1S39.] HABITATIONS AND CANOES. 105 



long, four feet high in the centre, and five feet wide. In the 

 other parts of the group neat and tasteful houses are con- 

 structed of stakes of the bread-fruit tree driven into the 

 ground, — the framework of the walls being composed of bam- 

 boo or hibiscus rods ; they are thatched with pandanus leaves, 

 and mats are hung against the sides when the state of the 

 weather requires it. Some of these framed huts are mere 

 temporary structures, and may be taken up, and removed 

 from place to place, like the tents of a nomad. 



The canoes of the natives are made of the excavated trunks 

 of the pisonia and other trees, or of strips of cocoa-nut wood 

 sewed together over a framework. In navigating from one 

 island to another, double canoes, which are two single ones 

 lashed side and side, are mainly used. Across these is laid 

 a platform, above which is sometimes spread an awning 

 of plaited cocoa leaves. Moveable masts are inserted, with 

 vines for stays. The sails are made of matting of the pan- 

 danus leaf, and the oars and paddles of hibiscus wood. Out- 

 riggers are also common, especially among the vessels be- 

 longing to the inhabitants of Anaa, or Chain Island. 



