July 1854 Macao, China Then, after considerable trouble arising from the Commodore's orders, a tow line was got to her, and we were towed all night to ward Macao, at the rate of one or two knots per hour. July 27th At Sunrise the Hancock cast us off and went to Hong Kong. We made sail and commenced beating up to Chacao, but anchored after a few hours to wait the tide. The water here had but a slight admixture of fresh-water, and that only at certain times of the tide; yet at the surface were swimming the same kind of Crabs that were so common in Whampoa Reach (HK-) We got underweigh again at noon and at 4 reached Macao Roads, anchoring near a French Frigate which was lying there. July 28th The Commodore then took ashore today and received at the house of Mr Rahl. His mental Malady still continues. July 29th - 31st Macao has the finest Climate, and August 1854 Cen-Sing-moon, China certainly the most healthy one in this part of China. I went ashore several times, took long walks, visited Canoe's Grotto etc. The "Cooper" arrived here on the 29th. On the 31st the steamer Mississippi came in and anchored near us, bringing us Lt Brooks and other officers and men of the Squadron from Hong Kong and from the Hancock. August 1st Mr Wright and myself with two of the Ship's crew went ashore today on an island about a mile from our anchorage to make collections. The weather was very squally, and during a rain-gust we sheltered ourselves in some fisherman's huts (deserted). By diving and collecting at low water I secured a few Crabs - none new to me, but little of interest. Aug. 2nd The barometer indicating an approaching storm went by order of Comr Perry to Cen-Sing-moon Harbor; the Mississippi following shortly after. Aug. 2nd - 8th A severe northeast gale lasted from the night of the second until the 4th. On the 6th the "Hancock" passed us on