326 PAUMOTU GROUP. 
readily gave them permission to do so without arms. They passed a 
short distance from us, hoping to effect their purpose without oppo- 
sition, but the natives separated in order to oppose any landing. 
One or two officers swam through the surf without arms, and were 
boldly set upon by three of the natives, when they made a hurried 
retreat. This evidently gave the natives confidence, when their con- 
duct became more outrageous. Mr. Couthouy requested permission 
to land with presents, under the protection of the boat, which I gave 
him. He swam on shore, pausing now and then for the purpose of 
showing the trinkets. The chief motioned him away, but he landed 
on the rocks. The chief, retiring, appeared as if somewhat alarmed, 
while Mr. Couthouy advanced towards him, holding out the presents. 
On being joined by another native the chief stopped, raised his spear, 
and with a shout and distortion of countenance, made a pass at Mr. 
Couthouy, who at once dropped looking-glasses, trinkets, &c, at his 
feet, and quickly made for the boat. The savage took no notice of 
Mr. Couthouy's offerings, but advanced to attack him with his spear. 
When he had reached the edge of the surf, he made another thrust 
at him, but fortunately without injury. This precipitate retreat gave 
them still more confidence; they now began throwing pieces of coral, 
numbers of which struck the men in my boat. I felt no disposition 
to do them harm, and yet I had no idea of letting them see and feel 
that they had driven us off without landing, well knowing, however, 
if a forcible landing took place, and they made resistance, that 
accident would befall one side, and probably both. I, therefore, 
thinking that they had no idea of fire-arms, ordered several blank 
cartridges to be fired, but they took no notice of them.* According 
to John Sac, they hooted at these arms, calling us cowards, and 
daring us to come on shore. I then fired a small charge of mustard- 
seed shot at their legs, which did not produce any effect. Then, Mr. 
Peale, who was near by me, was requested to draw his ball, and load 
with mustard-seed, which he did, and Lieutenant North likewise 
fired, which caused the chief and all the rest to retreat, rubbino- their 
legs. The officers were now permitted to land, under strict injunc- 
tions not to leave the beach, in order to avoid all contact with the 
natives. So much time had been lost before I could get the 
* I have since understood, however, that the poor natives have been fired upon by 
trading vessels engaged in the pearl fishery, in mere wantonness, which will account for 
their hostile reception of us. 
