THE SANDWICH ISLANDS 541 



was exported in 1889. Wool is another product of 

 some importance, about half a million lbs. being annually 

 shipped. The total value of the exports in 1889 scarcely 

 fell short of three million sterling. The imports are 

 chiefly manufactured goods, nearly four-fifths of which 

 come from America. There is a small public debt of 

 £200,000. 



Hawaii was, up till quite recently, an independent 

 monarchy, with two chambers, the upper composed of 

 chiefs elected by the landholders, the lower chosen by 

 universal suffrage. Political squabbles, however, have of 

 late destroyed the peace of the islands, and retarded 

 their progress. They culminated on July 4th, 1894, in 

 a coup d!6idt, when a Republic was proclaimed. It is 

 quite possible, however, that this form of government 

 may not be of long duration. The capital, Honolulu,' in 

 the island of Oahu, has over 20,000 inhabitants, and is 

 very progressive and European. Fine quays allow the 

 largest steamers to lie alongside, the streets and shops 

 are lit by electric light, and there are telephones every- 

 where. Cabs, tramways, schools, homes for aged natives, 

 a racecourse, an opera-house, and excellent bands con- 

 tribute to the comfort and amusement of the people. In 

 the island of Hawaii, Hilo is the most important town, 

 with 5000 inhabitants. There are two short railways 

 in the grovip, and' a good steamer service with San 

 Francisco. 



