Warning
The following journal entry contains wording that is offensive to many in the world of today. However, the entry is provided unedited for its historical content and context.
Tuesday, July 30.—Thick, cloudy weather and heavy rains. Hauling in to the coast of Venezuela near the entrance to the gulf of Para. So thick is the weather that to “hold on” to the land I am obliged to run the shore within a mile. Opened the gulf at about 9 a.m. and soon afterwards got a sight of and identified the three islands forming the Bocas of the Drego [Dragon’s Mouth ]. Ran the Huevos or Umbrella Passage, a vessel from Madeira having entered it just before It is bold and the scenery very striking. Anchored off the town of Port of Spain at a little after noon, and sent a lieutenant to pay my respects to the governor. An English brig passing out saluted us with her ensign. Officer returned; governor tenders me the hospitality of the port equally with the other belligerent, but snobbishly objected to the lieutenant’s card; free niggerdom. Thirty-five years ago I was here as a midshipman! A generation has since passed away. So brief is thy life, O man! Afternoon, rain. Too much rain has greatly injured the sugar crop. Coolie trade flourishes here.