108 UPOLU — MANONO — SAVAII. 



and tall, although somewhat bent by age. It was to be regretted 

 that his dress was ill chosen, and rather detracted from the respect he 

 would have inspired had he appeared in his native garb; he wore 

 pantaloons, a round jacket, and a pink and white striped cotton shirt. 



Tooa, the nephew of Malietoa, who acted as spokesman, and whose 

 countenance betokened the interest he felt in the business, attracted 

 attention in the second degree. Then came Mole, the son of Malie- 

 toa, Maletau, their general, the most renowned leader in the war of 

 Aana, and Tai-ma-le-lagi, Malietoa's brother. There were also pre- 

 sent a number of chiefs of less distinction, among whom was old Pea 

 of Apia ; although he was compelled to take his place, yet he did not 

 fail to be conspicuous, not merely by his personal appearance, but by 

 his officiousness. 



The proceedings were conducted with great ceremony, but there 

 was a marked difference between this fono, and the solemnity of our 

 Indian councils. The Samoan assembly appeared more quiescent, 

 the proceedings exhibited more refinement, and the customs partook 

 of an Asiatic character. 



In all such meetings a rigid order of precedence, that seems well 

 understood by every one, is established ; all conversation is carried 

 on in a whisper; no one is seen standing in the presence of a 

 superior, and sitting with outstretched legs is considered indecorous. 

 Articles were never passed over a person, and no native ever ventured 

 to come in contact with a chief. 



The background on the side of the natives was filled up with 

 inhabitants from different parts of the island. 



On the opposite side of the building, the officers of the squadron 

 and the missionaries formed a numerous group. Among the latter, 

 was our friend Mr. Williams and his son, whom I had appointed to 

 act as consul until the pleasure of the government of the United 

 States was known, and whom it was intended to present in this 

 capacity to the meeting, in order that he might be recognised 

 formally by the chiefs. Messrs. Heath, Mills, and Wilson were also 

 present; and Mr. Heath, who was believed to be best acquainted 

 with the Samoan language, was kind enough to officiate as our 

 interpreter. 



The object I had in view, in requesting the fono to be called, was 

 to procure the formal enactment of laws and regulations which might 

 secure to our whale-ships a certainty of protection and security, and 

 at the same time to prevent impositions being practised by them upon 



