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

90 ' APPENDIX. coast of Tierra del Fuego, from its westernmost extremity to the Strait Le Maire, including Cape Horn and the islands in the vicinity. The difficulties under which this service was performed, from the tempestuous and exposed nature of the coast, the fatigues and priva- tions endured by the officers and crew, as well as the meritorious and cheerful conduct of every individual, which is mainly attributable to the excellent example and unflinching activity of the commander, can only be mentioned by me in terms of the highest approbation. For the results of the voyage, and the services of Commander Fitz-Roy, I beg to refer their Lordships to their Hydrographer and the charts herewith transmitted, which I hope vdll be satisfactory. I trust their Lordships will permit me once again to express how much I feel that Commander Fitz-Roy, not only from the important service he has rendered, but from the zealous and perfect manner in which he has effected it, merits their distinction and patronage ; and I beg leave, as his late senior officer, to recommend him in the strongest manner to their favourable consideration. I have, &c. Phillip P. King, Captain. To the Hon. George Elliot, Secretary of the Admiralty, &c. &c. &c. No. 2. Sir, London, May 23, 1831. Enclosed is a copy of the letter sent to Captain P. P. King (then commanding H. M.'s sloop Adventure), by the Secretary of the Admiralty, relative to the natives of Tierra del Fuego, who were brought to England in the Beagle ; and I have to request that you will honour me by submitting the enclosed copy, and the purport of this letter, to my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. The proper season for the return of these Fuegians is now drawing near. They have been with me fourteen months, and at least five months more must elapse before they can reach their own shores.