44 TAHITI AND EI MEO. 



fifteen, had been invited ; hut, besides these, about an equal number 

 of others" contrived to get on board without invitation ; the latter 

 thrust themselves forward with eagerness to occupy places at the 

 table, but were compelled to give place to those of higher rank. A 

 second table was, however, prepared for them, at which they took 

 their seats, and did ample justice to what was set before them. 



The variety of costume which was exhibited at this banquet was 

 amusing. The princesses were dressed in white frocks, shoes and 

 stockings, and chip bonnets, but looked awkwardly in them, and 

 appeared more like boys in girls' clothes than women. Some of the 

 men wore full suits, coats, vests, and pantaloons, of a variety of 

 colours ; others had sailors' round jackets ; others again had only 

 shirts and pantaloons, all too small, both in breadth and length. Some 

 had black felt hats of all possible fashions, and others wore them of 

 straw ; some had shoes on their feet, others had none. 



Paofai's son attracted attention by his ridiculous appearance : he 

 wore a red check shirt, light white pantaloons, that reached only half 

 way down his legs, coarse shoes without stockings, and a short- 

 skirted drummer's coat of blue, plentifully faced with scarlet. The 

 latter was so small for him, that no force would make it button upon 

 him. To finish all, he had a high-crowned conical felt hat stuck 

 upon the top of his head. 



After luncheon, they repaired to the deck, to receive the presents 

 prepared for them. These I had been advised, in order to avoid 

 unpleasant scenes, to pack in bundles, assorted to the rank of the 

 parties. In spite of this precaution, much consultation took place 

 among them, and a desire to exchange with one another was mani- 

 fested. This was particularly the case with our old acquaintance 

 Taua, and his friend Otore, the ex-minister and former favourite of 

 the queen. The presents for the queen and royal family were com- 

 mitted to the charge of Uata, who, as has been stated, appeared as the 

 representative of her majesty. 



Otore, who has been just named, is only a petty chief, but had 

 been the queen's favourite and minister, until he was dismissed in 

 consequence of his frequent indulgence in intoxication. He is con- 

 sidered as the greatest orator on the island. He and Taua are boon 

 companions, and were continually on board the vessels, where they 

 so timed their visits that the hour of breakfast was sure to find them 

 either actually seated at table or awaiting an invitation. Although at 

 first welcome, the habitual intrusion of these and others upon the 



