and soon after, the Indians, from a point of land near the vessel, talked to the sailors with loud cries, and although their voices were heard distinctly, they could not be understood for want of an interpreter.  At 9 the launch was sent again to another harbor to the north, which seemed to be better sheltered and to have better anchorage[49].  It was so, and when the launch returned at 10, the pilot stated that he found bottom at eight to fourteen brazas, and the bottom was sticky with mud.  At 3 p. m. the vessel sailed towards the place examined, but a strong current prevented her reaching it.  It was then decided to anchor in fifteen brazas, sandy bottom, and they stayed there all night, during which time the vessel moved on account of the bad quality of the anchors.

On the 7th, at 9 a. m., the vessel was started towards a large and fine-looking harbor which seemed commodious.  Soundings were taken, and the bottom was found at twelve to fourteen brazas.  It had been decided to go to the end of it, but the tide was contrary and it was necessary to return to the vessel at 1 p. m.  Indians from the shore were calling to the men with loud cries, and the commander decided to send the launch with the priest, the pilot, and armed men, with orders that they must not molest the Indians but treat them well and make them presents, for which purpose the commander gave the men beads and other trinkets and ordered them to observe good precaution, so that in case the Indians showed fight they could easily return to the launch, where four armed men must always remain to protect the retreat.  It is true that from the day when intercourse was first had with the Indians, it was seen how affable and hospitable they were, showing the greatest desire for the Spaniards to go to their village, where, they said, they could eat and sleep.  They had already prepared on shore a meal of pinole, bread from their corn, and tomales of the same.  During the time the Spaniards were with the Indians, they found that the latter repeated the Spanish words with great facility, and by signs the Spaniards asked the Indians to go on board the packet boat, but the Indians, also by signs, signified that until the Spaniards should visit their village, they could not go on board.  After a little while the Spaniards returned to the boat and the Indians disappeared.

On the 8th, the pilot, with men, was sent in the launch to explore the bay, and on the 9th returned and made his report.

On the 12th the launch was lowered to look for a better anchorage near Angel Island, which is the largest in this bay, and many good places were found.  It was also thought a good idea to examine another island, which was found to be very steep and barren and would not afford shelter even for the launch.  This island was called “Alcatraz"[50] on account of the abundance of those birds that were on it.