Page:Old Westland (1939).pdf/141

Rh “The heavy rains had caused a flood in the river, we soon getting into dirty water and a strong current, which carried us rapidly northwards. Then a heavier sea than usual threw us right against the mass of drift timber which at that time covered the beach down to high water mark. We were now safe, but still hung on until the ship steadied herself against the driftwood, then we dropped off the bowsprit on to the shore.

“A big dog belonging to one of our passengers had already got there and was waiting for his master. As the tide was falling the Gipsy was soon firmly stranded, so we went aboard and got our clothes, which were stowed in the cabin and quite dry.

“On the beach we found Charles Townsend, John Smith (cook) and Peter Mitchelmore (carpenter) who had charge of a depot which had been established to assist prospectors. Sherrin and Price and a number of Maoris from the pa, which was called Mawhera, were all waiting to render assistance. Counting the natives there must have been thirty men available, and with the help of these the stores were soon landed, and everything moveable placed above high water mark before night set in. The Gipsy was so badly damaged that it was found impossible to repair her and many years later the wreck was destroyed by fire.”

Sir Arthur at once proceeded to get his surveys under way, but being handicapped