Thursday, January 22nd.—­Had a delightful ride over a fine, natural McAdamized road, for about ten miles, and thence by horse and bridle-path through the most picturesque of mountainous regions, with its lovely valleys, abrupt precipices, streams of water, luxuriant foliage, &c., to Flamstead, the residence of the Rev. Mr. Fyfe, who soon returned from town and received me most hospitably.[12] Spent a delightful, quiet day, riding to Flamstead, and walking in the afternoon along the winding mountain paths.  Jamaica—­that is, the south side—­is a wilderness, and the town of Kingston a ruin.  The negro population idle, thriftless, and greatly subject to diseases of an inflammatory kind.  No morals—­gross superstition, &c.

[Footnote 12:  As soon as our arrival became known the most intense excitement prevailed.  It is impossible to describe the hospitable welcome we received, every one placing their houses at our disposal.  Up to 9 P.M. visitors were constantly received, all expressing a most hearty, encouraging sympathy for our cause, and speaking hopefully for our prospects.  Still the same enthusiasm prevails:  visitors of each sex and every class coming on board, officers and men going on shore, and receiving the most flattering attentions.]

Friday, January 23rd.—­Rode over to, and spent a day and night at, Blocksburgh, visiting en route the English-looking cottage of Captain Kent, now absent in England.  Had some lady-visitors at Blocksburgh in the evening.

Saturday, January 24th.—­Returned to town to-day by the way of Mr. Mais’ fairy little cottage, kept in the nicest of order, and in a perfect picture of a country.  Upon my arrival in town I found that my friends had kindly put a notice in the papers, informing the good people that I would be at the Exchange at noon, &c. &c.  Was obliged to go, and made a speech to the people, which was well received.  Returned on board in the evening.

Sunday, January 25th.—­Workmen still engaged trying to get the ship ready for sea to-night.  Returned my visits to the English Captains, all of whom I found very agreeable.  Settling the ship’s bills, and getting the drunken portion of my crew on board by aid of the police.  Three of them in broad daylight jumped into a shore boat and tried to escape; but we pursued and captured them.  Work all done, and fires lighted at 5 P.M., and at half-past eight we steamed out of the harbour.

Monday, January 26th.—­At 10.30 A.M. descried a sail, which we came up with at 1.20 P.M.  She proved to be the Golden Rule, from New York for Aspinwall.  Captured and burned her, there being no certificate on board of the neutrality of the cargo.  This vessel had on board masts, spars, and a complete set of rigging, for the United States brig Bainbridge, lately obliged to cut away her masts in a gale at Aspinwall.  Nine prisoners.  At about 6 P.M., the prize being well on fire, steamed on our course.