Narrative of the surveying voyages of his majesty's ships Adventure and Beagle (vol.1): between the years 1826 and 1836 : describing their examination of the southern shores of South America, and the Beagles's circumnavigation of the globe

June 18S8. Indians cross the strait. 14? On the 21st of June, after a heavy north-east gale, we had an unusually fine day. The hills at the bottom of Magdalen Channel were more distinct than we had ever noticed them, and Mount Sarmiento was particularly clear ; indeed its out- line was so sharply defined, that the distance did not appear to be more than ten miles. This extraordinary transparency of the air was at first considered a presage of wet weather ; yet the clear and sharp appearance of the distant land was unlike that which usually precedes a fall of rain. The long series of rainy weather we had experienced made us look for a good result from such an unusual atmosphere, and we were not deceived. The folloAving day our hopes were still further confirmed by seeing three Indian canoes, coming across the Strait, towards us, from Lomas Bay, which they would not have attempted had they not been sure of its continuing fine ; for their canoes are ill adapted to encounter the short cross sea found during bad weather in mid-channel of the Strait. Although the presence of the natives did not in general please me, because it naturally put a stop to all work ; yet, on this occasion it was agreeable, as it tended in some measure to enliven the monotonous manner in which we passed our days. Upon reaching the bay, the Indians did not approach the ship, but paddled into the coves under Point Santa Anna, where our boat was employed watering. Mr. Graves went to them, to prevent mischief, and found they were the same party who had before visited us. When our boats returned, they paddled over to the wigwam at the head of the port, about a quarter of a mile beyond our tents, and began to repair it, and by sunset were housed and sheltered for the night. We had, however, so lately experienced their treacherous disposition, that no confi- dence was placed in appearances. Sentinels were posted at the tents, to give the alarm, should any of them approach ; and at eight o'clock a volley of musketry was fired, by way of intimi- dation, and to impress them with the idea that we kept a watch upon their movements, and were prepared. While the wigwams were repairing, a few of the Indians visited our tents ; but were not allowed to pass within a rope l2