explorers, now landing, found some little children hidden in a hut; they
were not disturbed, but some presents of beads, ribbons, and pieces of
cloth were left in exchange, for a bundle of spears which was
appropriated. It was at first supposed that these were poisoned, as a
green substance was observed on their tips; but, on examining them, it
was found to be seaweed, and that they must have been used for spearing
fish. The next day, when Mr Banks, Dr Solander, and the others,
landed, they found that their presents had not been removed. While the
English were filling casks at a spring, and drawing the seine, when
large numbers of fish were taken, the natives watched what was going
forward without attempting to molest them.

Several excursions were made by the naturalists on shore, when they also
kept at a distance. A few animals and numerous gaily coloured birds
were seen, and vast quantities of plants collected, from which
circumstance Captain Cook gave the place the name of Botany Bay, which
for half a century it retained. On the 6th of May the _Endeavour_ left
Botany Bay, and steered northward. Shortly afterwards, as she was
passing along the coast, a seaman named Jackson observed what he took to
be the entrance to a harbour, which in consequence was called Port
Jackson; but Cook did not attempt to enter, being doubtful at the time
whether it would prove to be a harbour. The object was now to lay the
ship ashore, to clean and repair her. As he sailed along he anxiously
looked out for a suitable spot, landing occasionally to explore the
country. He had got as far north as 16 degrees 4 minutes, when, one
fine night, as the ship was rapidly running on, a grating sound was
heard. She had struck upon a reef. The officers and crew hurried on
deck. The well was sounded: she was making a great deal of water. The
boats were hoisted out, and attempts made to heave her off, but she beat
so violently on the rocks that the crew could scarcely keep their feet,
and she could not be moved. Her sheathing-boards and false keel also
floated up. As she had struck at high water, though she might not sink,
there appeared every probability of her becoming a wreck. Cook did not
despair. At once the guns, ballast, and other heavy articles were
thrown overboard, and preparations made for heaving her off when the
tide again rose. Happily a dead calm came on, and at daybreak land was
seen about eight leagues off. All day long