The Virginian

The Sea Serpent on his Temple—A letter from Norway announces the appearance of the great Sea Serpent upon its coast, or one of his relations. Five persons have been examined before the Justice Court of Christiansand, who testify and concurred in a description of the animal corresponding with that given of the serpent which so long sported in the favored waters of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. On the 24th of August he was seen in clear calm weather, to the eastward, and on the 20th he passed the Lund and Faroe Islands. The body of the animal as it appeared in the water, had at least eight coils or heads (bends) distant from each other about 20 feet. The arched or humps, when were all above the water, were about 6 feet high; so that the whole length may be estimated at 240 feet. In thickness it appeared equal to a water-butt or hogshead. The color of the head which was raised above the water, was either black or very dark. No tail was observed. Its passage through the water, carried a rustling noise. The speeds of its body were in trepide motion: that is to say, they moved up and down, being one moment above and the next under the water. A reward of 100 rix dollars for killing it, is now animating the light and enterprising fishermen on the coast with the intent to terminator upon it. The commander of the Danish frigate off the coast will, it is said, perhaps try his most a sure weapon upon it.

[Beacon]