The people took a deep interest in the subject.

The men visited the schooner by scores; and as most of them were unable to read, through the infirmities of ignorance and "weak eyes," my literary powers were put in requisition, and again and again I was compelled to read aloud, for their edification, the conglomeration of absurdities which the prophet had put forth.

They listened with attention; and it was amusing to hear their strange remarks and queer logic in favor of or against the prediction.

The effect upon the minds of some of these children of the sandy isles was undoubtedly beneficial.
It led them to think; it brought the Bible directly before them, and reminded them that whether the pamphlet was true or false a day of judgment was at hand.
The wind having changed, we crossed "the Swash," entered the Sound, and soon reached the mouth of the River Neuse.

This is a stream of considerable importance, being four hundred miles in length, and draining a large tract of country.