EASTER ISLAND AND THE MARQUESAS 151 



The chief object of this fresh visit was to allow 

 William Wales to make astronomical observa- 

 tions and correct the errors of the chronometers. 

 Cook also wished to carry out certain indispens- 

 able repairs to the ship, and to provision her 

 with water and other necessaries. 



The relations between the English and the 

 Tahitians were marked, as on previous visits, by 

 the most genuine cordiality. Each visit drew 

 closer the bonds of friendship, and a real inti- 

 macy grew up between Cook and Otoo, the king 

 of the island, Towha, the High Admiral, and 

 many other chiefs. 



Barter was much easier than hitherto, thanks 

 to feathers of red parrakeets brought from 

 Tongatabou, which excited the envy of the 

 Tahitians. 



It is unnecessary to say that thefts were as 

 frequent as before. Cook, however, decided to 

 act with firmness. One of the natives having 

 tried to carry off a cask, was taken red-handed, 

 carried on board, and put in irons. Otoo and 

 other chiefs saw him in this situation, and Cook 

 explained the reason of it to the king, who de- 

 manded the release of his subject. The Captain 

 refused, saying that since he punished members 

 of his crew who committed the least offence 

 against the inhabitants of Tahiti, it was only 



