and the others that it might not, prove to be a
continent. I myself have always been most firm in the former wish, though
sorry I am to say that my party is so small that there are none heartily
of it than myself, and one poor midshipman, the rest begin to sigh for
roast beef."

The east coast was followed down to Banks Peninsula, which was at first
thought might be an island, and is marked by dotted lines as doubtful in
Cook's chart, when Gore thought he had seen land to the east, and Cook,
though convinced it was a mistake, ran out to make sure. On returning the
winds proved contrary, and their progress was very slow, but they several
times succeeded in running close in to the land, and from what they could
see concluded it was very barren, with high ranges in the interior and
with very few evidences of inhabitants. A favourable breeze springing up
from the north, they tried to make the most of it, "and by that means
carried away the main topgallant mast and fore topmast steering-sail
boom, but these were soon replaced by others." A high bluff was named
after Admiral Saunders, and near were several bays, "wherein there
appear'd to be anchorage and shelter from South-West, Westerly, and
North-West winds." One of these is now Otago Harbour, the port of
Dunedin.

THE TRAPS.

On 26th February it blew hard from west-south-west, so they stood
southward. They lost the fore-sail, and then the wind moderated, only to
come on with increased fury about daylight, when their main topsail went.
The storm continued for forty-eight hours, and half that time they lay
to, heading south. After being lost for seven days the land was again
sighted near Cape Saunders, and at night a large fire was seen on shore.
On 6th March, being satisfied that he had passed the south point of the
island, Cook altered his course to the west, and nearly ran on some
partially submerged rocks a few miles to the south-east of Stewart
Island, to which he gave the suggestive name of the Traps. They were
again blown off, but picked up the land again at the western end of
Foveaux Straits. Again they had to run off, returning to near Dusky Bay,
which he wished to enter as he thought it looked a likely harbour, but
the difficulty of getting out again and consequent waste of time
prevented him. Off Cape Foulwind--suggestive name--they were again blown
out to sea, but soon recovered their position, and Cook describes the
land:

"No country upon earth can appear