Page:Twenty years before the mast - Charles Erskine, 1896.djvu/83

 respecting their intercourse with them, that no  act of hostility will be committed, and that an appeal  will be made rather to their good-will than to their  fears. That the manner of trading established in the squadron will be most strictly adhered to by all, and  that in event of difficulties or collision all acts of force  will be avoided, unless for self-protection. In short, our aim will be peace and good-will and proper decorum to  every class, constantly bearing in mind that the future  intercourse of our countrymen with the natives of the  islands we may visit, will very much depend on the impressions made on their minds by us, and recollecting  that it is in the nature of the savage long to remember  benefits and never to forget injuries. It therefore behooves us, wherever we go, to leave behind us, whether among civilized or savage nations, favorable impressions,  not only as respects this national expedition, but for our  flag and countrymen. The commander-in-chief feels confidence in relying on the officers and crews to carry  out these views from their good, exemplary conduct, and  trusts that he will not have to regret the confidence he reposes in them. Any acts inconsistent with these views will meet with the most exemplary punishment."

August 1st Alexander Ogle, one of our marines, died. He had been sick but a few days. In the afternoon all hands were called to bury the dead, and his body was  committed to the deep.

We had very fine weather after leaving Callao. For days and nights together not a cloud was to be seen, and  the air was refreshingly clear. This is one of the loveliest climates in the world. I never saw the sea look so