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 that he had found no obstacle, and that he had passed the bar the preceding night, at 11 o'clock, with five fathoms (30 feet) of water. Immediately were the sails unfurled, and the "Indefatigable" slowly resumed her majestic course, under the favor of a rising breeze. The sky was serene, the sun shone with unwonted brilliancy. For a long time we had not beheld so lovely a day; nothing but the safe entrance into the river was wanting, to render this the most beautiful day of our voyage. As we approached, we re-doubled our prayers. All appeared recollected, and prepared for every event. Presently our wary captain gave orders to sound. A hardy sailor fastened himself to the side of the vessel, and lowered the plummet. Soon was heard the cry, "Seven fathoms." At intervals the cry was repeated: "Six fathoms," {70} "Five fathoms." It may be imagined how our hearts palpitated at each reiteration. But when we heard the thrilling cry of "Three fathoms," all hope vanished. At one moment it was thought the vessel would be dashed against the reefs. The lieutenant said to the captain, "We are between life and death; but we must advance." The Lord had not resolved on our destruction, but He wished to test the faith of his servants. In a few moments the tidings of four fathoms roused our sinking spirits: we breathed once more, but the danger yet impended over us; we had still to sail two miles amidst these fearful breakers. A second time is heard the chilling cry of "Three fathoms!" "We have mistaken our route," exclaimed the lieutenant. "Bah!" exclaimed the captain, "do you not see that the Indefatigable passes over everything? Keep on." Heaven was for us; otherwise, neither the skill of our captain, nor the sailors' activity, could have rescued us from inevitable death. We were amidst the southern channel, which no vessel had ever crossed.