Anchored in Clarence Cove, Fernando Po. This place was once in possession of our Government, but now belongs to a small company of merchants. The first question asked by every passer-by is: “What in the world could induce the Government to give up such a place with so many advantages?” As a rendezvous for ships of war it is perfect. The anchorage is capacious and safe, the fresh water excellent and plentiful, and no end of firewood. There is also a good place for hauling the seine, with lots of fine fish. An excellent beach for hauling boats up for repair. Clarence Cove is a key to some of the largest rivers in Africa, and its being situated in the centre almost of the country from which most of the slaves are exported renders this the most fit place for the slave court to be held. Although at present the island is not overstocked with bullocks, still animals of all sorts thrive here, and by a little pains it might become one of the most commodious and useful spots on the globe as a naval establishment. The timber also, of which there is an enormous quantity, and of great variety, is allowed to be the best exported from any part of Africa. The soil is rich, and capable of producing anything. The company had appointed two zealous and active agents in Messrs. Beecroft and Oldfield, who act as Governors, and fill all other appointments besides. The population consists of 800 persons, chiefly liberated negroes from Sierra Leone. There is a small militia garrison of about sixty persons, and several stores containing a little of everything, which articles they ship off in smaller vessels who barter up the adjoining rivers with the natives for palm-oil and ivory. Although there are a vast number of palms on the island, the natives have not been taught the advantage of collecting the oil, and bringing it down to barter for British goods. They are as yet an idle and indolent race, but I should think most useful and willing when once they can be convinced of the advantages of industry. The trees are felled by Kroomen. I saw one piece of timber measuring 5 feet square at the smallest, and 60 feet long. Mr. Beecroft was kind enough to have a couple of the largest trees felled for us to see, and I think, next to the launching of a large ship, it was the most magnificent sight I ever beheld. We remained at Fernando Po for a week, sailing on 21st. On 23rd we were overtaken by a moderate tornado, which lasted three hours, and ended in a north-east breeze. [Sidenote: Nov. 25.] Came to in West Bay, Prince’s Island, to gain intelligence of the senior Commander, under whose orders I was about to place myself. This is an exceedingly pretty and secure little bay, well adapted for cruisers to complete wood and water. There are sugar-loaf mountains and other shaped hills which give the island a picturesque appearance. It belongs to the Portuguese. [Sidenote: Nov. 27.]