Thoreau writes in his journal:
Go to Bay side . . . Found washed up, and saw swimming in the cove where we bathed, young mackerel two inches long . . . Uncle Sam [Sam Small] says there is most drift in the spring . . . (Journal, 7:441-442).
Thoreau also writes to H.G.O. Blake:
You say that you hope I will excuse your frequent writing. I trust you will excuse my infrequent and curt writing until I am able to resume my old habits, which for three months I have been compelled to abandon. Methinks I am beginning to be better. I think to leave the Cape next Wednesday, and so shall not see you here; but I shall be glad to meet you in Concord, though I may not be able to go before the mast, in a boating excursion. This is an admirable place of coolness and sea-bathing and retirement. You must come prepared for cool weather and fogs.
P.S.—There is no mail up till Monday morning.
