184 November 1854. Bonin Islands It appeared impossible to take them, for they would neither bite at the hook nor enter the fish-pot (or trap) and I suffered the torments of Patalus in consequence. At the same time I had a scrimmage with an Octopus (of 4 ft or more from tip to tip) which was clinging to the rock about 4 feet under water, but which concealing in an ugly cloud, got off unharmed. The collection of shells secured here is smaller than would have been the case had not more important subjects claimed attention, for there was no lack of specimens; large Cowries (C. Mauritana) Strombs, and other handsome kinds being abundant. A Patella 2 in. in diam., and strongly ribbed, which I have seen nowhere else, was frequent on the rocks at least. The number of species found was 110, 40 of which also occur at Loo Choo or on the Chinese coast. The Bonins are a collection of small islands stretching along for about 100 miles in the direction of the meridian, and forming three distinct groups; the centre November 1854. Bonin Islands one of which contains the largest (Peel) island, about 5 miles in diameter, in which is the harbor called Pat Lloyd. They lie in about 27° N. Latitude and 143½ E. longitude. They were visited 28 years ago by Beechey and Lutke; and last year by Commodore Perry, who went through some forms of taking possession and appointing a Governor, whose name is Savery. The inhabitants are about 30 in number, mostly runaway whalers with wives brought from the Sandwich Is. They live by cultivating small patches of sweet potatoes, lemon-trees, etc.,-furnishing fresh provisions to the whalers which frequently stop here for water and refreshments. They appear however to be very idle, and intoxicated most of the time. A flag-staff has been erected at the house of the Governor, and Commodore Perry's initials may be seen at various points on the rocks which surround a small tract he has purchased--wharf property. The climate is delightful.