An abundance of water can always be obtained at the fountains in Junk river, where there is excellent landing for boats. There is a good spring near the tombs in Tumai bluff, but unless the water is perfectly smooth the landing is impracticable, and under any circumstances it is inconvenient from the want of sufficient depth, except at high tide.
It is directed by the commander-in-chief that the vessels of the squadron under his command, shall heave to, on approaching Napa, and make signal for a pilot, when an officer familiar with the localities and landmarks will be sent off from the vessel in port to pilot her in, or point to her commander the position of the dangers to be avoided.
Should there, however, be no vessel in port, then boats are to be sent ahead, and anchored upon the extremities of the reefs, between which the vessel intends to pass.
Macao, October 1, 1853.
Note.—The spar-buoys, above described, were securely moored at the time they were placed in their respective positions, by order of Commodore Perry, but may be displaced, or entirely removed by the heave of the sea, or by the natives, and should therefore not be entirely relied upon.
OONTING, OR PORT MELLVILLE, ISLAND GREAT LOO-CHOO.
By Lieutenant S. Bent, U. S. Navy.
Oonting harbor is on the N. W. side of Loo-Choo, and distant about thirty-five miles from Napa.
Sugar Loaf island, an excellent landmark, lies about twelve miles to the W. N. W’d of the entrance. The island is low and flat, with the exception of a sharp conical peak near its eastern extremity, which rises to a height of several hundred feet.