Meaning: This quote refers to a tragic event in the history of the Spanish colonization of California. The "two vessels" mentioned in the quote are the San Carlos and the San Antonio, which were part of the expedition led by Gaspar de Portolà and Father Junipero Serra in 1769. The San Carlos, mentioned in the quote, was a supply ship that arrived in San Diego before the land expedition. The quote indicates that the crew of the San Carlos suffered greatly from scurvy, a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, leading to the death of most of the sailors.

The San Carlos was a vital part of the expedition, carrying essential supplies and provisions for the settlers and soldiers who were to establish the first Spanish missions and presidios in California. However, due to the harsh conditions of the journey and the lack of proper nutrition, the crew of the San Carlos succumbed to scurvy, a common affliction among sailors during long sea voyages in the 18th century.

The mention of "all having died of the scurvy, except two" underscores the severity of the situation on board the San Carlos. Scurvy was a dreaded and often fatal disease for seafarers, characterized by weakness, anemia, swollen gums, and eventually, death if left untreated. The fact that only two sailors survived out of the entire crew highlights the devastating impact of scurvy on the expedition and the perilous nature of early maritime exploration.

Father Junipero Serra, mentioned as the clergyman in the quote, was a prominent figure in the Spanish colonization of California. He played a key role in establishing the first nine of the 21 Spanish missions in California, including the Mission San Diego de Alcalá, which was the first mission founded as part of the Portolà expedition. Serra's presence on the expedition and his firsthand account of the hardships faced by the crew of the San Carlos provide valuable historical insight into the challenges of early Spanish exploration and settlement in California.

The quote serves as a somber reminder of the human cost and sacrifices associated with the age of exploration and colonization. It sheds light on the perils of long sea voyages, the harsh conditions endured by sailors, and the devastating impact of diseases such as scurvy on maritime expeditions. Additionally, it underscores the resilience and determination of early explorers and settlers who braved these challenges in pursuit of new territories and opportunities.

In conclusion, the quote captures a poignant moment in the history of Spanish exploration in California, highlighting the tragic fate of the San Carlos and its crew. It offers a glimpse into the hardships and dangers faced by early seafarers and the profound impact of diseases such as scurvy on maritime expeditions. Through the lens of Father Junipero Serra's account, the quote provides valuable historical insight into the human experiences and sacrifices associated with the colonization of California in the 18th century.