CHAP. VII.] MOTU-ROA ISLAND. 



165 



ever there was a platform, or level space on the rock, 

 they had built dwelling-houses and stores, in which 

 they kept wood and provisions. In case of an attack, 

 they could, if watchful, easily keep off an enemy. 

 We took possession of a good house on the north- 

 west side of the island, about 190 feet above the 

 water, and placed in a dry niche, with the rock over- 

 hanging it. The vegetation of the island is con- 

 fined to flax, cabbage, and parsley, which grow in 

 the interstices of the rock. 



