ottes, who is supposed
to have made some arrangement with the Austrian to deliver the cargo to
him. The Greek corvette had sailed, as I was told, for this. I arrived
here the night of the 16th, and found that the brig and schooner were
zealously employed on the service they had been sent upon. Having
steamed more than I had at first intended, I was in want of fuel, and
set them at work here to obtain me wood, which they have done with more
alacrity than I expected during Easter holidays. The engine of course
required repairs. I sent off the schooner to inform the vessels of the
blockade, when I should join them, and appointing a rendezvous. I sail
immediately, and hope to take or destroy the vessels at Tricheri and
Volo tomorrow. I send this by the primates of this island, who carry a
letter to your lordship offering their services. They have been
apparently much oppressed in all these islands by the heroes of the
earth, and are anxious to obtain protection from the naval force. This
island is fertile, and could (and could be made to) pay well for
protection. The others have claims equally strong for protection. St.
George, De Skyro, Scopulo, Skatho, &c., &c., have more than 2,000 Liapis
quartered upon them at this moment. If Athens is relieved, these
worthies might be turned into Negropont with much effect. I am told the
Turkish transports are still at Tricheri and Volo, not doubting to clear
the Gulf of Greeks _a force d'argent_--however, I hope to be with them
to-morrow.

I suspect fuel could be obtained cheaper here than at Megara; and I see
no reason for incurring the expense of transport of wood to Poros for
construction of gunboats when a great majority of the Greek vessels are
constructed here. The wood does not grow here. It is brought from Agora
on the main. The deputies--_tout betes comme ils sont_--can inform your
lordship of these things.

I have the honour to be, &c.,

F. A. HASTINGS.

P.S.--Having taken the coals out from between the boilers and side of
the ship, I am anxious to fill this space with wool, as a protection
against shot. The coals stowed there are an inconvenience for many
reasons, and something is necessary to replace them as a protection for
the boilers. If your lordship would be good enough to order Tombasi to
procure me wool for that purpose, I think you would be ultimately
satisfied of its utility.

IV.