Breakfasted off mackerel caught just before. After breakfast joined by Delmé Radcliffe and son Herbert. We started in hopes of engaging one Lanourie, a celebrated salt-water fisherman, but found he was already engaged by Mr. Petre of the _Osprey_. Arrived _Eugenie_, R.Y.S.; joined by Fred Delmé Radcliffe; had a good dinner with Frankland and Colonel Denny. [Sidenote: _Arrow_ yacht, July 9.] On the highest part in the centre of the town is a granite tower erected in memory of Her Majesty’s visit. After a climb up a spiral staircase, we obtained a view of the island. The tide being out, the numerous rocks appeared as if they had risen like pinnacles from the deep; makes one feel thankful one is not the owner of a yacht. During the night we were joined by the _Firefly_, Sir H. Oglander. A strong north-easter made us prisoners. Chamberlayne has a party at Cranberry, and I am due at home! News of Friday’s debate in the House on vote of censure. The position of Federal troops in Virginia critical. [Sidenote: July 10.] By steamer to Cowes; dined with Sir Thomas Whichcote on board his _Enchantress_. [Sidenote: July 11.] Landed early at Southampton, on to Bishopstoke, saw wife and kid (Colin), returned to _Enchantress_, and off with first of south-wester to the eastward. Monty Thorold on board. Frankland in _Eugenie_ had got start, but we caught her up this side of Beachy Head. Took Dutch pilot. [Sidenote: Aug. 10.] Readers rejoice. Some friend has borrowed a month of my journal and left me neither on shore nor afloat. [Sidenote: Aug. 12.] Sunset not far from the Sluis Gate entrance. Detained a couple of hours for want of water. Worked over the bar and came to in Goree Channel shortly after midnight. [Sidenote: Aug. 13.] _Eugenie_ brought up outside the bar. Having worked up to Helvets Maas, changed pilot and hauled into entrance of Vourme Canal. Here had to wait our turn. _Eugenie_ rejoined; got through first tack. Taken in tow by horses, to me a novel mode of travelling. Canal about six miles in length. Secured inside the lock. On passing through, saw sundry partridges, hares, wild duck, and plover; cattle, carts and carriages, latter primitive in appearance. At noon anchored off Rotterdam. Landed in afternoon; ascended the Church Tower, magnificent and extensive view. Inside the church are two good sculptures of Admirals de Witt and Coremiar. Town clean. Corry and Conellan dined with us. [Sidenote: Aug. 15.] [Sidenote: The Hague.]