This summary of progress and results obtained in 2004 precedes fuller and more complete documentation of the work that was done.

Recording and Clearing of Standing Architectural Monuments, Structures and Features

    By the end of the 2003 season all standing monuments had been documented but, when appropriate, we continue to add to the digital record, not least as and when photographs are taken in a variety of lighting conditions. A mechanized grass cutter was used to trim the grass around the base of the monuments that had been cleaned last year. This procedure not only enhances the look of the islet in itself, but it also discourages visitors from throwing rubbish, such as tins and bottles, into the long grass.
    Cutting back the grass around the cistern (Fig. 14) led to the discovery of hidden remains, Structure 32, which were then excavated (trench TR10). Clearing operations at the northern end also uncovered the floor of the corridor with post holes (Fig. 15).

Excavations at the Lower Battery, Central Platform and Upper Battery

    Excavation of trench TR9 at the northern end of the Lower Battery (Figs 1, 11 and 16) revealed the inner face of the original battery wall (A3) and precisely half of the south-eastern blocked gun emplacement. It was unrewarding that no significant discoveries were made.
    At the Central Platform (Structure 13 also shown on Fig. 5) the extension of trench TR3 (Fig. 17), begun in 2003, together with excavation of trench TR7 confirmed that there were a minimum of two phases to this built feature. This result added very considerable weight to the interpretation that we are here dealing with carefully constructed platform that supported flagpoles or masts for signalling.
    Trench TR8 (Fig. 18) located between the Central Platform and the Upper Battery revealed, as had been anticipated, traces of tracking for a Girbeauval traversing platform on which a cannon would have been mounted behind one of the emplacements.

Full examination of the enigmatic "Ditch" and its associated features

    A further search for graffiti on the sides of the ditch (Fig. 19) confirmed our 2003 observation that the cutting predates 1840.
    Trenches TR12, TR13 and TR14 were positioned so as to answer outstanding questions with as little impact on the remains as possible.
    Trench TR12 (Fig. 20), in the base of the ditch, showed that the feature was never completed but also, somewhat disappointingly, that it had been completely cleaned out in World War II.
    Trenches TR13 and TR14 confirmed the dimensions of the channel around the top of the Ditch and provided some support for the idea that this was a secondary feature associated with a roof. It is likely that this channel belongs with the Observation Tower and associated structures, and should therefore be dated to late 19^th or early 20^th century.

Wild Life
    If finds from the trenches were disappointing, wild life was not. A blind snake (Fig. 21), Rhamphotyphlops braminus, found in trench TR12, was identified as by the Wild Life Foundation reptile expert Nick Cole. The snake is a common exotic species.

Structure 32 and Trench TR10

    Structure 32 (Fig. 22), adjacent to the Cistern, appears to have a cement floor laid over an earlier structure. Once completely exposed in trench TR10, the remains were photographed and planned.

Structure 33 and Trench TR11

    Trench TR11, in the north-western sector of the islet (Fig. 23), was begun because traces of walling could be seen emerging from the eroded scarp. Very limited excavation revealed some evidence of stratigraphy in which burnt features can be seen. Charcoal and bone is also well preserved, although very fragmentary. This area will be a focus of research in 2005.

Essential Conservation and Backfilling

    Essential conservation work (Fig. 24) to prevent further degradation and deterioration was also carried out. The islet attracts many visitors and it is essential that campers are deterred from dislodging stones to use for anchoring temporary shelters.
    At the end of the season most trenches were backfilled (Fig. 25) so as to preserve the built remains as well as to prevent collapse of the trench edges. Wherever exposure of the tops of masonry features was compatible with their preservation their visibility was retained.

Recording graffiti

    Systematic recording of graffiti (Fig. 26) continued at the Powder House. This represents the greatest challenge because of the restricted distance between the inner faces of the Enclosing Wall and the Powder House itself. A good start was made, but it is clear that systematic coverage will require several stepladders and planks, a number of individuals and not inconsiderable patience and dedication!
    To quote from last year's Report: "One major concern associated with recording graffiti is the time needed after work in the field to process digital images and to transcribe each individual graffito. We ourselves would be happy to pass on a copy of the digital photograph archive in order for this study to be made by a competent expert."

Guns and Finds

    The two iron mortars (Fig. 15) and the one extant side of an iron bed were measured and drawn and the carronade, now set upright for the mooring of boats by the Landing Point, was recorded.
   No finds from either the surface or from trenches were of particular importance. A French pewter button of well-known type (Fig. 27) was the sole find of significance from trench TR9. Other metal finds catalogued during the 2004 season included several canisters, grape shots, musket balls, bullets, nails and screws. No diagnostic fragments of glass or porcelain from the excavations seem to be as early as the French period. Charcoal and bones were kept for identification and study. All finds were photographed and catalogued.

The Presentation of Cultural Heritage to a Wide Public

    During a normal working day we would have several groups of visitors on the islet. If conditions for disembarking are not too difficult they would land and most of them, whether tourists or Mauritians, would express curiosity about our activities. Guided tours, signposts and leaflets will each have a role to play in an overall heritage management plan.