SANDWICH ISLANDS. 195 



The remains of many of the temples that were dedicated to 

 its god are still to be seen on its banks. The bed over which 

 it flows is composed of black volcanic rock, and in some places 

 is full of fissures and chasms. A little to the right of the 

 spot where we struck it, there are two very beautiful cascades. 

 The Waikea was also distinguished in olden times for the great 

 number of fairs that were held on its banks. We had scarcely 

 crossed this beautiful stream when we reached the house which 

 our friend occupied. It is the property of Mr. Pittman's son, 

 and, besides being shaded by magnificent trees, it commands a 

 noble view of the harbor. After spending a few hours with our 

 friend, we set out to return on board. Many native houses were 

 scattered along our path, some of which we entered. They 

 were not so large nor so cleanly as those we had seen at Oahoo. 



We reached the ship just as the eight o'clock gun was fired. 



December 17th. During these twenty-four hours the air 

 has been uncommonly keen, on account of the wind blowing 

 from the westward. This wind blows down the mountains, 

 and is more dreaded by the natives than any other. Both 

 day and night, during its continuance, they keep large fires 

 burning in their houses, and gather round them as closely as 

 they can. It is, in fact, to them, what the northeast wind is 

 to us in the winter season. 



December 18th. Several letters have been received to-day 

 from the Mouna Loa party, and among others, one from Cap- 

 tain Wilkes, addressed to the first Lieutenant, in which, he 

 directs that fifty of the crew should be sent to him. One of the 

 letters stated that about thirty of the natives had given out. 



The swell is running very heavy. We have stood it out, how- 

 ever, thus far, with only one anchor and eighty fathoms cable. 



December 19th. At early dawn, Lieut. Alden and Mr. San- 

 ford left here with the fifty -men sent for by Captain Wilkes. 



