sea spray revived me. The coast, which was every now and then concealed by the high waves, was a range of drifted sand-hills, traversed by flocks of goats feeding on the scanty patches of pasture. Not a human habitation, not even a human being was visible, and not a boat or ship was seen all day. In the afternoon the wind ceased, but the ship rocked lazily from the effect of the sea-swell, which had not yet subsided.
My brother read St. Paul's voyage to me as it is recorded in the 27th of Acts. It seemed more interesting than ever. We were not far from Cesarea, the port from which Paul embarked; and he was tossed about by contrary winds, in this sea for many days. It must have been about the same time of the year, too, during the equinoctial gales, when, as he said, "sailing was dangerous." It is distinctly explained that it was after the great Fast of the Atonement, which is held on the tenth day of the month of Tisri, and corresponds with the latter part of our month of September.
At sunset "the south wind blew softly." The sails were soon set, and in better spirits we sat down to our evening meal, and shared our chickens and preserved soup with the monks, who added their eggs, cheese, and cognac. We passed a dreamy, restless night, "sailing slowly," and in the morning were nearly opposite Tantûra. The wind had changed to north-east, so my brother insisted on landing to pursue our journey on shore. We tacked about, put out to sea, and then allowed the strong wind to drive us toward the picturesque coast. Little islands of rock and mounds of ancient masonry stood out before it, beaten by the waves. With some maneuvering the boat was brought safely to the beach, where there were plenty of Tantûra men to meet us, and carry us through the surf to the smooth yellow sands. I was delighted to find myself on firm land again; and I shall always remember St. Paul's advice to the centurion, and vote against sailing in the Levant in the Autumn.
The custom-house officer came to meet us; and, followed
