[15] My journal remarks the atmosphere to have been very chilly during the day, but much milder in the evening; the range of the thermometer during the day being from 49° to 56°.
[16] How will this accord with the geographical distribution of the mollusca by Péron and Leseur? After studying the Holothuria Medusæ, and other congeners of delicate and changeable forms, they came to the conclusion that each kind has its place of residence determined by the temperature necessary to support its existence. Thus, for example, they found the abode of Pyrosoma atlanticum to be confined to one particular region of the Atlantic Ocean.—Voy. aux Terres Aust. tom. 1, p. 492, quoted in Lyell’s Principles of Geology, vol. ii. pp. 111, 112.
[17] Albicores, bonitos, and dolphins, often follow the ship for several days in succession; we had occasion to note an albicore that was marked on the back by some sharp instrument, leaving a large sear by which it could readily be recognized. It was first seen in 3° north latitude, and following the ship to latitude 11° south, a distance of eight hundred and forty miles.
[18] This petrel is said to be found from 24° to 60° south latitude.
[19] Respecting the name given to this bird, it has been observed, that the first Portuguese navigator called them, the boobies, and other sea-birds, alcatros or alcatras. Dampier applied this name to an actual kind; Grew changed it to albitross, and Edwards into albatross. The French name these birds mouton du cap. There are a number of species enumerated; but it will require frequent and cautious observation previous to the determination of a new one, as they vary so much in plumage from sex and age.
[20] The condor is supposed by some to be the “Roc” of the Arabian Nights.
[21] The other species I have seldom known to measure more than eight feet across the expanded wings.
[22] This bird is evidently aided by its long wings as well as tail in directing its flight: they are never seen to soar to any great height, and are often observed to change their course, by turning the wings and body in a lateral direction, and oftentimes, when raising themselves, would bend the last joint of the wings downwards.
[23] Cuvier enumerates five species; but at the same time says, “On a observé divers albatrosses plus ou moins bruns ou noirâtres, mais on n’a pu encore constater jusqu’à quel point ils forment des variétés ou des espèces distinctes.”—Regne Animal, tom. i. p. 555.
[24] The building was originally erected as a theatre, at a very great expense, and after its completion the governor, at that time General Darling, refused to grant a licence for dramatic performances, in consequence of which it was fitted up as a spacious hotel. On the present Governor, General Burke, granting permission for theatrical entertainments, a portion of the building has reverted to the original purpose for which the whole had been erected.