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[p. v] geologist, it might lead to some valuabel discoveries; or, at least, plausible deductions- not merely concerning the original formation of St Helena, but of islands in general.

page vi.

The first notice on record of this plain is by Governor Roberts; who, in a minute of consultation, dated the 9th of April, 1711, denominates it, "that glorious plain - the finest I ever saw in "my life, any where."

"The Governor and Council met here by appointment. (16th October, 1716,) We find the place called the Great Wood in a flourishing condition full of young trees where the hogs (of which there is a great abundance) do not come to root them up: but the Great Wood, is miserably lessened and destroyed within our memories; and is not near the circuit and length it was."

ix. page.

And notwithstanding there be evident marks of some parts of the exterior boundary of St Helena

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having been formed by lava, and afterwards rent open and changed by subterraneous convulsion, yet, upon the whole, there appears to be strong grounds for supposing that the finest parts of the interior are the remnants of primitive land.

page xi.

According to a minute survey, taken by Captain Austin of the Royal Navy, along the northern face of the island, the bottom of the sea, extending from Flag-staff Bay to Horse-pasture Point, comprising about 16 square miles, shelves very gradually. Three miles north of the coast at Flag-staff there is ground at 82 fathoms and at three quarters of a mile from Horse-pasture there are 36 fathoms. It appears also by this survey that the bottom is in general. smooth and even;; consisting of mud mud and shells

Wrong [written by Darwin over final paragraph]

[in Darwin's hand:] Beatson's St. Helena

Reference:

Beatson, Alexander. 1816. Tracts relative to the Island of St Helena: written during a residence of five years. London: Printed by W. Bulmer and Co.