HAWAII. 247 



within the mouth of the Wailuku river ; but it requires some care in 

 passing in and out the river when the surf is high. 



Although I have spoken of the landing on the eastern side of this 

 bay as being the best, yet it is feasible to land on the beach in proper 

 boats. Wood is also to be had here, and at a much less price than at 

 Oahu. There is another inducement, which makes it a desirable 

 place for vessels to recruit at — there are no grog-shops as yet. 



The rise of the tide is three feet — high water full and change 

 at 1 p. M. 



The morning previous to our sailing, I learned much to my sur- 

 prise that the Rev. Mr. Coan had received many complaints from the 

 natives, of the destruction of the sugar-cane by my crew. Although 

 I was well convinced that the complaints were unfounded, as strict 

 orders had been given that no plantation should be touched, I sent Mr. 

 Waldron on shore to inquire into it, and to settle any demands. It 

 turned out as I had expected, that little or no damage had been done, 

 and this fact was evident enough. We were compelled, however, to 

 pay ten dollars, which I cannot but view as a piece of extortion. 

 How far the reverend missionary was aware of its being so, I will not 

 pretend to say ; but a little inquiry would have satisfied him that not 

 one-tenth part of the value had been touched, if any. I do not 

 mention this in any feeling of hostility towards the missionary : I 

 would, however, recommend that when complaints are made, they 

 should at once be sent to head-quarters, and not allowed to be heard 

 through any other channel. 



After this affair was arranged, I had the gratification to receive a 

 complimentary notice from Mr. Coan, on the behaviour and exemplary 

 conduct of my crew during the whole time the ship was at Hilo. 



EDIBLE FERN. 



