Journal of a cruise in the US ship, Vincennes, to the North Pacific Ocean, China Sea, Behring Strait, etc. by William Stimpson, 1853-1855
Page 98
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Transcription
98 March 1854 Pacific Ocean Several Whalers were seen at anchor in it. It was not safe to enter it in the dark. Sail was accordingly shortened. Soon after the order was received to squaw away for Hong Kong. 4th N. Lat. 14° 49' E. Lon 142° 36' Wind N.E. Av. 8 kn. Weather fine. Temperature 80° F 5-th N. Lat. 16° 26' E. Lon. 139° 16' Wind N.E. Av 7 kn Sunday ( Fine Weather 6th N. Lat. 17° 41' E. Lon. 136° 15' Wind N.E. Av 6 kn Weather fine Average temp. of day 79° F 7th N. Lat. 18° 28' E. Lon. 133° 49' Wind NE. Av 4 kn Weather fine. The strong Northeast Trade wind which has for some time past done us a good service is now becoming lighter, and threatens to die away. 8th N. Lat. 18° 53' E. Lon. 132° 12' Wind N.E. Av 4 kn Weather still fine. Several Bonitas seen. 9th N. Lat 19° 28' E. Lon. 129° 48' Wind N Av 4 kn Pleasant, Temp. 78° Two Clipper ships were seen in the forenoon. A gun was fired to heave-to the nearest, which bore down to us and proved to be the "Flying Fish" Capt. Nichols. This gentleman, (with whom I had formerly some acquaintance) supplied us with San Francisco papers and fresh