AN EXPLORING EXPEDITION. 67

result was a settled resolve to quit the scene of his
mortification and distress, and to fly from his
native land.

Casting about for the means by which he might
be enabled to effect his purpose, he learned that
the Government was on the point of despatching
an expedition to explore the southern hemisphere,
With considerable difficulty, through the friendly
assistance of MM. Jussieu and Lacépéde, he ob-
tained an engagement in the service. The number
of savants was already completed, but at his earnest
representation of the importance of adding a medi-
cal naturalist to the staff this post was assigned
to him, and on the 19th October 1800 he sailed
with the expedition, which consisted of two frigates,
the Naturalist and the Geographé; Peron, with most
of the savants, being on board the latter vessel.
His biographer in the “ Naturalist’s Library” thus
pleasingly relates the incidents of the voyage :—
‘Though several campaigns had familiarised M.
Peron with privation, yet, on board ship, he found
himself more put about than he anticipated.
Having arrived after all the others were accom-
modated, he found only a pitiful corner left for
him ; however, in the midst of agitation and bustle,
he retained all his composure and self-possession,
and did not lose a moment. The very day he went

on board he commenced his meteorological obser-
(352) D .