Narrative of the surveying voyages of his majesty's ships Adventure and Beagle (vol.2): between the years 1826 and 1836 : describing their examination of the southern shores of South America, and the Beagles's circumnavigation of the globe

10 BOAT MEMORY. 1830. tions had failed, and the last had just taken effect, when the disease showed itself. It was thought that the fatal contagion must have attacked him previously. This poor fellow was a very great favourite with all who knew him, as well as with myself. He had a good disposition, very good abilities, and though born a savage, had a pleas- ing, intelligent appearance. He was quite an exception to the general character of the Fuegians, having good features and a well-proportioned frame. It may readily be supposed that this was a severe blow to me, for I was deeply sensible of the responsibility which had been incurred ; and, however un- intentionally, could not but feel how much I was implicated in shortenincf his existence. Neither of the others were attacked, the last vaccination having taken full effect ; but they were allowed to remain in the hospital for some time longer, until I could make satisfactory arrangements for them. While they were under Dr. Dickson's care, in the hospital, his own chil- dren had the measles ; and thinking that it would be a good opportunity to carry the little Fuegian girl through that ill- ness, he prepared her for it, and then took her into his house, among his own children ; where she had a very favourable attack, and recovered thoroughly. Of course, I was anxious that no time should be lost in arranging a plan for their education and maintenance ; and deeming the Church Missionary Society to be in some measure interested about the project I had in view, I applied to their secretary, through whose kindness I became acquainted with the Rev. Joseph Wigram ; to whom I am under great obliga- tions for the friendly interest taken at that time in my wishes with respect to the Fuegians, and for introducing them and my- self to the notice of the Rev. William Wilson, of Walthamstow. Mr. Wilson at once relieved my mind from a load of uncer- tainty and anxiety, by saying that they should be received into his parish, and that he would talk to the master of the Infant School about taking them into his house, as boarders and pupils. In a short time, it was arranged that the school-