and pulled the cutter out of the bay with the last of the ebb tide, expecting to find some wind when we got outside, from some quarter or other, for we are all heartily sick of the protractions of this voyage. When we got outside we got into a most tremendous heavy sea rolling down from the eastward, and it came on to rain heavily, with light baffling airs from between north and west, which, with the flood tide, put us along our own course; but as we advanced so the head sea increased. We had every reason to apprehend an easterly gale, and we were glad to get into Port Pegasus, in the north arm of which we anchored at 3 p.m. Rain continued till 7 p.m., weather threatening, and barometer very low, 29⋅80.
Thursday, September 14, 1865.—Calm till 8 a.m., when a light air came from W.S.W., with which we started out of the Port by the northern passage. We found a very heavy sea still running from the eastward, which is indicative of recent heavy easterly gales on the coast. The wind continued light, and came from the same quarter until evening, and at 6 p.m. we once more anchored in Port Adventure; and I feel truly thankful that this much of our hazardous and miserable voyage has been safely accomplished. I have no doubt but the remainder will be easily performed, and from the appearance of the weather I am in hope of our reaching Invercargill to-morrow; and if the weather be favourable Captain Cross intends to tow the 'Rescue' (the boat I came up in) over, and let the good people of Invercargill look at her. Since anchoring the weather has been calm and clear. The barometer keeps very low (29⋅5), which I cannot understand.
Friday, September 15, 1865.—We sailed from Port Adventure in the 'Flying Scud,' having the 'Rescue' in tow, with a moderate S.W. breeze, until in crossing Foveaux Straits the wind increased, and the sea ran high, and on arriving at the New River bar the sea was breaking right across. The 'Rescue' had got full of water, parted the tow rope, and was left to her fate.
