13. from thence we fetched a compass--that is, proceeded circuitously,
or tacked, working to windward probably, and availing themselves of
the sinuosities of the coast, the wind not being favorable
[SMITH].
What follows confirms this.
and came to Rhegium--now Reggio, a seaport on the southwest point
of the Italian coast, opposite the northeast point of Sicily, and at the
entrance of the narrow straits of Messina.
after one day the south wind blew--a south wind having sprung up; being
now favored with a fair wind, for want of which they had been obliged
first to stay three days at Syracuse, and then to tack and put in for a
day at Rhegium.
the next day to Puteoli--now Pozzuoli, situated on the northern
part of the magnificent bay of Naples about one hundred eighty miles
north of Rhegium, a distance which they might make, running before their
"south wind," in about twenty-six hours. The Alexandrian corn ships
enjoyed a privilege peculiar to themselves, of not being obliged to
strike their topsail on landing. By this they were easily recognized as
they hove in sight by the crowds that we find gathered on the shore on
such occasions [HOWSON].
JFB.
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