PAUMOTU GROUP. 359 
On the map of this group it will be seen where the line of canni- 
balism extends to, according to native accounts. Although there is 
little doubt that the natives of this group have been addicted to this 
horrible barbarity, yet it is believed that it is not now practised. 
The advancement of civilization by their intercourse with the 
whites, together with the missionary influence, will put an end to 
this practice, and promote peace among all the islanders of the group ; 
not only ameliorating the condition of the natives, but protecting the 
unfortunate mariner who may be wrecked within this dangerous 
archipelago. 
From what has been said of the Paumotu Group, it is evident it 
can afford but few advantages for commercial enterprise; the only 
article which of late years has been sought for among the islands, is 
the pearl oyster-shell, of which considerable quantities have been 
obtained. The return will be noticed under the commerce of Tahiti, 
of which it forms a part. The vessels engaged in the fishery belong 
to foreigners, who reside at Tahiti. The mode of taking the oysters 
is by natives, who are employed as divers, for a very small compensa- 
tion. It is much to be regretted, that the traders should have recourse 
to the demoralizing effects of spirits, in stimulating their exertions. 
The natives themselves carry on a small trade in their double 
canoes, which it will be seen by the wood-cut below, have already 
undergone some modifications from that already given on a previous 
page, as formerly in use. These are principally the Chain Islanders, 
who supply themselves at Tahiti with various small articles, in ex- 
change for their cocoa-nut oil, and dried fish. 
TRADING DOUBLE CANOE. 
