2nd november. Messrs Galton, Burgon, and myself left Smyrna on horseback, and travelling for six hours along the coast came to Vourla, and, sleeping here, proceeded next day for ten hours to Ghesmee, where the Russian Fleet gained a victory over the Turks some few years back. We suffered severely from the most violent storms of rain, on this day, that had overtaken us on our journey. With much difficulty the Greek Governor was induced to take us into his house; and a dying man in the next room, who expired about midnight, added much to the discomfort of the evening.

About the middle of the day following, a boat was ready to sail with us to the island of Scio; and it was dark on our arrival at an Italian convent—the priest of which received us very hospitably. This island was very interesting as being the place celebrated as the habitation of the Harpies, and for the school of Homer which is about two hours' walk from the town. This consists of seats cut in the rock, of a circular form, with a central piece of stone which has the remains of seven lions carved upon it—and from this it is supposed Homer taught: there is room for only about 40 pupils, instead of one hundred, upon these seats.