Did not get up till eight as I had not slept so well in consequence of the ship rolling a good deal. Found we have only been going five or six knots during the night. All forenoon the wind light, not more than 4 knots per hour. Went upon deck after nine and was much amused at seeing the porpoises; some could be heard at a distance pushing through the water and soon pass the ship; others would come close to the vessel sometimes two abreast, then would separate and one come with such force that I thought I could almost feel it hit the vessel. Played at Shuffleboard which is done by sliding circular boards upon nine squares with figures making 15 each way. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7TH. Did not rise till eight; a brilliant morning but found as expected, that we had had only light winds and made little progress through the night. A most delightful day, sunshine with fair wind. At five, a cry of "Land," we instantly went on deck and observed the Irish coast dimly on the horizon. Read the remainder of the "Youth's Letter Writer," and also Hamilton's "Men and Manners," also Meredith's "Orations." Soon after seeing the land I began to think of my late father and wept to think I should see him no more to relate my wonderful adventures. The wind has been favourable all day and improved still more since noon. About half past six we perceived a lighthouse supposed to be at Kinsale. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8TH. Rose at six; found we had been going well all night; were then passing some high land called Saltees[34]. Two vessels astern, one inward, the other outward bound. Heard the Captain up several times. Passed Tuskar lighthouse at eight; one or two towers and several white cottages. Passed Holyhead at five o'clock about five miles off. A glorious sail all day till half past five, then the sky assumed a stormy aspect, the clouds dark and flying in different directions. At half past six a lighthouse hoisted us a signal for a pilot. In about fifteen minutes a light was observed which the Captain said was from a pilot's boat. In 1/4 of an hour after the boat came up and sent off a small boat alongside, when a lusty pilot was at length pulled up into our ship. He brought a newspaper, Whitehaven, 15th July. Immediately the sail was hauled in so that it scarcely moved, though the gale had considerably increased; though a clumsy sort of fellow we all felt easier and no doubt shall sleep better. On coming opposite we hoisted signal 292 which is the number of the _Hibernia_. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9TH.