A delightful morning; found the anchor had been let down about half past
six. A fine view of Staten Island. The pilot says we are about 14 miles
off the quarantine--got Mr. Grindrod to inform my friends per the _Royal
William_, Londonderry, bound to Liverpool, that I had arrived safe.
Many porpoises seen inside the Hook. So calm that we have to anchor to
stem the tide. Mr. Bassnett very ill; about two, became delirious. Saw a
steam boat I proposed joining at the expense, but Mr. Seaton seemed to
think it could not be done without offending the Captain. I ventured to
mention it to him, mentioning Mr. B.'s illness. He said he could have no
objection and would join us. The flag was hoisted, but either he was
previously engaged or refused to assist us. Got into the boat hanging on
the side of our ship and observed upwards of 40 sail on each side of us.
As we come close to the shore the cow lows. Many porpoises. Got on shore
at Staten Island at seven o'clock; stept across the _Hercules_, an
immense steamer; the land quite strange to my feet, the air quite
fragrant and the grass delightfully green; a large vine with much bloom.
Took tea with fifteen others, very good bread and butter, also turnips,
radishes, and strawberry preserves. Walked out and saw many fire-flies
and heard all sorts of noises from grasshoppers, frogs, etc. Went to the
hospital for a doctor to attend Mr. B.