TO THE FRENCH PASS AND BACK.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume IX, Issue 307, 29 December 1874, Page 2

TO THE FRENCH PASS AND BACK.

A correspondent sends us the following : — About 8-30 a.m. on Boxing Day, the Wallace, dressed with green boughs and gay bunting, started from the Albion Wharf with excursionists bound for the French Pass. On leaving the harbor a fresh breeze was blowing from the south-west, which, however, gradually died away, giving pace to a refreshing sea breeze, which came up the bay about 10 a.m. The Wallace was kept well in shore to allow passengers a good view of the varied Bcenery bordering the shores of Blind Bay, and, as the motion of the steamer did not cause any unpleasantness, many enjoyed the bold scenery as we passed the headlands. As the far-famed Pass was approached with its acknowledged perilous navigation, the entrance seemed to t'e stranger far too narrow to allow even the tiny Wallace a safe passage through, and man? an anxious look was directed towards the interesting but dreaded Pas'. The tide was evidently running through in ruad career at about half ebb, which, through the narrow channel of the Pass means velocity beyond the ordinary conception of nautical experience. Throngh this mili-s ream the Wallace had to be navigated, bounded by lnfty and precipitous rocks on one side and nasty project'ng reefs upon the other, to come in contact with either of which wouli be, no doubt, attended with disastrous results. However, the confident attitude of our commander and his officers showed them to be masters of the position, and no strangers to the work in hand, which caused au easy feeling to prevail among those unaccustomed to such scenes. With a cool and steady nerve to direct, and a couple of sturdy hands at the wheel, the Wallace was guided with unswerving precision— sho&ting like a dart through the narrows into the whirling cauldron beyond, which is caused by the eddy tide. The sight was grand, although enough to shake the nerves of the uninitiated, and to make the timid tremble. After getting through, a few more minutes steaming brought us to our destination, which was a beautiful little bay, and well adapted for the halting place of excu r sionists. The p'ace is occupied by Mr Arthur Elmsie, who did everything in his power to accommodate and welcome his visitors, who, I am sure, felt gratified for the attention bestowed. While the majority availed themselves of the opportunity of a ramble on shore gathering shells upon the beach,* or dropping off in pairs to gain the shady side of some huge trunk or projecting crag, where interesting topics might be discussed beyond the reach of inquisitive meddlers, others proceeded to the f irned fishing grounds in the vicinity, ia the steamer's boats, where anchor was let go, in the Bhaps of a couple of fire bars. These were soon at work among the finny tribe, and the slaughter was immense, two at a time being frequently pulled in on each line; but unfortunately a sudden slop was put to the sport of the hook and line, as in the midst of the fun the sound of a distant whistle was heard, which all knew the meaning of. So we unwillingly weighed anchor (fire bars), and obeyed the call of the steam whistle, which seemfid to be getting impatient of our tardy movements to return, fchortly afterwards, when every straggler was on board, the order for starting was given, the anchor was weighed, and the Wallace was again put in motion for the return trip. After getting through the Pass, a strong breeze was encouutered, causing a nasty confused sea, which soon set many to work at their arithmetic, while others lay prostrate on the deck. The joviality which previously prevailed seemed now in a silent mood, and lengthened visages took the place of smiling faces. With the exception of this trifling sea Bickness all went well, aad we arrived at the Government Wharf about 10 p.m., all being satisfied with the day's recreation, and pleased with Captain Conway's usual courtesy towards those who sail in the vessel he commands. The stewards' department was also presided over with attention and civility well worthy of praise.