Page:Narrative of a Voyage around the World - 1843.djvu/88

 40 On the 22nd we quitted our anchorage, intending to make the shortest passage to San Blas. By the advice of several old traders, I stood to sea in order to reach the trades, as the inshore passage is not only tedious, but subject to strong gales in opening the Gulf of Tehuantepec.

We experienced a very heavy swell from the north, succeeded by strong breezes, and parted company from the Starling during the night — the ship very wet and uneasy.

Crossed the track of the Blossom; compared observations for magnetic declination: observer in both cases, E. B.

$$\left. \begin{matrix} \mbox{8° 54. Blossom, 1827.} \\ \mbox{8° 0. Sulphur, 1837.} \end{matrix} \right\} \mbox{Mean of three days.}$$

That given in Bauza's chart 10½, is probably an error of the engraver.

Fish were numerous — among them many flat fish similar to the old wife; but until cooked, I was not aware they had been taken, otherwise specimens would have been preserved, as the caudal, dorsal, and anal fins were uncommon.

Having crossed the limits usually assigned for the trade, and outside of the Blossom's track, I gave up all further idea of making more westing, and in 12° 30′ N. long. 102° 40′ W. stretched in for the land, our water being short, and trusting to Acapulco being on our lee in the event of distress.

On the 12th May we made the land about three