70 PAUMATO GROUP. 



that they emigrated from the Chain Islands.* Their houses 

 are little better than sheds, but kept very clean ; the furni- 

 ture consisted of some mats, which were spread over the floor, 

 some half-dozen glass bottles, and a calabash or two, in which 

 they keep their water. 



We obtained from them several pigs, some cocoa-nuts, and 

 a few shells. Of all the articles we offered them, they gave a 

 decided preference to calico, tobacco, and knives. Looking- 

 glasses, beads, and such like trinkets, they would scarcely 

 receive. On taking leave of our friends, we took a short walk 

 into the interior of the island. It is well covered with trees, 

 among which the cocoa-nut makes a conspicuous appearance. 

 The lagoon is several miles in circumference, and is well 

 stored with fish, which constitutes the principal food of the 

 inhabitants. 



September 6th. At an early hour commenced surveying 

 Waterland. This island was discovered by the Dutch, and 

 is situated in latitude 14 26' 55" south, and longitude 

 145 12' 00" west. It is covered with luxuriant vegetation, 

 and has an extensive lagoon. 



In the afternoon we landed on the western side, and took a 

 series of observations on the dipping-needle. Four men were 

 the only natives we saw here ; they very much resembled 

 those we found at Raraka. 



One of the boats remained ashore a long time after the 

 signal for her return was made. The officer in charge gave 

 as the cause for this, that he discovered that one of the 

 crew was missing, and he was waiting for him to return. 

 Some supposed that the man strayed from the boat, but I am 

 of the opinion that he deserted. His name is Penny has 



* These islands are under the government of Tahiti. The inhabitants were for- 

 merly cannibals ; but now missionaries are established among them, and they have 

 made many advances in civilization. 



