Page:Oregon Historical Quarterly vol. 24.djvu/457

 Diary of Rev. George Gary— IV 425 and then the continual wrenching of the motion of the ship may be the cause. Friday, 5. We are now in the neighborhood of the far famed Cape Horn, Lat. 57.13. Lon. 68.11. This morning about eight o'clock, we were saluted from the deck with Sail ho! and as we bore away towards the vessel, we soon saw Spanish colors and as we spoke to her, by the speaking trumpet, we were not able to get any news concerning the Mexican war, and indeed not much of any news at all. This is the first vessel we have seen since we left Oahu ; are desirous to learn, especially, our liabilities in reference to Mexican privateers. We suppose our voyage is about half accomplished ; but it is very doubtful whether the remainder will be performed in the same amount of time ; we are very dependent upon the wind. Say at six p. m., another cry of Sail Ho! a vessel is seen north of us ; but it is so far off, and as we have a favorable breeze, we keep on our course, not knowing of what character or nation the vessel may be of. This is a very beautiful day, mild weather ; fair sun and a favorable breeze. Saturday, 6. This morning, we find ourselves visited by head winds ; they are light and soon sink away into a calm. I suppose it is rather uncommon to have the ele- ments off this Cape so quiet as they now are. We are just entering into the Atlantic and should consider our- selves highly favored with a breeze that would allow us to sail north east. My health is better than it has been for some days past. Cathartics and blistering have ap- parently relieved me. We are so far south, we have but very little night at this season ; not quite three hours out of the twenty-four but what some day light may be seen ; that is, not quite three hours darkness between the twi- light of the evening and the morning ; this is pleasant to those rocked on the waves of this place. Sunday, 7. A very beautiful morning; sun shines with considerable warmth; three vessels said to be in