At Sea, April 20.
Our destination is no longer a secret! The captain went yesterday on
board the commodore, and received his instructions; when the Dutch
colonies, upon the coast of Guiana, were avowed to be the object of our
expedition.
In the evening we came into thick water indicating our approach to
the shore; but no land could be perceived even from the
top-gallant-mast-head. This morning the sea was still more muddy, of
a yellowish colour, and, comparatively, very shallow. Land was
unquestionably near, but, still, not visible. In the course of the
day trees were seen from the masthead, and we came to anchor only a
few leagues from them; but, even yet, without being able to see the
soil on which they grew. It is common to descry a streak at the
horizon, or a kind of line, or fixed point in the clouds, denoting
the coast which a vessel approaches, long before it reaches it; but,
here, we are in muddy water, near the colony, with trees in view,
without being able to distinguish any other mark of the territory
before us. It seems to be a peculiar shore, the water being very
thick and shallow at a great distance from the land.
Orders are issued for three days’ provisions to be cooked, and for the
troops to hold themselves in readiness for immediate debarkation. They
have, consequently, been paraded this evening upon deck; their arms and
accoutrements cleaned and inspected; and all put in a state for action.
The soldiers are forewarned in general orders that all irregular
conduct, towards the inhabitants, on landing, will subject them to
certain punishment and disgrace; and plunder is prohibited on pain of
death. The field-artillery, with carriages, sponges, ammunition, and all
the necessary apparatus have been put into boats, this evening, from our
ship, preparatory to being conveyed on shore with the troops in the
morning, and, after a day of great hurry and labour, all is in readiness
for leaving the vessel.
Instructions are given concerning the plan of attack by the troops, and
the stations to be taken by the different ships; and every thing seems
to imply a busy morrow; yet, notwithstanding our vessel is to be at a
post of some danger, I shall hope to note to you the detail of our
proceedings in a future letter. At present, I seek my birth, cordially
bidding you ... good night!