Its
name being taken from the faintest tinge of that colour,
which at this time of the year is barely perceptible from the
anchorage. To complete the desolate scene, the black rocks
on the coast are lashed by a wild and turbulent sea.
The settlement is near the beach; it consists of several
houses and barracks placed irregularly, but well built of
white freestone. The only inhabitants are marines, and some
negroes liberated from slave-ships, who are paid and victualled
by government. There is not a private person on the
island. Many of the marines appeared well contented with their
situation; they think it better to serve their one-and-twenty
years on shore, let it be what it may, than in a ship; in this
choice, if I were a marine, I should most heartily agree.
The next morning I ascended Green Hill, 2840 feet high,
and thence walked across the island to the windward point.
A good cart-road leads from the coast-settlement to the
houses, gardens, and fields, placed near the summit of the
central mountain. On the roadside there are milestones, and
likewise cisterns, where each thirsty passer-by can drink
some good water. Similar care is displayed in each part of the
establishment, and especially in the management of the
springs, so that a single drop of water may not be lost:
