midst of all these dangers we had preserved our
reason entire. Fear, anxiety, and the most cruel privations, had greatly
changed our intellectual faculties. But being somewhat less insane than
the unfortunate soldiers, we energetically opposed their determination
of cutting the cords of the raft. Permit us now to make some
observations concerning the different sensations with which we were
affected.

During the first day, M. Griffon entirely lost his senses. He threw
himself into the sea, but M. Savigny saved him with his own hands. His
words were vague and unconnected. A second time he threw himself in,
but, by a sort of instinct, kept hold of the cross pieces of the raft,
and was again saved.

The following is what M. Savigny experienced in the beginning of the
night. His eyes closed in spite of himself, and he felt a general
drowsiness. In this condition the most delightful visions flitted across
his imagination. He saw around him a country covered with the most
beautiful plantations, and found himself in the midst of objects
delightful to his senses. Nevertheless, he reasoned concerning his
condition, and felt that courage alone could withdraw him from this
species of non-existence. He demanded some wine from the master-gunner,
who got it for him, and he recovered a little from this state of stupor.
If the unfortunates who were assailed with these primary symptoms had
not strength to withstand them, their death was certain. Some became
furious; others threw themselves into the sea, bidding farewell to their
comrades with the utmost coolness. Some said--"Fear nothing; I am going
to get you assistance, and will return in a short while." In the midst
of this general madness, some wretches were seen rushing upon their
companions, sword in hand, demanding _a wing of a chicken and some
bread_ to appease the hunger which consumed them; others asked for their
hammocks to go, they said, _between the decks of the frigate to take a
little repose_. Many believed they were still on the deck of the Medusa,
surrounded by the same objects they there saw daily. Some saw ships, and
called to them for assistance, or a fine harbour, in the distance of
which was an elegant city. M. Correard thought he was travelling through
the beautiful fields of Italy. An officer said to him--"I recollect we
have been abandoned by the boats; but fear nothing. I am going to write
to the governor, and in a few hours we shall be saved." M. Correard
rep