Cook. The truth is, that those sent to settle and
explore the island knew not the form in which the plant grows, and were
unfurnished with every particular which could lead to a knowledge of
it. Unaccountable as this may sound, it is, nevertheless, incontestably
true. Captain Ball brought away with him several specimens for
inspection, and, on trial, by some flax-dressers among us, the threads
produced from them, though coarse, are pronounced to be stronger, more
likely to be durable, and fitter for every purpose of manufacturing
cordage, than any they ever before dressed.
Every research has been made by those on the island to find a
landing-place, whence it might be practicable to ship off the timber
growing there, but hitherto none has been discovered. A plan, however,
for making one has been laid before the Governor, and is at present
under consideration, though (in the opinion of many here) it is not such
an one as will be found to answer the end proposed.
Lieut. King and his little garrison were well when the 'Supply' left
them: but I am sorry to add, that, from casualties, their number is
already five less than it originally was.
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