354 MURDER OF AMERICAN OFFICERS. [1840. 



This summary chastisement prevented any further acts of 

 aggression in that quarter; but on the '24\h of the same 

 month, a still more lamentable incident occurred at the 

 island of Malolo. Strict orders had been issued by the com- 

 mander of the Squadron, in regard to their intercourse with 

 the natives, while engaged in prosecuting the survey of the 

 group ; but on the morning of the 24th, Lieutenant Under- 

 wood went ashore from the first cutter of the Vincennes, to 

 obtain provisions, unfortunately for himself neglecting to take 

 with him a sufficient number of men or weapons. On discov- 

 ering that the natives manifested symptoms of hostility, a 

 hostage was seized and sent on board the cutter, which now 

 drew in towards the shore, to be detained as a prisoner while 

 the party were engaged in bartering with his fellows. Con- 

 siderable time was spent in chaffering, and the natives grad- 

 ually collected around the little party of Lieutenant Under- 

 wood. In the meanwhile the latter were joined by Midship- 

 man Henry in a canoe. One or two attempts were made by 

 the hostage to escape, and he at length succeeded in plunging 

 into the water, when he struck out for the shore. Shots 

 were fired at him, but without effect. 



This was the signal for the attack, which had no doubt 

 been premeditated. Lieutenant Underwood and his party 

 were instantly beset by the natives. They were at first kept 

 at bay, and the Americans attempted to retreat to the small 

 boat, which they had left over six hundred yards from the 

 beach, on account of the shallowness of the water on the reef. 

 But the savages were not to be balked, and they now pressed 

 eagerly on the feeble band, using their clubs and spears with 

 great dexterity and effect. Both Lieutenant Underwood and 

 Midshipman Henry defended themselves gallantly, and with 

 praiseworthy intrepidity, but overpowered by superior num- 

 bers, they were unable to make their escape, and were at 

 length knocked down and killed by the natives with their 

 clubs. Others of the party were severely wounded, but none 

 fatally except the two officers. Lieutenants Emmons and 

 Alden had witnessed the beginning of the affray from the 



