248 REMARKS AND OPINIONS. 



has almost made this custom antiquated, which 

 will hardly be repeated at the death of the most 

 sacred person. When three victims, on the death 

 of Kahumanna*s mother, offered themselves to ful- 

 fil their destination, Kareimoku would not allow it, 

 and no human blood was shed. Human sacrifices, 

 it is true, still take place, but it would be unjust to 

 upbraid the Owhyeeans for them. They sacrifice 

 culprits to their gods, as we sacrifice them in Eu- 

 rope to justice. Every land has its peculiar cus- 

 toms. What were the Christians when autos-da-fe 

 were celebrated, and how long have they ceased ? 

 The custom of eating human flesh had ceased long 

 before the death of Cook. The last historical 

 traces of it may be found in the island of Woahoo. 



Every great chief has his peculiar gods (^/tw«), the 

 idols of which are represented in his morai. Others 

 have different ones. The worship of these idols 

 appears to be more for distinguished parade than 

 religion. The common people must do without 

 these idols, and they make various creatures, birds, 

 fowls, &c. for the object of their worship. Super- 

 stition prevails under many forms in the Sandwich 

 islands. As Kareimoku*s guests, we were present 

 at the celebration of a Tabu pori, which lasted 

 from the setting of the sun to sunrise on the third 

 day. It is already known what degree of sanctity 

 is imparted to him who joins in this commu- 

 nion with the gods during the time. Should he 

 accidentally touch a woman, she must be instantly 



