I had just sat down to write when I was required to go on board the Jemchug. Just returned.
The ladies' committee of the "Society to help the Wounded" sent the admiral the ikon of St. George "the Victorious," and fifty small crosses for the officers and crew. I received a cross and hung it to a chain with my own. It is very pretty, and made of mother-of-pearl.
The rainy season, which should have begun a fortnight ago, was late. It has now begun—another pleasure for us.
Many of the wardroom tumblers are broken. They cannot be bought here. Jam-pots are used instead.
It is difficult to imagine how the local traders live. They have raised all prices considerably, and continue to raise them.
The provision-ship Esperanza will no longer accompany the fleet. I wanted to go ashore at 6 a.m. to-morrow with some one, to explore the interior of the island; but it is impossible. An inquiry is to be held in the Malay to survey the coal left in her. I have to take a part in this inquiry.
Again there are rumours that the fleet will leave here on the 11th. I think this is only supposition. The French mail-steamer leaves for Europe on the 9th. Perhaps this letter will be the last that will go in her. There will then be a break in my letters. Steamers do not often call here—only once or twice a month.
Some chameleons were brought on board, and have now spread all over the ship. They are harmless; but to me, at all events, they are repulsive. Some fellows take them in their hands and allow them to crawl over their heads and faces.
January 8th.—Since 4 a.m. there has been such a downpour, difficult to imagine if you have not seen it. Many men, desiring to wash in fresh water, took advantage of the rain to go on deck with a piece of soap and wash themselves.