As we stood across the Bay of St. Francis, we were struck with the wildness and beauty of the scenery, its numerous islands and lofty peaks, more particularly those of Hermite Island, whose southern extreme forms the bold perpendicular promontory called Cape Spencer. We beat up to the entrance of St. Martin's Cove, but just after sunset, when we were running into it, the wind suddenly shifted and compelled us to anchor in a very exposed position, in seventeen fathoms, on fine sand and black stones, but not very good holding ground.
I despatched Mr. Tucker up the cove to examine the nature of the harbour, a clear moonlight night facilitating his operations. He soon returned with a favourable account of the anchorage, and reported having seen a fire at the head of the cove, indicative of the presence of natives, whom he judiciously left undisturbed.
Sept. 20.As soon as day broke Captain Crozier and I went to make a further examination of the harbour; when near the end of the inlet we saw a canoe and three men standing near it; one of them approached us unarmed, and without the least appearance of fear, pointing out the most convenient spot for us to land, for the surf was heavy on the beach, and continually calling out "Yamma Coyna," words which have been differently interpreted by Captain Fitzroy and Mr. Darwin. I am fully persuaded the former is right in considering them to be an expression of welcome, for the man