CHAPTER VI. TEN DA YS OF TEMPEST, !R0M the 17th to the 20th August the weather continued fine, and the temperature moderate. The mists on the horizon were not resolved into clouds, and altogether the weather was exceptionally beautiful for such an elevated position. It will be readily understood, however, that Hobson could take no pleasure in the fineness of the climate. On the 21st August, however, the barometer gave notice of an approaching change. The column of mercury suddenly fell con- siderably, the sun was completely hidden at the moment of culmina- tion, and Hobson was unable to take his bearings. The next day the wind changed and blew strongly from the north-west, torrents of rain falling at intervals. Meanwhile, how- ever, the temperature did not change to any sensible extent, the thermometer remaining at 54° Fahrenheit. Fortunately the proposed works were now all finished, and Mac- Nab had completed the carcass of his boat, which was planked and ribbed. Hunting might now be neglected a little, as the stores were complete, which was fortunate, for the weather became very bad. The wind was high, the rain incessant, and thick fogs rendered it impossible to go beyond the enceinte of the fort. " What do you think of this change in the weather. Lieutenant % " inquired Mrs Barnett on the morning of the 27th August ; " might it not be in our favour ? " " I should not like to be sure of it, madam," replied Hobson ; " but anything is better for us than the magnificent weather we have lately had, during which the sun made the waters warmer and warmer. Then, too, the wind from the north-west is so very strong that it may perhaps drive us nearer to the American continent." " Unfortunately," observed Long, " we can't take our bearings every day now. It 's impossible to see either sun, moon, or stars in this fog. Fancy attempting to take an altitude now ! "
