In the limited but rich soil at the top of the island, among the clouds, vegetation has taken root, and a little scientific farming is carried on under the supervision of a gentleman from Canada.

Also a few cattle and sheep are pastured there for the garrison mess.

Water storage is made on a large scale.

In a word, this heap of cinders and lava rock is stored and fortified, and would stand a siege.
Very soon after the _Spray_ arrived I received a note from Captain Blaxland, the commander of the island, conveying his thanks for the royal mail brought from St.Helena, and inviting me to luncheon with him and his wife and sister at headquarters, not far away.

It is hardly necessary to say that I availed myself of the captain's hospitality at once.