182

178

performed, in which the Admiral took his
part.

February 23rd No sleep for mosquitoes,
and nothing to eat for breakfast. In the afternoon
the Flag Lieut came on board, to say a
large party of ladies were coming off with the
Admiral and suite to see the ship. About half
past 5, between 20 and 30 came off, when dancing
commenced, and I danced into my cabin; the
Admiral soon got tired and very quietly sloped
on shore. The party did not go on shore till after
the 8 o'clock gun had fired, leaving behind a
strong odour of some scent by no means
agreable. At 10 a parcel of noisy devils came
off, and altho' I was shut up in my cabin,
it was after one o'clock on the morning of my
Birthday before I could get asleep.

+ Birth day

Tuesday Febry. 24th Got up with headache
and rheumatism in both legs. Before Quarters
a message came off from the Admiral for our
Commander to go ashore in full dress, to pay
an Official visit on General Lopez, President,
and after to inspect the sails. As usual in
the forenoon several strangers came off.
Wrote to L, and M. At 6 PM the
Admiral, American Consul and an English
gent came off to dinner. Afterwards Commdr and