When the moment arrived the great ship started, and the lock of the dry-dock burst. On the one hand I saw the huge ship majestically sliding into the harbour; while on the other, hundreds of human beings were being precipitated into the dry-dock by the bursting of the lock and breaking of the bridge, which was crowded. Some of those who were in the centre were carried the whole length of the dock and managed to escape. Full particulars may be found in the _Hampshire Telegraph_, September 13, 1825. [Sidenote: Sept. 28.] Having embarked the Very Rev. J. Inglis, Bishop of Nova Scotia, Mrs. Inglis, and two tall, handsome daughters, we sailed for Halifax. The summer was over, and we had no time to lose, as we hoped to escape being frozen in for the winter in Canada. Things generally go on smoothly while ladies are on board. However, we were detained two days at Cowes and ten at Falmouth. [Sidenote: Oct. 21.] We anchored in Fayal Roads on 21st until 23rd, when we again sailed into more bad weather. [Sidenote: Halifax, N. S. Nov. 7.] It was the 7th before we reached Halifax. How thankful our poor passengers must have been! We saluted the flag of Rear-Admiral W. T. Lake; afterwards landed our good Bishop under salute of 13 guns. The Bishop and family did all they could to make our short stay pleasant, particularly to us youngsters. A ball was given, at which I was too shy to dance with one of the tall and handsome Miss Inglises. General Sir James Kempt was the Governor, one of the most popular as well as the smartest officers I had seen. Years afterwards he seconded Lord Lyndoch’s proposal for me as a member of the United Service Club. [Sidenote: Sunday, Nov. 20.] We received on board Commander Canning and officers of the _Sappho_ for passage home, she having been wrecked on the coast. The flagship _Jupiter_, 60, shifted nearer entrance preparatory to going into milder winter quarters. [Sidenote: Monday, Nov. 21.] In proof that we had remained long enough, our sails were frozen to the yards. It took marling-spikes to hammer the gaskets before the sails could be loosed. We sailed after breakfast, with the _Pelter_, 10, brig in company. I fancy junior commanders don’t care about being in co., and after Wednesday evening we saw no more of her. [Sidenote: Dec. 1.] December 1 found us in 43° north latitude; unpleasant mornings for washing decks. I saw but little of our passenger, the Prime Minister’s son, nor did he much of his half-uncle. [Sidenote: Sunday, Dec. 11.] Just at dark came to in Plymouth Sound. Sailed 13th, arriving at Spithead 14th. CHAPTER IV THE _TWEED_ [Sidenote: 1826. Jan. 19.]