Having explained all that took place, I asked him where he went after leaving us.
“As I did not see Miss Nightingale return from the Genoese heights, I went in search of her. By-the-bye, are you going with us?”
“Going where?”
“Why, to Leander Bay, to visit the sailors’ new hospital.”
“Of course I am,” I replied. “The present Admiral (Lushington), Captain Hamilton, Doctors Smart and Sutherland will accompany Miss Nightingale.”
The Doctor of the Diamond called for us in his boat, and beneath a glowing sun, on a fine spring day, we crossed the busy harbour. The Sardinian man-of-war was the greatest attraction. The band played a fine march and some original melodies, which enlivened our short trip. All the shipping had hoisted their flags, and other vessels were seen in the offing, conveying the remainder of the Sardinian army.
While we were crossing, Miss Nightingale inquired about my doings of the previous day, which I carefully related to her, dwelling particularly upon the kind reception I had received from Lord Raglan and Omer Pacha, and the willingness of the former to assist me in my undertaking.
“I am very glad to hear it,” said Miss Nightingale; “but, for all that, you will have innumerable difficulties to contend with. Not a man is at work at your kitchen. They say they have no more planks, and all do just as they please. The engineering department is over-burdened with work. For my part, I can get nothing done, nor can the Purveyor-in-chief. I don’t blame any one; but if delays of this kind occur for such trifles, what will it be for so important an affair as your general and extra-diet kitchens?”
“You are right, and I thank you for the hint. Upon our return, I will go and see Captain King.”
We had then arrived in Leander Bay. I pointed out the spot at which the poor victims of the wreck of the Prince were buried—the sight of which made a singular impression upon every member of the party, especially when I told them the number which lay there. There was scarcely any earth over them; and the workmen told us the stench from the bodies was so dreadful, they were often compelled to leave their work in consequence. Another said we did not perceive it because the wind was in another direction. Mr. Bracebridge took note of this, in order to mention the matter to Dr. Sutherland, who knew nothing of it at the time. On reaching the green mountain, at the top of which is situated the new Naval Hospital, we were greeted by the sight of a complete garden of wild flowers, vines, and aromatic plants. This repaid us for the dismal scene below. Several French soldiers were picking the flowers, and gathering salad and wild sorrel.