandy; unto the end of Cape C, which is tolerably high and steep. On its east side is a sandy beach, but the land is higher at the back than before. I wished to come in again with C and the two white rocks a but a current seems to have drifted us to the leeward.
D is a bluff smooth-surfaced rock, about 1 mile from the shore and at its back is a bight 2 or 3 miles deep. The country looks pleasant in this bight. From here the coast to the eastward projects in points, between which are sandy bays sometimes promising shelter. Upon the whole the country of this morning has a difft. appearance to the sandy shore of yesterday it is altogether higher, the shore is more steep and rocky, and the interior seems well covered with trees; and near the shore, a green, but rather shabby coat covers the land down to the cliffs. The sand appears here and there through it, especially in the parts where it falls back. Smokes were rising near a steep point which bore N.4°W. 4 or 5 miles at noon, and is the first noticed

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[page 222]

[Wednesday] - Dec. 9th. Investigator, along the south- [west coast of New Holland - Astronl. observations]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with fine weather. At 2, made all sail in order to look into the bight at the back of Cape Howe before night. At 4, a sloping hummock, high in the center, came in sight, wide off from the coast which proved to be the Eclipse Islands. At 5, C. Howe No. about 4 miles, behind which it falls back N.N.E. 3 or 4 miles. There are no white cliffs in Cape Howe, but smooth brown cliffs. Finding a probability of getting into King Georges Sound tonight steered and made sail accordingly. Bald Hd., Mt. Gardner and west end of Eclipse isles in a line N.60ºE. At 8, hauled up round Bald Head, and stretched over to Break-sea Island. Tacked ship occasionally, working up into the sound, the wind being right out, at 111/2, came to an anchor between Seal Island, and the first small beach round Bald Head in 8 fms. sandy bottom. Furled sails A.M. Sent the master to sound, and to land on Seal Island: he brought 4 seals on board.
Sent a boat to land the naturalist &c. &c. near Bald Head, and went away with the master to examine Princess Royal Harbour for a convenient place to wood, water, and refit the ship in. See next page.

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[page 223]

[Wednesday - Dec 9th Investigator along the south]west coast of New Holland - Astronl. observations

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The same kind of coast still continues as in the morning, projecting points every 4 or 8 miles and sandy bights between them. The strong current that seems to set along this shore, carried us somewhat past our reckoning, so that when the Eclipse Islands appeared we only then knew that we were abreast of C. Howe. We found Bald Head to be a more sloping projection than Captain Vancouver's sketch shews it to be; and being dusk, the east end of Break-sea Island, being more steep was taken for it. luckily, however, I had doubts about this, and determined to haul up into the weathermost bight. Our depths of water between Bald Head and the islands was too much for a hand line. We chose our [anchor]ing berth in the dark, and had no great reason to disapprove of our choice, or to find fault with captain Vancouvers survey.
Note: This day is continued to 36 hours, and therefore after this day, the time will be reckoned according to civil time account

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[page 224]

Transactions and remarks in King Georges Sound [on the S.W. coast of New Holland]

Continuation of [Wed.] Dec. 9th 1801.

Fresh breezes & fine weather, with squalls at times. Sent down T.Gt. yds. Hoisted up the boats in the evening. -
In our way towards the Princess R. Harbour, we stopped at Seal Island, to look for capt. Vancouvers bottle and parchment; but found no vestiges of it, or of the staff or pile of stones from which I suspect that somebody ship had been here since. From hence Seal Island we stretched to the southward, and I landed near the flat rock near which captain Vancouver [anchor]ed to walk round towards the harbour. I sent the master in the boat to beat up to it. I was rather surprised to see so much of the air of Port Jackson about the country and vegetation. On the long beach we found some small drains of excellent water, but the extent of the shoal water and surf makes it difficult for boats to get at it. The narrow neck of land between the head of the sound and the harbour seems to be all sand, with a few exceptions of rocky points, particularly the south point of the entrance which is a sloping hill of quartzy granite in many places bare of vegetation. We joined the master near an island considerably short of the entrance to which we rowed, and went upon the hill. We had an extensive prospect of a large piece of shoal water bounded by sandy beaches and rocky heads points bare of wood, and no fresh water of any consequence could been seen. The woody projection, to the W.

[Note: several minor changes have been made in pencil on this page, possibly by Flinders - see original journal]

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[page 225]

[Transactions and remarks in King Georges Sound] on the S.W. coast of New Holland

S.W. attracted our notice, to which, as the water seemed to run deeper towards it than to other parts of the shore, we determined to get if possible. It was about 1 o'clock, and it blew a fresh gale nearly right out. We returned back to the boat, dined and rowed into the entrance by the assistance of a tide that happened to be running in, and then set the sails to beat up, which the boat did admirably; but it was six before we landed everybody and thing, one musket excepted, being completely drenched by the spray of the sea. The water was shoal, at one or two cables lengths from the shore, and we could not find any good water. Wood was plentiful, and with some surprise we saw that axes and saws had been used here, many trees bearing marks of them. We saw many small sheds of the natives, such as they set up to keep the wind from their fires and themselves, but no recent marks, no footsteps of men about the shores or anything to bespeak their presence. The large limpets that stick to the rocks are another proof that men are not numerous. From this projection we sailed across, sounding finding the deepest water to be on the northern shore, and the high hills at the back promised us a supply of water. In sounding out of the entrance it appeared, that a channel of from five to seven fathoms lies near the north point of entrance and winds over to the south side and then towards the northern shore, taking this curve to go

[Note: several minor changes have been made in pencil on this page, possibly by Flinders - see original journal]

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[page 226]

Transactions and remarks in King Georges Sound [south west coast of New Holland]


round a shoal which projects from the north side a little within the entrance. Note: Princess R. Harbour appears to be a very large place, almost the extent of the sound, and not so rounded as in Vancouvers survey.
      In the place where we dined Near the south point of entrance into the harbour a collection of sticks and rubbish upon an almost inaccessible rock, excited our curiosity from its appearance resemblance to a very large nest. By heaving throwing a line across it over the rock the master got up and found it to be a collection of such driftwood as is usually found upon the shore; and fishes scales and feathers thus formed a part of it. This rock did not stood less than about eighteen feet above the water.) but the sea, one would suppose, must have been up to it at a period not far back. The top of the rock was rugged, and being perhaps in a whirlpool the sticks, grass &c. have thus collected around it +
     We arrived on board about 9 in the evening, and I found that most of the gentleman who had gone to Bald Head had preferred staying on shore on account of the surf: we had noticed a fire at the second beach which we judged to have been theirs.
+ Note: I afterwards had sufficient cause to be satisfied that this was really the nest of a bird and though of such a monstrous size: the birds most probably of the eagle kind a kind of fishing eagle.

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[page 227]

[Transactions and remarks in King Georges Sound] south-west coast of New Holland


[Thursday] Dec. 10th. 1801 -
                                          Light breezes and fine weather. At daybreak sent the master to examine the north side of Princess R. Harbour for wood and water, and another boat for the naturalist and other gentlemen. At 71/2h. got under weigh to work up towards the harbour. Tacked ship occasionally, keeping the lead constantly going, and finding good, regular soundings. At 10h.50' anchored in 6 fathoms water off the entrance of the harbour, and about 1 mile distant: Oyster Harbour being also open. Took a boat to examine Oyster Harbour and the soundings into it. At noon, the master returned having found water, but no wood near it, nor could a boat come within a cables length of the shore very near the shore.
     In Oyster Harbour, wood and water were found on the starboard side of the entrance, and deep water close to the shore, but the water is discoulered, being peat water. In this place, was a patch of ground six or eight feet square dug up, and on it was lying a piece of sheet copper marked "Augt. 27 1800 Chr. Dixson ship O/Slligood" I could not make out the first letter of the ships name. The entrance into the fair channel could not be found on account of its blowing too strong to row and sound. I returned at six in the evening. Hoisted up the cutter and sent the gig to fish, but she had little success.
      From the ship Steering right for the entrance of

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[page 228]

Continuation of [Thurs.] Dec.10. 1801 - King Georges [Sound - New Holland]


Oyster Harbour from the ship I carried 6 and 7 fathoms until the south point of Michaelmas I. came on with the north end of Break-sea Island, at when it shoaled to 5 and immediately to 4, 3 and 23/4. On hauling up to the westward the water shoaled to six feet, and but deepened when we kept to leeward the eastward to 17 feet, when the east point of the entrance was being then on with the centre of some high land at the back: and in this line I kept for the entrance, the water deepening to 3,4,and 5 fms. After getting in Within the harbour channel, the channel divides; one part runs towards the little island but the deepest turns round towards the starboard shore. Upon the little island we found nothing There was nothing upon the island) that indicated its having been visited by Europeans. It is full of holes, which I judged to be made by seals, and probably it is these animals that these prevent birds from laying their eggs upon it here A flock of shags and pelicans flew from the rocks as we approached. for the natives for it does not appear likely the natives visit it. It is shoal near the island all around and there are some Oysters over the shoal Shoal water surrounds the island but a ship may lie in 3 or 4 fathoms about at the distance of 2 cables lengths off from it if she could get into the harbour: there are some oysters upon the shoal. Having taken a set of bearings from the top of the island, I rowed over to the east side where the water appeared to be deepest near the shore, but we could not get within approach it nearer than 30 yards with the boat. Peices 2 of quartz and ironstone were lying all over the shore: wood was in abundant here but I could not see any fresh water.1 From hence I sailed around to the opposite side passing to the south of the small island)

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[page 229]

[Continuation of Thurs. Dec 10 1801 - King Georges] Sound - New Holland


and found a good deal of deep water on the west side of it but at the head, which is the nearest shore to the island, off At a head upon the opposite side of the harbour the boat could not come within 1/2 a cable of the shore. I landed and Walking around from this head to the south west low point of the entrance, I passed two small streams of water, the one brackish, the other fresh but very high coloured, and the shoal in the front of these would not allow a boat to come within half a mile or thereabout. The boat met me at the point and I both inaccessible to boats. Crossing over the entrance to the east side where of the entrance, I found the prepared ground, and copper before mentioned. Here was a place, where, by digging, Water might be procured of a high colour, being obtainable here by digging wood being plentiful, and landing convenient, I considered this to be the best place we had yet met with. In returning I wished to have ascertained the depth of water across the bar exactly, but the wind blew too strong for this purpose. to refit in that had yet been found, if the depth over the bar would admit the ship into the harbour; but the strength of the wind prevented this point from being now ascertained.
We rowed over to There was no fresh water at the south end of the beach between the two harbours where but I found wood and further marks of axes and saws; so that from which it should seem, that more than one vessel has visited this sound since Vancouver. I could not find fresh water and so we returned on board. Fresh breezes from the W.S.W. with fine clear weather
Ther. at noon on board 67º
Bar. 29,90
Ther. at 8 PM. 69.
Bar. 29.97

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[page 230]

[Friday] Dec. 11. 1801. King Georges Sound

At daylight, light breezes with dull cloudy weather. Sent the master to sound on the bar of the entrance into Oyster Harbour. He returned at 9, not being able to find more than 13 feet, including the lead. Went over to examine it further, and to direct the masters motions in sounding by signals from the high land, but no more water could be found. I was therefore obliged to relinquish the intention of going into Oyster Harbour, in favour of Princess R. Harbour. Not knowing how long it might be before an easterly, or leading wind into it might set in, we prepared to wood, at the west end of the beach between the two harbours. The naturalist and other gentlemen being on shore at Oyster Harbour, sent a boat for them, and to get oysters. They brought a good quantity of them and of the large fan muscles, but it was near high water.
In the morning, squally weather with rain at times, afterwards, moderate breezes and cloudy weather. Cut up a cask of pork to its contents

 
[Saturday] - 12th. Light breezes & fine weather. Sent a party of men to wood, and the launch with the seines to fish. At 7, made the signal for the launch to come on board, with a gun. Put a kedge & hawser into her ready for use, and the wind being fair, at 10h.25' weighed and ran for Princess R. Harbour under the top sails. Carried 7.6 - 5, and in the narrowest part 4 fathoms. Hauled up to S.W.b.W.1/2W. to round the shoal on the north shore, having then 6 and 7 fms. and 8

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[page 231]

[Saturday] - 12 in continuation - Into Princess Royal Harbour]

in the narrowest part between them. When abreast of the 3rd. sandy beach on the north side the water had shoaled to 31/2, then steering W.N.W. When Michaelmas Island came nearly into the middle of the entrance we had 4. At 11h.12' anchored in 17 feet abreast of the top of the highest hill on the north shore, and with the two islands on with the two points of the opening; distant from the shore about half a mile. Veered away and dropped the other anchor in 3 fms: being hawse open to the southward.
Landed the naturalist &c. and went on shore to look at the watering place, and to pitch upon a situation for the observatory and tents. Sent a petty officer and another man round to the wooders to desire them to walk round, for the breeze having freshened the launch was unable to work out of the harbour.
      Fresh breezes and fine weather. Sent a marquee and a bell tent on shore and pitched them near the watering place. Cut up a cask of beef to its contents. Repaired the rounding of the cables. Sent down T.Gt. yards at sunset. From the top of the hill at the back of the tents, I had a view of the surrounding country. Took Amongst the bearings of very remarkable objects amongst which taken from thence was a considerable extent of water to the westward, which I judged to be either a large lagoon, or possibly a harbour opening out into an inlet from the head of the bight east on the east side of Cape Howe.
Noon Ther. 66º . Bar. 30,20

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[page 232]

[Sunday] Dec.13th.
Remarks and transactions in King Georges Sound]


Light breezes from E.N.E. with fine weather. Sent some astronomical instruments and the observatory on shore. Got T.Gt. masts down upon deck, and sent a launch load of empty casks on shore. Washed decks and mustered the ships company; afterwards gave several leave to walk on shore. Oysters were found by some of them upon a bank towards the head of the harbour. A.M. Light breezes with dull cloudy weather; wind Fresh breeze, from E.b.S. with fine weather.
Ther. At noon 68º. Bar 30,20


[Mon.] Dec.14. Light breezes and dull cloudy weather. Loosed sails to dry and afterwards unbent them. Unrove the running rigging. Cleared hawser. Received a launch load of wood from the first wooding place. The cooper on shore at the watering place setting up and repairing casks. Sent the launch to the south-west part of the harbour to wood, but they reported the wood to be very bad there, as it could not be split.
     Seeing fires made towards the head of the harbour, the naturalist and his party went towards them, and saw met with some natives who were rather shy, but did not seem to be much afraid. A man with whom they had some communication, was admired for the good form of his body and his manly behaviour. +(As has normally been observed with of the natives of New Holland they did not wish communication

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[page 233]

[Sunday Dec. 13th
Remarks and transactions in King Georges Sound]

but made signs for the party to return back. +They took) He received a bird which had been shot, and a pocket handkerchief. They did not appear to be very black.
      Sent the remainder of the casks out of the ship.
Ther. at noon 701/2º Bar. 29.91. Fresh breezes and squally weather: wind from the south-westward. Struck the topmasts and unrigged them, to repair the rigging. Ther. 701/2. Bar. 29.98

[Tuesday] Dec.15th. Moderate breezes from the west, with fine weather. Sent a boat into Oyster Harbour, and the wooders in the launch to the first place; the wood on the opposite side of this harbour being found difficult to split. Some natives came to the tents and behaved peaceably. They received many presents. Ther. at noon 70º Bar. 30,04. Unrigged the fore and mizen masts and got the rigging on a stretch to be served it afresh. In the evening, the cutter returned loaded with Oysters which were served out to the ships company. Received two launch loads of wood. Mod. breezes from the westward & fine weather.
Ther. 68º . Bar. 29.98


[Wednesday] 16th. Mod. breezes from N.W.b.W. with fine weather: some passing squalls at times. Sent the cutter with the seine to fish. Four natives came to the tents this morning and behaved peaceably but she returned in the afternoon without success. Fresh breezes and squally at times. People employed about the rigging. Sent the cutter away with seine again in the evening.


Ther. {morning 67.} Bar. {29.98}


         { noon 68.} {29,99}


         { night 68.} {30,04}

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[page 234]

[Thursday] Dec. 17 1801
In Princess Roya Harbour


Light breezes and fine weather. Two other natives came to the tents with one of the our former ones visiters. The cutter returned early with a few fish which were divided amongst the ships company. People employed about the rigging. The cooper at the tents setting up and repairing casks. Light airs at noon with sultry weather. Rigging the F. and mz. masts. A good many small fish caught alongside with hook and line: they seem to be mullet. Ther. and Bar. Morning 65º - 30,02, Noon 67º - 29,97 Night 70º 29,88


[Friday] 18th. Fresh breezes and squally. Took the carpenter over to the south side of the harbour to look for trees fit for plank and small spars; and walked up the hills to the sea shore, to take bearings of the Eclipse Islands, C. Howe &c. but it came to blow a violent gale with rain, and defeated my purpose. The top of the observatory was blown off in the first squall. Bent the sheet cable and ustowed the anchor. In the evening, intervals of fair, moderate weather.
Ther. morning 66º. noon 69º 631/2
Bar. 29,40 29,42 29,51


[Saturday] 19th. Fresh gales with frequent rain, and thunder and lightening; afterwards it became more moderate with fine intervals. People employed principally in refitting the rigging. At noon, fresh breezes with frequent showers of rain. Rigged the three top-masts.
Ther. morning 5681/2º Noon 691/2º Night 621/2º
Barom. 29,66 29,72 29,84

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[page 235]

[Sunday] Dec. 20th. 1801. H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy weather, with drizzling rain at times. Mustered the ships company, as usual on Sundays and saw them clean; afterwards, the greater part of them were permitted to go on shore to wash their clothes. Some large snappers caught along side with hook and line, and as usual many small mullet. Sent a boat to fish off the rocky points, with lines, but they had little success
    Note. The snappers caught seem to be exactly of the same kind as are commonly caught on the east coast of New South Wales.
    Moderate breezes and cloudy. The launch which had been sent to the south side of the harbour returned with a log of wood for sawing, after having prepared another log and a saw pit on shore
At night, dull cloudy weather.

[Monday] 21st. Light breezes and cloudy weather. Fidded the topmasts and rattled down the rigging. The cooper and some hands on shore repairing casks and filling water.
Three natives came to the tents this morning and continued to behave peaceably. No presents were now given to them.
Moderate breezes with cloudy weather. Cooper on shore and some hands watering. People on board about the rigging. Carpenters cutting planks.

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[page 236]

[Tuesday] Dec. 22. 1801. H.M.S. Investigator in Prin[cess Royal Harbour. - Additional remarks]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and fine weather. Took the master and a cutter to survey in the sound. Rigged the top sail yards and crossed them. Swayed up the lower yards. At noon, Do. weather. Employed about the rigging. Cooper & carpenters as before


[Wednesday] 23. Fresh breezes with dull weather, and heavy rain at times. Early this morning I went with a large party to examine two lagoons, which were discovered to lie near the head of the bight on the east side of Cape Howe The further one was found to be brackish, but its communication with the sea was not ascertained.
     People on board employed getting coals out of the hold into the coal-hole, and other work preparatory to receiving the water on board. At noon, fresh breezes and cloudy weather. Employed as before


[Thursday] 24th. Moderate breezes & fine weather. People employed watering the ship. Cut up a cask of beef and another of pork to their contents
At noon, do. weather. Employed watering as before. Received plank, cut by the sawyers, from the south side of the harbour. Light breezes and cloudy weather. The party to the lagoons, returned from their excursion.

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[page 237]

[Tuesday Dec. 22. 1801 - H.M.S. Investigator in Princ]ess Royal Harbour - Additional remarks


Upon the long beach between the two harbours, I measured a base line of 2,44 miles (geographic), from which the position of Seal Island and other places are fixed. From the beach we ran over to the island, where I took another extensive set of angles were taken). Several gulls were here shot, and many young ones found: some penguins were also discovered in the clefts of the rocks at the top of the island.
(but The length of time taken to measure the base line prevented us from doing more than as above before night, except returning to the ship before dark


      Our party to the lagoons on Wednesday morning consisted of all the scientific gentlemen and others to the number of 13, well armed and provided for two days. Soon after leaving the head of the Princess Royal Harbour, a native was seen running before us, and an old man who had before visited the tents made his appearance, and was very resolute to prevent us from going into the country. He was not able to prevail, but we accomodated him by going round the part where it should seem his family were. He followed us through swamps and thick brushes and when a parroquet was shot he expressed neither surprise or fear at the report of the gun, and but accepted the bird with apparent pleasure: he was curious to see what was doing when the gun was reloading. This old man kept hallooing constantly, for the purpose it should seem probably, of informing his family of our movements; and after we had passed some distance from the place where we met him, he fell behind and left us.
From the head of the harbour to the lagoons, it seems to be
[continued on page 239]

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[page 238]

[Friday] Dec. 25th. H.M.S. Investigator - Princess R. Harbour

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with fine weather. Washed and cleaned below, and did some other necessary duties. Sent the cutter to fish with hook and line, and about noon, she returned with some success. Mustered the ships company, and saw them clean; afterwds. part had permission to go on shore upon leave whilst others went to fish. Cloudy weather


[Saturday] 26 Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed stowing the after hold. A boat employed surveying in this harbour. At noon, do. weather. Carpenters employed making garden boxes for the Naturalist. Cooper on shore completing the water cask. People employed in the holds.


[Sunday] 27th. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Got off another raft of water and stowed it away in the holds. Employed one of the cutters in surveying in the sound. At noon, moderate breezes and hazy weather. Employments as in morning


[Monday] 28th. Fresh gales and squally, with rain at times. Employed on board in completing the holds for sea. Sailmakers repairing sails. In the afternoon, Fresh breezes and squally.


[Tuesday] 29th. Light breezes and hazy weather. Bent sails. Mod. breezes and cloudy in the afternoon. Set up the standing rigging fore and aft. Employed otherwise preparing for sea

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[page 239]

Wednesday Dec. 23. - Additional remarks


we found low swampy ground at the back of the sea coast hills. These hills consists of rocks stone and sand; generally covered with small shrubs, but no trees are to be seen upon them. A serpentine stream that seems to bring the waters from the rising hills to the N.W. into the nearest lagoon, obliged us to walk further inland in order to cross it and reach the western lagoon. On Thursday morning we reached this further lagoon, when steering towards the bight of Cape Howe with the intention of returning by the seashore. It proved to be much larger than the other (which I guessed to be 11/2' long and 1 wide) and the water was brackish, which proved its having a communication of some kind with the sea. Fearing that this communication might be too large to be crossed, we were under the necessity of retracing our steps, round the rivulet and eastern lagoon to reach the sea-shore hills nearer home. The descent from the hills to the shore sea-side being difficulty and there being some uncertainty about the ascent again, as well as to the walking along the shore, we kept along upon the tops of the sea coast hills; and after a wearisome walk, which was rendered distressing by the want of water and being obliged to leave still more so from the botanical draughtsman behind with three to take care of him being unable to proceed from excessive fatigue and thirst, the greater number of us reached the tents at eight in the evening: the rest of the party got in about midnight.
About the lagoons, the marks of kanguroos were numerous, but not one was seen. Two black swans were swimming in one of the streams. The country has but little to recommend it.

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[page 240]

[Wednesday] Dec. 30th. 1801 Investigator in P. R. Harbour

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs and calm, with cloudy weather. Punished Wm. Donovan seaman with 36 lashes for repeated drunkenness and fighting. Fidded T.Gt. masts and swayed up T.Gt. yards.
     The tents had been visited several times by natives, which visits become so frequent as not to deserve particular notice. This morning five of them were almost persuaded to come into the boat, but in the end fear prevented them. The marines were sent on shore to be exercised, and their red coats and cross belts raised screams of delight from the natives. Being apprised of the firing, the vollies did not raise any terror. This day we obtained many words of their language, with some degree of certainty. They attended particularly to the striking of the tents which was done in the afternoon, and left us, perhaps, with higher ideas of our powers than before.
    At 1 P.M. unmoored ship ship and hove short. Brought the tents, observatory, instruments &c. on board, with the intention of running into the sound this evening, but the wind shortening upon us, and but little deep water to beat in, we remained fast. Moderate breezes and dull cloudy weather.

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[page 241]

[Thursday] - 31st


Mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Finding the wind to be foul for getting out of the harbour, I sent the master to sound and take angles in Oyster Harbour, and I went up to the highest part of the sea-coast hills to take angles also. Launch employed in cutting spars and fetching grass on board. At noon, fine wr. with hazes. Employed on various duties preparatory to going to sea


[Friday] - Jan. 1. 1802. Light airs and calms. At 7, a breeze springing up from the northward, weighed and ran into the fair way of the entrance into this harbour, intending to get out by the first opportunity. The launch employed in fetching on board grass and fire wood Sailmakers repairing sails. Fresh breezes and fine weather with haze. Many astronomical observations obtained today, which the cloudy weather hitherto would not admit of being taken before
Fresh gales in the afternoon and hazy. Seeing the launch upset on the south side of the harbour sent a cutter to her assistance. - In the evening more moderate breezes with cloudy weather

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[page 242]

[Saturday] Jan. 2nd 1801 Investigator in Princess R. Harbour


Moderate breezes with fine weather. Sent a cutter to fish with hook and line. Sailmakers employed repairing sails. At noon, mod. and hazy. The cutter returned with sufficient fish to make a good serving to those on board who had not caught sufficient on board for themselves. People employed in lashing and securing fevery thing for sea.


3rd. Light airs with dull cloudy weather. Hoisted in one of the cutters to be repaired. Mustered the ships company and read the articles of war. At 1, a light breeze sprung up from the south westward, upon which we weighed immediately and sailed through the entrance finding from 71/2 in the narrowest part between the shoals, to 33/4 between the heads. After getting into the sound, we stood backwards and forwards with the trawl and dredge overboard, and caught many subjects of observation for the naturalist, but not much fish for the ships company; the small boat, however, which had gone to fish in the (returned) morning, returned with a sufficient quantity to make up a good serving to all hands. At 7h:30' we came to with the small bower near the flat rock in 7 fathoms

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[page 243]

[Sunday] 3rd. in King Georges Sound


on the south side of the sound. The extremes of Bald Head and Break-sea Island, between which we were exposed to the sea, making an angle of 10º. Moderate breezes with fine weather


[Monday] Jan 4th. Fresh gales and hazy weather. Carpenters employed repairing the cutter. Cut up a cask of pork to its contents. Sent the master to take bearings from Bald Head.
      Ships draught of water Aft. 13.10 -Forwd. 14.0
At noon, do. weather. Some fish caught with hook and line. Left a bottle upon Seal I. Containing a parchment to inform future visiters of our arrival and of our intention to sail on the 5th. Employed in little jobs preparing for sea. At night, mod. breezes

[Tuesday] Jan 5th. Varble. breezes with heavy rain. At 9, it cleared away; sent up top gallt. yards, treble reefed the top-sails and weighed anchor Fresh gales and squally, with fine intervals
    Steered between Michaelmas Island and the main to ascertain the existence of a shoal lying off from the island. Passed it with 5 fms. At noon, sounded in 33 fms. Et. end of Breaksea I. Bearing S.W1/2S - Lat. obsd. by Lt. Flinders 35º.1'.53" So. - Steering for Mt. Gardner Point

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[page 244]

Astronomical observations at the observatory

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

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[page 245]

Sea water with the hydrostatic balance

[Tuesday] Dec. 29th. I took the bottles of sea water on shore, which had been taken up in latitude 36º.30' So. and 38º.30' Et. on [Thursday] Nov. 12th. and I found its weight to be in the following proportions.
To balance the bulb of glass in air, it required to be put into the opposite scale }1748 gr.
The bulb being suspended by a hair in fresh water, it required to balance it }12061/2
The bulb being suspended in water taken up from 150 fms. depth in the above place, it required to balance it }11941/2
And exactly the same when suspended in the surface water taken up at the same time }
Also when suspended in the water of Princess Royal Harbour, taken up alongside of the ship }11941/2
 Note - The water taken up at sea smelt like bilge water; and from its state of decomposition, I suspect it to be lighter than it was when taken up.
The fresh water used was coloured by vegetable substances; none better fitted for the experiment being to be found near at hand.

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[page 246]

[Wednesday] Jan. 6th. 1802 H.M.S. Investigator, [examining the south coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Squally at times with rain. Set the fore sail occasionally. Fine weather at intervals. At 2h.30' steered to pass between an island (() and the main. Sounded in 27, mid channel 23, 17, 23, 27, 29, and got into smooth water to leeward of the island, and ran along a regular coast, low and sandy.
At 6, a lump of rock (K) nearly a mile from the main bore N.N.W1/2. A steep cape L N.43°E outer part of island ( S.40 W.
Hauled off shore, set courses & jib
Fresh breezes with fine weather
At day light, fresh breezes and cloudy
Out 3rd. reefs. At 6, the lump of rock K bore N.72°.W. abt. 21/2' bore away along the shore
At 7, hauled up to look into a bight in which is an island but soon afterwds. bore away again. At 8, steered further offshore to pass the extreme land; the shore sandy, sometimes rocky and very barren.
     Passed 2 large rocks lying near the sandy shore.
At noon, a rugged stony cape. (C. Knob) N. 20°E.3' to the eastward of which is a large sandy bay; a rocky islet lying on the west side of it

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[page 247]

[Wednesday Jan. 6th 1802 H.M.S. Investigator,] examining the south coast of New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Island ( is a barren island of granite, and appears to be about 2 miles long. The passage is a short mile wide and quite clear. Behind the opposite point of the main the a point lies north, and then west forming a bight which curves to the N.E.ward. Inland we see irregular shaped mountains, the eastmost of which bore N.3°W. from the passage. The shore is low and sandy to K, but there rises gradually to a moderate height
     In the morning we came in again with the rocky islet D. Isle ( also was in sight as well as Mt. Brown. The shore which we passed to 8 oclock, is rocky and moderately high, especially where it projects, but it then becomes sandy and in one remarkable place is entirely sandy.
    C. Knob is a remarkable rocky cape. Its front is about 2' east and west and there are bights on each side of it. An island is generally found to lie hid in the bights passed this morning
    The irregular shaped mountains still in sight being 7 leagues inland, and these entirely distinct, are beginning to shew themselves. Except these we see nothing inland.

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[page 248]

[Thursday] Jan. 7th 1802 H.M.S. Investigator [examining the So. Coast of N. Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes with fine weather. Set all sail. Passed two bights in the land, rather deep. At 4, bore away to go between the Doubtful Islands, seeing a clear passage. At 4h.53', had 20 fms. mid channel 1/2' in from each shore. Hauled up into a deep bay and sent the master to sound an inner passage to sea, but finding it too shoal tacked and steered out of the bay. At 8, tacked to weather the Doubtful Islands.
Light airs with fine weather
At daylight, the islands, N.65°1/2 W. 7 or 8 miles.
Light airs with fine weather
Cleaned below and aired with stoves
Served sour krout and vinegar to the ships company, and sweet wort also
At noon, Doubtful Islands S.66°W. 4 leagues. A hummock (N) being the east extreme N.34°.I0'E
Fine weather

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[page 249]

[Thursday Jan. 7th 1802 H.M.S. Investigator] examining the So. coast of New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land passed this afternoon consists of two deep bights, and a moderately high projection between them. The isles off Point Hood I expected to find very small; but the two wh. form the east side of the passage are two miles in length, and that on the west side is almost as much. The passage is nearly one mile in width and quite clear. The piece of land forming Pt. Hood is almost divided off into an island also, by the deep indents on each side. In the inner passage the master found from 6, to 2 fms. Had it been safe I intended to have anchored We found deep water along the shore. At 5h.35' when we tacked out, our distance was about a cables length, and we had 71/2 fms. Many seals were seen upon the island
      The land on the north side of this great bay is low, but there are several peaked barren mountains lying not far from the shore

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[page 250]

[Friday] - 8th 1802 Investigator, examining [the south coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes & fine weather. At 1h.30' bore away to examine what appeared to be an opening. At 2.30 hauled to the wind along the shore at the distance of 2 leagues. Fine weather
At 7, came to a low sandy shore. Rocks seen SE b E1/2E from masthead, and some breakers bearing south, about 4 miles. At 7.30 tacked ship
Moderate breezes and cloudy wr.
Drizzling rain at times. Tacked ship
At 4, light breezes & cloudy: a southerly swell. At 5h.25' bore away along the shore, dist. 3 leagues, and soon after saw the breakers, and at 8 others E.N.E. 5' from the former. Passed to the southward of both. Saw a smooth rocky island, O, between which and the main I intended to pass, but at 9h.20' breakers were seen extending far towards the main; we therefore hauled up and weathered the island, leaving a rock with heavy breakers on the starbd. hand; distance as under 2 or 3 miles
At noon, the island S.72°W. 3 leagues; others of the same kind, a cluster S681/2E. Low land seen E.N.E. from masthead

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[page 251]

[Friday - 8th 1802 Investigator examining] the south coast of New Holland
Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The place for which we bore away supposing it to be an opening is the northern bight of the great bay, north of the Doubtful Islands. Many smokes were seen inland which aided the appearance of a harbour given by the formation of the coast and the hills at the back. The coast along which we sailed after hauling to the wind is rocky and steep & barren mountains lie near the water. Hummock N is the eastmost of these, and the low sandy shore recommences there
     In the morning we came in with N, and two barren mountains, fixed points, were in sight.
     We found the breakers lie in the situations given in M. Bauprès chart, as also the isle & breakers between which we passed, but the isle is too small.
     The coast is sandy, and so low and similar that I cannot find any marks upon it to use in this survey
     Many seals were seen upon the isle O. The breakers extend 3 or 4 or perhaps more miles to the No. and N.E. of it but I think there is a passage between them and the island

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[page 252]

[Saturday] Jan 9th 1802 Investigator - South [coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with fine weather
Sailing along a low sandy shore at the distance of 6 or 7 miles. Fresh breezes
Dble. reefed the top sails
Passed two or three places having the appearance of openings. At 6 saw land ahead part of D'Entrecasteauxs Archipelago. At 7 hauled to the wind and at 8 tacked to the westward; the isles being 6 or 7 miles distant
Mod. breezes & fine weather
At 1, tacked ship towards the islands
At 5h.15' bore away to run through the archipelago, the isles of last night N72° 5 or 6 miles. Many rocks and islands in sight from the masthead. Set studg. sails &c to get through before night
Passed many small isles and patches of breakers both to the north and south of us.
At noon, the island, behind what is Port de l'Esperance, bore N34°W. 5 miles. Islands and breakers in every direction except that from whence we came. Light breezes & fine wr.

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[page 253]

[Saturday Jan. 9th. 1802 Investigator - South] coast of New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Beyond the low sandy shore, nothing of the country could be seen; this shore is some times a little higher, at others very low, but is universally sandy as far as that of which we came abreast about 4 P.M. it there begins to be higher and is rocky at times. The appearances of openings were probably inlets into large lagoons, which are closed up by the sand until the water, by rising very high in then forces a passage to the sea.
      I had no intention of to loseing any part of this valuable season of the year, in minutely examining this an archipelago as it appears to which had been well investigated by D'Entrecasteaux. and From the great accuracy of M. Bauprès chart hitherto thus far from Cape Leeuwin I shall should be satisfied to copy it after some further examination in this part containing) the archipelago A from him; for up to this day at noon, I find every thing laid down as it appears very correctly; and a most dan collection of more dangers than this archipelago presents in a smaller space is seldom found: I wonder not at the dread expressed by the author of the published account Labillardiere, at being here in a gale of wind south westerly gale.

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[page 254]

[Sunday] Jan. 10. 1802. D'Entrecasteauxs archipe[lago South coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Hove to to take bearings. At 0.30 bore away to pass between what appeared to be a part of the main and a cluster of islands. At 2. 12' in mid channel: passage 11/2' wide
Mod. & fine weather. Luffed to windward of some and bore away occasionally for other islands and breakers, hoping to get through before dark; but finding the breakers increasing in number and islands as far ahead as could be seen, at 5h1/2 bore away towards some islands between which and the main we had reason to expect shelter. Passed several rocks and breakers, and at 7 steered into a small bay sheltered in every direction except towards the SW, where at a more considerable distance lie the great body of the islands. [Anchor]d with best bower in 71/2. Furled sails and sent the master to sound round the ship and in a small bay further to the west, his report of the other bay was not favourable. Light breezes & fine weather
     A.M. Calm, afterwards light breezes from S.E. with fine weather, but hazy. Sighted the anchor and found it clear. Set up the fore and fore topmast rigging. Sent a cutter to fish
     Noon, moderate breezes & fine wr. Wind S.E.b.E.

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[page 255]

[Sunday Jan. 10. 1802. D'Entrecasteauxs archipe]lago South coast of New Holland -

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Considering it to be desirable thing to get a better knowledge of this intensive archipelago than a run through it would permit, as well as to examine the accuracy of our time keepers I readily complied with the wish of the naturalist to remain a day or two
The scientific gentlemen having expressed a desire for the ship too remain a day or two in this bay, so that they might examine the surrounding country, I readily complied with their request; considering that it would give me an opportunity of gaining a better knowledge of this archipelago than a mere run through it would permit, and also of examining into the accuracy of our time keepers.]
     Early in the morning a party went on shore, and soon after I followed them. After taking the first observations for equal altitudes by from which the longitude is deduced as above, I ascended a hill at the back of the bay for the purpose of taking bearings of what was in sight: but the islands and reefs were so numerous that it was very perplexing. I counted fifty-six islands and islets, independent of the numerous patches of breakers where no rocks above water appeared; and yet the major part of those which we had already passed through were hid behind the main land, and the haziness of the weather prevented us from seeing more than 8 or 9 miles round us *See next page
     After obtaining the corresponding altitudes, and taking six sets of lunar observations, which, will be mentioned hereafter, I returned on board.
    I had suspected that the land which surrounds this little bay No.1 to be was insulated, but immediately on land -

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[Sunday] Jan. 10th 1802 Dentrecasteauxs Archipelago [Bay No. 1]


Contd.) ing the marks of fire satisfied me to the contrary. (The rocks I saw near the shore consisted principally of granite, amongst which streaks of pure quartz sometimes appears. Mr Brown met with no calcarious stone nor did I, but some peices of granite were picked up which were strongly impregnated with iron. (On the top of the hill I found the botanizing party regaling upon palm nuts, which were rather abundant there but the greater part number of those that eat them were ill afterwards taken sick. On coming down the hill, we saw a large nest in a low tree, apparently belonging to the same kind of birds as those before mentioned in King Georges Sound: the feathers found in it being the same. This was a recent nest, and many masses of hair and bones were lying under it, similar to what owls throw up after swallowing mice. In these masses we found the fur of seals, feathers of penguins, hair of land animals, and the bones of birds and small animals: the skin of a large lizards head was lying in the nest. This nest, contrary to the others, was not concave, but flat: It was well sheltered by the brow of the hill from south and westerly winds. The breadth of it diameter of the nest was

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[page 257]

[Sunday Jan. 10th 1802 Dentrecasteauxs Archipelago]
Bay No. 1


about 3 or 31/2 feet.
  *On turning from the view of the islands, rocks, and reefs so tremendous obnoxious to a seamans eye, to that of the interior country, the prospect improved but little: sand and rocks, with the slightest coat covering of vegetation was seen presented themselves everywhere. This vegetation consisted indeed of an abundant variety of plants, numbers of which our botanists added to their collection of varieties from King Georges Sound; but not a blade of grass fit for cattle to eat or depth of a square yard of soil worth cultivating was could be seen: wind East.

[Tuesday] Jan 11th. Civil account
     Mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Sent a boat away to fish and kill seals; and after breakfast, I sent the master in the other cutter to examine a little bay, about a mile to the eastward.
     Employed on board making matts, repairing sails and other necessary jobs At 10, the first cutter returned with 3 seals and a goose which had been shot: another also was killed during the day. These geese seem to be tolerably numerous amongst the islands and are such as frequent the island in Bass Strait.)

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[page 258]

Jan. 1802 [Monday - 11th. Continued - Bay No.1, in D'entre

[casteauxs archipelago]


     At noon I landed on the east side of the bay, and observed the supplement of the suns altitude, which gave latitude 33º.59'.49"So. I observed, that the granite of the islands which form the east side of this bay, appears to be was in a state of decomposition. Its surface is scaling off in peices of from the smallest size to such as are masses of the size bigness of a ships hull; these last form large caves in some places, in one of which I found two swallows nests, but did not observe any thing remarkable in their structure.
       (In the evening the master returned. He found the small bay of a sufficient size to receive one ship and keep her in the greatest security. She would lie in the west corner, with a bower anchor towards the entrance and a stream anchor on her quarter, and with a hawser on shore from the starboard bow and quarter; so secured she would lie almost near enough to the shore, in from 3 to 5 fms. water, as to lay a stage to the shore. The landing is very smooth with all winds and there is a sufficient quantity of small wood to supply more than one ship with fuel. A beach surrounds the bay, and at the back of it, at a less distance than a hundred yards, is a lagoon of near a mile in circumference, containing very good water

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[page 259]

[Jan.1802 Monday -11th Continued - Bay No.1 in D'entre]

casteauxs Archipelago

and in which some ducks were shot. A stream runs from this into the bay and might be procured by ships with tolerable convenience; but there is a stream, likewise of good water, coming more into the west corner which would better suit the purpose: this drains from the hill apparently)
      From this snug little bay, the master proceeded to the westward, and from the top of an island marked p in the chart, took some angles, and gave me the form of] the coast for five or six miles in that direction he likewise met with geese and seals amongst the islands, but he was not prepared for the former.

[Tuesday] - 12th. Light breezes and cloudy: afterwards fine weather. Sent a boat to kill seals, and the master to examine the coast and the islands to the eastwards. People employed occasionally.
A shark , (one of three seen of the same size) caught alongside this morning whose dimensions were as follows
                                                    f i
Extreme length -------------------- 12. 3
Greatest girth -------------------- 8. -
Back fin from nose ---------------- 4. 8
Outer part of jaw bones forming} 1. 10
the diameter of his mouth }
Length of each breast fin --------- 2. 4
Breadth of (do.) -------------------- 1 5
Height of his back fin -------------- 1 5

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1802 Jan. [Tuesday] 12. in continuation. In Bay No. 1. Entre [casteauxs Archipelago]


                          Sharks Dimensions
                                                                   f i
Distance of the flukes of the tail asunder - 4 8
Number of gills were five, and the rows of teeth. Number of teeth in the front row -
      In the stomach was found a tolerably large seal, in two parts, - one whole one which had been skinned and thrown overboard , and many peices. Part of a spear was taken out also, with which I suppose the seal to have been struck by a native.
      Carpenters employed sawing plank. People making matts, and otherwise as necessary.
      The first boat brought three seals, and the master returned in the evening with another. He had gone to an island about 8 miles to the eastward, near the coast, from whence he took angles of the islands &c further on. The archipelago seems to be equally thick and dangerous as in the parts through which we have already passed. One goose was shot and a few more seen.-
      Fresh easterly winds with fine weather Rock fish continue to be caught in tolerable numbers at such times as the sharks are not seen about the ship

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[page 261]

[In Bay No. 1 D'Entre]casteauxs Archipelago

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

[Wednesday] - 13. 1802. Fresh breezes with fine weather. Sent a cutter with the 1st lieut. and master to an island lying about 7 miles off the coast. They found abundance of a small kind of kanguroos about the rocks, some of which were killed. I judge these to the wering of Port Jackson. Many seals were also found on the island, of the fur kind but their fur is red and very poor.
      Burnt wood was found upon the island, but no marks of natives unless the fire is so. The brush wood was exceedingly thick, but they set fire to it and it consumed with amazing rapidity.
       Mr. Brown made an excursion to a peak, which except the high land g; seems to be the highest in the neighbourhood. He found the top excavated, a large separated piece lying upon the top of the mount like a cap to it. He represents the country as miserably barren.
      This day, I took equal altitudes and obtained fresh rates for the time-keepers as given on the opposite page
     In the evening fresh gales and hazy weather
In a piece of micacious granite brought me from the island u there were many garnets sticking of a tolerable size.

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[page 262]

Astronl. observations on the East side of Bay No. 1

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


No observations being obtained of the [sun] or [star]s on the east side of the moon, I reserve these observations for future use and take the longitude of this bay to be as given by the three best time-keepers 122º.22'.35''.2.*
     By one observation of the supplement of the suns altitude, taken near the same place, the latitude is 33º.59'.49''.So. -
     The variation given by 3 azimuth compasses}
on shore, from observations taken AM and PM } 2º.35'.5W'
      Walkers new invented compass gave - 4º.55'W
      Theodolite No 1 from observations taken A.M. and P.M. -
                                                                                   0.30W
      Mean dip of the magnetic needle on shore 66º.6',3 From equal altitudes [Sunday] Jan 10th. and [Wednesday] 13th. with Sext. No 483 and quicksilver horizon, the rates of the timekeepers were found to be as under; and allowing the above longitude, their errors from the Greenh. time will be as follows, at noon there Jan. 13th.
*By these six sets of lunars and six following, taken on 28th. AM and reduced back by TKs. the longitude of No. 1 is 122º.27'.29" 5 Et P.S. -

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[page 263]

1802 Jan. [Thursday] - 14th. Log account -

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


A.M. Light variable breezes with dull cloudy weather. At 6h.40' weighed and made sail out of the bay. Passed between the same two islands as when we came in and steered over towards the large island u until we came abreast of a cluster of islets and breakers which we hauled round and steered to the eastward
Mod. breezes with hazy weather, so that islands at a few miles distance were scarcely visible
Carpenters repairing one of the cutters
Passed many patches of breakers, and some islands sometimes very near
Many islands &c. in sight to the N.E.ward Noon, moderate and hazy weather. Have to take bearings 11/2 dist from a high island with breakers around it

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[page 264]

[Friday Jan.15th.1802 Investigator amongst [D'Entrecasteauxs Archipelago]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


At 15' past noon made sail to the south by a cluster of islands and breakers. At 11/2 steered towards the main, between which and a cluster of islands, I hoped to find shelter for the night. At 21/2 passed through the cluster and hauled more to the eastward round several low flat islets. At 31/4h. the water shoaled suddenly, but before the ships head came round, we passed over water where the ground was visible. Hauled up to the wind and deepened the water but it appearing shoal ahead, between 2 islets, brought to and sent the master ahead to sound. On his making the signal we filled and stretched on, and recalled the boat at 5 o'clock. At 5h40' bore away to look behind a large high island, between which and the main there appeared to be many islands and passages. Seeing shelter, at 61/2h shortened sail to run in easily and at 7, came to with the best bower in 7 fathoms, sandy bottom, having the large island from the N.E. round by the south to W.b.N. and a smaller island to the North and as far as N.b.W. Sent the master to sound round the ship, and in a passage to the northward he reported but 3 fms. in it

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[page 265]

[Friday Jan 15th 1802 Investigator amongst] D'Entrecasteauxs archipelago

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


A.M. Sent a boat with the sein to fish but she returned without success. A boat that landed upon the low island which shelters us from the north had better success, from finding geese upon it: they brought on board nine. I afterwards landed upon this
      The master again examined the passage to the N.E. and reported, that after passing over the bar, upon which he every where found 3 fms., the water increased to 5 and 7; and near a rock on which the water breaks in the center of the passage, there is 7 fms.
      At the back of a beach on the great island, D Mr. Thistle found a small lake saturated with salt, that quantities of it were chrystalized upon its banks. The colour of the water lake is that of a high flesh colour red.
      I landed upon the northern island to take angles, and found it to consist of a granite basis, upon which, in many places and on the north south side of the island in particular, was is a thick crust of calcarious stone

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[page 266]

[Friday] Jan.15th.1802 continued to 36 hours. Bay No.2
[D'Entrecasteauxs Archipelago]


Vegetation had made sufficient progress upon this island to afford shelter for penguins, and I found geese harbouring amongst the tufts of grass, and others as also upon the rocks near the water: we procured nine, and others were afterwards taken that made up the number to 25, killed upon this island: fire was afterwards set to the grass and brush, which burnt furiously.
      Having taken the angles between various rocks and breakers and some islands, and observed the latitude as on the preceding page, I crossed to the great southern island and ascended the mountain marked D in the chart. A hill upon the mainland near The furthest visible extreme land, a hill upon the main bore 62º15' from hence at the distance of 4 or 5 leagues: this is marked E in the chart. At a much less distance, breakers and low rocks occupy the greatest part of the space between this island and the opposite part of the main, C.
     To the southward only one distant island was visible, bearing 132º10'. (On attentively viewing our track into this bay No. 2 we saw two spots of breakers which had not been seen in the ship, which one of which lay so near to it, that it is impossible to determine on which side of it we passed. (The mountain D is a solid mass of granite, smooth, and generally naked, but the

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[Friday Jan 15th 1802 continued to 36 hours. Bay No. 2]

D'Entrecasteauxs Archipelago


island is almost every where else is covered with a very thick brush. The red a flesh-coloured lagoon added an uncommon but beautiful) appearance to the view in that direction.
    The two islands afforded but little to the botanists.
In the morning, flying showers of rain with fresh breezes, but after noon it became fine and the wind more moderate and steady at W.S.W.

[Saturday] 16th. Mod. breezes and fine weather. Sent the master to sound in the southern channel leading to the eastward: he reported it to be a good one, after passing over the 3 fm. bar close to us.
      Roused up the best bower cable, cleaned well below, sprinkled with vinegar and aired with stoves. Sent some hands on shore to cut wood for fuel, upon the large island;) from yesterday there is are also upon it some trees fit for timber, and which are not far from the water shore, but no run of water was found on the island The thick brush appears to afford shelter to numbers of small kanguroos, but none of these were obtained.
     A peice of fir plank, thought to have been a part of a ship's deck was found upon the N.E. pt. of the large island: the south side of it was found to be calcarious.

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[page 269]

[Sunday] - 17th Log - Bay No. 2 to the eastward

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and cloudy wr. At daylight, after having washed decks, sent up the T.Gt. yards and prepared to get under weigh. At 6h.30' weighed and ran, under the top sails over the bar of the south channel between the islands, having but 17 feet. On drawing near the middle rock it deepened to 7: we left the rock on the left hand. At 7h.20' passed between the islands which form the channel to the eastward and made sail. Hoisted up the cutter
Moderate breezes with fine weather
At 9, passed 11/4 to the No. of a rock, and breakers: flat islands in sight to the southward and ahead.
At 11, passed a projecting part of the main (E), abt. 11/2m. dist, a cluster of low rocks & islets about the same dist. to the south. At noon, the furthest part of the main N.44.E. nearest dist abt. 5. islands nearer.

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[page 270]

1802 Jan. [Monday] - 18th. Investigator from Bay [No. 2 of D'Entrecasteauxs Archipelago - to the eastward

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with fine weather. Set the F.T. Mt. studg. sail. At 2, took in the studg. sail, seeing a sunken rock near us and having only 10 fms. The water afterwards deepened gradually, (Regular soundings from 6 to 10 fms) but at 41/2 it shoaled to 4 fms, the bottom sandy. We had just passed some breakers 3/4 dist. with 18fms. At 71/4, came to an anchor in 18 fms. quartzose sand. Mod. breezes & cloudy wr. Every thing prepared to be under weigh in half an hour. The north end of some bare sand hills N.10º.W. abt. 5 4 miles.
     Several dog fish caught during the night
At 5h.30' weighed, and set all sail, steering along the coast.
At 9, calm. Took in the studg. sails.
At 11, a sea breeze set in, braced up sharp.
At noon, the northernmost of a number of sand hills N.34º.E. Nearest shore about 4 miles distant. Land seen as far as N.E.b.E.

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[1802 Jan Monday 18th Investigator from Bay] No. 2 of D'Entrecasteauxs Archipelago - to the eastward.

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The shore along which we passed today is very low and generally sandy; the little rising being sometimes totally uncovered by vegetation. A few miles behind this is a level and moderately high country, and some mountains of considerable height peep above this from the more interior part.
     On coming into shoaler water, I observed the sea to be smoother which I attribute to the northerly direction of the coast, the main swell being usually from S.W. Having good [anchor]ing ground, tolerably smooth water, and the appearance of a fine night, I preferred keeping my station on account of the connexion in the course requisite to the survey.
     No current was observed to set past the ship. The watches caught several fish, principally dog fish.
     The front land passed this morning is still more sandy than that of yesterday: it consistings of yellow hills without the least vegetation upon them. The range behind still continues of nearly the same height, and seems to have timber trees upon it.

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[page 272]

[Tuesday] - Jan.19th. Investigator, along Nuyts [Land - New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with hazy weather. Passed by some blubbers and much red scum, upon the surface of the water. At 4, tacked to the southward, the shore being distant 11/2, sandy as before. At 51/2 tacked in shore again till dusk, when we stood off for the night A steep cliffy cape (P) like Flamborough Head, N.64.E. nearest shore dist. about 31/2 miles. Dble. reefed the top-sails.
Moderate breezes and cloudy
Light airs. Tacked ship towards the shore.
At 5 saw the cliffy cape P, to leeward. Set all the light sails, and kept away for it. A continued cliffy shore soon after was seen stretching to the N.Et.ward and P became indistinguishable from the neighbouring cliffs
Washed and aired below.
Served sweet wort to the ships Company. Sour krout & vinegar continue to be served as usual.
At noon the extremes of the land, which appears to be all cliffy, N.46(.E., from the deck, to S.85(.W. near P. Offshore 5 or 6 miles.

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[page 273]

[Tuesday - Jan 19th Investigator, along Nuyts]

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

land - New Holland

Some of the red scum was taken up in a bucket. The surface appeared to be covered with small grains like hay seeds. These when subjected to the action of spirit, nearly seperated into fine tubes which appeared to be jointed.
The range of land at the back of the low sandy shore, approaches close to the water near our northernmost track this afternoon and soon after the sand vanished and the ridge forms steep(er) cliffs. Other cliffs opened before these (P), at N.69°.E. which is very different to the line in M.Beauprès chart: the nearest cliffs being further north than anything he has laid down here.
A.M. The cliffs along which our track lies this morning appear to be calcarious; the thin strata are very distinguishable and horizontal. In the upper part the stone is brown, but lower down it becomes whiter. Nothing from the interior appears above these cliffs. In some places the stone seems to have mouldered & fallen down, and thus, in a trifling degree, breaks the uniform perpendicularity of the shore. I judge the brown sand brt. up by the lead to be calcarious.

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[page 274]

Jan.1802 [Wednesday] - 20th. H.M.S. Investigator [examining Nuyts Land - New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. Breezes and cloudy weather. All sail set, continuing to steer along the same cliffy shore as before
In studg. sails, royals & stay sails. Fresh breezes and cloudy. At 4, offshore 3 miles
Double reefed the top sails
At 7, In Top gant sails and hauled to the wind. Extremes N.47(.E. to N.85(.W. Offshore abt. 6 miles. Fresh breezes and squally.
At 9h.15' tacked to the westward
Mod. and cloudy
Set T.Gt. sails &c.
At 3, tacked to the eastward
At 5, the extremes from S.80(W to N.60(E. our distance offshore about 4 miles
Out 2nd. reefs and tacked ship. A considerable swell rolling in from the southward
Light breezes: the swell stopping the ships way.
Cleaned below. Carpenters repairing the boats.
Light breezes and fine weather. A projecting cliff, Q, the nearest shore N.32(.W. 6 or 8 miles.

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[page 275]

[Jan 1802 Wednesday - 20th H.M.S. Investigator] examining Nuyts Land - New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


     The little windings in the cliffy shore make seperately like so many steep heads, but they project so little beyond the general line of the coast, that long before the ship comes up with them they are lost amidst the uniform range, and nothing remains to be noted. This is a considerable inconvenience to the survey. At 4, however, one of these windings Q remained notable, until we came abreast. From its projection and greater whiteness it seems as if a piece had lately fallen from it: it is the same that is set at 7h. at N.85(W. The winding of the shore will appear from our course, and the distances off.
 

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[page 276]

Jan. [Thursday] - 21st. H.M.S. Investigator, along [the coast of Nuyts Land - New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. Breezes with fine weather.
At 4, we brought the southern extreme of the land, probably Q to bear S.56(W. our distance off shore being abt. 1 mile
Tacked ship, and at 6, again towards the shore. Dble. reefed the top sails.
At 71/2, tacked off for the night Fresh breezes with fine weather. In T.Gt. sails, staysails and spanker.
Lost a deep sea lead from the line breaking. At 11, missed stays and wore ship
At 2, tacked offshore. A considerable swell running, driving the ship to leeward. At daylight, the land obscured by the haze. Set jib and spanker.
Carried away the strings of the main yard.
At 8, set T.Gt. sails and tacked ship. Cleaned below and aired with stoves. Out 2nd reefs. Served sweet wort to the ships company. Mustered and saw them clean.
Mod. Breezes and fine weather. The land distinguishable, in the N.N.W.

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[Jan. Thursday - 21st H.M.S. Investigator along] the coast of Nuyts Land - New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


     The mode in which the wind now obliges us to proceed, has not yet enabled me to add any observations upon the coast, in addition to those of yesterday, and the log.
     From this days experience as well as from former observations, I find that the wind draws round from the southward towards noon, becoming a sort of sea breeze, and towards midnight it comes more off the land.
On this account it is, that I stretched in shore till 2A.M. when the wind drawing more off shore enabled us to lie up better on the larboard tack, and on the winds heading at 8, tacked towards the land, for which, according to my expectation, the wind allowed us to lie up better each hour
    The brown, coarse sand brought up by the lead is mostly calcarious, but small bits, and sometimes pieces of broken coral, are occasionally mixed with it, as also bits of broken shells

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Jan. [Friday] 22nd. H.M.S. Investigator [examining the coast of Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with hazy weather
Sailmakers making a cutters foresail
Fresh breezes and hazy.
Double reefed the top-sails. At sunset, the land distinguishable through the haze from west to N.E. Distant 6 or 8 miles at NWbN. At 8 tacked into the offing. In T.Gt. sails, jib and spanker Third reefed the fore top sail. At 11, tacked in shore. Fresh breezes & fine wr.
At 2, saw the land in the N.b.E.: tacked ship towards the offing. Set jib and spanker
Employed repairing some of the rigging Mod. and cloudy weather
Carpenters repairing the cutter, and sailmakers making a boats foresail. At 9, wore ship towards the land. Light breezes and hazy weather
Served sweet wort and sour krout.
Light breezes & hazy. Land distinguishable from N.85(W to N.28(.E. Many smokes upon the shore.

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[page 279]

[Jan. Friday 22nd. H.M.S. Investigator] examining the coast of Nuyts Land

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Our distance from the land until late in the evening, and the thickness of the haze, prevented us from remarking any thing upon it or even knowing whether it is the same land before seen or other land.
     In the morning the land was visible but at a considerable distance; it appeared to be more irregular in its surface than the cliffs left yesterday afternoon. The bottom seems to consist of calcarious and coral sand mixed, in some places, and of live coral in others.
    About noon, we distinguished what was taken to be streaks of sand upon the land. The furthest smoke seen ahead, bore more easterly than the land: from the direction in which it passed we entertained hopes of a fair wind which our barometer partly corroborates.

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Jan. [Saturday] 23rd. H.M.S. Investigator, exa[mining the coast of Nuyts Land - New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. Breezes and cloudy weather Got the boats higher upon the quarters, and the anchors on the bows and resecured them. At 51/2, tacked to the southward, the shore being 2 miles distant: the extremes W.b.N. to E.5(.S. seen through the haze. Dble. reefed the top-sails.
At 101/2, taken aback: shortened sail and lay to on the larboard tack. 3rd. reefed the T. sails. Hot, sultry, weather. At 11, wore and brought to again. A swell from the S.E.
At 1, filled & set the fore sail. At 21/2 wore ship. Fresh breezes and squally. At 4, wore ship, having missed stays. At 5, bore away to make the land. Out 2nd. reefs & set all the plain sails.
Saw the land, sandy and of moderate elevation through the haze, and at 81/2 hauled up along shore dist. abt. 3 miles.
Served sweet wort ^Cleaned below and aired with stoves.)
At noon, the shore distant 4 or 5 miles. A freshening breeze with thick, hazy, weather. Double reefed the top sails, handed T. Gt. sails, and hauled further off shore

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[page 281]

[Jan. Saturday 23rd H.M.S. Investigator] examining the coast of Nuyts Land - New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land off which we tacked this evening, is low and sandy. A little to the west lie some little hills, in which the sand is variegated with vegetation. A great many smokes were rising at the back of the shore.
     From 7 fms., in which we tacked, the water deepened almost immediately to 14 and 17; and on coming in with the land in the morning it did the same, and continued of nearly the same depth very regularly.
No part of the land seen at night could be distinguished to be certainly the same in the morning, but the shore is of the same kind, consisting of a tolerably regular bank in general covered with vegetation but the sand frequently peeps through it and a sandy beach runs entirely along its foot. There is no hill or other remarkable thing near the shore which I can set as a mark; whether any thing higher inland exists, the thick weather does not permit us to see.

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[page 282]

Jan.1802. [Sunday] 24. H.M.S. Investigator ex[amining the coast of Nuyts Land New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy with haze. Set T.Gt. sails & stay sails, and F.T.mt. studg. sails and kept more in towards the shore
Strong breezes. In studg. sails, T.Gt. sails &c.
At 7, treble reefed the top-sails and hauled to the wind off shore; being then 7 or 8 miles distant: the extremes from NE. to W.b.N.
Strong breezes. Reefed the main sail
Fresh breezes and fine weather. Wore ship
Do. wr. At 5, saw the land from W.6.N. to N.E.b.N. and bore away for it. Out 3rd. reefs and made sail. At 6, steered along shore.
Fresh breezes and cloudy. At 8h.25' tacked off shore; it being distant about 21/2 miles.
Mustered ships company and saw them clean. Served sweet wort.
At 11.20 set the staysails & T.Gt. sails and tacked in shore
Noon, light breezes and fine weather Nearest land N.N.W. 4 or 5 miles. The West extreme W.10(.N.

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[page 283]

[Jan. 1802. Sunday 24 H.M.S. Investigator] examining the coast of Nuyts Land - New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The shore along which our rapid course lies this afternoon is almost exactly of the same kind with that of the morning. It appears to be more even and lower; and at the distance of 3 leagues it might be taken for the horizon, being almost as level as that shewn by the water.
     On coming in with the land in the morning we could, as before, tell but little of its being the same left on the preceding evening. The country now appears to be well wooded, upon the bank to which our view is bounded. I expected to have seen the same kind of cliffs as we have before passed, but this bank of level land so similar to the top of the cliffs, is skirted with a sandy beach. Ahead and astern the trees appear further out than the land; and being low, I judge that we do not see either of them more than 3 or 4 leagues distant.

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Jan 1802 [Monday] 25th. H.M.S. Investigator [examining the coast of Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. Breezes with fine weather. At 0h.40' tacked: the shore dist. abt. 2 miles.
At 4, tacked ship along shore: but at 61/2h. were obliged to tack off, the water having shoaled to 6 fms. A head swell making the ship plunge much and stopping her way
At 10, tacked in shore until 12, hoping to get the wind more off the land. At 12, tacked and stretched off
Mod. breezes with cloudy weather
At 71/2, tacked to the northward: no land in sight
Found the M.T.Gt. mast sprung. Got it down and another up
Mod. breezes and fine weather
Served sweet wort
At noon, the land in sight from the deck, to the northward dist. 9 or 10 miles

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[page 285]

[Jan 1802 Monday 25th H.M.S. Investigator]
Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

examining the coast of Nuyts Land

The swell from the southward which has prevailed during this and the greatest part of the preceding day, has caused the ship to labour considerably, and in consequence her old leaks are opened again and she now makes between one and two inches of water per hour. From this cause also, the M.T.Gt. mast has been sprung; and we have the additional mortification to learn from the observations that we have gained nothing to the eastward. Could we have supposed that the wind would have remained at E.b.N. all the morning it would have been most advantageous to have been in with the shore by 7 or 8 o'clock.

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[page 286]

Jan. 1802 [Tuesday] - 26th. H.M.S. Investigator [examining Nuyts Land - New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. and cloudy weather, with a short swell from the eastward. At 1h.45' missed stays and wore ship off shore
Set T.Gt. sails and staysails, and at 5h.3/4 tacked in shore
Light breezes & fine weather, with haze
At 10, tacked off shore
Light breezes and cloudy: an easterly swell stopping the ships way.
Out 2nd. reefs and set staysails
At 8h.15' the wind shifted and allowed us to steer for the land. At 10 its distance was 8 or 9 miles, when we bore away along it. Made more sail. Carried away a F.T. studg. sail boom. Got another upon the yard. Served sweet wort. At noon, the land dist 3 or 4 miles Hauled further off, double reefed the topsails and handed T.Gt. sails Fresh breezes and hazy weather.

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[Jan. 1802 Tuesday - 26th H.M.S. Investigator]
Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

examining Nuyts Land - New Holland

     On coming in with the shore this afternoon, we observed a fire to be kindled close to the beach, which appeared to be meant as a signal to us. They had probably observed the ship standing off and on these two days past, for we had noticed smoke to be rising from behind the bank, but the fire now observed was of a different kind.
    The land seen at noon, is a few miles to the east of what we had seen before distinctly. The bank now appears to retire a little distance from the shore, and gets some what higher. The front shore is very low, except a little further on where some naked sandy hills constitute the sea boundary. The bank is still wooded in tolerable abundance.

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[page 288]

Jan.1802 [Wednesday] 27th. H.M.S. Investigator [examining the coast of Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Strong breezes and cloudy weather. Under double reefed top sails and fore sail
At 4, the steep cliffy shore abreast dist about 5 miles.
At 6, the shore dist. abt. 5 miles. Treble reefed the M. and close reefed the F. and Mz.T.S. - reefed the courses. At 7h.30' hauled to the wind. Extremes of the land through the haze N.70ºW. to N.70(E. offshore 5 or 6 miles A considerable sea from the S.W.ward Strong breezes & fine weather.
At 1, wore ship
Set jib & M.T.mt staysail, let the reefs out of the courses, and at 4 bore away for the land, and at 5 kept away along it at the distance of 6 or 7 miles.Out 3rd. reefs, set T.Gt. sails & F.T.mt studg. sail.
Mod. breezes and cloudy weather
Served sour krout and sweet wort
Noon, the nearest land N.b.W.1/2 W. 6 or 7 miles. Extremes in sight from the deck N.78º.W. to N.30(.Et. the latter is sand hills
Mod. breezes with cloudy weather

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[Jan. 1802 [Wednesday] 27th H.M.S. Investigator] examining the coast of Nuyts Land -

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Abreast of our situation at 21/2h. the bank comes close to the sea and forms steep cliffs, whose height I judge to be from 400 to 600 feet. The upper third part of these cliffs is brown at their commencement, and the lower 2/3rds white; but whether this is lime or gritstone cannot be ascertained; no other stratification appears except what is now mentioned. On coming to the sea, the bank, which was before well clothed with wood, becomes destitute of that covering, forming a surface almost as even as that of the sea horizon. Where our afternoon track concludes, the upper, brown, part of the cliffs had gradually increased until it occupied half of the whole height, and in the morning I observed that it kept increasing in proportion to the lower white part. Excavations were observed in the lower white part. At noon a projecting part of the cliffs N.14(.E. which is not far from the end of them, for at N.24ºE. we see hills of naked sand extending eastward and northward.

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[page 290]

1802 Jan. [Thursday] 28th H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the furthest parts of Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and hazy. A 1h.30' Saw the head of the great gulph, No. 3 or 4 leagues and hauled up for the land stretching towds. the S.E.
Mod. breezes and cloudy. Shore dist 6 or 7 miles to the N.E.
At 6, Breakers seen from Mt.head S.E.1/2S. stretching from the farthest land seen in the same direction. A long S.W. swell setting in upon the shore
At 8, tacked to the westward
Light breezes and cloudy. Long swell from the S.W.ward. At 3, up main sail and wore ship.
Light airs and calms. At day light, the land to the N.E.ward dist. 3 or 4 leagues
Out 2nd. reefs of the top sails
Light breezes and cloudy weather. Set studg. sails
Long swell still running from the S.W.
At noon, Fine weather. Extremes of the land in sight N.12ºW. to S.88ºE. off the nearest shore about 7 or 8 miles. Breakers N.30º.E. about 2 miles dist. the same seen last night.

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[1802 Jan Thursday 28th H.M.S. Investigator]

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

exploring the furthest parts of Nuyts Land.


The cliffy projection set at noon, proved to be a point from whence the land trends N.E.ward to the head of this great gulph of New Holland. It is however but a few miles deep from the coast line. The shore round it is low and sandy, but the land rises very gradually inland until the haze obscured it from us.
     Where the coast stretches S.E. the shore is higher. Every where, on the sand hills excepted, is a coat of vegetation, but it is a shabby one, the sand peeping thro' in ten thousand places.
     Our distance off shore in the morning did not permit us to see much of the nature of the land, but it appeared to be of the same sandy nature, and kind, rising gradually into the country, but not to much height.
     The breakers, of which we were abreast at noon, seem to stretch to the S.S.E. We saw them breaking about 2 miles in length and it is possible that they may extend to the shore. They lie off two large patches of naked sand, which constitute the shore

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[page 292]

Jan. [ Friday] - 29th. H.M.S. Investigator, exploring [the furthest parts of Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with fine weather. At 2 passed two small clusters of islet, with breakers round, to the southward, and other breakers in shore to the northwd. Passed two deep bights between projecting rocky heads; and at 5h.30' hauled round a third head into a wide bay which promised shelter. The water having shoaled to 3 fms. laid all aback and sent the master to sound. On drawing into 31/4, [anchor]d with small bower, the boat not having found any deeper water, towards the head of the bay. Rocky Head B bearing S.34º1/2E. dist. abt. 2 miles, and distant land as far as East; between which the bay is open. Sent down the T.Gt. yards.
A.M. Light breezes and cloudy. Washed the ship, squared yards &c. Cutters employed carrying the comr. naturalist &c. on shore to survey and examine the country
Prepared every thing for getting under weigh.

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[page 293]

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

[Jan Friday - 29th H.M.S. Investigator, exploring] the furthest part of Nuyts Land - New Holland


The land passed this afternoon, consists of projecting capes apparently calcarious, between which are deep bights, and rocks, and small islets and breakers lying off. At 5h.1/2, I saw that the third bight fell back sufficiently to afford shelter from all the winds that I consider to be boisterous upon this coast; we accordingly wore round and stood into it. On drawing towards the head of the bay we found only three fathoms, upon which we hove to, and the master went ahead to sound, but not making the signal for any better place I wore round and dropped the [anchor] in 31/2 fathoms, sandy bottom, about 11/4' from the shore.
     In the morning, Mr. Brown and his party landed to take a look round, as I intended to stay to get the latitude and longitude. At 5, I also (On landing in the morning to take angles and I found that the land head which shelters us from the westerly and south winds, was a neck of only half a mile in breadth, as I expected to find it. The rock is all calcarious.) A nest apparently of the same kind before noticed was found in a small cavern; but the entrance to it could only admit a

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[page 294]

Jan 29. [Friday] 1802 in continuation - Bay No.3 [Additional remarks]


bird of very moderate size. No bones or feathers were either in the nest or near it. Tracks of dogs were seen on the beach, recently marked. The Dung of resembling that of a horse was seen, which I judge to be that of the emu.
      Towards noon, I went on shore accompanied by some officers, and four sets of lunars were taken by Lt. Flinders of the [sun] east of the [moon], whose result is
       Et. which are used to fix the general longitude of the observatory in King Georges Sound. The meridional altitude of [Sun] LLt = 75º.55'.59" = 32º.0'.3"S. The longitude given by the time keepers appears on the preceding page,and is 132º.39'.29" Et on board the ship, taken by Lt. Flinders)
Nothing interesting presenting itself to detain us in this bay, soon after noon, I got under weigh to beat out of the bay, the wind being moderate at S.E.
When on shore I noticed broken land to the eastward, which I was anxious to examine and therefore it was the first object that we attended to after getting out of the bay.

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[page 295]

[Jan 29. 1802 in continuation - Bay No.3] Additional remarks

(This Bay No.3 is similar to Torbay in the shelter that it affords. It is open to all winds from S.E. to East, but I do not apprehend that even these throw any great sea into it, which opinion is founded on the shallowness of the bottom, - its being covered with weeds; - and the from finding plants grow close to the high water marks; though the naturalist informs me that these plants are such only as grow in salt places. There is no appearance of fresh water, or I believe can wood of sufficient size for fuel be procured; but the bay may be useful as a place of shelter to ships going along the coast to the westward, since the security it affords against winds which would be foul for such ships to proceed, is complete.)
     Some decayed spears were found on the south) side of the bay near to a place where a small fire had been kindled not long since; but Nno huts were seen. *Tracks of dogs &c.
     A few small fish were caught alongside, and two small ducks and as many sea pies and gulls were shot.
     The scantiness of plants was found to be equal to that of other productions.

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[page 296]

Jan 1802 [Saturday] - 30th H.M.S. Investigator [from Bay No. 3 Nuyts Land - eastward]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and fine weather. At 11/4h. got under weigh and set all the plainsails to work out of the bay. Tacked ship occasionally. At 5h.30', the end of steep cliffs which had appeared like an island bore N.70(.E. abt. 3 miles. Not being able to weather to see behind it, tacked off to sea. At sunset, rocky head (, the south point of the bay W.3(S. in a line with the coast to the westward. Double reefed the topsails & handed T.Gt. sails.
Fresh breezes with fine weather. At 12 wore ship in shore; a heavy swell from the southward
At 3, tacked offshore
Light breezes & fine weather At 5 saw the land, capes ( and (, and wore ship towards it. Out 2nd. reefs set F.Gt. sails &c.
At 61/2 tacked off to be ready for the sea breeze
Light breezes with fine weather
Set the staysails
At 103/4, tacked ship on her falling off
Noon Mod. Breezes & fine weather. The cliffy land of cape (, bearing N.b.W. about 5 leagues. Land seen at N.E.

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[page 297]

[Jan 1802 Saturday -30th. H.M.S. Investigator] from Bay No.3 Nuyts Land - eastward


The land lying at some distance beyond the steep cliffs which had been taken for an island, extends to the eastward as far as we could see, but between these, there was some probability of finding a bight which should fall sufficiently within the coast line to afford shelter. This point I was anxious to ascertain this evening, but for want of two or three hours more day light it became necessary to stand off to sea, and leave it for another opportunity.
     In the morning, the land shewed our situation to be much to leeward which I expected to find the case, the wind having headed us on every tack; and although we were at some distance from the land, yet the prospect of the winds coming more from that direction as the day advanced induced me to tack off shore soon after 7 o'clock, and before 11, the wind came round accordingly and enabled us to look up for the furthest land we had yet seen

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[page 298]

1802. Jan. [Sunday] 31. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the furthest parts of Nuyts Land N. Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with hazy weather. Keeping a point free, in order to draw in by the land before dark
At 5, our distance abt. 2 miles from the shore, tacked ship: the furthest extreme of the main bearing S.60º.E. but from the mast head breakers and another peice of land are seen further south.
Mod. breezes and fine weather. At 10, tacked towards the shore again
At 12, tacked off.
At 4, tacked to the eastward, and at 7 the land was seen from the deck bearing N.E.b.E.
At 9, tacked off shore; the land being distant 5 or 6 miles. The extreme in sight is low land continued from the main and bears E.b.S.1/2S. set from the mizen top. Three low islets with heavy breakers upon them seen within the extreme, and dist. from 4 to 7 miles
Mustered the ships company and saw them clean. In T.Gt. sails and sent the main one down to repair. At 11h.30' tacked towds. the shore: the land seen ahead.

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[page 299]

[1802 Jan. Sunday 31 H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the furthest part of Nuyts Land. N. Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


    The land with which we came in this afternoon, is that which runs from behind the cliffs, which had been taken for an island. These cliffs I saw very distinctly, but no bight of any depth appeared to the eastward of it. The land is moderately high and generally covered with vegetation, but as usual the sand shews itself frequently, and towards the eastern extreme it is almost bare. A cliffy point, c, is the only noticeable place. The furthest land is supposed to be an island whose distance from us is more considerable than the extreme set. Breakers are seen in the wake it, and for a considerable distance along the shore the water breaks high before it reaches the land.
     Our view of the land in the morning added two flat rocks above water on which the sea breaks very high, to our knowledge of this part; and the mainland was seen out further than it had before been. It still seems to preserve the southerly direction which it has assumed from Bay No.3 and the land is the same kind: A few rocky cliffs, but in general sandy.

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[page 300]

1802 Feb. [Monday] -1st. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the furthest part of Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & fine wr. with haze. Double reefed the top-sails & took in spanker and stay sails. At 2, a small islet, c. N36E. 13/4 mile. At 3, the main land dist. about 3 to the N.E. tacked off shore in 7 fms. The M.T.Gt. sail being repaired, sent it up and set it.
At 6h. 30', missed stays, from the ships plunging so much to the head swell, and wore ship. - Strong breezes, & hazy. At 8, tacked off shore again. A heavy head swell
Fresh breezes & fine with haze. At 1, wore shore.
At 5h.30' saw the land to the E.N.E. Set T.Gt. sails and staysails
At 8, the small islet c.W.8ºS. 2 miles. A broad flat islet without the extreme of the main S.36º.E. with heavy breakers on it. Tacked off shore in 7 fms. coral bottom: our situation being exactly the same as at 3 P.M.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves
Sweet wort, and sour krout and vinegar continue to be served as usual
Fresh breezes with hazy weather. No land distinguishable. A heavy head swell making the ship plunge heavy deeply.

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[page 301]

[1802 Feb Monday -1st. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the furthest part of Nuyts Land

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Between the rocky islet c and the main I judge there is a ship passage at the back of the other breakers. The main land seems to take a very easterly direction at the back of these, but curves round again to the south, the extreme bearing S42º.E. when we tacked off shore. The land is still sandy in general, but steep cliffs sometimes appear; it is also moderately high. Breakers of some extent were seen seperated off from the extreme point.
     The situation where we tacked at 8 A.M. was the same in which the same evolution was performed at 3 P.M. The breakers lying off the extreme were now seen to be attached to a broad flat islet; and an island of superior height was seen farther to the southeastward.
     The swell from the southward, which the ship has bowed so much since leaving Bay No.3 has been the cause of her leaks increasing considerably. She now appears to make about 3 inches per hour; but I attribute it entirely to the strain arising from her plunging to the head swell.

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[page 302]

1802 Feb. [Tuesday] - 2. H.M.S. Investigator ex[ploring the furthest parts of Nuyts Land - N. Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & fine wr. with haze. A heavy swell from the southward. At 1h.10' tacked ship towards the land, which, at 4, was seen through the haze N50.E. Weathered the outermost islet, and breakers seen in the morning and at 6h.35' tacked ship off shore; another island, d, S37ºE. 3 miles: a point of the main, E, N.57º.E. beyond which other land is seen indistinctly through the haze. Breakers discovered to be within a 1/4 of a mile of the ship when we tacked.
Mod. breezes & fine weather, with haze
At 1, tacked ship towards the land, but finding at daylight that it was to windward of us, at 5h.40' tacked again into the offing to be ready for the sea breeze. Mod. breezes & fine weather. Considerable head swell still running.
Out 2nd. reefs of M. & Miz top sails and set stay sails.
Removed 4 tons of shifting ballast from the after part of the ship, forward; judging her to be getting too much by the stern
Served sweet wort as usual
At 11h.30', tacked towards the shore on the winds heading -
Noon, Mod. breezes & hazy. No land in sight. The swell considerably abated

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[page 303]

[1802 Feb. Tuesday 2. H.M.S. Investigator ex]ploring the furthest parts of Nuyts Land - N. Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


From the point of the main, D, which was the furthest extreme seen in the morning of the 1st, the land runs curvingly towards the east to another point, E, between which and the next land, which runs further to the southward, is a considerable space. The island, d, is of moderate height and is almost environed with rocks and breakers, a long ridge of which extend to the N.E.ward. Calcarious cliffs and sand, seem still to divide the land between them; the abrupt parts consisting of the first and the level and sloping land of the latter.
     The perseverance of the wind to blow against us, does not permit me to add any thing further relative to the land this day; for on finding that we must pass to leeward of what had been before seen if we continued to stretch towards the shore in the morning; I stood off to sea, with the hope of coming in with better success in a more advanced part of the day when the wind might be expected to blow upon the shore nearer to a right angle.

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[page 304]

1802 Feb. [Wednesday] - 3d. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring Nuyts Archipelago]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and fine weather with haze. Out 2nd reef of the F. top-sail. Saw a cluster of islands, some of which we passed to leeward and at 4h. 50' drawing near to one with two smaller isles & breakers near it, tacked ship to work up to those to windward. Mod. breezes with haze, so that we cannot see farther than 6 or 7 miles. Carried away the F.T. Gt. yard.
Tacked ship occasionally, working up under the lee of the islands, under the largest of which there appeared to be shelter. At 8 passed over a bank running off from a point, in 6 fms. and immediately deepened to 10 when finding the bottom to be fine sand, dropped the small bower and furled sails. The island extending from S.75º.E. by the south to N.30º.W. Four other islands from N. 43 E. to East 2 or 3 miles. The water smooth as in a pond. Light breezes and hazy. A.M. Weather still hazy, so that the island off which we tacked first for the main, or the island d cannot be seen. Find our distance off shore to be 1/3 of a mile, and from the most inclosed part of a bay having a beach round it, 1/2 mile N.N.E. Many gulls and petrels about, and some seals seen upon the rocks.
This day continued to 36 hours, on next page

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[page 305]

[1802 Feb Wednesday - 3d. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring Nuyts Archipelago

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The haze was so thick this afternoon that scarcely anything but the looming of the islands could be seen until we came close to them. We counted 9 islands besides rocks, two of which appeared to be large. Under one of the large ones, where there seemed to be sandy beach, and very smooth water, I intended to anchor for the night, not being able to do any thing towards surveying the islands whilst the weather remained so thick. It was quite dark before we got to an anchor, but the shelter afforded us, fully equalled my expectations. Great flocks of the black sooty petrel, called by capt. Hunter, Mt. Pitt birds, and many gannets had been seen within these few days, which I conjectured must belong to some islands near us, and probably they belong to these.
     I have little doubt but that these islands belong to the cluster amongst which is marked St. Francis and St. Peter in the charts, and discovered by Peter Nuyts in 1628. These islands terminate his discovery

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[page 306]

1802 Feb. 3rd. in continuation. Bay No. 4 in island e, of [Peter Nuyts Archipelago]


Light breezes and sultry. Boats employed on sounding and other requisite services. Sailmakers repairing the spanker. Swayed the lower yards higher up. At 3 P.M. fresh breezes from S.E. with hazy weather. Land seen to the N.E.ward supposed to be the main. At sunset, down T.Gt. yards. Sent the boats on shore to collect Mt. Pitt birds which usually come in from sea in the evening: they brought about 400, which were served to the ships company.
      Additional notes. I landed in the morning to take angles of all that could be seen from two points stations on this island e, which indeed amounted to no more than what had before been seen, the haze remaining still as thick as before. We now make out 12 islands in this archipelago, but this e is by much the largest, its circumference being by guess 8 or 10 miles. From the naturalist I learn, that the stone forming the basis of the islands, and the rocks of the shore at the south north end, is porphyry; but on all the upper parts of the island all the stone is calcarious. Upon This calcarious stone, which is mostly in small loose pieces at the surface and over it is a covering of sand, thicker deeper in some places than others, and mixed with as small

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[page 307]

[1802. Feb 3rd in continuation. Bay No.4 in island e, of]
Peter Nuyts Archipelago.


a portion of vegetable matter as may be. Upon this grow shrubs of no great variety in kind, and in a few places bushes of perhaps 3 feet high. Amongst these shrubs, wherever the sand & soil is 6 or 8 inches deep, are the holes made by the sooty petrel, which after captain Hunter and the people of Norfolk Islanders I call Mt. Pitt birds. In walking upon the island one frequently steps up to the calf of the leg in these holes, from the surface of the earth over them giving way. Penguins also occupy some share of these holes burrows more especially those nearer to the sea side. Small kanguroos, of the same size but apparently not of the same kind with those of island u of Dentrecasteauxs Archipelago, were seen upon this island but none procured this day. The excrement of geese, as it was universally judged to be, was lying upon every part of the island, but not a bird of that kind was seen. Several seals were seen both upon the rocks and beaches, but only one was killed upon this island. Mr. Thistle landed upon h and k and killed several but saw nothing else
    The reflection of the heat from the sand and rock on shore has made it intolerably hot in traveling. Mr. Browns The thermometer stood at 98º in the shade, and the island does not in any one part promise to afford a drop of

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[page 308]

1802 Feb. [Wednesday] - 3rd in continuation. Bay No. 4 in [island e of Peter Nuyts Archipelago. New Holland]


water. On board the ship the heat is much more considerable than we have ever yet felt it to be before. Of the barometer I have a few observations to make. On all parts of this south coast of New Holland hither to, I find an easterly wind to have the same effect upon the barometer as at the Cape of Good Hope; which is, to make it rise; and although this wind should blows strong the barometer will seldom stand lower than 30 inches. At 29.90 and lower, I have seldom been disappointed in my expectation of a westerly wind, which would be is stronger as the barometer stood lower; and on its reapproach to 30, I knew that the westerly wind was almost out. But within these few days, this statement does not at all answer. The easterly wind continues to follow its routine although the height is not more than 29,75. No rain or any great quantity of wind follows this, but the atmosphere is loaded with so dense a haze that we cannot see the highest land more than 7 or 8 miles, and sometimes the horizon of the sea is indefinable. Whether this haze is the corresponding cause of the fall, I cannot yet say with any degree of certainty.

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[page 310]

[Thursday] - 4th Feb 1802. Bay No. 4, island e. of Nuyts archipelago


lying several miles to the eastward which were distinguishable through the haze; and there appeared to be other land as far as east.
    The calcarious stone at this point forms some caverns in which I found peices of good salt in cakes sticking in the crevices of the stone. The immediate stone to which it adheres is not calcarious, or does it seem to be porphyry, which is the basis stone, but nearer allied to quartz)
    During the times that I was employed in taking the angles one of the men caught several fish, such as we call rock fish, upon which I afterwards sent the boat back provided with hooks and lines, but no great number were taken.
    There being not the least appearance of water on this island or of wood, I proposed to leave it as soon as the breeze should set in from the southward, and intended to repeat my observation for the latitude, which, on account of the haze yesterday I considered to be very uncertain; but although it was somewhat clearer than before, yet I found it impossible to distinguish the land from the horizon

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[page 311]

 Some remarks on Bay No. 4


(The shelter afforded by this No. 4 bay is very good, for I apprehend that no wind whatever could raise much sea in it. From all points of the compass, except from between No. to and East, this island itself would shelter a ship properly situated; and from N.E. to East the islands would break off any sea, that might arise within the main, for at this distance of leagues the mainland and inner islands extend entirely round the bay when it is open. (No wood or water can be procured obtained here, as far as we could see examined; but some hair seals, and any number of the petrels called Mt. Pitt birds may be procured If lime stone was any object, it is sufficiently abundant.

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[page 312]

1802 Feb. [Friday] 5th H.M.S. Investigator [exploring Nuyts Archipelago]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes with sultry weather. At 1h.30' weighed and stood out of the bay. At 2, passed between g and h, 1/2 mile asunder having 10 fms. close to the rocks. At 4 passed island (, and steered for other islands behind which the land appeared to be main land. Saw several low rocks and breakers, and in attempting to pass between two islands the water shoaled rather suddenly to 23/4, upon which we wore round and steered off into clear water. At 8, brought to on the larboard tack. Light breezes & fine weather, with haze. A still swell from the Southward At 4h.30' filled and made sail
At 8, Land seen as far as S.40.E. apparently the main. Many islands & lands from thence to N.68º.W. which is the center of e.
Tacked ship; but on the winds heading tacked again to the eastward
At 11, In T.Gt. sails, jib and staysails a flurry of hot wind.
Lemon juice and sugar served now in lieu of sweet wort. Sour krout as before
Noon Mod. & fine weather. Smokes on the land on each side of us, but the land indistinguishable ahead towards the bottom of the bay or inlet.

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[page 313]

[1802 Feb. Friday 5 th H.M.S. Investigator] exploring Nuyts Archipelago.

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The islands g and h appear to be porphyry covered with a calcarious crust, the same as e, the passage between [them] is narrow but seems to be safe. The islands between which we attempted to pass were q and r. Several low rocks lie about there, but I attempted the passage intending to [anchor] behind q if good bottom was found. The ship fortunately wore round very quick which only alone prevented her from striking.
     All the islands of this archipelago yet seen, are much lower than those of D'Entrecasteauxs; but except amongst these latter islands, reefs do not seem to be so abundant.
     The land seeming to be very much broken and divided, I judge it necessary to return to the part of the main which we quitted on the evening of the 3rd. The dense haze that has prevailed since does not allow us to form a correct judgement of any thing beyond 4 or 5 miles
     Many grass-hopper-shaped insects were flying about the ship both at night and in the morning, and in the latter many small birds, not less than 20 of which were caught, all of the same kind -

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[page 314]

1802 Feb. [Saturday] - 6th H.M.S. Investigator [exploring Peter Nuyts Archipelago]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Hot sultry breezes & hazy weather. Seeing much discoloured water towards the head of the bay, and the land running round at 2h.25' bore away to the Southward along the coast -
Seeing the land trend to the eastward hauled round to the northward again at 6h in order to explore the the coast which we have not yet seen. Kept from the wind to give island s and its breakers a good berth. Mod. breezes & fine wr. with haze. Standing on under three top-sails; and the mz. top-sail aback.
    A fire seen on shore bearing E.N.E at 2. At 5h.30' White cliffs in island e N.80ºW. F a projecting land on the north side of the bay seen P.M. N.49°E 6 or 7 miles. Made all sail to the northward hoping to weather the islands p. At 7h.30' tacked not being able to weather. At 9 tacked again but the wind heading as we approached the islands, we bore away to pass to leeward.
At noon, the horizon hazy and uncertain the breezes light. Saw island e bearing W.8ºS. p bore N20º to 55ºE. distant 1 mile, pp being shut behind it Tried the sea water by the hydrostatic balance and found it to be more buoyant than in Princess R. Harbour

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[page 315]

[1802 Feb. Saturday - 6 th H.M.S. Investigator] exploring Peter Nuyts Archipelago

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land which forms the bay into which the wind almost obliged us to enter is low and sandy. We ran until the water was discoloured at the distance of 1/2 mile, and we had but 7 fms. There was no appearance of openings in it, altho' much sea weed & refuse was floating in the bay. Three different smokes were visible in different parts. From the uncommon direction of the wind this day I was disappointed in my intention of exploring the part the main which we had not well seen; on this account we steer to the northwd. at 6 to be ready for tomorrow.
    The baffling winds lost us much time in the morning so that we had not rounded the islands p at noon. These islands are 11/2 or 2 miles in length each; there seems to be no passage between them, and many low rocks & much broken water surround them
    The great uncertainty of the horizon creates many difficulties in the survey. It is not uncommon, for different observers to differ 10' in latitude at noon

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[page 316]

1802 Feb. [Sunday] 7th H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the land & islands of Peter Nuyts Archipelago]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes & fine weather, but very hazy. Hauled up round the islands p, into a large bay, but finding the water shoaling, up main sail and soon after were obliged to bear up to go round the island q but not before we saw that bay closed all round. Passed between o and q and hauled up into another large bay. Observed much sea weed & refuse on the water. The water shoaled here also, but some points promising some openings we stood on into 4 fms., then steered across towards the other side; but getting into 3, wore round and hauled up to [anchor] under q for the night. At 6h.15' tacked ship, and again at 6h.30'. Soon after came to an [anchor] distant 1/2 mile from the island, and nearly the same from a something more from another island or point of the main. We rode open from S60ºW. to N.80°W. but two islands lie off S °W; depth 6 fms. coarse lime stone sand. The shoal passage between the island and the main, open two points to the S.E. and is the same which we attempted on the evening of the 5th. A.M. Sent a boat very early to get birds and kill seals. Boats employed sounding and surveying. Employed on board in various necessary duties

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[page 317]

[1802 Feb. Sunday 7th. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the land & islands of Peter Nuyts Archipelago.

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The last bay examined this afternoon promised us more than anything we have yet seen. The numerous smokes in the neighbourhood, number of insects and birds about the ship, and the quantity of grass & weed floating about, all combined to make us hope. The land was seen entirely round this bay at the distance of about 6 miles, which is nearly the same distance within which we approached the heads of the two other bays.
In passing isle q we noticed a little sandy bay at its N.E. end, for which we hauled up on being disappointed in the great bay. No wind except from S.60º to N.80ºW. can have access to this bay to raise any sea. The open passage to the S.E. is about half a mile wide, in which, on the 5th, we found but 23/4 fms. and it appears to be shoal entirely across. We were regaled with the sight of seals on on the island, and flocks of the sooty petrels coming in at dusk.

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[page 318]

1802 Feb. [Sunday] 7th A.M. Anchorage No.5 under island q of [Nuyts Archipelago. Additional remarks]


   The boat which went to get seals and birds was on shore by the time that daylight appeared, but she was too late to get any number of the petrels, for they were mostly on the wing, going out to sea. The seals killed were of the hair kind and not numerous. A black snake was killed which did not appear to be venomous from the formation of its head. No quadruped was seen.
    About At 9 in the morning I landed on the beach to take the observations for the longitude, as before given. The sand of the beach is calcarious and all the surface stone of the island is so likewise, but the rocks of the shore are granite, in which I observed small veins of pure quartz as usual. Over the granite the calcarious crust is frequently in some part 50 or more feet thick
     From the highest part of the island I took a set of angles of all the islands and distinguishable lands in sight. Between the two bays into which we stood respectively early and later had steered in the afternoon preceding I was surprised to see water communicating: from which and the appearance of the land I began to suspect I found that r which had been taken for a point of the main was in reality an island, and this was afterwards confirmed. From the great combined heat from of the sun and that reflected from the sand and rocks of the island, and from the bird holes into which we were falling every two or three minutes, I found a walk

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[page 319]

[1802 Feb. Sunday 7th AM Anchorage No. 5 under island q of] Nuyts Archipelago. Additional remarks


of about 2 miles to be as much as I could perform These holes are made in the sand amongst a quantity of one kind of shrub a stunted sort of Botany-Bay greens which is the same as seen at island e. This is the coverings this island overthe calcarious stone as it did island e
On returning to the boat a flock of teal presented themselves of which I shot four, and after observing the meridional altitude, as before given, I returned on board with the intention of examining the remaining part of the main with the ship as far as the island d and the cape D; and then to work up back to Bay No. 4 of island e to where I thought it was requisite to get further observations for the latitude and longitude; from the for I now find great differences which I find from those taken there before, and which I attribute to the great increase of the horizontal owing to this dense haze and consequent increase of horizontal refraction that for several days has hung about prevailed the horizons but more especially about noon when the breeze has set in from the S.Eward). I judge myself to have escaped this source of error in the observation of this day at noon from having brought the horizon so near to me: the eye being elevated but 31/2 feet.
      On Mr. Brown landed on the opposite shore, upon r which had been taken for main land. He there found the holes of the petrels to be numerous, and also a small kind of Kanguroo of which 4 were killed of near the size of a hare. These differ something from any we have yet

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[page 320]

[Sunday] 7th in continuation - Additional remarks


yet seen; and they were miserably thin. No marks of fire were seen, from which and from this land being frequented by birds I am confirmed in its with the presence of the petrels, are a confirmation of r being insulated. This island, marked r and rr on the chart. It was not found to contain neither wood or water, and to be is fully as barren as its neighbour q. No granite or other stone than calcarious stone was seen there: the island indeed is not so high as q so that if the crust is of the same thickness in both, it would not appear in r.)
     The birds seen by me were the flock of teal, white- bellied shags, gulls of three Kinds, numbers of crows which were haunting around the seals which had been killed; a greenish parroquet and one or two smaller birds

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[page 321]

[Monday] - 8th from [anchor]age No. 5 back to Bay No.4

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. Breezes and fine weather. Made the signal with a gun for the boat and parties to return on board. At 2, up anchor and made sail along the coast. At 41/4, a small island at S.30ºE. 11/2 mile. Nearest part of the main N.N.E. about 3 miles. The cape D, and island d with low islets round it, in sight. At 5h.15' tacked, being close to islet near d.d. Variable winds, with spitting rain at such times as it flowed from the northward. Having seen the continuation of the main to where we had quitted it on the 2nd. P.M. Made sail for bay No.4 of island e, but the wind being light & baffling, we did not get to anchor until half past 12, in 13 fms the extremes of the island bearing.
Lightening all round.
Note, island r bore east, about half past 8.
A.M. Light airs and calms, with sultry weather. Brought the sails afresh to the yards. Sent a boat to fish with hook and line, which caught some rock fish. Set up the M.T.mast rigging.
Light airs and sultry weather. A large shark struck with harpoon, but got away

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[Monday] - 8th continued - additional remarks

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


In the morning, Lt. Flinders took altitudes from the artificial horizon, which gave the longitude as opposite; and clearly shews how much we were deceived in the horizon when here before
At noon, we both observed the latitude from the beach, and clearly saw the double horizon. The result was as opposite, whilst the observations taken on board gave 32°.36' and 37' as before.)
       The wind being light and foul, and having much work with my chart to correct a mass of errors, contracted between the times of being in this bay, from the haziness of the horizon; I deferred getting under weigh until the morning, proposing to collect a good quantity of the sooty petrels, and as much fish as could be caught by hook and line: there being rather too much surface upon the beach for hauling the sein.

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1802 Feb. [Tuesday] - 9th from Bay No. 4 to eastward -

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light S.E.tly breezes with sultry weather: clouds rising at times. Employed in the holds getting water to hand, and in jobs about the rigging. A boat employed fishing with some success, and at dusk, sent her with a party of men to collect the sooty petrels. They brought on board 865 birds.
     Light airs and calms. A.M. Having obtained latitude and longitude and a good number of birds, which together had induced me to visit Bay No. 4 a second time, at 5 we got under weigh, with a moderate westerly breeze, and made sail for that part of the coast which we quitted on the 6th. P.M. in order to continue our course along it.- Served out more than eight birds to each person in the ship.
    Passed between the N.E. point of e and the isle k, with soundings as per column
Light breezes, which dwindled into a calm; but at 9h1/2, the wind freshened up again into a good breeze Sourkrout & vinegar, sugar & lime juice continue to be served as usual.
Noon, fresh breezes & hazy. No land can be seen. Sooty petrels and many gannets about

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1802 Feb [Wednesday] - 10th. H.M.S. Investigator, expl[oring the furthest south coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & thick hazy weather. At 0h.45' saw the looming of white cliffs, and at 1h.40' other land more distinctly, which is the head G.
Dble. reefed the top sails.
At 4, other high land J N.30° to 58E. 5 or 6 miles
In staysails & spanker. Swell from W.S.W. - At 6, a high steep cape, K N.75E. 6 or 7 miles beyond which no land is visible. In T.Gt. sails and kept to the wind
At 8 mod. & dull hazy weather. Tacked to the northward
Lost a deep sea lead over board. Wore ship to the southward
Mod. breezes and dull cloudy weather At 5, bore away for the land, and soon after the steep cape K was seen bearing N.60°.E. At 7, bore away to look into a bay to the eastward of K, but found it full of breakers Passed several steep heads, between which are hollows in the coast. The cliffs stratified Beyond the furthest steep cape L2, was the appearance of an opening, which we wore round to look at; but not being certain of finding shelter, were obliged to haul off in order to weather the coast
Fresh breezes and cloudy dull weather. A swell from the S.W.ward -

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[1802 Feb Wednesday -10th. H.M.S. Investigator, exploring the furthest south coast of New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


 The land first seen this P.M. is most probably H , but island s & the breakers, were obscured. G is a head faced with calcarious cliffs, and is the same from which we hauled to the northward on the 6th at 6PM. The high land J was also then seen but indistinctly. Between these is a shallow bay, in which is a point with many rocks & breakers running from it. From J, which is moderately high and cliffy, the land lowers and runs well to the southward. K is higher than any of these heads and seems to form a high steep cape. The haze permits us only to conjecture what may be beyond it, at present.
Between Round K and L2, (which lie N.78°W. and S.78° E. of each other) are places which promised to afford shelter. The first we ascertained to be fallacious, but appearances were so strong in the latter that notwithstanding its being before the wind and a swell setting on the shore I bore away to examine it. Just before noon, the we ascertained that if there was an entrance it was narrow & still more contracted by breakers, we therefore hauled to the wind. Water was seen over the sandy neck behind the opening.

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1802 Feb. [Thursday] -11th H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the furthest south coast of New Holland.]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Strong breezes and cloudy weather. At 11/2 land appeared to the westward of south, like islands. Kept stretching along the line of the shore, till 3h.40', then tacked, the sandy land abreast being abt. 21/2 miles dist. At 5, tacked again towards the land. Islands seen as far as S.W.b.W. which make smoother water, when drawing near the shore
At 7 tacked off again, having weathered little. Many breakers seen between the islands to windward. At 12, tacked ship towards the land. Strong squalls with rain
At 4, tacked off shore: land being seen on the lee bow. At 5h.30' the steep head L2 bore N.19ºW, and islands from the main bearing S.65E. to S.W.b.S. Tacked ship in order to get under the inner island At 7h.30' came to an [anchor] upon a sandy bottom with small bower & furled sails. Some swell rolling in gently from the westward but the bay is well sheltered from all, except from WbS. to about N.W. winds Sent the master to sound between the island and main; he found the channel occupied by shoal water & breakers. Employed setting up all the standing rigging Strong breezes & squally weather.

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[1802 Feb. Thursday 11th. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the furthest south coast of New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Our situation this afternoon was far from being an agreeable one. The land trended so much to the south, that we could not weather it, neither could we weather K on the other tack. As we advanced to the southward we found some of the land to be insulated, but the passages between were afterwards seen to have many breakers amongst them. The furthest land seen was at S.W.b.W. like a large, but low, island. This, and 3 other islands, not small, seem to lie off from a point of the main which is the furthest extreme we can see. I wished to have beat up and [anchor]ed under the nearest island; but although the water smoothed as we came in shore, we were yet far from accomplishing it at dusk; on which it became necessary to stretch out to sea. In the morning, the wind blew strong, but having carried a good deal of sail during the night, we fetched up & got to an [anchor] as already mentioned. The bottom is calcarious sand and appears to hold very well, but the bay is exposed to westerly winds, and even now so much swell rolls upon the shore as to make it difficult landing
    There being no passage between the main and the island, the roadsted is by much the more insecure. I therefore purposed to stay no longer than to get latitude & longitude as soon as the wind would permit our departure with prudence.

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[Thursday] - 11th. Additional remarks - Anchorage No.6 in island [u of Nuyts Archipelago]

After breakfast I landed Landing upon the island u with some difficulty and took to take the observations for the latitude and longitude as before given before I found this island it to resemble q in its basis of granite, its covering of calcarious stone, the vegetable productions upon it, and in its being full of bird holes: its height also is similar. From the highest part of the island, I had a tolerable view of w and x w and the large island x were distinctly visible to the westward; the last appears to be the largest island yet seen, r perhaps being excepted.
    The passage between M opposite point of the main, M, and this island is too shoal for a ship from 3/4 to 11/4 mile in width, but the water was breaking mostly across: it is from 3/4 to 11/4 in width. From Beyond M, some distant land appeared bearing 129°.30' or S.50°.30Et. from which, and from the wind blowing strong from at SSW. it was evident that we should scarcely be able to keep our offing from the shore if we got under weigh which as I had purposed to do as so soon as the latitude was obtained; but which I now thought proper to therefore deferred it until the morning thereby giving by which also an opportunity was given to do some necessary internal duties on board the ship.
     Amongst In the excavations amongst the calcarious stone cliffs the surface of the rock was covered with a fine white powder, which was salt completly formed. This I imagine to be the remains of the salt water with which the stone was saturated when it emerged from the sea and the a have been brought out of the stone with the water that filters through from the surface and top, and the a-

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[Thursday - 11th Additional remarks - Anchorage No. 6 in island] u of Nuyts Archipelago


-queous particles being exhaled the salt remains. The fresh water will also bring the salt from the internal part of the porous stone, and being exhaled as soon as its has reached the surface the salt will remain in the state we found it. Salt formed in nearby. Salt, which appeared to have been formed in the same way I have seen in the mountains of New South Wales, near at the back Port Jackson.
    Several hair seals were killed upon this island, all of which
were hair seals. I shot two Crows, which, as upon the more western islands of this archipelago, are numerous here. The I shot two whose colour of them was a fine bright dark blue, like that of the raven. The bill was surrounded at its base which with small feathers from th reaching about 1/4th towards its extremity, which I do not recollect to have noticed in the English crow. No animal was quadruped, except a rat was seen upon this island.)
    After having obtained the meridional observation as before given, I returned on board to lay down my angles of the neighbouring lands
    (The naturalist observes nothing new concerning this island but that it is the first upon which no one novelty in natural history presented itself.

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1802 Feb. [Friday] - 12th Anchorage No. 6, island u, of Nuyts Archip]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes from the SSW. with strong squalls accompanied with rain. Employed on board in the holds, getting water &c. to hand. At 5, down T.Gt. yards and veered to whole cable. {Cut up a cask of pork No.13, contents 53 peices short of weight 11 lbs.
    At night the same kind of wind and weather, but about 6 A.M. it moderated a little, and the wind came from S.b.W. Began to heave up, in order to stretch towards the large island x, seen to the W.S.W. : the wind not permitting us to lie along the coast. At 7, under weigh, and having stowed the [anchor] whilst under the lee of the island stretched to the westward under Dble. reefed topsails and courses; but we were soon after obliged to take the third reef in the F.T. sail. At 91/2h., let the reef out again, sent up T.Gt. yards and soon after set the sails. A long swell from WSW. and a smaller top swell from SSW.
At 11, tacked ship. At noon, the island x for which we were beating up, bore S5°W. to 33°W dist. 8 or 9 miles Center of w, a smaller, high island S.16 E. on the south side of which are three rocks appearing like ships under sail. Fresh breezes and cloudy.

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[Saturday] -13th from u to x islands -

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy weather Tacked ship occasionally, working up under the lee of the island in smoother water. At 9h.30', [anchored] with the best bower in 7fms. fine sand, off a sandy beach of island x, the extremes of the island bearing S85ºE to S.67ºW, distance off the beach abt half a mile. Veered to half a cable, furled sails & sent down T.Gt. yards. Fresh breeze and cloudy weather.
A.M. Mod breezes from S.b.E. and cloudy weather. Saw a peice of shoal water near which we must have passed in the ship about 9 P.M. Sent a cutter away to sound, kill seals &c. and the other with the commander, employed in surveying and taking astronomical observations
    Carpenters putting new timbers into the main top, and otherwise securing it. Sailmakers repairing the main sail, where torn; and the people employed principally in improving the stowage of the booms - Mod. breezes & fine weather: wind at South.

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Anchorage No. 7, island x - Additional remarks [Saturday 13th. H.M.S. Investigator]


(I found this island x to consist of a basis of granite, and to be covered to a considerable thickness with calcarious stone; but between these was a depth stratum of gritstone or stone of sea sand, in some places 20 feet thick: the sand of the shore consists of this and of calcarious sand mixed together. The vegetation of this island is very different to from that of the last, or other islands of this archipelago which we have seen; it is covered with bushes, of considerable height in the lower parts of the island. Very little of that small kind of what is called Botany-Bay greens, under which the petrels burrow, or of the tufted grass in which the geese delight, are seen here. -
(After taking altitudes from the an artificial horizon for the longitude, I walked to the the highest point, at the N.E. end of the island. Many small kanguroos were started in the lower parts of the island and during the day I killed five of them, whose size is was nearly that of a cat. From the higher land I distinguished an further distant island with two peaks, whose height appeared bearing 217.30 or S.37.30W dist. about 4 leagues. It appeared to be 2 or 3 miles in length, and two peaks upon it seemed to be sufficiently to high to produce a constant stream run of water from them to the low land; and water was an article of which we were now in want. The island appeared to be between three miles in length, and the highest part bore 217º.30' or S.37º.30'W. dist. Perhaps 4 leags.) A smaller island and rock, y and y1, at the distance of 8 or 9 miles were visible to the S.W.b.W. but and many very dan-

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[Anchorage No. 7, island x - Additional remarks] Saturday - 13th H.M.S. Investigator

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


gerous breakers lay between nearer to us than the islands There were two different patches and two patches seperate of breakers nearer to us of abt. 2 miles in length besides those running seperated from those that broke to a considerable distance from the points of this island, and from the shoal near which we must have passed in the ship: upon this latter the master found only 6 feet water. upon this shoal (This island x forms bays on every side, but those on the east and west sides as well as that on the N.W. side have many breakers and much shoal water about them +
    The number of kanguroos killed during the day was 12, which might be about an eighth part of the number seen.
    The boats crews killed several seals as also did those of the masters boat; they were all hair seals, as also did those of the masters boat; they were all hair seals which were all of the hair kind, and killed found upon the beaches. A Families of these animals were usually found lying asleep every 2 or 300 yards, each consisting of a male, four or five females and almost as many young ones but. Some of those which were sucking last) were almost as large as the mother which was lying asleep upon her back before the young one that was sucking at her. them and at whose teats they were sucking. I approached several of them very closely unobserved without being observed unobserved and without disturbing them. This bay on the north side affords good shelter from all southerly winds. but I suspect none of the other bays afford good [anchor]age

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1802 Feb [Sunday] - 14th H.M.S. Investigator from [anchor]age No. 7, island x

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and fine weather. Several seals and small kanguroos brought on board. At sunset, down T.Gt. yards and veered to a whole cable. A.M. Mod. breezes & cloudy wind S.S.E. There being no prospect of getting water upon this island, and the wind being unfavourable for proceeding along the coast, at 5h.30', we weighed and made all sail, with the intention of weathering this island x and of beating up to z, an island of two or three miles in length and of considerable height, having two peaks or horns at its Northern end.
    Off the N.E. point of x the water shoaled from 9 to 5 fms. suddenly, and deepened again as quickly to 13. Light breezes with fine weather.
    At 7h.25' tacked ship to the S.W.ward but owing to the baffling winds we could scarcely have fetched the former [anchor]age. At 8h.30' tacked ship, and at 10h.1/4 back again to the S.W. ward but at noon, we had not gained anything. Mustered the people and saw them clean.
Noon, light breezes & fine: [anchor]age So. about 2 miles. Tacked to the eastward

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[Monday] - 15th. Nuyts Archipelago, eastward

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & fine weather. Passed to the southward of island u and head M, and at 4.30 tacked and dble. reefed the top sails: the shore, cliffy, dist 3 or 4 miles. At 6, tacked again not being able to weather the rocks lying off isle w. At 8, tacked offshore again. Fresh breezes & fine weather. At 10, passed to windward of w and the rocks, and stretched on until 12, when we wore ship, having missed stays
Mod. breezes and cloudy.
At 4, tacked off shore to be ready for the sea breeze. At day light, the same extreme of the main seen as set last night, and a peice of land apparently unconnected as far E.20°.S. isle w at 5h.40' bore N.68W. 6m. Out 2nd. reefs of the top sails At 10, several rocky islands in sight from West to N.77°W.
Tacked ship towards the main on the winds heading
Towards noon, land seen to the S.E.ward, thought to be islands - Mod. breezes with fine weather

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1802 Feb.16th. [Tuesday] - H.M.S. Investigator, explorin[g the South Coast of New Holland, beyond Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes & fine weather. High land appearing on the weather bow. Saw several smokes upon the land ahead and to leeward. At 4, land as far as S.30°.E seen from the deck. At 6, being not more than 3 miles from the shore, tacked ship to seaward a point of land bearing S.13°.E. abt. 5 miles N.
At 8, In stay sails & M. sails on the ship's coming up to lie along the coast. A heavy dew falling Took lunars as on the opposite page
At 12, brought to, on the larboard tack until daylight. At 4h.30' filled, steering towards the land which bore from N.11°.E. to S.12°.W. At 51/2h, set M. sail, stay sails &c and steered along the shore into a deep bay; the shores of which are low, but the land rises to hills on the east side. At 8h.25', hauled to the wind for the west side of the bay, on the water shoaling and at 8h.50', tacked in 31/4 fms.
Saw shoal water all round the bay. Some natives seen upon the beach on the west side of the bay
Lime juice and sugar served as usual as also sour krout and vinegar on the proper days.
Noon, tacked to the N.W.ward, working out of the bay. Light breezes & fine weather

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[1802 Feb. Tuesday - 16th. H.M.S. Investigator, explorin]g the South Coast of New Holland, beyond Nuyts Land

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The weather being tolerably clear, we could see the land to the northward, so as to pass the point which had before been seen from island u. No openings or anything worth notice appeared; the shore seems to run wavingly, and to consist mostly of low cliffs. Those off which we tacked, seem to consist of sand stone with a calcarious covering of no great thickness. A small rocky island lies 4 or 5 miles off the coast to the northward.
    The wind blowing almost along shore during the night we kept our situation, and had a large bay open before us in the morning. Three natives were seen round a fire under the trees, a little way up the hills but they did not appear to attend to the ship. The country on the east side of the bay, is hilly and well wooded, on the west side it is lower & consists of rocks and sand.

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1802 Feb. [Wednesday] - 17th. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the furthest parts beyond Nuyts Land.]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes with fine, pleasant weather and the water very smooth. At 3, tacked ship, working out of the bay. At 5.30, takes aback; trimmed accordingly steering for Point O, on west side of the bay. At 6.30 Passed the point with soundings as per column. Saw a small bay in the point, promising good shelter from West and all southerly winds. At dusk, the most dist. part of the main bore S.10°W. Two islands in the offing S.56°W. - Hauled up, keeping nearly the line of the coast until 12, when we brought to. Light breezes and cloudy with haze. A heavy dew falling
At 2, finding the ship to draw nigh to the islands, filled, and at 3, tacked towards the main. At 5h.40' tacked off being dist. from a point P, with many breakers off, about 2 miles. Furthest main land seen at S.59°.E between which and P is a large bay. Found the land from P to trend to the eastward making a neck of land, between the two bays
At 10, tacked off shore towards the islands. Got two 12-pound carronades from the quarter deck into the after hold. At noon, several small islands near us: tacked ship to the eastward.

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[1802 Feb. Wednesday - 17th. H.M.S. Investigator]exploring the furthest parts beyond Nuyts Land

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Thise large bay which has been the subject of our examination this day afternoon and the preceding morning, appears to be very shoal towards its head; from which circumstance and the sandyiness of the hills behind thise shore the prospect of an opening soon vanished. From the variety of smokes, and the natives seen on both sides of the bay, it should seem that this part is more thickly inhabited than that whatich we have hitherto passed. The point O has a basis of granite covered with a crust of calcarious stones. A The small bay small at its extremity would be found to afford good shelter from strong southerly winds, and as far as west
    The islands in the offing are small; two small clusters appear to be mostly granite, and these are higher than the others which seem to be calcarious. Other islands appear, lying near to point O of the main
    Having at different times, found a disagreement between bearings and azimuths taken on different tacks, which I thought might arise from the two guns upon the quarter deck, whose situation was opposite to the binnacle, I had them removed this morning down into the hold. My opinion has some times fluctuated between thise being the cause guns or the neighbouring land having being the cause and for the disagreement was greater amongst D'Entrecasteauxs Archipelago, and now, within these two days, than at other times, or I have thought so.

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1802 Feb. [Thursday] - 18th. H.M.S. Investigator ex-[ploring the coast of New Holland, beyond Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes with hazy weather. At 2, tacked ship, an island ( of bearing S.55°E. 1 mile, and the main distant about 2 miles. Weathered the island ( which was to windward at noon, and at 4 tacked back towards the main and weathered the two islands ( and (. The furthest extreme of the main then bore S.40.E. as seen indistinctly through the haze. Nearest shore dist 1 mile. Tacked ship to seaward & double reefed the top sails.
At 12, wore ship, having missed stays. A considerable, short swell running. At 2 saw an island bearing N.W.1/2N.
At daylight, we found ourselves nearly in the same situation as at 6 P.M. Tacked ship to the southward, let out 2nd reefs & set staysails. Light breezes & hazy. Nothing more seen of the land than was seen last night.
Washed and cleaned below. -
Mustered ships company & saw them clean as usual on this day and on Sunday.
At 11h.45' tacked ship towards the land, which was only seen partially through the haze, and bearing about east. The islands obscured by the haze

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[1802 Feb. Thursday - 18th. H.M.S. Investigator, ex-] ploring the coast of New Holland, beyond Nuyts Land

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land round this southern bay is very sandy, as it is on the other side of the neck. The main, where rocky, and the three islands (, (, (, appear to be calcarious. Beyond the point Q, the coast sweeps rounds in a sandy bay, and becomes higher than the sea coast has usually been. In this are large yellow fields, uninterrupted by vegetation; but whether it is rocks or sand I cannot tell.



Note, on observing the latitude at noon to the north and to the south. -
    On considering this mode of getting the latitude, I see many advantages over a single observation; more especially if the weather is hazy, and the horizontal refraction consequently great. Allowing the horizon to be equally refracted to the north and to the south, and the observations to be taken with equal accuracy, the following consequences arise. The errors in the table of dip, which in some cases are considerable, become ineffective, as also do those of the instrument, and indeed of the observer, if he is equal in his errors; since on one side too much latitude will be obtained and too little on the other. To get the true latitude, no other corrections than the Parx & Ref. are necessary to the alts.

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1802 Feb. [Thursday] - 19th. H.M.S. Investigator ex-[ploring the south coast beyond Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and hazy weather -
Many albatrosses seen today: an unusual thing. At 3 tacked ship, the land being about 4m. dist.: white cliffs
At 4.40 tacked again towards the land, and at 7h offshore. Land, apparently an island, S.48°E. and the furthest continuation of the main, distinguishable through the haze S.71.°E. Breakers E10S. 2 miles
Fine weather with haze & a heavy dew falling. At 1, tacked ship, but finding the wind to head us, tacked again to the southward at 3h.
Light airs & fine weather. A swell from the southward. No land in sight.
Nearly calm.
At 10, a breeze sprung up. Tacked ship to the eastward. Set studg. sails, steering to make the land. Cleaned below & aired with stoves. - Employed clearing out the bread-room, in which was found a leak, which had damaged part of the bread. Light breezes & fine weather, with much haze. The land seen indistinctly from the mast head, to the eastward NEbyE

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[1802 Feb. Thursday - 19th. H.M.S. Investigator, exploring the south coast beyond Nuyts Land

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The coast seen this P.M. is 8 or 10 miles to the southward of the yellow land mentioned yesterday. It is moderately high close to the water, which it bounds, generally, by cliffs. From the strata in the cliffs, I judge them to be calcarious. The furthest extreme slopes off, apparently, to a low point; and the supposed island lying off it, is low and sloping also, but the haziness of the weather prevents us from seeing to any distance

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1802 Feb [Saturday] 20th. H.M.S. Investigator, explor[ing the south coast beyond Nuyts Land]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes & fine weather, with a long swell from S.W. In studg. sails, 1st reefed the top sails, & hauled to the wind. At 2h.40' tacked, there being little wind and breakers not far distant.
At 4, mod. breezes, tacked to the eastward and weathered the breakers and island (, to which they belong. At 5, kept away to look behind a steep head R, where is a large bight. At 6h.30' R N.15°E., the land east of it being at a considerable distance. S point, the furthest part of the main visible E8°.N. - At 11, wore round and hauled off the shore, but seeing that we could not weather the island (, at 1h.35' tacked to the eastward. At 4, breakers being seen on the lee bow, tacked to the westward till 5, and then returned on the starboard tack and weathered the breakers. At 6h.30' bore away into the bay between R and S, but seeing that it did not lead into any inlet at 7h.20' hauled to the wind on the larbd. tack, until we judged that the ship could weather the point S, when we tacked at 9; but the wind failing, were obliged to wear and stretch further off at 11. At noon, light breezes & fine weather with some haze. S, a hill upon a projecting point of the main N.73°.E.

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[1802 Feb Saturday 20th. H.M.S. Investigator, explor]ing the south coast beyond Nuyts Land

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The island ( lies 2 or 3 miles from the steep head R and there are many breakers about its western sides. Off R lie 2 high rocks and a further lower one. This head when seen to the S.E. or N.W. is out-projected by a low western point which seems to be the extreme. The bay round R, which we bore away to examine at 6h.30' A.M. appears to afford good shelter from all westerly winds, and probably as far as S.S.E. The back land, though not high, yet appears to be sufficiently so to promise water, by digging in the lower parts; and our want of this article would have induced me to stand into it at a venture, but that we should not be able to get out again with the usual winds scarcely in a whole day, and the rapid progress of the sun to the northward is a constant monitor to proceed eastward with as few delays as possible
   The land which surrounds the bight between R and S is tolerably high at the water side, and is not so sandy as the coast we usually see. Tolerably sized trees make their appearance upon a back ridge on the eastern part of the bay

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1802 Feb. [Sunday] 21. H.M.S. Investigator, explor[ing the south coast beyond Peter Nuyts Archipelago]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and fine weather. At 1, tacked ship to weather the point S. At 3, it bore N.481/2°E about 3 or 4 miles. At 3h.45' bore away to pass between isle ( and point S. Passage near 2m. wide. Saw four other islands open, and the main trending round S to N.15°.W. Land on the opposite side trending S.33°E, but as no land is seen to connect them, we cannot tell whether main or an island. Passed several ripplings with soundings as per column, steering for the north point of the uncertain land, and at 6 dropped the [anchor] in 31/2 fms.; but on the master being sent to sound round, he found it very shoal close to the ship. Weighed the [anchor] again, and stood off into 7 fms. when we let it go, the bottom being grey sand. Found a tide of 1 knot per hour running from the N.E.ward.
Furthest part of the main N.b.W.1/2W. from whence, round by the west and south, we have land as far as EbN. the extreme of the uncertain land, from which our distance is about 11/4 mile. Furled sails and sent down T.Gt. yards - Fresh breezes & fine weather. A.M. Squally at times. Boats employed occasionally
Mod. breezes and cloudy weather.

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[1802 Feb. Sunday 21. H.M.S. Investigator, explor]ing the south coast beyond Peter Nuyts Archipelago


In passing through between the island ( and point S, I observed them to consist almost altogether of granite. There is a bay on each side of the passage capable of affording shelter to small vessels. The uncommon direction of the coast round the point S and no land being visible to the N.E.ward excites an interesting conjectures amongst the us. The land trending to the southward has the appearance of being mainland. - The place in which we [anchor]d. is sheltered to the S.W.ward by isle ( and two others; to the southward by the uncertain land, and to the N.W.ward by the main. The bottom being very uneven, the tide running strong, and a good deal of shoal water about, makes it a bad [anchor]age; but in a place like this, and darkness approaching, there is not much time left to chuse.
   In the morning, the scientific gentlemen landed to explore the subjects of natural history of the island; and soon after I landed to take angles of the neighbouring islands from the top of the cliffs on the east west side of the island, which as yet I call uncertain. From hence, the main was seen to extend no farther then 6º to the westward of north, at a considerable distance: but three small islands appeared, the furthest of which bore 31º. Three small islands were visible to the southward, also, at a considerable distance.)
   The uncertain island puts on a different appearance to any islands we have yet seen. It is well covered with small wood, and if we may judge from appearances, thickly inhabited

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1802 Feb. [Sunday] - 21st. Additional remarks, continued

by kanguroos, of a something larger kind than those which we have seen upon the former islands. An opossum was killed and three of the kanguroos. In walking up to the hill, a snake of a yellow colour, speckled, lay in the way asleep. By putting pressing the butt end of a musket upon his head neck he was secured kept down, and we sewed up his mouth with a kneedle and thread, and brought it on board alive to the naturalist; but we found that the naturalist (he) had killed two others of the same species, one of which was 7f.9i in length. Some large hawks or rather eagles were seen, and in two instances they made approaches advances to attack us, taking us I suppose for to be kanguroos.
    Some marks of old former fires were seen, but none that could have happened within 5 years. From this circumstance and the shores being frequented by seals, I had little doubt of its this uncertain land being an island. The rock consists almost altogether of calcarious stone, but at the height of 200 or more feet above the sea I found many pieces of granite which were rounded, from all appearances, by attrition in the water.
    Gulls, black sea-pies which are black as usual, and the black and white shag, frequent the shores
    (On returning to the shore at noon, I observed the meridional altitude of [Sun] LLb. with 483 - 65°.38'.18".S.
                  Latitude 34.55.55S.
I judge the rise of tide to be 6 or 8 feet

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[Monday] - 22. H.M.S. Investigator - at [anchor]age No. 8

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


(Mod. breezes from the southward with fine weather. I had intended to get under weigh immediately after noon, but there being considerable differences in the longitudes given by the time keepers, that were observed on board, we remained to get others on shore with the artificial horizon, as given in the column. The place of observation was about 11/2' to the eastward of the ship. Sent the master in a cutter over to the main to search for fresh water. At 7, the boat was seen returning but suddenly missed; upon which I sent Lt. Fowler in the other cutter to look after them. At 91/2h, fired a gun as a signal for the last cutter to return, which she did about an hour afterwards not having gained any intelligence; but was nearly swamped from getting into a rippling of tide where the water broke sometimes suddenly.
     The tide continued to run an hour and half to windward (S.S.E.) after the boat was seen. Our apprehensions lead us to suppose, that that the boat has been swamped, and that she has capsized over them and drifted with the tide to seaward. Only two of the men in the boat were at all expert in swimming.

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1802 Feb. [Monday] 22nd. Continued from [anchor]age No.8

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


A.M. Mod. breezes and dull cloudy weather. At 5h.30' weighed and steered toward that part of the main, to which the lost boat had been sent. On seeing some suspicious looking water, sent the cutter to sound upon it, but she found 12 fms. Hauled round all the smooth looking water and seeing a little beach in a bay upon the main hauled up for it, and finding it sheltered from all winds but from the N.E., [anchored] in 101/2 fms. water, the points of the main bearing E.S.E. and N.6ºW. when we had veered to half a cable. The islands from being shut on with the southern point, run round to E.NE. and No. 3 from wherein these island at invervals to the main) and several islands sheltering us from easterly winds Sent the cutter away in search of the boat and people, and two parties went to walk along the shore of the main. The cutter soon returned, towing the oth wreck of the other boat, which appeared to have been dashed upon the rocks, nothing remaining whole except the bottom of the boat, which was upwards. One oar was afterwards picked up, but by nobody was anything of the master or boats crew seen. Sent the cutter away upon further search. Mod. breezes & cloudy)

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Additional remarks. to No.9 or Memory Cove

The partys that went to search along the shore, were that of the naturalist to the northward, and mine to the southward. An oar and a peice of the wreck were seen by the former, and an oar, which was picked up, was seen by the midshipman whom I stationed upon the south head of this little bay cove with a glass, to examine every thing which the tides might drift past him. My walk was directed to the south extreme of the main land and over to a bay on the west side of the east part of the cape S. which I now call Cape Catastrophe; but we were not fortunate enough able to gain any intelligence of our unfortunate ship-mates.
    Of the land I noticed, that the basis is granite covered by a loose calcarious crust. My search for fresh water was ineffectual, although many natives huts were standing at the back of the little beach in the cove. A continual Tall brush wood covers all the northern and eastern sides of the hills, but it is not difficult of penetration. Four small kanguroos were seen
    The naturalist made some additions to his botanical collection of specimens in botany.

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1802 Feb. [Tuesday] - 223rd. H.M.S.Investigator - Memory Cove

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. At 4, nearly calm. Shortened in the cable. At 5, the cutter returned with some trifling remnants of the boat, found between the isle No. 4 and the main, but nothing was seen of the people. Cloudy weather. A.M. Light breezes & cloudy. Sighted the [anchor] and found it clear. Took the cutter and went along the coast to the northward in search of our unfortunate people, or parts of the boat wreck; as also to take angles for the survey. Variable airs with dull cloudy weather until near noon when it cleared up.)
    In this boat excursion, I followed all the little sinuosities of the shore, to the distance of for 12 miles, but with little success as to the main object of the expedition. From three different stations I took angles bearings of the neighbouring lands. The furthest extreme of the main bore, from the last station N.10º.35'Et. at about the distance of distant about 5 or 6 leagues, but between that and a point bearing N.3º.20' Wt. about 3 miles is a space where an bay was seen to run inlet goes in to the westward as seen by our gentlemen from the top of the highest hill near the ship. Some small places of shelter are situated along the coast to the northward of Memory Cove; and behind the island No.4, there appears to be good [anchor]age.

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[Wednesday] - 24th in Memory - South coast of New Holland

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. Broached a cask of pork No.32, contents 53 pieces. Returned on board with the cutter, having found a small Keg belonging to the master, and two small remnants of the boat, but nothing of the people. At 8, flurries of wind off the land. Veered to a whole cable and struck T.Gt. masts. A.M. Blowing fresh, until 3, when it moderated and the weather became fine. Sent Lt. Fowler in the cutter to examine the outer island to the southward for the remains of our unfortunate people, but he was not able to bring the least intelligence. Swayed up T.Gt. masts, sent up the yards and hove in to half a cable. Noon, moderate breezes & fine weather


[Thursday] - 25th. Additional notes. This afternoon I ascended the highest land near the ship and saw the water which runs inland to the westward, some distance and is probably a bay and appears to be a bay.
(To the south-eastward of Uncertain Island, several small islands appear, about 3 leagues further distant.
   The same barrenness of soil prevails upon the whole of the hills that I have seen; a dry loose covering of calcarious stone being usually composing the surface; and in the vallies, sand is equally predominant. I found, however, some blocks of granite on the highest parts, today.
   Of the tides near this great cape of New Holland, I calculate that the flood comes from the southward and runs to nearly the

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1802 Feb. [Thursday] - 25th. extra remarks - in Memory Cove [on the south coast of New Holland]


time that the moon passes over the meridian. There are two regular tides in the day, and the flood appears to rise about 6 or 7 feet. I think it probable that the direction of the tide from the southward, is mostly influenced from the position of the islands that lie off the cape, and that probably it may run a little differently on the eastward side of the islands.
    As we had now made every search for our unfortunate shipmates, that we could think had any prospect of being attended with success, I thought it could avail nothing to remain longer on their account, for there was only a small chance of obtaining their bodies on their rising to the surface, from the number of sharks which have been seen. Even the small chance would have induced me, had not the want of water been so pressing to hurry us forward. I caused a stout post to be set up in the cove, and upon and to it was nailed a peice of sheet copper upon which was engraved the following inscription,
                     Memory Cove
  H.M.S.Investigator, M.Flinders Comr.
  Anchored here Feb. 22. 1802
  Mr. John Thistle, the master,) Mr. William Taylor Midn. and]
  six of the crew were most unfortunately drowned near this
  place from being upset) in a boat. The wreck of the boat was
  found

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[1802 Feb. Thursday - 25th. extra remarks - in Memory Cove]
on the south coast of New Holland


                       Memory Cove
       
       H.M.S.Investigator, M. Flinders Comr.
            Anchored here Feb.22. 1802
             


             Mr. John Thistle, the master.
             Mr. William Taylor, Midn. and
     six of the crew were most unfortunately
    drowned near this place from being upset
    in a boat. The wreck of the boat was found,
      but their bodies were not recovered.
           



                       
                      Nautici, cavete!

I must take occasion to observe in this place, that Mr. Thistle was truly a valuable man, both as a seaman, an officer, and a good member of society. I have known him, and we have been mostly together, since 1794. He constantly was one in the several excursions that were made for the further discovery of the coasts near Port Jackson, and for his superior merit and prudent conduct was advanced to be a master in the service, from being before the mast. In a voyage like the present, his loss cannot be otherwise than felt most severely, and he is equally lamented by his shipmates and friends, in which latter class, may be reckoned every individual on board

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1802 Feb. [Thursday] - 25th. H.M.S.Investigator from Memory Cove

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes from South & fine weather. Sent the cutter towards evening to haul the sein, which she did with small success upon the little beach of the cove, as to give every body two meals and some to cure. At sunset, down T.Gt.yards.
    A.M. Mod. And cloudy, wind from the S.E. -
    Ships draught of water: {13.9 F.
                                          {13.4 A.
   Having waited to finish the inscription, sent it to be set up on shore, and in the mean time, weighed whilst the weather tide was running, and stood out of the cove; when we brought to and filled occasionally, waiting for the boat. At 11h.30', hoisted up the cutter and made sail to the northward between the isles No. 3 and 4. - The best bower cable being much chafed at 13 fms. from the clinch, ordered it to be cut off, and delivered to the boatswain for junk.
At noon, Isle No.4 bore W.N.W. 11/4 mile
Mod. & fine weather.

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[Friday] - 26th. to [anchor] No.10, bay

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with fine weather. At 1, hauled round gradually towards the great bay seen from the hills at the back of Memory Cove. At 3, passed the southern point of the bay, which is a peninsula; the opposite nearest land appearing to be an island. At 3h.45', after passing two small islands came to an anchor in 41/2 fms. upon a soft bottom of grey sand, being landlocked from N.9°E. round by the west and south to N.38°E. and between these two bearings lies one of the islands occupying about half of the space. Sent the cutter on shore to search for water at the foot of a hill, and to sound round the ship. She returned having dug a hole, but salt water flowed into it. Many natives huts seen on shore. Light airs. A.M. Mod. and cloudy. Sent the gig to examine a large island in the middle of the bay for water. Ascended the hill to take bearings and to examine the bay; from whence a lake was distinguishable about 2 miles beyond the head of the bay. At 101/2 h. weighed and steered upwards, the flood tide beginning then to make. Passed near to an island on the starboard hand, which shore we kept nearest on board to the island. - Some smokes seen towards the head of the bay Noon, light breezes & fine weather.

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1802 Feb. [Friday] - 26, continued - Additional remarks

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


From the top of the hill marked T in the chart the islands near Memory Cove were distinguishable, as well as the whole of this bay No. 10. There appears to be two passages, made by a large island which is shaped some thing like a star being all points fish and divides the entrance into two parts. Besides the three four islands in this bay and two others something to the N.E. several others appears at a more considerable distance; and the furthest part of the main U a low sandy point U bore 27°.33'.
    The country almost entirely resembles that at the back of Memory Cove, but might may contain a little more soil.
    The hill, marked T in the chart, upon which we were, is not high, but gives an excellent view of the bay and neighbouring the islands in it. When seen to the north or south its shape is nearly that of a cone, but when seen at a right angle to that line, it is oblong. The stone upon its top is granite, but lower down it is a loose covering of calcarious stone. The basis is granite as before
          



Gave an order to Mr. Thos. Evans - Masters Mate, to act in the capacity of master in the room of Mr. Thistle, until further order.

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[Saturday] - 27th. Investigator in Bay No. 10

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Light variable breezes with fine weather
  Steered different courses to find the deepest water, and at 11/4h came to with the best bower in 33/4 fms soft bottom about 3/4' from the shore and 11/2 from the head of the bay. Took the cutter and went to examine the lake, which was found to brackish but we were fortunate enough to find fresh water by digging down about 3 feet, at 100 yards from the beach. Below the first foot of soil was a white clay in which the water lodged
   A.M. Mod. breezes and fine weather. Moored ship a cable each way. Sent the time keepers &c. & two tents on shore in the cutter with and spades to dig a large hole ready for watering. Hoisted out the la launch, and got a raft of empty casks sent on shore. On finding some water draining in upon the beach, dug a hole at high water mark into which the fresh water came in, but on digging deeper it became brackish, and we found it necessary to fill at the pitts 100 yards behind the shore.-This day continued to 36 hours. - P.M. sent another large raft of empty casks on shore, and the gunner with a party to fill them. Employed on board in the main hold Light breezes & fine weather.

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1802 Feb. [Saturday] - 27th. continued. Additional remarks

The distance from the head of the lake to the bay, to the lake, is about 2 miles, and from a hill on the No. side of the bay I saw judged that its distance from the open bay sea on the east side cape R to be nearly the same; how whence it is that the water is not fresh I cannot tell, and the salt is given out from the calcarious stone which is about the lake and appears to form the bottom it. Its shores consist of whitish hardened clay, covered with a thin crust in which salt is a component part. The length of the lake to the S.S.W. is 2 or 3 miles, and half that distance east and west, but all some parts are narrower. The land around it is by no means high; on the contrary, the neck from between this the head of the bay and the lake is low land, but in general stony. That we find water so abundantly in this dry season, in the low land, where there is are no land hills of considerable eminence in the neighbourhood is considerably materially different from what our experience in New Holland would lead us to expect. I think it may be attributed to the clayey consistence of the substratum, which is found which is on a whitish clay, and in the lowest parts, at a foot deep is found comes within a foot of the surface also foot deep. The water does not seem to get below this, but either runs into the sea in its parellel or it lodges in lakes.

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[Sunday] - 28th Civil Account in Bay No. 10 - New Holland

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Thick hazy weather until the sun rose, and cleared it away. Light breezes with fine weather. Took cutter to examine the bay, with a view to its survey. Received on board from the watering place 17 puncheons of water. Employed on board stowing it away in the main hold, and in stowing provisions in the after hold. Noon, light breezes & fine weather. Received another raft of water casks from the shore, and stowed it away. In the evening, hoisted up the boats as usual, the launch excepted.-
     Additional remarks. In the water boat expedition of this day, I steered from the ship towards the high hill on the north side of the bay, the water shoaling gradually, until we passed over the tail end of a spit, when it deepened again to 13ft.) Along the shore is a good native-path, seemingly the same which leads round the head of the bay. (The hill afforded a good view of the bay and islands, and of the lake; A smaller lake also also was conspicuous on the south side of the bay below the ship; with which had the same white salt-like appearance surrounding it, which bespoke it not to be a fresh water lake; Some hills, which seemed to be those near mount N were visible to the N.W. ward, and a hill one which might be the mount itself, were visible from the hill, as also some bore 306'.0; yellow land like that of the sea coast mentioned on 18th and 19th was seen also bearing 278°.15'.

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1802 Feb. [Sunday] - 28th continued - Additional remarks

From the shore under the hill, we steered to pass between this island No. 3 and the low point of the Middle Land, but did not find so much as 3 fms. and in the western part of the passage there are but very few feet of water: finding the passage to be shoal and the bottom sandy; but from hence steering towards the large island the water soon deepened to 7 fms. - I ascended the highest land upon part of the large island but the trees and brush were so thick upon it that I could see nothing as to obstruct the view in every direction I had left orders on board to fire three guns upon my making a signal which I intended to do at from this place for the purpose of getting a base line for my survey, and had provided myself with a half-second pendulum of 9,8 inches in length to measure the interval between the flash and report of the guns, for the purpose of getting a base line to my survey but was entirely disappointed. From the west side of large island, we sounded until we came near to the ships track in the bay. At a cables length from the shore, was 8 fms., afterwards in 9,8,7,6, and 5 fms. to near the track the ships track up the bay; so that deepest water seemed to be the channel at the back of the large island seems to be the deepest.
    It was about sunset when I landed to walk across over to the small lake on the south side of the bay. The distance across is near half a mile and I found the water was almost as salt as that of the bay. At 71/2h. we got in board

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[Monday] - 2 1st. civil account. H.M. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs and calms. Received on board 2 rafts of water, which we were employed getting on board and stowing away. Noon, light win and sultry weather: hazy. Received another raft of water. Employed on board in the holds. Some hands cutting fire wood on shore, at such times as the pitts require to fill themselves up. Vble weather.
Additional remarks. Mr. Brown and a party visited the large lake this today, and found that where we had supposed the end of it to be it to terminate, it branched off into two parts, each of which runs to near within a hundred yards only from of the sea, in the bight near cape R: They judge the lake to be 4 miles in length. Upon Near that the shore, the a boats sail and yard of a boat were seen floating, belonging no doubt to our late cutter, but no other remains of the wreck were seen.) Many bearings for the survey taken this day, as also observations for the variation of the theodolite, the latitude, and rates of the time-keepers: the observations will be mentioned hereafter.

[Tuesday] - 3rd. 2nd. Light breezes and calms with hazy weather.
Took the cutter up down the harbour to survey, and from upon the large island near the entrance of the bay, I counted 85 swings of a half-second pendulum, between the flash and report of three different guns which were fired from the ship; which makes the distance 7,93 miles
Employed as before watering the ship. Noon, mod. breezes

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1802 Mar. [Tues.] - 2nd. continued. H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

with thick hazy weather. Towards evening, the weather became clearer. Employed as before in the holds.
Additional remarks. I found the soundings about the bay to run tolerably regular in this days excursion, from 4 fms. near the shores to 9 fms. in the deepest. (The large I. appears to consist wholly of granite, scarcely any calcarious stone having been seen upon it in the two visits.) Upon the southernmost of the two small islands, where we also landed, the surface is entirely calcarious, but the basis is granite as before (Some old marks of fire were visible upon the large island, and that which we made as a signal for the ship to fire the guns was burning furiously and had spread considerably before dark, the dry wood, which is large and plentiful, being favourable to it.


[Wednesday] - 3rd. Light breezes and cloudy weather. Received the greater part of the remaining water casks on board and stowed them away, as also some wood. Towards the evening the cutter left the ship for the purpose of proceeding to Memory Cove and the neighbouring islands in search of the bodies of our unfortunate shipmates, upon a two-days excursion. The wind blowing strong in the afternoon, but became light in the evening

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Moored in Bay No. 10 - South coast of New Holland

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Thurs.] - 4th. Light airs with dull cloudy weather, and rain.
Received on board the remainder of our water casks from the tents. Washed and cleaned above and below. Cloudy weather, with spitting rain at times until a little before noon when the weather cleared up. Ships draught of water F 13f.10i. A13f. 8i. Observed the beginning of a solar eclipse, at apparent time here 1h.12'.39", and end at 3h.36'11,5" Brought on board, the tents, astronomical instruments &c. from the shore, hoisted in the launch and prepared every thing ready for going down to the entrance of the bay in the morning. Light breezes and cloudy weather.
Additional remarks. This morning some natives were heard calling as we supposed, calling to a boat which had just landed at the tents, and two of them were seen at about half a mile from us; but they soon went away, or perhaps were retired into the woods to watching our motions from the woods. No attempts were made to follow them, as I have always found of the natives of New Holland that they avoid those who seem anxious to communicate with them, but if left entirely alone, will usually come down after having noted our motions for four or five days. These are the first natives seen at this place, and no great proportion of huts have been found; but the path

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1802 Mar. [Thursday] - 4th. in Bay 10 - South coast

Additional remarks. - which leads round the head of the bay must have been long and frequently trodden to have been worn so much as it is by naked feet. -


Astronomical observations made at the tents, -
[Not reproduced - see original journal]

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Astronl. observations made at the tents - continued
[Not reproduced - see original journal]


From Lieut. Flinders observations of the rise of tide on shore at the head of this bay, it appears that like Princess Royal Harbour, there is only one high water in 24 hours which is about 11 hours after the [moon] passes over the meridian or 1 hour before she comes to the lower meridian. The tide rises from 2 to 3 feet.

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[Friday] Mar. 5th Bay No 10, in the before [unexplored south coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


At daylight, mod. breezes and cloudy. Unmoored ship, and at 7h.45' weighed and made sail down the bay. Attempting to pass between two small Is. and the main, shoaled to 23/4, tacked ship and wore round. After passing to leewd. of them hauled up within the outer south point of the bay, and at 10h.20' [anchored] in 71/2 fms. soft muddy bottom, with the best bower, and furled sails. Extreme of Point T, with the dist. land on at the back N.15ºE. dist abt. 1 mile.
At 5 P.M. Lt. Fowler returned in the cutter having revisited Memory Cove, the large uncertain island under which we first anchored, and the smaller islands in the neighbourhood, but without the least success as to finding any marks or remains of our unfortunate shipmates or of the wreck of the boat. -
    Bent a new M.T.Gt. sail, the old being too bad to be repaired.
    Served slops to the ships company

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[Bay No.10 in the before] unexplored south coast of New Holland - [Saturday] - 116th 1802
Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and cloudy. Early in the morning took the cutter to the south point of entrance into the bay and took a set of bearings. Found the water to shoal gradually and very regularly from the [anchor]age to the shore; there being 5 fms. within a cables length.
   The point T consists of granite, with a loose and slight covering of calcarious stone, and a little vegetable mould. The formation of the 1st bay within the point, promises fresh water at the back of the beach by digging, when the season is not so dry as at present. -
   Sent the cutter to sound between the two small isles and the point T, between where she found a small passage of 3 fms. nearest to the point.
   Hoisted in the cutter, and at 10h. weighed and made sail along the coast to the northward: the wind light and variable At noon, Light airs & fine weather with haze. The south point of entrance into Bay No.10 S.S.E. 3 miles. Extremes of large island lying in the entrance N.67 W. to S.10 W.

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[page 370]

1802 Mar. [Sunday] - 7th. Log account. Investigator [along the south east coast of New Holland, at [anchor]age No.11]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and fine weather with haze
Sold the clothes of the lost boats crew at the mast. - Find ourselves set considerably to the northward, between the point U and several islands of different sizes: On passing near one of the first islands the water shoaled to 5 fms: tacked ship and came to [anchor] with best bower in 101/2 fms. soft bottom & furled sails. Hoisted out the cutter and landed upon the nearest island, (about 1/2 mile distant) to take bearings, and look round amongst the archipelago of low islands. Calm and hazy weather. A.M. Shortened in the cable. Cleaned above and below and sent up T.Gt. yards at 8 oclock.
   Went on shore upon the little island which shelters us from the southward, to take a plan of the islands and the naturalist and his party also landed.
   Some seals of the hair kind killed by the boats crew
   At noon, light breezes & fine weather with haze
   Sold the clothes &c. of Mr. Thistle and Mr. Taylor the officers lost in the cutter; and prepared to get under weigh as soon as the latitude was obtained.

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[page 371]

[1802 Mar. Sunday 7th Log account. Investigator] along the southeast coast of New Holland, at [anchor]age No.11.

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The situation in which we [anchor]ed affords good shelter, being surrounded by the main land and by islands at different distances. The nearest island (1, is about 1/2 mile distant, bearing S.20ºW. to S.34ºE. - The basis of this island is granite as usual, and with a slight covering of calcarious stone. There is not a sufficient depth of soil or sand for the petrels to burrow in it, but the same kind of grey shrub almost covers it, under which their holes are mostly found.
   Many marks of geese were to be seen upon the island, and two of the birds were also seen, but not killed.
   Pidgeons, parroquets, shags, gulls and a large hawk or vulture were seen.
  Seals are the most numerous race of animals, but they are not abundant. -

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[page 372]

1802 Mar. 8th. [Monday] H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the great inlet No.12]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather. At 2h.5' weighed and steered along the coast to the northward, leaving the cluster of islands on the right.
Do. Wr. At 61/2, the extreme of the main N.N.E.1/2E. A mountain inland N.72 W: offshore 5 or 6 miles. Hauled to the wind under double reefed topsails and courses
Fresh breezes and cloudy. Tacked ship towards the land.
At 4, wore round & brought to with the ships head off shore, until the land was seen at 6, when we bore away to make it more distinctly. Dull cloudy weather. At 71/4h., the inland mountain bore N81/2º W.2.S: hauled up along shore, which was distant 7 or 8 miles. - Fresh breezes with dull cloudy weather
Cleaned below and aired with stoves. At 11, shoaled the water up to 1/4 less 7,upon which we hauled up to the wind, let out the 2nd. reefs & set T.Gt sails &c.
At noon, moderate and cloudy. The low sandy shore dist. 3 or 4 miles. A small opening bearing about north

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[page 373]

[1802 Mar. Monday 8th H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the great inlet No.12

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The cluster of islands which we now quitted and are mostly low and have but small vegetation upon them. and The tide ripples a good deal amongst them. After passing them, no land but the main could be seen. The coast is of moderate elevation, not sandy, but rather bare of vegetation and of smooth surface: I should judge it to be granite.
   The mountain whose bearing is set at night and in the morning, is not much elevated above the front land: its top is flat and its N.E. end rather steep. The shore becomes lower as we advanced to the northward, the range of hills retreating inland. A hill v bearing N.62ºW. at noon, is the N.E.ern corner of them, their direction from it being to the north. The low land continues its eastern direction, inclosing a lake or bay which was visible from the mast head; and to which I judge the small opening leads, which was seen soon after noon. At that time, no high land except what had was astern, could be seen; the coast being very low and mostly sandy; but covered with small trees, which are seen before the land itself appears ahead.

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[page 374]

1802 Mar. [Tuesday] 9th. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the great inlet No.12]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with dull cloudy weather Saw land extending 6 points on the starbd. beam & dist. abt. 5 leagues, like main land. On the other side, the main is dist. 8 or 9 miles Low sandy shore, extending to the northward meeting the other land. At 5, hauled towards the western shore to look for [anchor]age, but the water shoaling quick to 23/4 wore round and stood into 5 fms. and [anchor]d with the best bower. Mod. breezes, but squally at times with spitting rain. Veered to a whole cable and sent down T.Gt. yards. Hummocks like an island bearing N.b.E. near to which the land extends from each shore. So. extreme of the ends S.20ºW. Fresh breezes and squally weather
Sent up T.Gt. yards, and at 9 weighed and steered to wind ward of the hummocks of land which had appeared to be islands, but were soon seen to be connected to the western shore by low land. At 11 tacked ship, the water having shoaled from 12 to 7 fms. but wore again round again and stood on under easy sail. -Double reefed the topsails. Fresh breezes & fine. A low point W N.43ºE. round which it seems to open

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[page 375]

[1802 Mar. Tuesday 9th H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the great inlet No.12

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land which was unexpectedly seen to the eastward of us, is higher than usual and appears to be a part of the main The shallowness of the water corroborates the supposition that this coast is sheltered from any violent winds; and at this time we judge ourselves to have entered some large river or gulph.
   The front land to the westward is very low, and seems to be sandy. The hills retreat inland in some places; but near our [anchorage] some considerable ones come near the sea shore. Three hummocks are particularly distinguishable
   Our run up this enclosed piece of water (whatever it is) shewed us the connexion of the low western land with the hummocks, and almost as far as the high eastern land. This land seems to lie more to the eastward than that seen first, making the direction of this river or sound to be N.Et.ly.
   The low land is mostly sandy, and the higher land but partially covered wth. wood

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[page 376]

1802 Mar. [Wednesday] - 10th. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring No.12, the great inlet]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes & fine weather. At 1, saw a dry bank stretching along the eastern shore; bore away for what appears to be the entrance of a river. Seeing shoal water about, clued down the F. and Mz. top-sails preparatory to [anchor]ing. At 4, hauled up towds. the western shore but shoal water obliged us to wear round into mid-channel, where we [anchor]ed in 7 fms. with best bower, and veered to a whole cable. Furled sails sent down T.Gt. yds: the wind blowing a fresh gale, up the gulphh. The entrance bearing South to 30ºE. the head closed round by low land and shoals, at the distance of 3 or 4 miles. The sides distant 11/2 and or two miles.
At sunset, dropped the small bower under foot, and wove a new service into the hawse of the best bower.
A.M. Mod breezes & fine weather. Hove up the small bower, and mended the rounding of the best.
  Took the cutter to go up the river upon a surveying expedition, taking a sextant and time-keeper with me.
  Got up all the slops to be aired. Found some of them bad from damp and others eaten by mice. People employed making nippers and otherwise working up junk. Cut up a cask of pork No.14 contents 53 peices, answered

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[1802 Mar. Wednesday - 10th H.M.S. Investigator] exploring No.12, the great inlet


At 2, we entered a part of the gulph of or river which is much narrower than before being contracted by the approach of the western land. Its breadth here seems to be from 6 to 10 miles and it contracts fast upwards. The land on both sides is moderately high at a little distance from the shore, especially on the eastern side where the mountain form a sharp-topped ridge nearly parallel to the shore. The front land on each side is low and on the east side covered with wood. We see much smoke rising from it
   At 4, the head appeared to be closed up by very low land in which some small channels of water were distinguishable. I wished to [anchor] on the western shore, but the water became so shoal suddenly, that before the ship wore round, they had only two fms. in the chains. It deepened again as suddenly on hauling to the eastward, although the shoal water appeared to extend to a considerable distance from that shore also.
   (In the morning, Messrs. Brown, Bauer & Westal, with attendants, set off with the intention of ascending for X the highest peak X of the ridge of mountains on the east side of the river marked X . +See three pages on
   From the ship I steered over to the west shore, finding a deep channel beyond the middle shoal, but the softness of the bank prevented me from landing, I therefore kept in the

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[page 378]

1802 Mar [Thursday] -11th. H.M.S. Investigator, exploring [No12, the great inlet]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes with fine weather. People employed airing the slops and working up junk. A.M. Light airs and sultry weather. Cleaned below. Mustered the ships company and saw them cable clean. Shortened in the cable to a half. People employed working up junk. Light airs


Light airs and hazy. The party returned from the eastern mountains in the evening; and at 10 P.M. the commander returned from his excursion up the river, the head if which was found to be in latitude 32º.25'So. and longitude 130º.10' Et. being 20 miles above the ship No fresh water was found in the river.
A.M. Light airs and fine weather. Sighted the [anchor], and finding it clear let it go again in 7 fms. Sent the gig to sound upon the middle shoal. At night light breezes and fine weather.

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[1802 Mar [Thursday] -11th. H.M.S. Investigator, exploring] No.12, the great inlet


Additional remarks, contd. - channel upward, and landed near the flat topped hill on the western shore After taking altitudes for the longitude, (which see hereafter) and taking angles from the top of the hill, we proceeded upwards, the river being contracted to about 11/2 miles in width and much of it occupied by shoal water. Some time being lost in following birds, we found it necessary to stop on the western shore at night about 12 miles from the ship. The river being small in this part I did not intend to proceed further until some flights of swans, going downwards induced us to hope for a supply of fresh food. At 10, we had ascended as far a boat could go, the river being scarcely more than a drain from swamps, but was still as salt as below. I observed the longitude here (which see hereafter) and by means of the highest peak on the eastern ridge of mountains I ascertain the head of the river to be in latitude 32º.25'. - So. or 20 miles distant from the ship in a straight line. At noon, we stopped at a red bank on the western shore where I observed the latitude from the artificial horizon to be 32º.28'.8".S. and the high peak X on the eastern mountains, bore 97º.25' by theodolite; from which and its bearing from the ship X is in 32º.30".26" So.

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1802 Mar. Excursion up the river continued -


by the meridional altitude of the [moon] it would be 40" more to the southward. This altitude was taken near six o'clock, when we were 9 miles distant from the ship; and it was past 10 before we got on board.
This river seems to be) a drain which carries off the water which, in wet seasons, is thrown from the hills on each side. At this time, very little fresh water is mixed with that which flows in from the sea. The set tide is found to set past the ship at the rate of 11/2 knots per hour, notwithstanding its width in the lower part. The rise appears to be from 6 to 8 feet in common, and as we found it to be high water at 9h, in the morning of the 12th, it will be about 21/2 hours after the moon passes over the meridian. At least a hundred swans were seen in the river, but contrary to what I have usually found to be the case in similar circumstances, they could all fly and not one was killed. Many flocks of red bill, both black and pied, frequent the shoals, as also of ducks; of which some birds of each were shot.
 Their excursion of the party up the mountains proved to be a most laborious one; the mountain X, the object at which they aimed, being proving to be not less than 15 miles distant

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[page 381]

Astronomical Observations
Taken during the excursion in the cutter
[Not reproduced - see original journal]

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[page 382]

1802 Mar. [Friday] - 12th. Additional remarks continued

from where they landed distant, although it appeared to be abreast of the ship, they did not reach its top until 5 in the evening, and were obliged to pass the night without water, or fire: which was not found until the following day in their walk down, however, on the following day water was found, and a spot of tolerably good ground around it. The view from the summit did not furnish any lakes or bays to the westward, but a dead uninteresting flat country every where presented itself. Like the hill which I ascended on the west side of the river, there mountains consisted of a reddish stone, which Mr Brown supposed to be argillaceous.
    Many marks of natives were seen, and some recent; but they themselves, as usual, kept out of sight

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[page 383]

[Saturday] - 13. H.M.S. Investigator in

Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Variable breezes with fine weather. Sent the gig to fish with hook and line, and she had some success. Flurries of wind from the westward at times. Veered away to a whole cable.
   A.M. Mod. breezes & fine weather: at daylight, the wind light. At 6 weighed and made sail down the river. In attempting to pass over to the east side of the river where there appeared to be a deep channel, the water shoaled very suddenly, and at 7h.45' the ship hung upon a shoal covered with grass and soft. Hove all aback, but the ship still sticking, hoisted out the cutter and hove dropped a kedge, with which we hove her astern into deep water, and at 8h.30' made sail downwards. At 10h.30' Hauled over to the eastward for what appeared to be a middle shoal , but the depth remained the same. Steered along the eastern shore about 11/2' distant.
At noon, light breezes and fine weather. Saw an extensive dry shoal stretching out from a low point on the eastern shore; hauled to the westward to go around it.

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[page 384]

1802 Mar. [Sunday] 14. H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Mod. breezes and cloudy. Made several attempts to get near the eastern shore but we constantly found shoal water prevented us from succeeding. These shoals are dry in two patches at low water.
Tkd. ship, bore up, and hauled to the wind occasionally as by column of courses. At 5 o'clock the weather became squally and the wind would not permit us to steer the course necessary to passing clear of the shoal; therefore on finding the water beginning to shoal, we came to an [anchor] in 7 fms soft bottom, with the best bower and veered to a whole cable. No land visible from S.W. to S.S.E. Hill W bearing N.79.W. and Mt. X N.18ºE. Sent the gig to acting master to sound to the S.E. where he found 31/2 fms. near the ship in that direction, but 4 fms. everywhere else. At night, squally weather. A.M. Mod. & fine. At 6h.30' weighed and stood to the southward under single reefed topsails. Found the water to be very shoal at times but we kept on as long as possible in order to get near the eastern shore. Mustered the people & saw them clean. Cleaned below and aired with stoves. At 11h.40' tacked ship in 31/4 fms.
Mod. breezes and fine weather

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[page 385]

[1802 Mar. Sunday 14. H.M.S. Investigator]

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


   The shoal which we have been constantly attempting to pass in order to get to the eastern shore of the river, during the greater part of this day, I now judge, at noon to belong to the eastern shore. The hills inland are high there, but like the upper banks of the river they are skirted by very low land, which appears only on a near approach.
   Some spits of white sand extend westward from this shore, but it is not improbable that the water upon them is as deep as in the blacker water, this being found to be the case higher up.
   At noon, our distance from the shore was 6 or 7 miles, and its furthest southern extent from the mast head is S.2ºW. taken by a Hadley. The mountain X was obscured by the haze but it still appears to be very high

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[page 386]

1802 Mar. [Monday] - 15th H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. At 1, tacked the ship towards the eastern shore. At 3h. 40' the water having shoaled gradually to 3 fms. tacked off shore again, the land being dist. 5 ot 6 miles.
At 5, tacked again towards the eastern shore, and on the water shoaling to 4 fms. came to with best bower in upon a soft sandy bottom & veered to 1/2 cable; the wind being moderate and weather fine. No land visible from deck between west and south. - Sent down T.G.'yards and ranged both cables. At 12, fresh breezes with rain A.M. moderate breezes with dull cloudy weather. At 6h.30' weighed and made sail down the sound, upon a wind. Hauled the M.sail up occasionally on the water shoaling to be ready for wearing round. Fresh breezes and dull cloudy weather. At 10h, tacked the ship towards the eastern shore, the water being of considerable depth, but at 50' past it shoaled quick to 3 fms: tacked off immediately: distance from the shore 6 or 8 miles At noon, fresh breezes and cloudy Served wine to the ships company

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[page 387]

[1802 Mar. [Monday] -15th H.M.S. Investigator]

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


   From the days experience, I should judge that the great shoal on the eastern shore of this river, extends from the contracted part upwards, to the part abreast of us this day at noon, to 40' of latitude; and it is probable that it runs yet further south. In consequence of this, the eastern shore seems to be inaccessible and indeed the southern parts of the western shore seem to be nearly the same
   The hills on each side were the first land seen, altho' they are generally several miles within the low land that forms the shore. This low shore is covered with small wood, so as to have rather a fertile appearance, but on a near approach it looks more sandy.
   Lime juice had continued to be served to the ships company for a considerable time, until this day. When finding the cask of wine which was laid in for the sick at Madeira, beginning to be acid, we served it it to the ships company, and stopped the lime-juice & sugar for the time.

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[page 388]

1802 Mar. [Tuesday] - 16th H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and cloudy. On the water shoaling at 2, tacked to the eastward, being 7 or 8 miles distant from the low western shore
Fresh breezes and cloudy. Dble. reefed the top-sails. The wind heading as we approached the eastern shore, so as to blow off the land, at 5h.50' came to an [anchor] with the best bower in 1/4 less 5 fms. coral bottom mixed with mud and sand, and veered to half a cable. Sent down T.Gt. yards. Set up the T.Gt. rigging. Washed decks, and ranged both cables. The eastern shore dist. 4 or 5 miles and extending from N.b.E. to S.12ºW. The western land in sight to the W.S.W. Mod. breezes and hazy weather
A.M. Moderate and cloudy. At 6, weighed, and made sail on the larboard tack
Mod. breezes and cloudy. Cleaned below. Served sour krout as usual.
Light and fresh breezes and at times.
At noon, the eastern land extending as far as S.b.E. The western land in sight on the lee beam nearly.

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[page 389]

[1802 Mar. Tuesday - 16th. H.M.S. Investigator]

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

The shore off which we anchored this evening seems to be rather rocky and low, but not so low as the shores are higher up. A small range of back hills just peeps above the front land; but farther to the south, along which our course lies in the morning, nothing appears but the rising of the front land to a moderate elevation, and level it seems to be a level country, by no means naked of wood
   By noon, we had passed the narrowest part of the lower entrance into the river, where its breadth is about 20 miles.

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[page 390]

1802 Mar. [Wednesday] - 17th. H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather
At 2, tacked towards the eastern shore
At 3h.30', seeing breakers N.78.E 11/2', and shoaling the water, tacked off: the nearest land S.57.E. 7 or 8 miles. At 5, tacked in shore, for an hour, and at 6, drawing towards the breakers, stood off, and double reefed the top-sails
Fresh breezes and fine weather.
Tacked ship to the eastward
At 2, tacked off again, and at 4, tacked in shore. At 6, saw the land to the E.N.E.
Out 2nd. reefs and set stay-sails.
Moderate breezes and fine weather.
At 11, tacked offshore, it being then distant about 31/2, white sandy beach with clow cliffs at the back. Extremes S.29°.W. and N.10°.W.
Noon, moderate breezes and fine weather with some haze

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[page 391]

[1802 Mar. Wednesday - 17th H.M.S. Investigator]

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The distance from the land which the breakers lie, off which we tacked this evening makes them very dangerous; and the water seems to break too little upon them to give any warning in the night. - On the opposite shore we notice some white patches in the front land like cliffs, but I think it probable that they are places where the white sand shews itself in the bank thro' the vegetation. The land seen in the morning being but little distant from the former, in almost every respect bears a resemblance to it: upon the whole it seems to be more sandy

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[page 392]

1802 Mar. [Thursday] - 18th H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and fine weather. At 1, tacked towards the shore; and at 3 stood off again Some small islands seen near the south extreme. At 41/2, tacked towards the shore. On drawing near, saw broken water and shoals stretching along the sandy beach ahead; and the wind heading, tacked and steered along the shore towards the islands; which being low, and fearing shoals lying off them, at 7 brought to with the M.T. sail to the mast, it being then dark; and at 91/2h, supposing we had drifted far enough to leeward, made sail to the S.S.W.until 3, when we tacked inshore. At 5, saw the outer island E.N.E. and the water shoaling, tacked again to the southward
At 7, tacked to the eastward
Mod. breezes and hazy weather
Mustered the ship's company and saw them clean.
At 10h.30' Tkd. Wt. extreme of the land, supposed to be an island N.26.W. about 6 miles. Furthest land in sight about S.b.E. S.W1/2.S. thought to be an island also
Noon, fine weather with haze

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[page 393]

[1802 Mar. [Thursday] - 18th H.M.S. Investigator]

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The same land which was the southernmost land seen at night, was the northernmost in the morning. It assumes the appearance of islands in both cases, but I suspect that a low sandy neck connects it with the main. On the south side of this island, or point, the shore forms a large wide bay facing the south. The land is sandy round it, and even in the country the appearance is (partly) similar. The land near the shore is low, and although it keeps ascending for some miles inland, it does not by any means become high. The country has, upon the whole, a tolerable appearance for a sea coast, but I believe it to be mostly barren.

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[page 394]

1802 Mar. [Friday] - 19th H.M.S. Investigator [returning out of No.12 great Inlet]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with fine weather. At 1, tacked to the eastward. Saw the water to be discoloured in patches in 8 and 9 fms. At 4h.15', the land ahead dist. about 4 miles, tacked offshore.
At sunset, land seen from the mast head bearing S.W.b.S. thought to be an island, and joined to the extreme set at noon
Mod. & fine weather. Saw a fire upon the westernmost land. At 9h.40' came to [anchor] with the best bower upon a gravelly bottom; apparently about 3 miles off shore. The land from East to W.b.S. round by the south. - Heard the howling of dogs on shore.
A.M. Light winds & fine weather
Having taken altitudes for the TKs. as per column, at 7h.30' weighed and made sail to pass round the westernmost point. Saw the coast stretching from it soon after to S.22ºW.
At 10, the large Uncertain Island in sight, and a wedge-shaped island seen before, now bearing S.33ºW. dist. abt. 7 leagues. Noon. mod. & cloudy wr.
The mainland behind Memory Cove in sight. Highest part of Uncertain I. S.58ºW. dist. about 7 leagues.

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[page 395]

[1802 Mar. Friday - 19th. H.M.S. Investigator] returning out of No.12 great Inlet

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The situation where we [anchor]d this evening is well sheltered from the southerly winds, which are those only which blow with violence at this time of the year. The fire seen upon the land, and the howling of the dogs, confirm us in the opinion of its being the main land. The land rises as little gradually from the lower sea shore and seems to be well covered with wood of a moderate size. The rocks appear to calcarious where they shew themselves in cliffs.
   The coast has now brought us near to the large Uncertain Island, which consequently will lie in the entrance into this broad river, or perhaps with more propriety, the term gulph ought to be applied to it.
   The wind being very nearly in the direction which the coast assumes from the west point which shelters the [anchor]age, I stretched to the westward towards Uncertain Island, having an object to accomplish of some importance to the accuracy of my chart of this great inlet.

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[page 396]

1802 Mar. [Saturday] - 20th H.M.S. Investigator [off the entrance into No.12 inlet]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with fine weather. Continued stretching to the westward until 4h.40' when a ledge of rocks bore S72W. about 3 miles. Tacked ship to the eastward, having ascertained the rates of the TKs. found in Bay No. 10 to be right. The
Isles (, &c. a few miles to the north of us, and Wedge Island S.261/2ºE. The eastern side of the gulph out of sight, but the land and islands near Memory Cove distinctly seen. - On the wind heading at 9h.30' tacked ship, and again at 11, from the same cause: Wedge I. then bearing S.b.W. by supposition 4 or 5 miles.
At 2, tacked to the southward.
Moderate breezes and cloudy.
At 6, Point ( where we [anchor]d yesterday N.62ºE., and Wedge I. S.47º1/2W. near which are some other smaller islands.
At 9, set land as far S.1ºW. which is near the extreme in sight, at a considerable distance. Furthest part of the main which we can be certain is so, S.42E. - Employed working up junk, and trimming sails to the variable wind. Noon, a cape E.1ºN. which is the furthest part of the certain main & dist. 5 or 6 miles. Some small islands off it. Furthest land S.13ºW. Hazy weather

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[1802 Mar. Saturday - 20th H.M.S. Investigator] Off the entrance into No. 12, great inlet

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Having, as by column of observations, ascertained that the longitudes of places as now given by TKs are nearly the same as they gave from bay No.10, the position of all the places in the gulph are thereby verified. Bay No. 10 at present stands in the longitude 136º8'.47".3Et. as given by the time keepers from the rates in Bay No. 1. These rates were found to be erroneous and consequently the longitude they gave in Bay No. 10 would be more so, than that at Uncertain Island taken 6 days before. I ascertain by bearings that the true difference between these two places is, in longitude 20'40" which being subtracted from 136º.24'.27", the longitude of Uncertain Island, gives an error of 5' in the longitude of Bay No. 10, which it has been taken too great, and consequently every longitude since is equally erroneous. But for the true longitude of No. 10 re the summary of lunar observations at the end.
   The connexion between the southern land and the main not being yet seen, we are in doubt as to its being the former being insulated, (4, the cape bearing E.1º.N. at noon is steep, calcarious, and moderately high; and if the southern land joins to it, it is by a connecting part whose distance is considerable

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1802 Mar. [Sunday] - 21st. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the unknown south east coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Variable light airs and cloudy weather At 3h.35' tacked ship to the southward, but not being able to weather the outer island lying off cape (4, tacked off again.
At 7, a steady breeze set in with which we steered towards the southern land. At 8, the isle o, E1/2N. 4 or 5 miles.
Fresh breezes. At 10, tacked ship and brought to under double reefed top sails.
At 12, the island N.E.b.E. Wore ship, treble reefed the top-sails, and stood, under them towards the southern land. - Carried away the F.T. mt. spring stay. - A heavy sea from the S.W.
Fresh gales: the weather tolerably fine. Wore and stood to the northward till daylight when the southern land bore from South to E.b.S. through the haze. The isle ( N.b.W. about 5 miles. At 6h.10' wore ship to the southward Sent down T.Gt. yards, and close reefed the topsails. - The water getting smoother as we got under the weather shore.
At 9h.30' shortened sail with the intention of [anchor]ing in a bight between the cliffs, till the weather was more moderate, but finding it not well sheltered, steered along the coast. At noon, strong squalls at times
Extremes S83E. to S.62(W. off shore about 3 miles. Under two top sails and fore sail.

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[1802 Mar. Sunday - 21st. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the unknown south coast of New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The cape (4), and isle, appear to be calcarious, as also does the southern land.
   The gale that came on about 12 o'clock in the night blew the hardest that we have yet experienced upon the coast of New Holland. The unknown space between (4), and the southern land, we were afraid to steer for during the night; but kept off and on; until daylight, when the wind had not had not gotten so far to the south as to prevent us from fetching under the weather shore. No smokes or any certain marks of main land or of island, appearing upon the southern land, we can only conjecture as to its connexion. The width of the passage is 24 miles, according to the obsd. latitudes; the south land is high, calcarious, and cliffy; some small bights and beaches lying between the projecting heads. The line of the shore seems to be N.75°.E. which it preserves nearly as far as we saw at noon.
The badness of the weather induced me to try for anchorage in one of the bights but not finding it well sheltered, we steered on to the eastward.

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1802 Mar [Monday] - 22. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the unknown south coast of New Holland]


Fresh gales and cloudy weather. At 1h.50' hauled round a point from which the land lowered into a bay to the southward. Let out the 4th. reefs out of the topsails and set main sail, trying to fetch up. At 6, we came near the land on the east side of the bay, where we [anchor]ed in 9 fms. fine sand, with the best bower in very smooth water. The south land extending from East, round by So. to N. 74°W. and high land like an island N.35° to 75°E: distance off shore about 1/2 mile: a small sandy beach. - Fresh breezes & squally. Found a tide running 1 knot per hour to the eastward, until 81/2 h. At 9, it made to the westward. -
A.M. Moderate breezes and cloudy with squalls at times. Went on shore with a party of gentlemen, to examine the land, which we found every reason to think an island notwithstanding its magnitude. By the return of the boat we sent 3 kanguroos of considerable size on board
   Sailmakers repairing the F. and Mz. topsails and Mz. staysails.
Cloudy weather with spitting rain, so that no observations could be obtained in the morning or at noon.

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[1802 Mar. Monday - 22. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the unknown south coast of New Holland


From (2, which we passed at 1h.45' to the point under which we [anchor]ed, is a large bight comprehending several small ones, but they appear to be mostly shoal, being out of the stream of the tides.
   On landing in the morning we were soon satisfied that some animals which, with glasses, we had seen moving about were kanguroos; numbers of them appearing at the landing place, which was near a place free from brush wood and covered with grass, and seemed to be a favourite feeding spot. It is impossible to form any guess as to the numbers seen during the day, but those brought on board were 31, whose weight was between 69 and 125 lbs each uncleaned; these made a glorious feast to people to who had been 4 months upon salt provisions. I ordered that 50 or 60 lbs should be stewed into soup each day in the ships coppers, and that as much meat besides should be served to the messes as they could eat; and the meat would last. These animals seem to resemble the largest kind in New South Wales, except in colour, which is much darker.
  The main object for which I landed was defeated by the thickness and height of the brushwood, which would not permit me to see round after I had been at the labour of ascending the higher land; but the kanguroos and the seals satisfied me that it was an island.

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1802 Mar. [Tuesday] - 23d. H.M.S. Investigator at [anchor]age [No.13 - Kanguroo Island - So. coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy. At 2, returned on board with 20 kanguroos. After cleaning the kanguroos and serving out as much as could be eaten, got the T.Gt. masts down upon deck, and struck the top-masts, preparatory to shifting them. Showers of rain at times. A.M. Variable breezes with cloudy weather. Employed shifting the present top-masts, which are split at the heels, for others. - Noon, moderate breezes and fine weather. A party of gentlemen on shore examining the island and shooting kanguroos.
Additional remarks. This land which we now judge to be an island, seems to be calcarious in all the cliffs that shewed themselves further to the westward; but near our present [anchor]age, the calcarious matter is found scattered in loose, and small quantities. The basis seems to be a slate, which in some parts splits off like iron bars. The strata lie nearly horizontal, and in the interstices, some streaks of quartz are sometimes seens. In some pieces a composition with mica gives it a shining, ore-like, appearance.
A thick wood covers all this side of the island, but none of the trees that I saw in a vegetating state, were equal in size to the generality of those that that were dead. Such abundance of the last were lying on the ground, besides many standing, that in penetrating inland to get upon the higher ground, a considerable portion of the walk

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[1802 Mar. Tuesday - 23d. H.M.S. Investigator at anchorage] No. 13 - Kanguroo Island - So. coast of New Holland

was made upon them. These prostrated trees were lying in all directions, and therefore I judge they were not so placed by any general, violent wind; but they seemed to be all nearly of the same age and in the same state of decay. I am induced from all circumstances to believe that they have been killed by fire which, by some accident, seems to have prevailed all over this side of the island, and probably over the whole. This accident might have originated from lightening, or from the friction of two dead trees lying against each other in a gale. -
   The kanguroos appeared to have possessed a dominion in this island, which probably has never before been invaded before; the seals share with them on the shores, but they seem to dwell amicably together. It was not unfrequently the case happened, that the report of a gun fired at a kanguroo, brought out two or three bellowing seals from bushes that were further from the shore than the kanguroo at which the gun was fired. The seals, indeed, seemed to be the most discerning animals of the two, for they acted as if they knew us not to be kanguroos, whereas the latter appeared sometimes not unfrequently to consider us as to be seals:
The party on shore this day, had not the success that we had yesterday in their shooting; but they report having seen some large running birds like the emu.

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1802 Mar [Wednesday] - 24th. H.M.S. Investigator at [anchor]age [No.13 Kanguroo Island]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy. Employed in rigging the new top-mast, and setting it up. Received 11 kanguroos on board, killed by the party on shore Many of them were small, compared to those killed yesterday. Fresh meat served out as before to the ships company. Light breezes and cloudy. A.M. Fresh breezes, afterwards moderate. Employed restowing the booms and scraping the topmasts.
At 10, weighed and made sail to the northwestward, to that part of the main, (4, which we quitted on the 21st. P.M. in order to trace its continuation up to the land, which lies opposite to this Kanguroo Island, and which

Lowered down the cutter from the quarter davits, and hoisted her in board.

+from smoke seen upon it, we judge to be main land.
At noon, moderate breezes and squally at times. The northern land seen as far to the west as N.44º.E. Extremes of Kanguroo Island N.81º.W to S.55ºE. Head near our [anchor]age S.31º.E. - Under single reefed topsails &c.

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[1802 Mar. Wednesday] - 24th. H.M.S. Investigator at anchorage] No. 13 - Kanguroo Island

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


From the appearance of this shore I judge that the rise of tide is about 6 feet. The flood comes from the eastward, and the time of high water a ships swinging to the ebb is about 21/2 hours after the moon passes over the meridian; but from after observation, it appears that it is not high water until an hour and half afterwards
   The wood of Kanguroo Island, is in abundance near the water side, and is of a sufficient size for fire wood or for stowage; but it does not appear to be calculated for superior purposes.
   The soil of that part of the island which was examined by us, was judged to be much superior to any yet seen either upon the islands or main of this south coast: some small spots in Princess Royal Harbour scarcely excepted. I did not ascertain its depth, but it cannot be very shallow in general. It consists of vegetable earth with a mixture of sand, but not in any great proportion; and I think it superior to some part of the land which is cultivated about Port Jackson. or even in England

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1802 Mar. [Thursday] - 25th. H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy weather, with squalls at times. Trimmed sails accordingly.
At 6, land seen to the northward as far as W.N.W. and thence to a low point bearing N.b.E. 3 or 4 leagues. Kanguroo Island S.40º.W. to S.3º.E. our anchorage being invisible.
Double reefed the top-sails.
Moderate breezes and cloudy weather
At 2h.40' saw isle o, bearing W.b.N. At 4, it bore N.W. Tacked ship at that time, shortened sail and brought to on the starbd. tack. At day light, out 2nd. reefs, and at 6.30 filled and steered to the eastward parellel to the line of the shore: cape (4, to N43ºW. about 8 miles.
Moderate breezes with dull cloudy weather
Kanguroo served out to the ships company as before
Mustered the ships company and saw them clean. At 11h.15', tacked ship on the water shoaling. Saw a sunken rock very near us. At noon, our distance off a low sandy shore 5 or 6 miles. The point from which the shoal water runs off N.18ºE. -

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1802 Mar. [Friday] - 26th. Unknown south coast

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. and dull cloudy weather: the sun having not appeared once this day, notwithstanding the height of the barometer. At 1.10, tacked to the eastward until past 4, when we tacked off, not being able to weather a point, which bore east about 4 miles. At 6, double reefed the top-sails.
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
At 101/2 h, tacked to the northward, the land bearing S.W. to east, dist. about 3 miles
At 4, saw land on the lee bow, and the water shoaling at the same time Tkd. ship
At 5h.45' tacked to the northward.
At 8, tacked off shore, not being able to weather the same point, at which we tried yesterday afternoon. Out 2nd reefs and set T.Gt. sails.
At 11.30 tacked to the northward, but we find ourselves set so much to leeward that we lose ground rather than gain. At noon, moderate breezes and fine weather with haze. The point of the northern land which we must weather to examine a bight there. bore N.38(20'E.

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1802 Mar. [Saturday] - 27th H.M.S. Investigator explori[ng the unknown south coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with fine weather. At 2.30 tacked to the southward, finding that we could not weather the island-like point. At 4, tacked towards the point, and at 6, the hummock upon it bore N.12.E. and the furthest extreme there N.38.E. dist. off shore 5 or 6 miles. (2 of the island, bore S.2.E in that situation. Double reefed the top-sails. At 8, tacked, on finding the water shoal; and our distance from the low shore to leeward being abt. 3 miles
Fresh breezes and squally.
Tacked ship to the eastward, but on the wind heading at 2, tacked off again. At 4, tacked again to the eastward until 6, when the extreme of the low northern land bore N.191/2E; being nearly in the same situation as at 6 P.M. tacked to the southward and let the 2nd reefs out of the top-sails.
At 8 tacked ship, but on the wind heading almost immediately, tacked again to the southward
Towards noon, it became calm, and hazy weather. Lowered down the sails and dropped a kedge to prevent being drifted to the westward. The point (2, S. 24(W.21/2 miles

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[1802 Mar. Saturday - 27 th. H.M.S. Investigator explori]ng the unknown south coast of New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The part of the main opposite to Kanguroo Island, to examine which has been the object of our labour since leaving the island, is generally low land, and seemingly sandy. The island- like point which with so much difficulty we at last weathered this evening is somewhat remarkable from the hummock upon it, which, at a little distance, appears to be an island. There is no particular point there but the land from thence trends to the N.E. ward and no land is visible in the space between it and the high land of great No.2, which we have hitherto supposed to be main land. From observing comparing the ships real course with that given by the log, I suspect, that the tides run differently on the two sides of this passage or strait, and that some inlet on this north side is the cause of it.
    At the time of our [anchor]age about noon, we ought to have had a tide setting to the eastward, judging from what we observed at the [anchor]age further to the eastward, but this was not the case; and as observed on the following page, the easterly tide did not make, until three oclock, when we might have expected one in an opposite direction; and its course was then to the N.E. instead of the S.E.ward.

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1802 Mar. [Sunday] - 28th. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the inlet No.14 - on the south coast]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs and calms with cloudy weather and haze. Found no observable drift of tide until 3 oclock, when it made a little to the N.E.ward. Weighed the kedge, and made sail towards the unexplored part of the main At 6, fresh breezes and threatening weather. Double-reefed the top-sails & handed T.Gt. sails. Saw a fire upon the land ahead. In spanked M.sail and jib
At 12, the land seen ahead and on the weather bow, and several fires upon it.
Wore ship, having missed stays.
At 2, tacked again to the eastward. At 3, nearly calm: lightening in the N.E.
At daylight, the high eastern land, extending from about N.35(E. to S.20 W. A lofty mountain N.65 (E.: offshore abt. 9 miles
At 7 1/2, it became calm. Hauled up the courses. Hazy weather, so that the land is not defineable any at any great distance.
Cleaned below, mustered the ships company and saw them clean
At 11, a light air sprung up from the S.W. Made sail. By the lead, tried at various times this morning, no tide could be observed. Noon, fine weather with some haze

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[1802 Mar. Sunday - 28th. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the inlet No.14 - on the south coast.

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land about point (2, seems to be more barren than the cape further west where we [anchor]ed; but a thick brush is not wanting at a little distance inland.
   The opposite land, along which we ran in the night, and lay near, becalmed, in the morning, is much higher; and generally consists of more than two ridges of land. The shore is mostly rocks and sand with a few small trees interspersed; but higher up a well-appearing forest seems to clothe the country. From the fires seen during the night, the smoke observed before upon it, and from its general appearance, we believe it to be the mainland; and the space between it and the main, to the west, being full thirty miles, as appears from the observations; it may be presumed that we are entering a large inlet of some kind, as I before suspected there was, from the set of the tides.

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1802 Mar. [Monday] -29th. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the Inlet No.14 - South coast]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and hazy weather. Steered nearly parallel to a low sandy beach, the high hills having retreated inland. At 3h. 1/2, hauled further offshore on the water shoaling. At 4, lowland seen from the mast head as far as N.b.W. The loftiest of the hills passed S.69E. and our distance offshore abt. 8 miles. At 50' before sunset came to, with the best bower, in 5 fms., upon a bottom of sand and peices of dead coral. The low sandy shore distant 8 or 10 miles, and seen as far as No. - ; and the opposite west shore seen from W.5 S. to N.W.b.W. Veered to a whole cable and sent down T.Gt. yards. Mod. breezes and fine weather: some swell coming in from the southward.
   Very little tide observed during the night At daylight, light airs and fine weather. Took the gig and went to sound upon a rippling to the westward, but there not did appear to be any difference in the depth, which was 5 1/4. Set up the the T.and M.T. mast and T.Gt.rigging, at 8 sent up T.Gt. yards and at 9h.30' weighed and made sail to proceed up this inlet, but it became calm and remained so until 11h., when a light breeze sprung up, to which we trimmed sails, hauling more up, at noon, on account of the water shoaling.
Some mountains seen to the north and N.N.W. A low shoal point of the east shore N.5 E.

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[1802 Mar. Monday - 29th. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the Inlet No.14 - South coast

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The low eastern shore along which we have run this day, is generally sandy, but is mostly covered with small trees. The breadth of this low land; from the water to the back hills, is various. It appears to be not more than 5 or 6 miles in the first part; but as they preserve nearly a N.N.E. direction and the low shore curves to the westward, it consequently becomes broader
We notice much smoke upon this low land, which is probably at no great distance beyond the fire seen on the preceding night; and at noon also, great smokes were rising upon the western land, near the mountains which bear N.19(W.
The rippling, upon which I went to sound early in the morning, was evidently the effect of tide, but the difference in depth upon, or on each side of it was scarcely perceptible and the run of tide at the ship was trifling: what little there was came from the N.W.ward.
At noon, Light breezes and fine wr. with haze

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1802 Mar. [Tuesday] - 30th. H.M.S. Investigator, at [anchorage in Inlet No.14 - south coast]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and cloudy weather. At 11/2 h kept more away up the inlet, but the water shoaling from the eastern shore, were obliged to haul more across. At 31/2, steered nearly in a direct line upwards, but drawing near the western shore, hauled more to the eastwd. and steered different ways in order to find out the deepest channel. Towards sunset, the inlet appeared to be closed round at the distance of 6 or 7 miles, and finding no deep channel any further up, came to [anchor] with the best bower in 51/4 fms. upon a bottom of coarse sand, shells and broken peices of coral. Veered to half a cable and sent down T. Gt. yards. A hummocky mount, at the head of the inlet N.2(W. The shore distant in the nearest parts on each side, 4 or 5 miles. The loftiest mountain on the eastern shore S.42ºE. Hoisted out the cutter to be in readiness early in the morning to examine the head of the inlet.
A.M. Light breezes and fine weather. Took the cutter and went up to the head of this inlet, to examine its termination. Roused the small bower cable upon deck to clean the tier and repair the rounding.
Noon, light breezes and fine weather
At 8 A.M. Observed the tide of to run S.SW. 1/2 knot

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[1802 Mar. Tuesday - 30th. H.M.S. Investigator, at] anchorage in Inlet 14 - south coast

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Although the western shore appears evidently to be the deepest side of the inlet in this upper part, yet it should seem that 3 or 4 miles is as near as a ship can approach it. The land on that side rises gradually to a moderate elevation, but in general, it has a smooth, barren, appearance: many large smokes appear upon it. -
   The eastern shore seems more woody and also more sandy.
   In the excursion up to the head of the inlet in the morning I was accompanied by the naturalist. The soundings were not less than 3 fms. for the first 4 miles, but we then soon came upon a bank, so shoal, that it was necessary to row a little back to get into a narrow deep channel nearer to the western shore. Numbers of sting rays came round the boat whilst on the flat, but being unprovided, we were not able to succeed in getting any into the boat.
   The narrow channel, carried us up to near the head of the inlet, but the boat

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1802 Mar. [Wednesday] - 31st. H.M.S. Investigator, at 2 [anchor]age in [Inlet No.14 - south coast]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes with fine weather. Employed finishing the cable and restowing the booms.
Light breezes towards evening, with fine weather and some haze. At 7, returned on board in the cutter from examining the head of the inlet.
At 101/2 h, ship swung to the flood tide, and which ran soon after 1/2 knot to the N.b.E.
Boused in the slack cable At daylight, after washing decks, sent up the T. Gt. yards; and at 6h.30' weighed and made sail down the inlet, with light winds
Hoisted the gig on board to be repaired
Repaired the puddening of the anchors
Light breezes and fine weather, with haze. Carrying all the small fore and aft sails. Cleaned below. Served sour krout. A Turtle seen on the water. At 111/2, tacked ship, the western shore 3 or 4 miles distant

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[1802 Mar. Wednesday - 31st. H.M.S. Investigator, at 2 anchorage in] Inlet No.14 - south coast.


could not then approach nearer than half a mile to the shore: the bottom consisted of mud and sand. - After taking angles and observing the latitude, we walked up to the ridge of back land, from whence the head of the inlet was sufficiently conspicuous. There did not appear to be any drain of water into the inlet, but in wet weather much will no doubt be thrown into it, from hills which in a circular form inscribe circumscribe the head of the inlet; these hills are of moderate elevation, and are part of the same ridge which runs nearly parallel to the east shore of the inlet. - The water of the western gulph No.12, was hid by land, something higher than that upon which we were; but might probably been seen from a hummocky mountain, which we had proposed to ascend, but found had not its distance been found to be beyond the bounds of returning to the ship in the evening.
   We found the tide to be out, at about 10h1/2; and therefore it should be high water about 71/2h. after the [moon] passes over the meridian: the rise seems to be about 6 feet in common. Some few shags, gulls, and one black swan were seen upon the shoals. -
   The country has a pleasant appearance round the inlet, at a distant view; but all that I saw was poor in fertility. The trees grow but in patches, and the grass thin

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1802 Apr. [Thursday] - 1st. H.M.S. Investigator [beating down the Inlet No.14 - south coast]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with fine weather. At 2h.5' tacked on the water shoaling; from having passed to the east side of the deep channel. At 5h.40', being within 1/2 mile of the west shore tacked to the eastward; the hum'ky. mountain N.16 1/2 E. and south extreme S.5(E. - Do. weather with haze. On the ships breaking off, at 8h.30', tacked to the southward.
Moderate breezes & fine wr. Saw a large fire upon the eastern shore. Shortened sail on the wind coming free; and at 3, brought to, and laid by until daylight, when Mt. Lofty bore E.21/2 (S. The western shore not in sight. Bore round to the westward to make that land, and made sail. At 9h.30', saw a dry sand bank lying off from the low southern extreme of the western shore, and hauled round to weather it. Passed over some shoal patches of sandy bottom, and saw others more extensive.
At noon, the extreme of the high land of the eastern shore S.14(.E. Kanguroo Island in sight from the mast head. Light breezes and fine weather
Mustered ships company and saw them clean.

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[1802 Apr. Thursday - 1st. H.M.S. Investigator] beating down the Inlet No. 14 - south coast

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land which we approached so near to, this afternoon, has a pleasant appearance, being grassy hills of a gentle ascent with clumps of trees interspersed, but from analogy, I judge it to be rather barren than fertile. The shore is somewhat cliffy and not so low as as usual, and from our being able to approach within 1/2 a mile, it is more steep near the shore than one would expect in an inclosed inlet where no stream of consequence was running.
    The best point of entrance into this Inlet near to which our course was directed at daylight, is very low land, the shore is sandy beach, and off the point lies a dry spit reaching some miles distant, but I believe connected with it, though of this I speak not certainly. I saw the island-like hummock from the mast head at noon but could not set it, or get anything to which I could reduce an angle from it. The contrast between this lowland, and the opposite shore is considerable, that being mountainous and stony.

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1802 Apr. [Friday] - 2. H.M.S. Investigator, from [the Inlet No. 14, back to Kanguroo Island]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs and hazy weather
At 3, a light breeze sprung up from the S.E.ward, to which we made sail, tacking to the southward
Fine weather with haze. Steering to the southward for Kanguroo Island, the former [anchor]ing place there being in sight bearing south.
At 11, steered along the shore to the entrance of a deep bay, on the west side of the former [anchor]age, and at 11h.40' dropped the [anchor] in 71/2 fms. sandy bottom; the east point of the bay, ( bearing ENE. off shore about 3/4 of a mile. Veered to half a cable and furled sails. Hoisted out the cutter to be in readiness to go on shore early in the morning.
A.M. Light breezes and fine weather. Landed in order to shoot some kanguroos, but very were seen, and only one shot at this time
  Sent a small party to cut fire wood, and others to shoot kanguroos
  Cleaned the ship below.
  The tide not running regular in this place, no clear acct. of them was kept. This irregularity is owing to our being out of the passage between the island and the main

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[page 421]

[1802 Apr. Friday - 2. H.M.S. Investigator, from] the Inlet No. 14, back to Kanguroo Island

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


In consequence of our passing that part of the mainland which constitutes the eastern cape of entrance in to the Inlet, at night, no more of it could be seen more than we knew before; that it is rather high land and appears to be barren up the hills. In coming to Kanguroo Island again, the objects were, a place of security at night, to get another fresh meal of kanguroo, and to ascertain generally whether our time-keepers were keeping their rates. In the two first of them we succeeded moderately well, but the kanguroos were not now found in anything like the former numbers. Five emus were distinctly seen today, by people who had no guns with them; and part of the skin of a porcupine or something very like one was found. This island will probably afford the only instance of containing the emu of any of the insulated parts of New Holland, Van Diemens Land excepted. From the annexed observation for the longitude, it appears, that the time keepers had differed 1'.50" of longitude nearly, to the west, since we quitted it on March 24th. and consequently that the sum of their rates of losing was not now quite so great as had been allowed during that interval; the difference being abt. ·57 of a second per day

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[page 422]

1802 Apr. [Saturday] - 3rd. H.M.S. Investigator at the 2 [anchor]age [in Kanguroo Island]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs and fine weather. Boused in the slack cable. Returned on board, bringing a few kanguroos which, with some killed by others, were sufficient to give every body a fresh meal. Received on board a cutter load of wood and stowed it away. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Veered away to the half cable. A.M. Mod. And cloudy. At 6h. 30', weighed, stretched in shore, and tacked to the northward. Found that the Time-keepers, were run down, having been neglected to be woundup yesterday. Dropped the [anchor] again in nearly the same place as before, and on the turning of the tide to leeward moored ship.
   Went on shore to get observations for ascertaining the rate of going of the time keepers, and their errors from mean Greenwich time, according to the longitude deduced from the observation of [Wed.] 24 March, A.M. Hoisted out the launch, and sent an officer in her to kill kanguroos and seals. Sent a party on shore to cut wood. At noon, light breezes & fine weather.


[Sunday April 4th.] Light airs. In the evening the launch returned with several seal-skins; and the wooders returned in the cutter. Mod. & fine weather A.M. Took the cutter to go upon an excursion for examining the large bay, in which the ship lies. Carpenters on shore wooding. Got up the best bower cable, cleaned the tier, and payed down the cable. At noon, light airs

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[page 423]

[H.M.S. Investigator at the 2 anchorage] in Kanguroo Island

[Navigational data for Monday 5th. not reproduced - see original journal]


and fine weather. Slack water noted on the log to be at 10h.30' soon after which the tide made from the eastward


[Monday - 5th.] Fine weather. Received on board wood, by the launch; and a second turn in the evening
A.M. Spitting rain. Sent some hands on shore to cut brooms. Cleaned the ship thoroughly above and below, and aired with stoves. Sent the launch to the eastward to fish, and to bring on board a party who went to shoot kanguroos. At 11, returned on board in the cutter from our excursion, in which was found a rivulet lagoon, frequented by many pelicans, and the sea coast of the south side of the island seen from a hill. Dull cloudy wr.


Additional remarks. The object of the excursion abovementioned was both to examine the head of the bay, and to ascend a hill, which seems to be the only one in the island where the height and thickness of the brush wood does not entirely intercept the view. On approaching the S.W. corner of the bay, we were pleased gratified to find an small opening which led towards the hill. After breakfasting on the west shore of the rivulet lagoon, we proceeded upwards and which brought us nearly to near the foot of the hill and getting it. After observing the suns meridional altitude, we got through the brush without much difficulty, and reached the top at 1 o'clock; for

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[page 424]

1802 Apr. [Monday] - 5th. Additional remarks continued - [Pelican Rivulet, in Kanguroo Island.]


for I had waited till past noon at the shore in order to observe the latitude in the artificial horizon. To the southward, the sea appeared was conspicuous from the top of the hill, at not a greater distance than 2 miles. Projecting capes appeared to the S.E. and S.W.ward, forming a wide open bay, which, as observed, approaches to within two miles of is so near to the head of this rivulet lagoon, as to leave an isthmus of only two miles broad by which the eastern and western parts of this island are connected together The shore there on the south side appeared to be calcarious and cliffy, but not high.
   The rivulet (lagoon) spreads itself out into two heads, of whh. the southern one, which was first examined is the smallest and shallowest. They (It) extends 3 or 4 miles from the entrance, but it is at high water only can that a boat can pass much about in most parts of it scarcely affords water enough for boats, except at high water. The eastern head of the lagoon contains three islands, upon two of which we landed on, and from appearances judged them seem to be breeding places for pelicans: on the third we did not land. These birds were in great numbers, and many of them were too young to fly. From the number quantity of skeletons and scattered bones upon one of the islands, I infer that the pelicans also end their days there close as well as commence their existence here at a distance from man the disturber. not only commence their being here, but that they have selected this retreat for the closing scene of their existence; here, at a distance from man, the great disturber of all the vital principal that animated them, can quietly depart, without interruption, and perhaps without a pang.
(Between the outer bay and this eastern head of the lagoon the land is formed into a neck of no great breadth; but it is as thickly covered with brush as elsewhere. It being too late to return on board after examining the eastern hills, we pitched the

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[page 425]

[1802 Apr. Monday - 5th. Additional remarks continued] Pelican Rivulet, in Kanguroo Island

[Astronomical observations for April 4th.not reproduced - see original journal]


tent near the eastern point of the entrance and as before mentioned got on board, before noon.
   Besides pelicans, this piece of water is frequented by flocks of the pied shags, and by a few ducks, and gulls. Some oysters were found upon the shoals
   The country round the water is every where thickly covered with brush wood. The soil seems to be of nearly the same good quality as in the neighbourhood of the ship. Only two kanguroos were killed, and but few seen; and not one emu
   The depth of water in the outer part of the entrance small passage entrance into the lagoon is less than it is higher up where a regular channel is formed. I cannot give the depth of water, not having a lead and line in the boat, but it appears to be sufficient for rowing boats of any size, up into the eastern head of the rivulet
   To have ascertained the breadth of this large island, is a valuable addition to the little knowledge we yet have of its form & extent; and is more than I expected to have gained from the moderate height of the hill, which I call Prospect Hill. In consequence of the near approach of the water lagoon to the rivulet south shore Kanguroo Island is seperated into two penisulas parts of very unequal size, but of their proportions and form nothing yet can be said connected by an isthmus of two whose breadth is about two miles.

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[page 426]

1802 Apr. Additional remarks - Kanguroo Island


We found it to be high water in Pelican Rivulet Lagoon, at 6h. on the morning of 5th. Which is near 4h after the [moon] passes over the meridian; but it appears from the log that the tide did not made from the westward more than an hour before that time; so that the first hour and half of the western tide makes high water; and it which is about 3 hours earlier than at the head of the inlet No. 14.
    (We did not find the an equal) The number of kanguroos in any part of the island, were not found to equal those met with at the first anchorage. They seem to be attracted by (the) a space of ground there which is uncovered by the brush, and by some small grass plots, which they keep exceedingly bare; they appear to feed also upon some of the bushes. (Although not less than 30 emus were seen at different times, yet it so happened that they were never but once fired at, and we did not get one of them. They were mostly seen near a small drain of water a little to the eastward of the first [anchor]age and) where, with some difficulty, a ship might procure that essential article. It will be found at both ends of the beach.

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[page 427]

 Astronomical observations, on shore near the 2 [anchor]age


On finding that the time-keepers had been let down, I judged it necessary to remain a certain number of days, to get fresh rates, lest by stopping they might have altered; And to ascertain their errors from mean Greenwich time, I take the longitude of the place abreast of the ship, where the observations were taken, to be about 1.'20" of longitude to the west of our first [anchor]age, or 138(. 23'.00" = 9h.13'.32", Et. of Greenwich. The results of the observations are as follow


[Table of astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


On arriving this second time at Kanguroo Island we found that the time-keepers gave the longitude less than at the first time by about 1'50", and consequently that the sum of the two rates of losing had been allowed somewhat greater than the time-keepers had really lost during the 9 days of interval. The sum of the two rates of Earnshaws two time-keepers now found, corroborates this, being 0".26 less than the former. From this and every other circumstance we have reasons to think the rates now found to be good; and therefore I did not think it necessary to remain longer on their account. The variation obsd. on shore by Comp. No.1 was 2.58Et.. but by Theodolite 5(.48' Et.

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[page 428]

1802 Apr. [Tuesday] - 6th. H.M.S. Investigator, from [anchor]age No. 2 of Kan- [H.M. guroo Isld. to anchorage 3, there]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes with dull cloudy weather. People employed in the holds, and as most necessary. At dusk the launch returned with but few fish. One of the crew having been simple enough to attack a large seal with a small stick in an incautious manner, was seized upon by the seal and much bitten in the leg. As he attacked the seal without any object in so doing, he was not undeserving of some punishment for his malignity: he has paid rather severely.
   Hoisted in the launch, and prepared to go to sea in the morning. A.M. Mod. and fine weather; but afterwards dull weather, with thick haze. Unmoored ship, hove short on the small bower and sent up down T.Gt. yards Took the cutter on shore to get the last set of altitudes for the time-keepers, which I was fortunate enough to obtain before the weather became thick. At 9, weighed and made sail to the eastward, having light variable airs Found so bad a chafe in the best bower cable as to make it necessary to shift it in doing which we were employed all the morning. At noon, we perceived by the land that the tide was setting us to the westward. Dropped the small bower and lowered down the sails: nearly in the 1st. [anchor]age

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[page 430]

1802 Apr. [Thursday] - 8th. H.M.S. Investigator [from Kanguroo Island, along the coast eastward]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Set stay sails. At 2h.10' tacked towards the main. At 3, passed through a strong rippling of tide like broken water, upon we had 12 fms., stones and shells. At 5, tacked to the southward, being about 1 m. from the main.
At 7h. 40' tacked ship being within one mile of the point ( 2.
At 9, saw one of the isles, ( or (1, bearing N.E.b. E.1/2E.
Handed the top-gallant sails
Mod. breezes and cloudy
At 4, tacked to the southward: the land seen on the lee quarter and beam.
At 6, tacked towards the land. The northern part of Kanguroo Island bearing West, and the main from N.74(W to N.19(E. Set T.Gt. sails
Mod. breezes and cloudy weather
Employed in the after hold
Saw the land as far as east
Mustered the ships company and saw them clean
At noon, light breezes and fin dull cloudy weather. Some swell from the southward which stops the ships way. Southern extreme of cape (, on the main S85(.30'W. from where the latitude is deduced

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[page 431]

[1802 Apr. Thursday - 8th. H.M.S. Investigator] from Kanguroo Island, along the coast eastward

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The bay which we left on the A.M. preceding this days log, seems to afford secure shelter in all cases: how far the kanguroos or emu's may be numerous in its neighbourhood, we did not stay to ascertain. The water seems to shoal rather suddenly in this bay, so that the shore should be approached with caution. The eastern points excepted, this part of the main island is covered with the same kind of thick brush as in the other parts. On the opposite part of the main, near which our track mostly lies this P.M. the clothing of the hills is very different. A short scrubby brush every where covers the land, which is rather high, and much intersected by ravines and gullies, apparently cut by water, which they seem to have conveyed from the highest parts down to the sea. The stone appears to be slaty, as upon cape ( of the opposite island.
    The land seen ahead at daylight, assumed a very different appearance to that of the cape, its more western part. Numberless small hummocks first appeared, which, as the land rose, were found to be joined, and their connexion with the western land was also seen. The intermediate connecting space is low, and falls back into a wide indent; and the hummocks also are much lower than the western land, and they appear to be sandy

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[page 432]

1802 Apr. [Friday] - 9th. H.M.S. Investigator, ex[ploring the south coast of New Holland]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and fine weather
At 1h.30' tacked ship to the eastward
Harpooned a porpoise. About 4, saw a ship ahead, cleared at quarters and shewed our colours. On their shewing French colours with an English jack, shewed a white flag, shortened sail and hove to On his coming up, found the ship to be the Geographe captain Baudin, upon a voyage of discovery from Mauritius. Hoisted out the cutter, and went on board. At 7.10, returned, hoisted up the boat, and made sail upon a wind in company with the Geographe.
Backed the miz top-sail occasionally, to keep company.
At 12, burnt a blue light, on which the Geographe wore, as we did after her
Light breezes and fine weather.
At daylight ran alongside the french ship, lowered down the cutter and went again on board. At 8, returned and hoisted up the boat. Made sail, and at half past 8, wore to the southward, the French ship standing to the N.W.
At noon, light airs and cloudy weather
Hummocks of land, apparently sandy, seen from the mast head as far S.E.

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[page 433]

[1802 Apr. Friday - 9th. H.M.S. Investigator, ex]ploring the south coast of New Holland

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


On the first appearance of the ship, we were in doubt whether it was a whaler or the French ship which it proved to be. On going on board, I was shewed their passport, upon requesting to see it, and in return offered mine for inspection, but captain Baudin put it back without looking at it. He informed me that he had come through Bass's Strait after exploring more thoroughly the southern and eastern parts of Van Diemens Land. Having met with bad weather in the strait, he had parted with his consort, the Naturaliste, and had not found any place in which he could [anchor] since; the coast being uninterrupted by any inlets or rivers from this strait to the place of our meeting *see two pages forward
Captain Baudin was sufficiently communicative of his discoveries about Van Diemens Land and of his remarks upon my chart of the strait, an imperfect copy of which he had gotten: these remarks were not ungratifying. We parted with the intention of keeping company during the night and of seeing each other in the morning.
At daylight, the naturalist Mr Brown accompanied me on board as before. We learned from different circumstances that the French had visited the west coast of New Holland, an unexplored part of which, between Leeuwen and Edels Land they had examined; but the opening of Dampier near the Rosemary Isles they had left untouched. They had been left six of their scientific people gentlemen had remained behind at Mauritius, where they had left 6 of their naturalists, and at Timor at which last their last port they had lost 10 people by dysentery; amongst whom whose)

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[page 434]

1802 Apr. [Friday] - 9th continued. Additional remarks [From Kanguroo Island to Bass' Strait]


was their best botanist. They had spent a considerable time in exploring upon the south and eastern parts of Van Diemens Land, ion the last of which, his geographer, a boats crew, and his largest boat, had been left, and probably lost: he recommended them to our care in case of meeting with them, or of their reaching Port Jackson.
   This morning captain Baudin was much more inquisitive concerning the Investigator and her destination, than before, and on understanding that we were employed upon the same service as himself having learnt from the boats crew that our business was discovery; and finding that we had examined the south coast of New Holland) thus far, he appeared to be somewhat mortified. He received some I gave him as much information respecting Kanguroo Island, the Inlets No. 12 and 14 and Bay No. 10, as far as was necessary to his obtaining wood and water.
   I offered to convey any information he wished to the Naturaliste in case of meeting with her; but he only required me to say to him that he should go to Port Jackson as soon as the bad weather came on.
   As he had an imperfect copy of my chart of Van Diemens Land, and of Bass' Strait; I presented him this morn)ing with a copy of the three charts lately published, of that and of the neighbouring parts, and of the small memoir attached to them; for which he expressed his thanks, and said] that his charts were yet unfinished, but that when he came to Port Jackson he should be able to make some return.
    Upon my I requested to be informed of know the name of the

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[page 435]

[1802 Apr. Friday - 9th. continued. Additional Remarks] From Kanguroo Island to Bass' Strait.


captain of the Naturaliste, +which is Hamelin; upon which he begged to know mine, and expressed some surprise on being informed it was Flinders; and more especially that I should have again gotten here before him.)
  He gave me of information of a rock lying about 2 leagues off the coast with shoal water about it, at the distance of 22 leagues from his situation on [Thursday] at noon and in the latitude of 37(.1' So.-
 
       +he, "apropos", begged to know mine, and finding that it was synonimous to the author of the chart of the strait which he had been criticising, expressed some surprise and congratulation; but I did not apprehend that my being here at this time, so far along the coast, gave him any great pleasure

   *I inquired of him concerning a large island lying in the western entrance of the strait, but he had not seen it and seemed much to doubt its existence

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[page 436]

1802 Apr. [Saturday] - 10th. H.M.S. Investigator [between Kanguroo Island and Bass' Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Variable light airs and calm. Find by the lead that the ship drifts fast to the WNW which is probably the flood tide.
At 2, a breeze sprung up: tacked to the eastward. At 6, furthest land visible at ESE Double reefed the top-sails and tacked off shore. Moderate breezes with rain at times; and much lightening over the land.
At 9, tacked towards the land. Lightening to the eastward.
At 12, tacked offshore. Light airs and calms
At daylight. Out 2nd reefs, set T.Gt. sails and staysails, and at 63/4h tacked off towards shore, it being dist. 8 or 9 miles.
Light breezes and fine weather. Cut up pork No. 34 to its contents. Harpooned a porpoise
At 11h.20' tacked the ship, the low sandy shore dist. about 21/2 miles, and seen as far as S60E. At noon, light breezes and cloudy: a long swell from the southward
Aired the studg. sails.

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[page 437]

[1802 Apr. Saturday - 10th. H.M.S. Investigator] between Kanguroo Island and Bass' Strait.

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

The alterations which took place in the appearance of the shore, from high land intersected by gullies where it slopes down to the water side, to low sandy land upon which many small hummocks of sand stand everywhere, is still the case as far as we are able to discern on this day at noon. There is no particular object which can be used as a point of bearing which may be known again, nor does any thing inland appear above the little hummocks


Having sent the guns down below that were placed upon the quarter deck near the binnacle I expected to find a better agreement in the bearings by the azimuth compasses, and for some little time I thought the object accomplished; but for some little time back, I have again perceived a difference when the ships head had been different ways; and observations for the amplitude and azimuth have differed in the same manner

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[page 438]

1802 Apr. [Sunday] - 11th H.M.S. Investigator, exploring [on the south coast towds. Bass' Strait]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and cloudy weather -
At 2h.15' tacked ship
Light breezes & fine wr. Land seen from deck at S.E.b.E.
Tacked off shore, the land being dist. 3 or 4 miles
Mod. and cloudy wr.
At 2, tacked towards the land. At 4 it became calm, and we peceived the ship drift somewhat to the N.W. by the lead.
At daylight, the land could not be seen from the masthead, or at 8 oclock.
Light breezes and hazy weather
Employed upon deck and below, in getting the stream cable and [anchor] into a better state of readiness for immediate use, and in cleaning the ship.
At noon, the land seen from N.b.E. to about S.65(.E. from the masthead. The nearest part N.60(.E 7 or 8 miles from deck Mod. breezes & dull weather with spitting rain

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[page 439]

[Mon.] - 12th. on the south coast, towds. Bass's Strait.

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Vble. breezes with rain at times, short intervals of fine weather.
Steered more offshore. Saw a flock of sooty petrels. Light airs & calms. Soon after a breeze sprung up; made sail, keeping as much up for the land as the wind would permit. At dusk the same kind of humky. shore as before dist. 7 or 8 miles, stretching to the S.E.ward. Dble. reefed the top sails and at 7h.30' tacked offshore. At 10, tacked to the eastward, and at 12, back to the westward
Rainy, with lightening in the west.
At 3, tacked to the eastward. Saw the land, on the weather bow. At 5, judging ourselves not far from the land, brought to till daylight, when it extended N.1/2W. to S.E.1/4E. Nearest shore N.E. abt. 5 miles. Filled and steered along shore with a light breeze and hazy weather
Got the [anchor]s higher up, upon the bows - Sour krout & vinegar, lime-juice and sugar served as usual.
Light airs and cloudy. Sandy shore dist. 3 or 4 miles to the Et. and trending nearly south. Furthest extreme S.b.E. from the masthead.

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[page 440]

1802 Apr. [Tuesday] - 13th. H.M.S. Investigator, explor[ing the south coast towards Bass's Strait.]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs approaching nearly to a calm
Continued standing parallel to a low, sandy shore.
At 4, saw land as far as S.b.W.
Light breezes and fine weather. At 5h.30' tacked offshore, it being then dist. 3 or 4 miles. A hummock behind the head of the bight, South and the furthest extreme S.30°.W. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Took in the stay-sails and afterwards, double reefed the topsails. At 10, tacked to the eastward
Mod. breezes and hazy weather, with drizzling rain. Tacked at 12, to the S.W.ward.
Squally with rain. Took in the jib and spanker. A considerable swell from S.b.W.
At 4, tacked to the eastward. At daybreak, saw the land, not more than 5 miles distant. Tacked ship Fresh breezes, with a confused sea from the south
At 9 missed stays and wore ship towards the land. - Saw a broad patch of rocks above water, to which we drew near towards after 11 oclock. At 111/2 tacked offshore: the breakers bearing N.55º. to 71'E. which surround the rocks, and dist. about 13/4mile. Noon. Mod. & fine weather: sea running as before . The rocks N64°.E. and extreme points of the land )( and )(, N.4° and S.44.E. last dist.

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[page 441]

[1802 Apr. Tuesday - 13th. H.M.S. Investigator explor]ing the south coast towards Bass's Strait

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The low sandy land, before mentioned as being topped by many small hummocks, continued the same until the commencement of this day; when the front bank ceased to be hummocky, and became more covered with bushes; and partially, some higher ground inland shewed itself over the bank towards the evening. - In the morning we found the ourselves abreast of the projecting land, )(, which had been the furthest extreme of the evening. The land here is well covered with small wood and is higher than the sandy bank of the last two days. The rocks, of which Mons. Baudin gave us information I judge to be those from which we tacked a little before noon; The latitude in which he placed them, to the best of my recollection, was 37º.1', but I make them to lie 4 or 5 miles farther to the southward. The breakers extend to some distance around them. They shew themselves well above the water, and by supposition they are 3 or 4 miles from the shore

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[page 442]

1802 Apr. [Wednesday] - 14th. H.M.S. Investigator explor-[ing the south coast of Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy, with a jumble of a sea from the S.W.ward. At 2h.15' tacked ship towards the land
At 41/2, tacked offshore: Point )( N.82E. 3 miles. Extremes from about No. to S.40E.
Mod. breezes & fine weather; but the ship uneasy from the motion of the sea.
At 10, tacked towards the land; until 12, when we handed T.Gt. sails and stood off; the wind being fresh; but soon after became light, accompanied with showers of rain at times.
At 31/2h. takes aback: filled on the starbd. tack and soon after tacked ship; the very variable and light, and soon after became calm. On a breeze springing up, tacked at 5h.40' to the S.E.ward.
At daylight, out 2nd. reefs and set staysails. A long swell from the S.W.ward.
Light breezes and cloudy. At 9, tacked ship off )( point, being but little to windward of our situation at 4h.30' PM.
Cleaned below and aired with stoves.
Sour krout served as usual.
Noon, light breezes and cloudy with a long swell from the S.W.ward. The land from N.24ºE. to S.72º40'Et. Nearest part, )(, N.79ºE. dist 6 or 7 miles.

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[page 444]

[1802 Apr. Wednesday - 14th. H.M.S. Investigator explor-]ing the south coast towards Bass's Strait

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The projecting part, )(, is sandy and is topped generally by bushes; in these respects much resembling the land lately seen. The north-eastern or inner part of the point is rocky and the sea breaks upon it with much violence; and there are also some black rocks straggling along the other parts of the projection.
    It is probable that the bight on the north side of )( affords shelter from south westerly winds; but since it is open to west, no one would venture to put into it but in the last extremity; and against this probability may be mentioned the bad unfitness of the bottom for [anchor]age as far as we have stood in, and also the uncertainty of the depth of water.
    From )(, the coast takes a direction more easterly than before, being S.E. nearly as far as we can see from this day at noon.-
    The heavy swell rolling in from the S.W. drives us much to leeward.

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[page 444]

1802 Apr. [Thursday] - 15th. H.M.S.Investigator explor[ing the south coast towards Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and cloudy, with a long swell from the southwestward
At 3, tacked towards the land.
At dusk the land from N.E. to E.S.E. but the particular parts not distinguishable
At 8, do. wr. Tacked offshore; the land just distinguishable
At 101/2h, tacked towards the land, until 12; when we tacked to the southward, the wind having come more off the land.
Mod. breezes and cloudy weather
At daylight, the extremes of the land from the mast head, bore N.b.E. to East; and apparently is the same land set yesterday at noon; but it can scarcely be seen at all from the deck
At 8, mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Tacked towards the land
Mustered ships company and saw them clean
At 113/4, tacked off shore: the land dist about 4 miles, sandy, with small hummocks upon it, and trending to the S.S.E.
Noon, moderate breezes and fine weather Extremes of the land from the deck N.19ºW. to S.65E. A patch of bare sand N.79ºE.

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[page 445]

[1802 Apr. Thursday - 15th. H.M.S.Investigator explor]ing the south coast towards Bass's Strait.

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


On tacking at 3 PM. the man at the masthead reported breakers to the west of us. I went up immediately afterwards but they could not be seen, and their existence may be doubted. -
   From the projection )(, mentioned yesterday, the land ceases to be so woody as before, but is more like the hummocky bank further to the northward. Bare patches of sand appear often, and of some extent. This bank is not high, but nothing inland appears above it

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[page 446]

1802 Apr. [Friday] - 16th. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the south coast towards Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and fine weather. At 2, tacked towards the land. Took in the staysails
Dble. reefed the top-sails. At 4 5, the shore, low and sandy, about 3 miles distant; tacked off the extreme in sight bearing S58 E.
Handed T.Gt. sails
Fresh breezes & fine. A southerly swell getting up. At 8, tacked towards the shore
At 10, stood off again. Lost a log line.
Fresh breezes & fine weather.
Mod. & fine weather.
No land seen at daylight. Out 2nd. reefs and handed set T.Gt. sails.
Light breezes and fine weather. Set staysails
At 9, tacked ship to the northward
Cleaned below
At 11, tacked on the ships falling off
At noon, nearly calm. No land in sight from the mast head -

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[1802 Apr. [Friday] - 16th. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the south coast towards Bass's Strait

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The furthest land seen this evening projected beyond the general line of the coast, and its connexion was not well ascertain. Its consistence seemed to be something different to the sandy land then abreast of us. This bank, which is topped with hummocks as before, is too low to be seen from a ships deck at a greater distance than 10 or 12 miles.
    From the soundings having increased to an unfathomable depth when our distance from the land cannot be more than 25 miles, I judge that the direction of the coast must now be altered; and it probably now runs eastward to Bass's Strait: the latitude at noon, having but little to the north of the north side of the strait. -

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1802 Apr. [Saturday] - 17th. H.M.S. Investigator, ex[ploring the south coast towards Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fine weather with haze. A still swell rolling in from the southward
Light cats-paws of wind at times, sufficient to enable us to keep the ships head one way, but not to give a perceptible motion through the water
Fine weather with haze
At 1/4 before 4, a light breeze sprung, with which we steered to make the land near the furthest extreme seen yesterday P.M.
At daylight, the land seen from the N1/2 E to E.b.S.
Set royals. -
At 7, braced upon the winds shifting, and took in the royals.
At 9, bore away along the shore at the distance of about 21/2 miles, the furthest extreme bearing N33.W. being the same set at S.58.E on the 16th PM.; but hauled up to the wind soon afterwards on its reshifting.
At noon, light breezes and fine weather
Extremes of the land N.30.W. to S.46.E. Nearest shore dist. 21/2 miles; some scattered rocks lying off.

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[1802 Apr. [Saturday] - 17th. H.M.S. Investigator, ex-]ploring the south coast towards Bass's Strait

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land made this morning proved to be near the furthest which had been seen on the 16th P.M. It projects something from the coast line and there is a bight back on its north side, the bottom of which we did not see further than to know that the point is connected with the main
The sea shore continues to be sandy and to be topped with hummocks as before; upon which the bare sand frequently shews itself. There is however in one point a material difference, for we see land of a considerable height looking over the front bank from a considerable distance inland
The furthest extreme is rocky and the present direction of the coast to the S.S.E. seems to terminate there. There are many breakers off the point

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1802 Apr. [Sunday] -18th. H.M.S. Investigator

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and cloudy.
At 11/2 h. tacked off shore on the wind heading. Extr. land S57(.E. rocky, with breakers off. At 4 tacked towards the land, but found that we had lost ground at 6; when we stood off again
Light airs and cloudy.
Calm, with very light airs at times, just sufficient to keep the ships head one way.
At day break, a light breeze sprung up, on which we steered in for the land, which was soon after seen to bear from N.b.W. to E.b.S. not very distinct, on account of the haze
At 9, kept away along the shore; but on the wind becoming less, and a heavy S.W. swell rolling in upon it, kept further off
Mustered ships company & saw them clean
At noon, rocky islets which were the furthest seen P.M. bore N.62(E. 4 or 5 miles, with extensive breakers round them.
Furthest extreme about E.S.E. sandy hummocks

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[page 451]

[Monday] - 19th exploring the south coast, to Bass' Strait

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and cloudy weather, with a long rolling swell from the south-westward
Furthest extreme of the land, E.51/2( S. Perceive by the bearings as well as the lead, that the ship is drifted to the eastward by the swell.
At 7, a breeze sprung up. Took in T. Gt. sails, and stretched off upon a wind until 9, when we brought to, with the M. top-sail.
Mod. breezes and cloudy
At 2, wore round and lay to: head towards the shore
Fresh breezes. Filled and stood in for an hour, on the winds heading, and then brought to again. Squally weather. Dble. Reefed the top-sails
At 6, made sail. In a squall clewed down the top sails, & treble reefed the F. and Mz. At 8, the land seen as far as E.S.E. moderately high
At 91/2 kept away as the shore trended; but at 101/2h, the wind suddenly shifted in a thick squall with rain, which obliged us to haul up close to weather the land, which was seen as far as S.E. Out 3rd. reefs of the F. and Mz. top sails, the weather very thick with rain, and the wind and sea rising considerably; but it was necessary to carry sail. At noon, rainy weather, and no land visible, though not further off than 4 or 5 miles

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1802 Apr. [Tuesday] - 20th. H.M.S. Investigator [exploring the south coast towards Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Strong breezes. At 0h.30, the weather cleared a little and a bold cliffy cape bore S.76 )( E. 5m. being the furthest land. At 2, kept away, and at 3 steered east along the shore
Squalls of rain at times, and the wr. so thick that nothing can be seen but at intervals.
At 4, a double rocky islet bore N.23 )(.E. 5 miles.
At 5h.30, the bold cape, )(, and a nearer one on at N75W. the rocky islet N.45 )(.W. Land seen indistinctly as far as about EN.E. Hauled to the wind off shore. Moderate weather at times, but squalls of wind and rain frequent, with lightening.
At 12, wore ship, having missed stays
Squalls of wind, hail, and rain. In 3rd. reef of the top-sails
At 5, wore ship. At daylight saw the land to the northward, and bore away for it
At 8, the double rocky islet bore N.67W. and after island )(. N.10.E. 5 or 6 miles being the same seen furthest last night
At 81/2, the appearance of land was seen to the southward, upon which we hauled up to the wind for an hour, but being then undeceived, bore away again. The land seen very indistinctly, but in continuation from )( island to a point which bore N.68 East at 11h - Strong squalls at times with rain, and very thick weather.

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[1802 Apr. Tuesday - 20th. H.M.S. Investigator] exploring the south coast towards Bass's Strait

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The shore along which our course has laid this evening and the preceding morning is considerably higher than we have seen lately; it is sandy, but not so sandy as that part where the shore is topped with hummocks. For want of a latitude yesterday at noon, the whole of the coast from the cliffy point which has sharp-pointed rocks lying off, eastward cannot be otherwise than ill laid down, both with respect to latitude and longitude, when compared with all the preceding parts of the coast; and its form also has been but imperfectly seen, one thick squall succeeding another so fast, and the sea running so high, that but little can be seen at the distance which common prudence requires us to keep. The cape )( is steep and bold and is nearly insulated though I think we may be certain that it is not quite so. The island )( is cliffy and flat; but not high. The coast is either very low at its back, or falls in to some distance. Further eastward we could see at intervals that the shore is sandy, and rather low, to the point set at east at 11h. A rock lies a few miles off the shore 7 or 8 miles on the west side of the point; but for want of satisfactory observations, from the thickness of the weather, and the 6 or 7 miles offing which it is necessary to our safety to keep, we can do no more than tell that land exists in about this situation

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1802 Apr. [Wednesday] - 21st. H.M.S. Investigator, along [the south coast towards Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Strong squalls with frequent rain. Clued down and set the treble-reefed top-sails occasionally and also the M. sail. At 2, kept up to the wind Close reefed the top-sails, reefed the M. sail and handed the mz topsail. Bent the storm staysails. The land seen at times only 5 or 6 miles to leeward, when the squalls clear away.
Sent down T. Gt. yards, and handed the F. top-sail. Strong gales with thick weather, but quite moderate at times. At 8, saw the land on lee beam NE, apply. 4 or 5 miles off at no great distance. Set F. and mz. top-sails and reefed M. sail
At 2, the weather moderated. Set jib and spanker and let out the 1st reefs; but a hard squall coming on were obliged to take them in again and to hand the F. and Mz. top-sails, and take in the main sail, which was not all accomplished before daybreak; at which time were gratified to find no land in sight, for the ship would now scarcely make her course good parallel to the shores. Strong breezes with squalls of wind and rain, at times.
At 9, set the F. and Mz. and let the reef out of the main, and the weather moderating still more, set the jib and spanker, and let out the close reefs. Saw high land astern, bearing at noon N.W.bW. to N.N.W. probably distant 8 or 10 leagues. Mod. breezes & fine & the sea much abated.

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[1802 Apr. Wednesday - 21st. H.M.S. Investigator, along] the south coast towards Bass's Strait

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The land seen this afternoon is rather a bold shore, though it is frequently sandy; I cannot, however, say much of it, since we could only see it when the squalls cleared away. That part seen at 8 P.M. under our lee appeared to be a head land of considerable height. A common regard to our safety required that we should keep as far off the shore as the wind would allow us to fetch, and I determined to quit the small remaining part of the unknown south coast until a more favourable opportunity. This I was prompted to by the violence of the wind and sea in the first place, and confirmed from the consideration, that captain Baudin had explored it before me, in the first place as well as from the lateness of the season, which also, as and well as also as the great expenditure of our provisions required us to proceed towards Port Jackson would not allow us to keep off the coast to wait for fairer weather. The land seen at noon, which must undoubtedly be a part of the main will lie in about the latitude 38 )(45'S. and by T. Kr. in longitude 144 )(36'Et.
    By the assistance of the current we find ourselves this day at noon, within the entrance of Bass's Strait; and according to the situation laid down by Mr. Reed, under the lee of a large island, the south end of which is in 40 )(.10'So. this is partly confirmed by the water getting so much smoother since 9 o'clock.

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1802 Apr. [Thursday] - 22nd. H.M.S.Investigator [exploring further in Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes & fine weather. Out 3rd. reefs, sent up T.Gt. yards and set the sails. - Hauled up to the southward to make Hunters Islands.
Mod. breezes & cloudy.
No land in sight at dusk.
Light breezes & fine
Nearly calm
Light breezes. Tacked to the westward. No land seen at day light
At 8, saw land to the S.W.wd which I judge to be an island before seen, but not explored
Fresh breezes & cloudy. Handed T.Gt. sails. Mustered ships company & saw them clean. At noon the extremes of the island 6 )(.W. to 62(.30'W. dist, in the nearest part 8 or 10 m.
High distant land seen N. 35 )(.W. from the mast head, apparently the same seen yesterday at noon. Fresh breezes and cloudy

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[Friday] - 22nd. [H.M.S. Investigator] exploring further in Bass's Strait

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy weather
Double reefed the top sails.
At 3 tacked, the N.W. extreme of the island S 311/2 )( W. Northern Main N42 )( to 20 )( .W.-
Do. weather.
Took in the jib and spanker: standing on under easy sail to the southward. At 10, the water shoaled to 16 fms. upon which we brought to, till 11, and then stretched to the northward. Thick rainy wr. with strong breezes in squalls.
At 31/2 saw the land on the lee bow, and at 4, tacked off for an hour and then stood in. At daylight the island extended from W.b.S. to south, distant 6 or 7 miles. Out 2nd. reefs & made more sail
Saw breakers extending 5 or 6 miles from the N.W. point of the island. At 9, tacked to the southward, being dist. off shore 4 or 5 miles, the N.W. point bearing S.46 )( W. Breakers as far as W.b.S.
At 11, tacked to the westward on the ship's falling off.
Fresh breezes & squally. At noon the highest land of the N.W. pt. bore true west. Nearest shore S.W. 4 or 5 miles.

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1802 Apr. [Saturday] - 24th. H.M.S. Investigator, off [the large Western island in Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and squally weather. Double reefed the top sails. At 1, tacked ship, working up towards the land. At 1h.45' tacked again, and at 2h.45' came to, with the small bower upon a bottom of fine sand & furled sails. Veered to half a cable, and the extremes of the land then bore S.43 )(.E and N.75 )(.W. Nearest shore S.24 )( W. about 2/5ths. of a mile. Hoisted out the cutter, and went on shore accompanied by the naturalist &c. Found a studg. sail boom thrown up by the sea, which we brought off at sunset, also one kanguroo and two womats. Hoisted in the cutter and prepared every thing for getting under weigh.
     Fresh breezes & squally weather. Hoisted out the cutter at day light, and the naturalist and others went on shore, further to examine the island and its productions. A small lake of fresh water was found, half a mile distant from the beach, surrounded by a more fertile soil. Two very small streams of high-coloured, fresh, water had been found on the preceding evening, caused apparently by the great late rains; these narrow down to the beach. At 9 made the signal for the boat to return, and afterwards fired two guns
At 11, weighed and made sail to the northward for the high land seen on the 22nd. and 23rd. at noon
Noon, fresh breezes and cloudy. Extremes of the island S.b.E. 1/2 E. to S.50 )(.W. Breakers seen out as far as W.1/2S. the same seen at 9 A.M. yesterday

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[1802 Apr. [Saturday] - 24th. H.M.S. Investigator, off] the large western island in Bass's Strait


On landing upon this large western island, which we did with not much difficulty in a bight behind a projecting rock, we found it covered with a brush so thick, that no one thought of attempting to penetrate it. On stepping on shore, I saw one of the animals called Womats upon a small grass hill near the shore, which I shot, and another was killed afterwards. Near the same place, was lying a top-mast studg .sail boom, not much injured, which I judge to have drifted from the wreck of the ship Sydney Cove at Preservation Island on the east side of the strait: it had no mark upon it. The kanguroo killed here holds a middle place in size between the small island kanguroo and the larger ones of the main, or of Kanguroo Island. A seal of a different species to any yet seen by us was also killed. Its phippers behind were double when compared to the common seal, and those forward were smaller and placed nearer the head. The nose was very flat and broad, like so that the difference in this part was like that of a mastiff to a shepherds dog. The quantity of fat upon the animal was at least treble in quantity, the hair much shorter, of a blueish grey cast. + Note. I afterwards heard this animal called the sea elephant.
   The small portions of rock that appear above the sand seem to be granite. The bank facing the sea is almost entirely sand, which is either blown or washed up in great ridges and is partly held together by the roots of a spreading grass.
    (One) Two womats were killed in the morning, and a skull picked up thought to be that of a small dog or perhaps opossum. The small lake of fresh water found by the naturalist was surrounded by a good soil. He collected a greater variety of plants upon this island than upon any one we have yet seen.

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1802 Apr. [Sunday] - 25th. H.M.S.Investigator, exploring [on the north side of Bass's Strait - N.S. Wales]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy. At 3 lost sight of the large western island. At 4, the high land of Main in sight, N.W. to N.b.W. from deck. At 5, double reefed the M. top-sails and hauled to the wind. Extremes N.69ºW. to 12ºE. Nearest land, a bluff point, N.65ºW. 3 or 4 leagues.
At 8, moderate breezes and cloudy, Tacked to eastward. Set T.Gt. sails.
At 12, saw high land on the lee beam. Tacked to the S.W.ward.
At 2, high land NNW. Light breezes and cloudy.
At 4, tacked to the eastward. At day light, the land extended N.N.E. to W.N.W. bore away for [?]
At 7, hauled up along the shore at the distance of 8 or 10 miles; the extremes bearing from N.NW. to N. 181/2°E; the last, a
square-topped projecting part. Out 2nd reefs, and set staysails.
At 10, set the F. and F.T. mast studg. sails
Steering along a bold, high shore, at the distance of about 8 miles.- Mustered the people and saw them all clean.
At noon, the extremes of the land from the deck S.72º.W. to N.19º.E. Light breezes and cloudy weather. Water remaining 371/2 tons

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[1802 Apr. Sunday - 25th. H.M.S. Investigator, exploring] on the north side of Bass's Strait - N.S.Wales

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


From the height of the barometer I had but little doubt of the weather remaining fine; and therefore, notwithstanding that the wind blew nearly on the the north coast of the strait, I steered over to trace as much of the remaining south coast of New Holland as we could, proceeding, at the same time, in our way towards Port Jackson. The land seen at 4 P.M. is much higher than we have usually seen near the coast, and was seen on the
22d. at noon from deck at the distance of leagues. I judge this land to be 13 leagues from the part of the coast seen at 8 P.M. on the 21st.- but the most western land seen this day is not more than 8 or 9 leagues from it.- This very bold coast, has a better appearance than almost any part of the south coast of New Holland, the upper ridges being well clothed with wood, and no bare sand or naked rock appearing in any part. The distinct point, (, set PM. and again A.M. is tolerably bluff, and to the westward the coast falls back before it stretches along to the western extreme: whether there is any thing more than a small indent in the coast there I cannot tell. The extreme which bore N.181/2ºE at 7h.A.M, is a square-topped projection, sufficiently singular to be noticed from the westward; but the high land behind it coming very near the shore, the projection is almost overshadowed by it, except at a very near distance.

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1802 Apr. [Monday] - 26th. H.M.S.Investigator explor[ing on the north side of Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light breezes and cloudy weather. At 1, saw land bearing N.59º.E. like an island: hauled more up.
At 2, hauled close to the wind, seeing low land running out to windward. At dusk, the island (seemingly) N.59ºE. to 79º[?] but there are spaces to the northward where the land is seen only at intervals. Bent the [?] cable. Light airs & fine weather. At 8, tacked from the shore
At 2, tacked to the northward; and again at 4 to the southward
At 5h.30' tacked towds. the land supposed to be an island, and which was soon after seen to the north-eastward. As we neared the land we found a low shore running in the front of the higher, supposed island, and to the N[?]ward, joining, apparently all round, Before eleven, bore away rounding the head of the bight; the bluff highest land N.71.E. and an irregular rocky point N91/2W. at 6 miles.- At noon, there was the appearance of an opening round the rocky point, but it seemed to be narrow and to break nearly across from the rocks off the point to the opposite head, which is a low bluff

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[1802 Apr. Monday - 26th. H.M.S.Investigator explor]ing on the north side of Bass's Strait

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


From the square topped point of yesterday the land trends to the N.N.E. becoming gradually lower until it is very low land. There is one remarkable hummock, which may be either an island or a hill near the sea side; it bore N.5ºW. at sunset. The land like an island seems to be high land, more especially at its western end where it slopes off suddenly, and the land to the northward seems to be further distant; whence I judge that between them may be the Western Port of Mr. Bass, although its distance is not equal to what I supposed of that port. In the morning, the joining of low land to the bluff mount, prevented us from thinking any further that we were near the Western Port, and until noon, no idea was entertained of any opening existing in this bight; but at that time, an opening became more and more conspicuous as we ran further west, and high land at the back appeared to be at a considerable distance; still however entertained but little hopes of finding a passage sufficiently deep for the ship, and the narrowness of the entrance prevented me from thinking it the west entrance into Wstern. Pt.

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1802 Apr. [Tuesday] - 27th. H.M.S. Investigator on the [north side of Bass's Strait, in No.16, Port]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes & fine weather. Soon after noon, hauled up for the opening. At 11/2h. entering the opening; [bore?] away to clear a ridge of rocks running off from the east point, towards which the ebb set us. At 2h.30', tacked on coming upon the edge of a shoal and afterwards occasionally between it and the south shore, working upwards. At 41/2h., the water shoaled suddenly, and the flood being made [dragged?] us upon a mud bank before the ship [came?] round, where she stuck fast. Lowered down the gig and sounded round the ship, finding it shoal to the east. Hoisted out the cutter and carried out a kedge, with which we hove her off, but she struck almost immediately against another bank of 10 feet. Sent the cutter to sound, and getting the ships head to the deep[er?] water she went off and the water soon deepened to 4,6, and 10 fms. upon which we came to with the best bower and furled sails. Light breezes & fine wr.
A.M. Mod. breezes and fine weather; overcasting at times. Took the cutter up the port, in order to ascend the bluff mount to the eastward and see the general form of the port and lay of the shoals. Employed on board in drying the sails which had gotten wet in the sail room from leaks, during the last gale
A large shark caught alongside. -
This day continued to 36 hours bringing it to civil [?].
Light breezes & fine weather. Employed as before

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[1802 Apr. Tuesday - 27th. H.M.S. Investigator, on the] north side of Bass's Strait, in No.16, Port

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


From several appearances, I at first judged this port to be Western Port, although many others did not answer; for capt. Baudin had met with no harbour along the coast after passing leaving that; and from his account he had had fine weather and kept the shore close on board to the time of his meeting us. The entrance is about 2 miles wide, but the deep channel in does not seem to be no much more than one mile. After passing the entrance, which may be safely done by keeping the rocks on the eastern hand tolerably close on board, the port opens into a spacious expanse of water, the northern boundary of which, is not visible from the mast head. There is a middle bank with shoal water round it about 3 miles from the entrance, and passages, seemingly, on each side. We took the weathermost, or southern passage and (finding) found the water to run deep close to the southern shore for some little distance. Afterwards, shoal water appeared in places both near the shore and towards the middle shoal and (bef) we grounded as before mentioned.
   In the expedition to the bluff mount which I judge to be about 7 miles from the ship, the naturalist and landscape painter accompanied me. The view from the mount presented a large expanse of water, the boundary to which was scarcely visible; and for 60º to the No.ward could not be at a less distance than 15 miles, and may probably be twice as much

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1802 Apr.[Tuesday] - 27th. Investigator in No.16 Port


Additional remarks continued
      and round the furthest visible point on the western shore the water extended to the S.W.ward, until lost behind the land. No island, the middle dry shoal excepted, or other object appeared in the port to attract attention; but it appeared seemed to be an immense basin of water, most of which is may probably be shoal; in going, and in returning, however, we had tolerably regular soundings from 4 to 7 fms, passing a little without the place where the ship grounded. To the eastward 3 or 4 leagues, a considerable space of water appeared which seemed to be shoal, but having communication with the sea this may possibly probably be Western Port. - The soil about the mount was found to be much superior to any we have yet seen on any part of the coast of New Holland, and is equal to the middling ground in the best parts about Port Jackson, although upon the salt-water borders. Marks of natives, such as fire places & heaps of oyster shells, were frequent along the shores; and a small club was picked up by another party who landed abreast of the ship. We were regaled by a feast upon the largest and best-tasted oysters which I recollect to have seen, and these were mostly collected at high-water mark, which is a thing I never saw or knew before. Several new plants were found, and a new kind of white cockatoo, with the whose under feathers were red, was shot. - I found by the shore, that the tide did not fall this P.M. above 4 feet or perhaps 3: whereas its rise in Western Port is from 10 to 14 feet according to Mr. Bass.

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[Wednesday.] - 28th. Proceeding up the port.

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Light airs and cloudy weather. Employed stowed away the dry sails.
Light breezes and fine weather. At 61/2h., returned on board in the cutter.
Mod. breezes and cloudy
Light breezes & fine, afterwards moist hazy weather. At 6h3/4 weighed and made sail. On coming near the middle shoal, tacked to the eastward, keeping along its south side, and kept away at times on the water shoaling. At 8h.25', shortened sail, and the tide being nearly high water, came to with the stream [anchor] in 71/2 fms. fearing we might ground at high water and be left. The bottom sandy. South point of the entrance W.3º.30'N Bluff mount S.80º.30'E Nearest shore S.W. about 11/2 miles, part of the peninsula which forms the south side of the port.
Sent the acting master to sound, who found the continuation of the middle shoal not more than a cables length from us, but a good channel between it and the shore, leading to the N.E.ward.

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1802 Apr. [Thursday] - 29th. H.M.S. Investigator [in No. 16 - Port]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Light air with hazy weather. At 3, the tide began to slack and a light breeze sprang up: weighed and made sail. At 3h.36' tacked, working to the N.E.ward, but the wind dying away, [anchor]ed at 4h1/2 in 71/4 fms with the stream. This also [anchor] 2
Mod. breezes and cloudy weather
Nearly calm
Mod. breezes and cloudy.
At daylight, the Commander took the cutter upon an excursion to examine the port. At 7, weighed and made sail, working downwards. At 7h.50' touched the ground, having 10 feet on one side and 5 fms. on the other. At 8, having swung clear, came to in 71/2 fms. Sent the gig to sound round Inner No. point of entrance bearing W.b.N.N.
At 11h.30', weighed and made sail working downwards. Noon, light breezes & fine weather

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[page 469]

[Friday] - 30th. [H.M.S. Investigator] in No. 16 - Port

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. and cloudy. At 0h.45' came to with best bower in 6 fms. sandy bottom, on the wind shifting. The entrance into the port N.77W. Bluff Mount, East. Highest of I inland mounts N.44°W.
Cloudy with rain. Lost overboard the iron stock of the stream [anchor] from the fore lock coming out.
Cloudy with rain and lightening.
Fresh breezes and cloudy with haze and rain at times. Cleaned the ship and scrubbed hammks. Noon Mod. breezes & fine wr.

[Saturday] May 1st.
Fresh breezes and cloudy; afterwards calms, and squalls at intervals with rain. Double reefed the miz top-sail A.M.
A.M. Light breezes and cloudy weather
People employed getting another stream [anchor] out of the hold, over the side ready for letting.
Light breezes and fine wr.

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[page 470]

1802 May [Sunday] - 2nd. H.M.S. Investigator. No.16

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs and calms. At 2, weighed and made sail further down towards the entrance, the gig ahead sounding. Hauled up and bore away occasionally to avoid shoal water At 51/2 came to with best bower at [anchorage] 5. in 6 fms. fine sand. The entrance of the port N.85W. Bluff mount N84°.E. Middle dry bank N.45° to 55°E. Furled sails
Strong breezes and cloudy
Fresh breezes. At 7h.15' weighed and dropped [?] down and soon after came to at [anchorage] 6 in 9 fms. fine brown sand. Veered to a third of a cable and furled sails
Points of the entrance S86° & N85°W. Bluff mount S85E. off shore about 1/2 mile.
Mustered ships company and saw them clean.
Noon, calm and cloudy.

Boats expedition to examine the port -[Thursday] - 29th. A.M.
At 6h. left the ship in the cutter and proceeded along the eastern shore of the port abt 11/4 m. dist., round the point of the middle shoal. Carried from 61/2 to 9; and 71/2 fms. on drawing nearer to the steep shore of the 1st. and 2nd. eastern points, and 4 fms. close.
Landed about 2 miles short of the 3rd. eastern point and took the alts. for T.K. that follow, having Arnolds watch No. 1736 with me, compared with the other two time keepers before and after the expedition. The difference of comparison being 17".5 which it had gained on 543. -
Walked to the 3rd. eastern point through a good country


Boats expedition to examine the port -[Thursday] - 29th. A.M.
At 6h. left the ship in the cutter and proceeded along the eastern shore of the port abt 11/4 m. dist., round the point of the middle shoal. Carried from 61/2 to 9; and 71/2 fms. on drawing nearer to the steep shore of the 1st. and 2nd. eastern points, and 4 fms. close.
Landed about 2 miles short of the 3rd. eastern point and took the alts. for T.K. that follow, having Arnolds watch No. 1736 with me, compared with the other two time keepers before and after the expedition. The difference of comparison being 17".5 which it had gained on 543. -
    Walked to the 3rd. eastern point through a good country

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[page 471]

Boats expedition. [Thursday] - 29th. A.M. civil time

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


country, and took bearings. Not being able to return to the boat before noon, took another set of altitudes, to form with the others double altitudes for the latitude, annexed. - At the point I found that a very low shore much curtailed the size of the point on the N.E. part which had appeared to extend to the feet of high land and there being much appearance of strong westerly winds, we set off as soon as possible to row across the port to the west side. In crossing, we found [no?] less than 11 fms. but generally no bottom with 12, until we drew near the Indented Point on the west side when we had 9, then 10 feet; and about 9 oclock, landed.

[Friday] - 30th. On looking round in the morning a fire was found at the distance of 200 yards from the tents, and from appearances I judged that natives had taken up their residence there in the evening, but had decamped upon our landing. Whilst taking bearing upon the N.E. part of the point, some natives were seen upon the shore to the westward whither we rowed; and landing, found 2 a huts with a fires in them it, but their utensils and arms gone. I left some pieces of red bandage, of which they are fond, hanging about the hut, and rowed along the shore towards a large piece of water which extends to the S.W.ward. - Whilst rowing along the shore

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[page 472]

1802 May Apr. [Friday] - 30th. continued, civil account. Boats expedition

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

shore, three men appeared and came down to the boat without any hesitation. They received a shag, and some trifles with much pleasure, and parted with such of their arms as we wished to possess without reluctance. These natives followed us along the shore, and saw me shoot another shag which hovered over the boat. On giving holding it they again ran down to the shore, and on our landing they came again to us. They seemed to understand the effect of the musket, having I suppose, seen me shoot other birds but they yet acted without fear or seeming suspicion; and parted with the whole of their arms. - At this place I took bearings from the top of the bank and took the annexed latitude -
    Rowing along shore, we stopped at a low sandy point about 1 or 11/4 mile west of the place of observed latitude; here I took alts. For the Time Keeper, as annexed, and other bearings.
     From the low point, steered across the the water which runs to the S.W.ward, towards a high peaked hill which is the largest of a short ridge of the same kind. In going across the soundings were at 3/5ths of a mile from the shore 4, at mile 5, 51/2, 51/2, 6, about mid passage, 51/2, 51/2, 4, 31/2, and then shoal water above a mile from the shore, on which were many ducks and other water fowl. The distance across, by guess, is six miles. Pitched the tent on the low marshy shore.

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[page 473]

May 1st. Boat excursion in No. 16 - Port

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


At the dawn of day in the morning I set off with three men to the top of the hill, which we I supposed to be 6 or 7 miles dist. but found it to be about 10 to the foot of the hill. From the top, the head of the port, of the water leading S.W.ward, and considerable extent of surrounding country were within my view. I was not able to get back to the boat for 31/2h. when Mr. Lacy, the midshipman of the [bo]at, gave me the suns altitude taken from the artificial horizon at noon, as annexed -
After taking some refreshment, we rowed back across the water, to the place of observed latitude yesterday, upon the N.W. [?] of Indented Point. Coming near the shore after dark, some fires were seen moving along the shore, and on landing we found 2 new-erected huts with fires and many of the utensils which the natives usually carry about with them, and which must have belonged to some of those seen before, since some rice was found in one of the baskets.

[Sunday] - 2nd. We remained undisturbed all night, no natives appearing until the boat had left the shore, when seven of them appeared shewed themselves upon the brow of the hill. Some ran down immediately to the huts to examine how we had left them into the state of their huts, and finding everything as they left it, a little water excepted of which we were in want, they went to our fire place; and from thence they followed us along the shore for some little distance.

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[page 474]

1802 May [Sunday] 2nd. continued. Boats excursion in No. 16 - Port

Along the whole of the shore of Indented Point, from the [N.ern?] part, westward, we found the water to be very shoal, having no more than 6 feet. From thence steering to the southward about 1/2 mile from the shore, the soundings were 2,2, 11/4 past the easternmost part of the point; then 11/2, 3, 4 at 2/3rd of a mile off shore, and continuing on for the low sandy peninsula, had from 31/2 to 21/4. Upon two parts of this peninsula I took bearings about the noon, but no latitude could be observed on account of the clouds.
Steering from hence for the ship, the soundings were from 21/2 to 5 fms. which last I suppose to be in near the middle of the passage up the port on the west side of the middle shoal. The water shoaled from thence gradually to 21/2, which was probably upon the tail of the shoal. Soundings afterwards to the ship were as follows 3, 4, 5, 41/2, 41/4,5, 47 in the southern channel, 7, 7, 61/2, 5, 41/2, 71/2, 8, 9, 81/2 to the ship where we arrived about 4 oclock.

[continuation of page 475]
yet seen, and answers well to Mr. Bass description of land upon the borders of Western Port in its neighbour hood.
    In every part, the least elevated above the beach, I found a good even grass covering the country; in some parts thickly covered, in others thinly, and in others destitute of wood. The sides and bottoms of the hills have the deepest soil; the uncovered plains, which are very extensive, have a [.?.] and shallower soil. Sand mixed with the soil in different
[continued on page 476]

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[page 475]

General observations upon the port No.16

The entrance into this port is so obscure, and when seen, the tide appears so much like breakers running across it, that I wonder not at Mons. Baudin not having seen, or having seen it, not venturing to enter it. The extent and direction of the shoals, as far as our short stay would enable me to ascertain them will best appear by the chart. I judge the general rise of tide to be from 3 to 5 feet, but towards the furthest parts it seems to be scarcely so much from the swinging of the ship, which yet differed in different stages, the time of high water seems to be about 21/2 hours after the [moon] passes the meridian. From the narrowness of the entrance and the large space of water within, it follows that the tides run with much rapidity; and this is more particularly the case just without the entrance where the water is much shoaler than within and occasions a violent rippling. Upon an ebb tide and a S.W. gale it would scarcely be safe to pass it, and at all times it will be dangerous to boats.
    After entering, the deepest channel lies on the south side of the middle bank and shoal, but it is irregular in breadth and depth and seems to divide in one or two places. The channel on the west side of the shoal seems also to be of sufficient depth for a ship to pass it into the body of the port. -
   The country which surrounds this port is infinitely superior to any part of the south coast which we have
[continued on page. 474].

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[page 476]

General observations - No.16 - port

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

different proportions. - A friendly intercourse might easily be established with the natives, who already are acquainted with the effect of fire arms, and are anxious to possess many of our conveniences. - They are evidently the same kind of men as in King Georges Sound and Port Jackson, but I think them to be more fleshy and muscular than the former; perhaps from being better fed. Their arms and utensils differ little from those of the others already known. Of the language, no word is collected: it is different entirely to that spoken at Port Jackson. Emu's, kanguroos, and a variety of birds are here, the latter in numbers; amongst which are black swans and innumerable ducks.

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[page 477]

[Monday] - 3rd. from No.16 port - eastward

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Mod. breezes and cloudy weather.
At 4, returned on board in the cutter from examining the port
Light airs and calms. Lightening to the westward.
Mod. breezes and cloudy weather
Fresh & afterwards light breezes & fine wr.
At 6h.40' weighed to go out with the last half of the ebb.
Backing, filling, and tacking occasionally, drifting out with the tide. At 8, the extreme rock of the south point of entr. S 30°E. 2/3rd. of a mile. Immediately on clearing the entrance, the wind freshened. Dble. reef the T.Ss. At 93/4, kept away along the shore. At noon, fresh breezes and cloudy. )( cape N.40.W. 4 or 5 miles. A steep cape seen to the east which is probably the S.E. end of the isle forming Western Port, the west entrance of which is open

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[page 478]

1802 May [Tuesday] - 4th. Investigator exploring [the north side of Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]

Strong breezes and cloudy weather. At [0.?h] Hauled off to clear a reef of rocks lying off S.W. end of the large I. Passed by some discoloured water at 21/2h. & yawed to clear it. At 4, the eastern entrance into Western Port N.35°.W. 7 or 8 miles. At sunset Cape [Wollamai?] N541/2°.W. A cape S.65°.E. At 5h.30' treble reefed and hauled to the wind off shore. Fresh winds. Close reefed the F. and M. and handed the mz. Reefed the M. sail - A considerable sea from the S.W.ward
At wore and stood towards the land for two hours and then wore off again until 4. Squally with at times, and blowing a fresh gale.
At 4, wore towards the land. At 61/2, s[aw] a head bearing E5°.N. and some peaks of land off it. Bore away. Found the peak to be the entrance of Wilsons Promontory, and lumps of land, islands, which lie off it. At 9, a high peaked island abt. 6 miles from the promontory. N841/2E. Another high island S62°E for which we kept up.
Sour krout served as usual.
At noon, the high peaks N.21°W. The S° [?] Island N.40E 6 or 7 miles, near which are two remarkable peaked rocks.
Fresh gales and squally weather, with fine intervals.

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[page 479]

[1802 May [Tuesday] - 4th. Investigator exploring] the north side of Bass's Strait

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


The west passage into Western Port appears to be wide, but breakers seem to occupy part of it. Off the S.W. end lies a reef of rocks about 11/2 mile, one of which is high and square topped. About the middle of the island is a projection off which lies two rocks, one of which is sugar-loaf shaped. From thence a bight is formed in the land, and it curves to the S.E. point, which is Cape Wollamai. This cape is steep but the land at the back of it low. The opposite part of the main across the east passage is moderately high; but the hills soon leave the sea coast, which then is sandy, and rather a low shore. The island seems destitute of wood to seaward, and many breakers lie along its coast.
     Wilsons Promontory is very high irregular land, but the thick haze and clouds much obscured it. The islands lying off it, are rocky and of moderate height generally. The greatest number lie to the west side of the promontory but they are too clustered and the weather to thick to define much amongst them. From our corrected run, the promontory will be about 39°.12'So. much different to its situation by Mr. Bass; and the islands to the southward will differ somewhat more. The difference of longitude from Western Port to the Promontory is near the truth.

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[page 480]

1802 May [Wednesday] - 5th. H.M.S. Investigator, pass[ing through Bass's Strait towards Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Strong breezes and cloudy. Finding ourselves further to the south than expectation, at [0h3?] bore away for Keats Group - Cut up beef No.63 answered contents. - At 2. Keats Group in sight bearing N.65.E.
At dusk a peaked rock bore E.S.E. and the body of Keats Group W.N.W. dist. asunder abt. 4 leagues. No land in sight further. Steered to the eastward, having one reef out of the M.T.sail. Weather finer and wind more moderate.
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
At daylight out 3rd. reefs and set M.T.Gt. sail
Let 2nd. reef out of the F. top-sail
Cleaned below and aired with stoves.
Set M. sail and F.T.Gt. sail
Fresh breezes and cloudy. The appearance of land seen to the N.N.W.ward.

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[page 481]

[1802 May [Wed.] 5th. H.M.S. Investigator, pass]ing through Bass's Strait towards Port Jackson

[Astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

In passing through the strait this time I find some material errors in the relative positions of Keats Group & Wilsons Promontory with the islands between. These I shall be able to rectify, and to add a rock to the chart which had been very imperfectly seen before. - The A part of Furneauxs largest Island was visible this evening, bearing S.53ºE. - Being tolerably well satisfied that nothing lies in our way beyond the small rock which we passed at dusk, I thought it sufficiently safe to run all night, having such easy sail set, as we could haul to the wind under. - As near as I can combine our present longitude by time keepers, with the lands laid down according to lunar observations in Port Dalrymple, the difference will be 16' which the two time keepers are to the[?] eastward, being nearly the error with which we left Bay No.10, and which is given by my observations on April 17th. Whence it should appear that the last rates are good

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[page 482]

1802 May [Thursday] - 6th. H.M.S.Investigator [towards Port Jackson]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]

Mod. breezes and cloudy Set stay sails
At 4, brought to, to sound.
Land about the Ram Head seen in patches from N.1/2W. to W.b.N.1/2N.
Mod. breezes and fine weather
At 3 tacked towards the land
Lightening to the N.W.ward. Handed T.Gt.sails.
At 7 , squally: double reefed the topsails.
Saw the land to the N.W.ward
Fresh breezes and cloudy.
At 11, tacked to the eastward. Mustered ships company & saw them clean. At noon, dull cloudy weather, no observations could be procured.

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[page 483]

[Friday] - 7th. [H.M.S. Investigator] towards Port Jackson

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with fine weather. Out 2nd. reefs and set T.Gt. sails. Clued down the M. top-sail to repair the leech rope
The land in sight in hummocks from N.b.W. to West.
Cloudy weather, with lightening from the N.E. to S.E. of a threatening appearance: hauled a point further off shore
Squally, with rain at times. Took in and set T.Gt. sails occasionally
Fresh breezes and squally. Dble. reefed the top sails
At 7, set the T.Gt. sails, and stay sails
Lumps of land from W.b.S. to N.W.b.W.
Got the two 12lb carronades out of the hold into their carriages
Cleaned below, and aired with stoves - Sour krout served as usual. Mt. Dromedary W1/2S. Other land as far N.W.

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[page 484]

1802 May [Saturday] - 8th. H.M.S. Investigator, towards [Port Jackson, From Bass's Strait]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Variable moderate breezes and cloudy wr.
Served slops to the ships company.
Fresh breezes
On the wind shifting suddenly to the southward, hauled up the main sail and handed T.Gt. sails
Took in the jib & double 3rd. reefed the F.top [sail?].
Fresh breezes and squally with drizling rain
Wind being more steady and weather sett[led?] made more sail.
Out 3rd. reef of the F.top sail.
At daylight, hauled up to make the land.
Cut up pork No. 38 to its contents
Set M.T. mast stay sail
Land seen indistinctly from the mast head. -
Handed T.Gt. sails and took in the spanker. Land from the mast head at W.b.S. which I judge to be near Hat Hill. Fresh breezes and cloudy.

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[page 485]

[1802 May Saturday - 8th H.M.S.Investigator, towards] Port Jackson, from Bass's Strait


If the land seen at noon and this P.M. was Mt. Dromedary, it must be visible at an immense distance; for it was seen from deck. The error of the time-keepers [?]ing at this time supposed 16' to the east, the distance of the mount, taking it to be in [?]0º.4' Et., will be 28 leagues. At the time of seeing the land, I could scarcely believe this but supposed conjectured the time-keepers error to be much more considerable.+ For this reason, I kept further off ceased to steer in for the coast at 10 P.M.: but, at daylight, hauled up as near as the wind would then permit us, for the land

+which was afterwards found to be the case

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[page 486]

1802 May [Sun.] 9th. H.M.S.Investigator [into Port Jackson]

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Set [?] sails & spanker trying to fetch the heads Port Jackson. At 4, the entrance bore West and soon after saw the colours upon the south head. Shewed a white flag at the T.Gt. Mt. head, being a private signal to the [?] At 6, the flag staff S.W.b.W. off shore 7 or 8 miles.
Fire on the south head W1/2S.
At 10, tacked towards the land on the wind heading.
Fire on the south head W.b.S. Tacked s[outh?].
Mod. breezes & fine weather. Out 2nd reef of the top sails and set stay sails.
At 4, tacked to the N.W. but found ourselves still to leeward of the port at daylight, the south head bearing W.N.W. when we tacked at 6h.20'. - Shewed colours and private signal. Moderate breezes and cloudy weather At 9, tacked ship to the westward, the wind heading at that time.
At noon, steering in for the entrance with a free wind, bearing N.W.b.W. 2 or 3 miles.

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[page 487]

[Monday] - 10th [H.M.S. Investigator] into Port Jackson

[Navigational data and astronomical observations not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes and fine weather. At 1, entered the heads; tacked and took on board the pilot, and worked up to the mouth of Sydney Cove, where we came to with the small bower in 51/2 fms, at 3h.15'. Furled sails, lowered down the cutter, and the Commander went to wait upon His Excellency the governor. Found riding here H.M.S. Porpoise and brig Lady Nelson the French ship Naturaliste, a whaler and a privateer brig. Light breezes and fine weather. At sunset, down T.Gt. yards
A.M. Light breezes and fine weather.
People employed upon occasional duties



Taken upon the east point of Sydney Cove on May 13th. by log where the latitude is 33º.52' 00"S.

For additional remarks, see pages 524-527 near the end of this book.

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[page 488]

1802 May [Tuesday] - 11th. H.M.S.Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson.]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Light airs with fine weather. Employed occasionally. A.M. At daylight the pilot came on board, weighed the [anchor] and warped into a convenient berth for being near Banilongs point, and moored ship a ca[ble?] each way. Hoisted out the launch


[Wednesday] - 12th. Light and moderate breezes alternately. Sent two bell tents and a markee to the east point of the cove, where we also began to land empty casks to be examined and repaired by the cooper. Unrove part of the running rigging which was bad, to be ready for surveying. Sent a corporal and 3 marines to the tent as a guard Calm. A.M. Fresh breezes with rain at times. Sent the observatory and some instruments on shore to the tents. Held a survey upon decayed boatswains stores and upon the remains of Boatswains Carpenters and Gunners stores; as also upon the barracadoing of the quarter deck Having found this barracading a great detriment obstruction to my surveying; and con-

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[page 489]

[Tuesday - 12th H.M.S.Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson


ceiving it to be a detriment to the ships sailing, I wrote to His Excellency, who is the naval senior officer in these seas, representing this matter; upon which he ordered the commander of the Lady Nelson, the Carpenters to the Territory, and of this ship to survey it and report their opinions as to any injury which the ship might sustain from its removal. Their report corresponding with what I had represented, His Excellency gave me an order to have it removed without delay, and sent four convict carpenters to assist in the work


[Thurs.] - 13th Fresh breezes with rain at times. Employed sending on shore empty casks, and about the condemned stores
Arrived the Britannia, whaler - Turnbull from a fishing cruize off these coasts A.M. Fresh breezes & cloudy. Loosed sails to dry. Entered 4 supernumerary carpenters to assist in taking down the barracade. Cooper on shore repairing casks. People employed in the holds Served out greens to the ships company

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[page 490]

1802 May [Friday] - 14th. H.M.S. sloop Investigator [In the harbour of Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes with showers of rain. People on board employed in the holds and sending on shore the empty casks. Sent a suit of sails on shore to the tents and the sail-makers to repair them. A.M. Do. weather. Punished And. Robinson (marine) with 12 lashes for mutinous expressions. Held a survey upon the remains of Boatswains Gunners and Carpenters stores. Employed sending on shore casks, and in other duties.


[Saturday] - 15. Fresh breezes with rain at times. Employed as before, upon the bulwark, clearing the ship and getting the provisions up to be surveyed A.M. Employed on board as before. Sailmakers at the tents upon the sails.


[Sunday] - 16. Rainy at times & unsettled weather Recd. a turn of water by launch. A.M. Mustered the ships company and saw them clean and afterward part had leave to go on shore. Weather unsettled & rainy


[Monday] - 17. Fresh breezes and squally with rain A.M. Do. weather. Employed as before in the holds and at the tents.

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[page 491]

[1802 May Tuesday - 18th H.M.S. sloop Investigator] In the harbour of Port Jackson

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Varble. Winds and weather. Employed on board in the holds, and at the tents in repairing sails and casks. Carpenters taking down the bulwark and refitting the rails.
A.M. Employed as above. Sailed the French national ship Le Naturaliste having procured some supplies of bread, but little or no meat, the colony being at a short allowance of that necessary


[Wednesday] - 19th. Moderate breezes and cloudy weather. Employed as before about the barracading, repairing sails and casks and in the holds. Sent the hammock clothes on shore to be painted. A.M. Do weather. Empd. as before.


[Thursday] - 20th. Moderate and cloudy. Recd. a load of water by the launch. A.M. Sent the parts of the garden house on board the Supply hulk. Held a survey upon the remains of Pursers stores. Do. weather


[Fridday - 21. Fresh breezes and cloudy with rain Employed stowing away the provisions after being surveyed; otherwise, as before
A.M. Moderate & fine weather. Employed as above, principally in the holds.

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[page 492]

1802 May [Saturday] - 22. H.M.S. Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Moderate breezes and cloudy with rain. Arrived the American ship Arthur - Jenckes, from Providence, with provisions and sundries. Launch employed watering to complete the 2nd tier. A.M. Varble. with hard rain at times. Employed on board in the holds, and upon the barracade, and on shore at the observatory, and in repairing sails and casks.


[Sunday] - 23. Fresh breezes with hard rain. Employed in the holds. A.M. Frequent rain. Part of the ships company had leave to go on shore
   Applied to His Excellency, the governor for an order to bear two supernumeraries [.?.]


[Monday] - 24. Do. weather. A.M. Mod. and cloudy.
Punished John Clark, seaman, with 12 lashes for leaving a boat when on duty. Employed watering the ship and in the holds.


[Tuesday] - 25. Mod. and cloudy. Employed in the various occupations as before. A.M. Received 1078 gallons of rum from the ship Arthur for the ships use. Employed pumping it off into good casks and stowing it away in the after hold. - Do. weather.

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[page 493]

[ Wednesday] - 26 [H.M.S. Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. breezes with fine weather. Employed in the after hold stowing away spirits. A.M. Recd. 987lbs of tobacco from the ship Arthur for the ships use. Employed in the holds


[Thursday] - 27. Fine weather. Employed about the barracade and in the holds as before. A.M. Struck the M. top-mast and unrigged the main mast. Carpenters refitting the barracade rails &c. Sailed for Otaheite, H.M.S. Porpoise, to fetch pork for the settlement. Two men on shore painting the hammock clothes, besides the sailmakers and cooper.


[Friday] - 28th. Mod. breezes and fine weather. Employed overhauling the main rigging. Sailed the Cumberland and Francis, colonial schooners, for Broken Bay. Sailmakers, carpenters, cooper and people employed as before. The armourer employed refitting the hammock stations. A.M. Employed as before.


[Saturday] - 29th. Rigged the main mast, fidded the top mast and set up the rigging. A.M. Employed rattling down the rigging, and in sundry other duties as before.

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1802 May [ Sunday] - 30th. H.M.S. Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Mod. and cloudy weather. Swayed up the main yard. Opened beef No. 53, contents 42 pieces, short 32 lbs on being cut up in the presence of the warrant officers; and pork No. 19, contents 53 pieces, right. A.M. Light breezes with rain. Mustered the ships company and gave part leave to go on shore.


[ Monday] - 31. Calm, with lightening, and drizzling rain. A.M. Light breezes and fine. Sent the launch for a load of water. Employed about the rigging.


June [Tuesday] 1. Mod. with finer weather. Employed about the rigging, the bulwark, sails, casks, and at the observatory. A.M. Blacked yards and mast heads. Punished Richd. Hetherly, seaman, for staying beyond his leave, for drunkenness, and using mutinous expressions, with two dozen lashes.


[Wednesday] - 2. Cloudy with drizzling rain. Arrived the brig Harrington - Campbell from a sealing cruise in Bass's Strait. A.M. Moderate and cloudy. Employed tarring down the rigging and getting on board present use water

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[page 495]

[Thursday] - 3rd. [H.M.S.Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed painting the lower masts, tarring down the rigging and other duties as before mentioned. A.M. Do. weather. Employed as necessary


[Friday] - 4th. Fresh breezes with fine weather. Employed clearing and cleaning the ship. A.M. Dressed the ship with colours in honour of His Majestys birth day.


[Saturday] - 5th. Do. weather. At 1 P.M. fired a royal salute and afterwards the Commanders and Officers dined with His Excellency the governor to celebrate the birth day. A.M. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Sent a masters mate and 6 men to cut wood on the north side of the harbour. Washed and cleaned below. Employed otherwise as necessary


[Sunday] - 6. Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. People on board and on shore employed as necessary. A.M. Drizzling rain. Mustered the ships company and saw them clean as usual; and afterwards paid them for their savings of bread since leaving the Cape of Good Hope +, and gave a part leave to go on shore. +amounting to £54.5.3

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[page 496]

1802 June H.M.S. Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Monday] - 7th. Sailed the Speedy, South Sea whaler - Quested, for England by the way of Cape Horn. A.M. Fresh breezes and squally with rain. Employed clearing the decks and in occasional duties. -


[Tuesday] - 8. Fresh breezes and squally. Employed as necessary. A.M. Do. weather. Washed and cleaned below; employed otherwise in necessary duties


[Wednesday] - 9. Mod. breezes and cloudy, with rain at times. A.M. Recd. present use water by the launch. Sailmakers and cooper employed on shore as before. Carpenters making arch pieces for the ports, and otherwise completing the upper deck railing. People employed occasionally


[Thursday] - 10. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed as before: - the party still wooding on the north side of the harbour. A.M. Rain at times. Employed upon necessary duties


[Friday] - 11. Fresh breezes and squally. Fired a salute of 17 guns upon the coming on board of His Excellency the governor of New South Wales. A.M. Mod. & fine weather. Recd. wood by the launch. Dried the [?] and cleaned the ship.

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1802 June - [H.M.S. Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Saturday] -12. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed as necessary. A.M. Mod. & fine. People picking oakum for the carpenters.


[Sunday] - 13. People employed occasionally. Carpenters caulking the sheer-plank round the timber heads. A.M. Mod. & fine wr. Mustered the ships company and saw them clean as usual on this day; afterwards a part had leave to go on shore. Sailed the Britannia, on a fishing cruize.


[Monday] -14th. Mod. & fine weather. Arrived the ship Coromandel - Sterling with prisoners 4 months from Portsmouth. A.M. Do. weather. Employed as necessary in wooding &c.


[Tuesday] - 15th. Cloudy, with rain at times, and distant thunder. Repairing sails, and casks, wooding, and other necessary occupations employ the ships company
A.M. Launch employed wooding. Punished Andrew Robinson, marine, with 12 lashes for leaving his post when sentry. Entered Thos. Toney, seaman, being the third entered here to replace the boats crew lost upon the south coast. -

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1802 June H.M. Ship Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Wednesday] - 16th. Calm and fine weather. Launch employed wooding. A.M. Mod. & fine wr. Launch employed bringing on board a part of a twelve-months provisions sent out in the Coromandel for this ship; and in landing the remainder. Entered Joseph Tuzo and John Simmonds.


[Thursday] - 17th. Mod. and cloudy. Employed principally about the provisions, as yesterday. A.M. Thick foggy weather, afterwards clearer. Employed as before about the provisions.


[Friday] - 18. Fresh breezes and fine weather. Employed landing provisions and placing them in the store. A.M. Mod. breezes. Employed in the holds stowing away provisions, and on shore doing the same in the colonial store. Entered Thos. (Sher?) Brown


[Saturday] - 19. Mod. & fine weather. The launch employed in fetching water to complete the third tier. A.M. Employed as before. Carpenters caulking the water-way seam upon the upper deck.

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1802 June [H.M. Ship Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Sunday] - 20th. Mod. and fine weather. Employed in the holds completing the 3rd tier with water and provisions. Sailmakers, Cooper, and Armourer employed on shore as before


[Monday] - 21st. Mod. & fine weather. Gave part of the ships company leave to go on shore. A.M. Light airs. Sent a boat to assist in towing up the French national ship Le Geographe, which came within the heads yesterday. Employed in the holds. Entered Francis Smith - seaman.


[Tuesday] - 22. Mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Employed in the holds. Carpenters caulking upon the upper deck. Le Geographe [anchor]ed in Neutral Bay. A.M. Mod. & fine wr. Fired the morning gun, by order of the governor. Washed and cleaned below. The commandant of the French expedition visited the ship.


[Thurssday] - 23. Carpenters, cooper, sailmakers and armourer employed as before. People on board as necessary. Fired the evening gun. A.M. Mod. & fine weather. Employed working up junk. The Commander visited the French ship.

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1802 June H.M.S. Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Thursday] - 24th. Mod. & fine weather. Employed working up junk and about the rigging. A.M. Do. weather. Carpenters caulking upon the upper deck. Recd. a launch load of water for present use. Entered Thos. Smith, seaman.


[Friday] - 25th. Mod. breezes with fine weather. People employed working up junk. Lent the launch and a coxon to go up to Parramatta. A.M. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed making points and gaskets. Entered Josh. Marlow.


[Saturday] - 26. Do. weather. Came in and anchored in the cove, the Greenwich - Law, from a fishing cruize off New Zealand; and the Francis, colonial schooner. A.M. Fresh breezes with rain. Employed scraping the decks after the caulkers, and other necessary duties


[Sunday] - 27. Fresh breezes and cloudy with rain at times. Came in and anchored, the general Boyd - from a fishing cruize; and the Hercules - Betts, with convicts from England Cork, sent November last. A.M. Mustered the ships company and saw them clean, and afterwards gave part leave to go on shore

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[page 501]

1802 June [H.M.S.Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson  

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Monday] - 28th. Fresh breezes and cloudy weather, with rain. A.M. Do. weather. Sent the launch up the harbour, to get logs for sawing into planks. Entered John McDonald from the ship Coromandel, and discharged Richd. Stanley in lieu. Employed about occasional duties


[Tuesday] - 29th. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Got on board the sails after being repaired. A.M. Squally with rain. Carpenters repairing the scupper shoots &c. previous to painting the ship. People employed as necessary


[Wednesday] - 30. Do. weather. Recd. 5 logs by the launch People variously employed. A.M. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Began painting the ship. Sent two carpenters on board the Supply hulk to fit up the green house. Dried such sails on board as were wet, and stowed them away. Employed otherwise as necessary


[Thursday] - July 1st. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Recd. water by the launch and afterwards lent her to carry convicts up to Parramatta. Employed painting the ship. Cooper repairing casks and packing the spare ones to leave behind A.M. Mod. and cloudy. Empld. as necessary

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1802 July H.M.S. Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Friday] - 2nd. Moderate breezes and cloudy. Employed painting the ship. A.M. Drizzling rain at times. Sent the Carpenters into the woods to cut a back tiller, which we propose to fit to enable us to carry the green house with less strain to the ship.


[Saturday] - 3rd. Varble weather. Cut up a cask of beef and pork No. 3 and No. 5 to their contents. A.M. Moderate and fine. Employed principally in painting the ship. Recd. 99 lbs of beef in lieu of so much salt pork to be returned. Came up the French ship Le Naturaliste from the lower part of the harbour, where she had been kept since her arrival by foul winds. She had attempted to get to Mauritius by the west round Van Diemens Land, but failed.


[Sunday] - 4th. Light breezes and fine weather. Finished painting the ship, and blacked the bends. A.M. Do. weather. Served fresh beef to the ships company. Mustered the ships company, saw them clean, and read the articles of war to them.

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[page 503]

1802 July, [H.M.S.Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Monday] - 5th. Fresh breezes and cloudy weather. Came in the colonial brig, Lady Nelson, from the Hawkesbury. A.M. Employed fitting hammock-cloths upon the rails after painting the ship, and otherwise as necessary. The Commr. and lst lieut. sitting as members of a Court of Vice Admiralty to try Mr. Lukyn Betts master of the Hercules transport for putting to death several convicts said to be concerned in a mutinous attempt to take the ship from the commander & officers


[Tuesday] - 6th. Fresh breezes and fine. Recd. a load of water for present use, by the launch. A.M. Drizzling rain at times. Carpenters employed on board the Supply hulk, fitting up the green house & sawing plank; and here in fitting the back tiller. Otherwise employed as necessary.


[Wednesday] - 7th. Squally weather at times, and cloudy. Arrived the ship Atlas - Brookes from Cork with convicts, since November: - very sickly and having lost 60. A.M. Fresh breezes and hazy weather. Sawyers on board the Supply hulk cutting plank. Employed on board in various duties

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1802 July H.M. sloop Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Thursday] - 8th. Fresh breezes and hazy weather. A.M. Got the green house from the Supply hulk and employed the Carpenters in setting it up, but finding it too inconvenient and large, reduced it one third, by which means we may be able to carry it notwithstanding the w[eak?]ness of the upper works of the ship. People employed in various necessary duties.


[Friday] - 9th Mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Armourer and cooper employed on shore. Carpenters setting up the green- house on board. A.M. Fresh breezes and cloudy. Employed [clear?]ing away to stow bread, which the launch was employed to fetch. Arrived the American brig Fanny from Boston.


[Saturday] - 10th. Do. weather. Received bread in casks, to the amount of 10,305 lbs. A.M. Mod. breezes and fine weather. Recd. water by the launch.


[Sunday] - 11th. Mod. Breezes and fine weather. Employed in various duties as before. A.M. Do. weather. Mustered the ships company and saw them clean, previous to sending a large part of them on shore to attend Divine Service; afterwards part had leave to go on shore

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1802 July [H.M. sloop Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Monday] - 12th. Mod. breezes and fine weather. Employed in various duties preparing for sea. A.M. Light airs. Bent the sails. Paid the carpenters, sawyers, armourer, cooper, and sail makers for their extra work done in refitting the ship. Le Geographe warped up the harbour to be laid ashore for repairing some of her copper.


[Tuesday] - 13. Mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Carpenters making boxes and otherwise fitting up the green-house. A.M. Do. weather. Sent paint on shore and a man to paint the new whale boat. Employed on board in various duties fitting for sea and assisting the brig Lady Nelson


[Wednesday] 14th. Do. weather. Employed as before. A.M. People working up junk. Washed and cleaned below. Calm towards noon


[Thursday] - 15th. Calm and hazy. Fired a salute of 11 guns on being visited by captain Baudin, the commander of the French ships, and by lieut. governor Paterson of this colony. A.M. Mod. & cloudy. Roused up the small bower cable, cleaned the tier, stowed plank under it and coiled it away again.

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1802 July H.M. sloop Investigator [H.M. in the harbour of P. Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Friday] - 16th. Mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Carpenters employed about the green house. Wm. John Davis - marine, being invalided by a medical survey, was discharged into the ship Coromandel for a passage to England, and Thos. Shirley George Brown was entered in his lieu. A.M. Mod. and cloudy. Employed setting up the lower and topmast rigging fore and aft. Recd. 2,507 lbs of bread from the Fanny brig, by the launch, and sent her again for spirits.


[Saturday] - 17th Mod. breezes and cloudy, with rain at times. Recd. 4051/4 gallons of spirits from the American brig. Employed in the after hold. A.M. Rainy weather. Punished Francis Smith with 12 lashes, and Joseph Tozo with 6 for drunkenness and fighting.


[Sunday] - 18th. Calm with rain. Employed as necessary. A.M. Punished a man belonging to the Greenwich - whaler, with 18 lashes at the request of the master, for mutinous expressions and striking the mate. Mustered the ships company and saw them clean; and afterwards sent a part on shore to attend Divine Service.

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[page 508]

1802 July. His Majestys sloop Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]

[Navigational data not reproduced - see original journal]


[Thursday] - 22. Mod. breezes and cloudy weather. Entered Mr. John Aken, to act as master, and discharged Thos. Shirley into the brig Lady Nelson being a convict. At 21/2h. the pilot came on board, made the signal with a gun for all persons to repair on board; - weighed and steered out off the cove, fired a second gun, Mr. Aken not being on board. At 4h.30' came to off Bradleys Point, and veered to half a cable; furled sail and sent down T.Gt. yards. Fresh breezes and cloudy.


    Our stay in Port Jackson being now completed, it may be proper to make a short statement of the advantages we derived from being there, and of the observations made during our stay.
    The principal objects in view, in coming into this port, are briefly the following
1. To refresh the ships company
2. To complete the provisions for a twelve months
      expedition round New Holland

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[1802 July. His Majestys sloop Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson


3rd. To make a thorough examination into the state of all the stores on board, and to have surveys upon them to enable the different officers to pass their annual accounts.
4th. To complete the charts of the south coast of New Holland; and to get copies of them made and sent home to the my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty.
5th. To ascertain the errors of the time-keepers in longitude and get fresh errors and rates for them.
6th. To make up the deficiencies in the ships company, which the loss of the boats crew near Uncertain Island had made considerable; and also to get another boat in lieu of that lost.
7th. To set up the green-house for the reception of exotic plants; and
8thly. To consult with His Excellency the governor as to the best means of executing the remaining part of my instructions for the examination of New Holland.
      How far we fulfilled these objects remains

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[page 510]

Abstract of transactions in the harbour of [Port Jackson; on board the Investigator]


will partly appear from the preceding journal but more concisely as follows
1st. In refreshing the ships company, we were obliged to trust more to their individual exertions than to any public purchases: the price of fresh meat being so very exorbitant. His Excellency once exchanged a days fresh beef with us for salt pork and occasionally gave us a basket of vegetables. Fish it was difficult to get in the winter season and our necessary duties did not permit us to send away men to fish without more certainty of success; a few were, however, occasionally purchased alongside. In lieu of the pound of biscuit, 11/4 lbs of soft bread was issued to the people daily, without any additional expense. The officers and many of the ships company, generally had vegetables at their tables, and sometimes poultry, but which was not obtained at a small expense. On going to sea, I purchased sheep at £3 per head: pigs at 9d. per lb alive, geese at 10s. each and fowls at 3s. each. The latter are usually purchased by bar[?]

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[page 511]

[Abstract of transactions in the harbour of] Port Jackson; on board the Investigator


2nd. In completing our provisions for a further expedition we were very fortunate. I entered into a contract for 30,000 lbs of biscuit, 8000 lbs of flour and 156 bushels of wheat; but in the interim a twelve months provisions arrived for the ships from England, agreeably to my application to the Admiralty of July 18, 1801; upon which I prevailed upon the contractor to annul the part which related to flour and wheat; but I took the bread, for which 33s. per hundred pounds, was paid. In every other respect we completed up to a twelve month, except with spirits which had not arrived; and I left the remaining provisions in the public stores, under charge of the commissary, for our future use. From two American vessels which arrived, I purchased 14831/4 gallons of rum, at 6/6 per gallon; which, with what remained of our former stock, was equal to our proportion of other provisions
3rd. The stores of every kind were well examined and surveys of the whole were taken and sent home. The two suits of sails which had been bent, required to be repaired, and the sailmakers were accordingly employed in that duty the greater part of our stay

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[page 512]

Abstract of transactions on board H.M. ship [Investigator, in the harbour of Port Jackson]


3rd. continued. stay. On considering the sate of our sails and the service which we should have for them, I thought it necessary to write home for another suit and some other stores being likely to be wanted, a demand was sent as follows

Boatswains Stores Provisions for 90 men
One suit of sales complete Beef and pork for 6 months
Two 131/2 inch cables Pease -- Do.
One 8 inch stream cable Spirits -- Do.
Two 8 inch messengers Lime juice --- Do.
One 5 inch hawser Essence of malt
One 22 cwt. Bower anchor Mustard in bottles ---Do.
Two barrels of tar Essence of spruce --- Do.
40 gallons of black varnish Molasses --- Do.
  Sourkrout --- Do.
Carpenters stores  
Linseed oil - 50 gallons  

   I had purchased for the use of the people 978 lbs of tobacco, being able to buy it for so little as 6d. per pound at that time; and our stock of that article being nearly expended, and a part damaged.
4th. This object of our putting into Port Jackson was completly fulfilled. From the astronomical journal, the log, the bearing book, and from the rough chart I constructed a series of charts of the whole south coast, and some

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[Abstract of transactions on board H.M. ship] Investigator, in the harbour of Port Jackson


larger scales of other particular) parts: they consisted of the following:
    The south coast of New Holland, from }
Cape Leuwen to Wilsons Promontory, } 6 sheets
upon a scale of 4 inches to a degree of } longitude }
     
     A particular survey of King Georges }
Sound and its two harbours: the scale } 1 sheet
one inch to a geographic mile }
    
    A particular chart of D'Entrecasteauxs }
Archipelago, upon a scale of a 1/4 of an } 1 sheet
inch to a geographic mile }
   
    A particular chart of No.10 bay and its }
neighbourhood; and sketches of the }
heads of No.12 and No.14 inlets, and } 1 sheet
of Port Phillip: scale 12 inches to a }
degree of longitude }
       Of these charts I had two copies made, by one of young gentlemen on board; the one to be transmitted home to the admiralty, and the other to be left in the hands of the governor, and to be forwarded to England in case of the loss of the ship, lest the copy sent might fail. By a prior conveyance I transmitted to the Admiralty an account of the principal discoveries made upon the south coast, but the charts were not then ready.

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[Abstract of transactions on board the Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson


mate of the ship Hercules was entered as an acting master, - three men were exchanged who were not fit for active service, and a marine invalided and sent home; and the places of these were all filled up, so that we sailed with a full complement of men. Some of those entered being convicts, His Excellency governor King, gave me an instrument relating to them, which is as follows
                      "By His Excellency Philip Gidley;
                       King, Esquire; Captain General and
                       Governor in Chief in and over His
                       Majestys Territory of New South
                       Wales and it Dependencies &c. &c. &c.
   Whereas captain Matthew Flinders, Commander of His Majestys sloop Investigator has requested permission to receive on board that ship the undermentioned convicts as seamen to make up the number he is deficient, I do hereby grant Thomas Toney Joseph Tuzo
          Thomas Shirley Francis Smith
          Thomas Smith Joseph Marlow
          Thomas Martin Richd. Stephenson
   and Charles Brown
                                   permission to ship themselves on board His Majestys sloop Investigator. And on

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Abstract of transactions on board the Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]


6th object, continued "on the return of that ship to
"this port according to captain Flinders's recommendation of "them severally and individually, they will receive Conditional "Emancipations or Absolute Pardons as that officer may "request. And in the interim, do by virtue of the power and "authority vested in me Grant a Provisional Conditional "Emancipation to the said Thomas Toney, Joseph Tuso, "Thomas Shirley, Francis Smith, Thomas Smith, Joseph "Marlow, Thomas Martin, Richard Stephenson, and Charles "Brown, for the purpose of their being enabled to serve on "board His Majestys said sloop Investigator whilst in the "neighbourhood of this territory; which Conditional Pardon will "be of no effect in case any of the above named do individually "conduct themselves so ill as to put it out of Captain Flinders's "power to recommend them for a conditional or absolute "pardon on his return to this port.
           Given under my hand and seal at Government House, "Sydney, in New South Wales this 15th day of July in the year of Our Lord 1802."
                                      Philip Gidley King.
The above mentioned men were generally seamen in good

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[Abstract of transactions on board the Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson


good health, and mostly young men; so that I considered them to be a great acquisition to our strength; and it must be considered as a valuable situation to be placed in, by them; since through it they might be able to return to their country, their friends, and that society from which they had been banished; and in this light it seems to have been considered from the great number of candidates for the vacancies, and from whom the above men were selected
   The boat which was built for us, was after the model of that whale boat in which Mr. Bass, coasted from Port Jackson to Western Port; a distance not less than 400 miles, and returned safe. She was timbered with the largest kind of banksia, which is found to be more durable than mangrove, and planked with cedar. She is 28f. 7" over all, and will row eight oars when requisite, but is generally intended to use but six generally. She was built under the inspection of Mr. Thos. Moore, the master boat builder of the colony, and appears to be a fine boat. She was charged only £30 to the Navy Board, many of the materials having been furnished by government.
7th. In complying with that part of my instructions which directed the green-house to be set up for the reception of

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Abstract of transactions on board the Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]


7th object, continued. of live plants I was obliged to deviate a little on account of the weak state of the upper works of the ship, which could not bear such a weight when raised so high as to stand over the tiller. To enable the ship better to carry it, I had a short tiller fitted abaft the rudder head, and by doubling the purchase upon it, I thought it would answer as well, and the green house was then let down close to the deck. I also reduced it one third; it being the opinion of the naturalist that it would still contain all the plants that would be collected in one expedition; and so reduced, I thought there was no risk of our being obliged to through throw the it over board on account of the weakness of the ship.
8th. In consulting with His Excellency the governor upon my future proceedings, many points were to be considered. The first that I proposed was to take down the barraccade] upon the upper deck, which I had found to be a great impediment to my taking the necessary angles when running along the coast, from its great height when the hammocks were stowed upon it. On making application for an order from him for the purpose, he directed a survey to be held upon it by the proper of
                                                                                   ficers

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[Abstract of transactions on board the Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson


ficers in order to ascertain whether the frame of the ship would suffer any injury from it; and on their reporting that no injury, but advantage might arise from it; he gave an order for its being cut down, and lent 4 convict carpenters to assist in the work.
   Upon the subject of proceeding to the southward and going round that way to the north coast, we perfectly agreed upon the ineligibility of it at this time of the year; and therefore, if I proceeded that way it would be necessary to wait several months, which might afford time to make a visit to the Feejee Islands; but this was not judged to be adviseable, as in the mean time the French ships would have explored the most material parts; upon the whole, therefore, we agreed, that to proceed to the northward and explore Torres Strait and the Gulph of Carpentaria before the north-west monsoon should set in would be the most adviseable, and to proceed to explore the north-west coasts during its continuance. Afterwards to complete the objects of the voyage in that part, and either return by Torres Strait or by the south and Bass's Strait as circumstances

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Abstract of transactions on board the Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]


8th. object continued. might make expedient; and in the way I meant to look into the Bay of Inlets, but not to keep within the reefs beyond that part.
     According to the wish of the projectors of the voyage His Excellency ordered the Lady Nelson to accompany me, giving me the following order to take her under my command
                           By Philip Gidley King Esq. captain general and
                           governor in chief in and over the Territory of
                           New South Wales and it dependencies, and
                           commander of His Majestys armed vessel
                           Porpoise &c. &c. &c.
" In consequence of directions received from His Majestys "principal secretary of state for the Home Department and from "the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty - You are hereby "required and directed to take under your command His "Majestys armed surveying vessel Lady Nelson, and to employ "her as you may judge proper, in prosecuting the service you "are on, until that service is performed, when you are to leave "her under the direction of the Governor of this colony, or other "Officer in command for the time being."

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[Abstract of transactions on board the Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson


being. For which this shall be your order
                 Given under my hand at Government House
                 Sydney, New South Wales, this 15th day of
                 July, 1802.
                                  Philip Gidley King



Captain Matthew Flinders
Commander of His Majestys
sloop Investigator.
     
        at the same time I received an order for acting-lieutenant John Murray who commanded the Lady Nelson to put himself under my orders which I gave to him; and soon after sent him a small code of signals to be observed between us.


      
     Thus through the assistance of the governor we were able to leave Port Jackson for the prosecution of our voyage, in a better state than when we departed from England; and at the time of sailing we had not a man in the sick list:-
     The prosecution of the voyage is continued in Log book No.2)
     No opportunity having offered for transmitting

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Abstract of transactions on board the Investigator [in the harbour of Port Jackson]


transmitting the charts of the south coast, mentioned in the 4th article above, I left them with His Excellency the governor, to be by him forwarded to my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty by the first good conveyance.

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[Abstract of transactions on board the Investigator] in the harbour of Port Jackson


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May 10.1802. continued. Additional remarks

    From journals and papers furnished to me put into my hands by His Excellency the governor, I learn the following particulars concerning a part of the south coast of New Holland and Bass' Strait
    In the passage from the Cape of Good Hope to Port Jackson, lieutenant James Grant in the brig Lady Nelson made the south coast of New Holland in latitude 38º.So. being a projecting part which he called it Cape Bridgewater Northumberland. This appears to be the cliffy rocky point mentioned on April the 18th and 19th; and the bold cliffy cape ( he named Cape Bridgewater. The high cape ( obtained the name of Cape Otway and the cape ( he called Cape Schank. Lieutenant Grant does not appear to have examined the coast very nicely, but he) is undoubtedly the first discoverer of these parts, whereas I had hitherto given this credit to captain Baudin.
    It may be proper at this place to point out the exact limits of the particular discoveries of Lt. Grant, captain Baudin and the Investigator, which I am able to do with sufficient minuteness.
    It is known that the French admiral D'Entrecasteaux

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did not pursue the south coast of Nuyts Land as far as Nuyts himself had done, although M. Labillardiere apart who may not be scrupulously nice in geographical matters, asserts the contrary; for the isles St. Peter and St. Francis which terminated the Dutch discovery were not seen by him, or any islands that could have been mistaken for them; the French then have no claim to original discovery to the westward of these islands, although their contrè admiral D'Entrecasteaux and his geographer Bauprè deserve much credit praise for their exact delineation of these parts.
     It is most probable that Nuyts did not see the main coast as far to the east as the islands which he named; but however that be be that as it may it is certain, that the Investigators claim discovery will commence where that of the Dutch ends, and terminates where she met with captain Le Geographe. The western boundary of this space cannot be placed to the eastward of 135º. from Greenwich, and the place of meeting with captain Baudin was 139º.10'.Et. Within these limits are comprehended 1st the whole of that great projecting cape of which Cape Catastrophe is the extreme, with all its bays and islands - 2nd. the great inlet No.12 up to

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May 9. 1802 continued. Additional remarks

to its (source) head - 3rd. the inlet No.14. - 4th. the large island called Kanguroo Island, with the channel between it and the main, and the cape (. To all these I apprehend the Investigator has an undisputed claim to aff[ord?] names; and to her and the British Admiralty only can this right belong, so far as relates to European nations. (From the before mentioned longitude of 139º.10' from Greenwich, to Cape Northumberland which I place in 140º.50', the claim of original discovery is vested to in captain Baudin and the French nation, so far as I am acquainted. Nor shall I presume to give any other names to call the head lands contained in their survey but such as by any other names than those which shall be assigned to them in the French chart; The latitude comprehended in this space is from 35º.43' to 38º.3' south.
    From Cape Northumberland to Western Port, lieutenant Grants priority of discovery cannot, I believe, be contested; as also or that of Mr. Bass from Western Port to the situation of Point Hicks in the chart of captain Cook.
    Being upon the subject of names, it may not be improper to speak of mention an agreement between captain Baudin and myself to call the S.W. cape of New Holland Cape Leeuwen; this we think the Dutch will not dispute.

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From the journals and paper furnished me by the governor King I also find that the large island on the west side of the strait had been visited since Reids time by lieutenant Murray who succeeded Mr. Grant in the command of the Lady Nelson, and named this piece of land Kings Island, which, as Reed gave it no name, seems to obtain generally. Our No.16, port, had also been previously visited by Mr. Murray and has been named Port Phillip.