50 



O V O L A U. 



satisfied, clapping his hands several times, which is their mode of ex- 

 pressing thanks. His hair was crisped with a small whalebone stick 

 or needle, twelve or fourteen inches in length, stuck into it on one 

 side : he did not leave me long in doubt as to the use to which the 

 latter is put, for it was continually in requisition to scratch his head, 

 the vermin being not a little troublesome. He was very desirous of 

 doing every thing for me, and said that any ground I wished to 

 occupy, was at the service of the countrymen of his friend Whippy. 

 Mr. Drayton during our stay obtained a camera lucida drawing of 

 him, whilst he was leaning against a tree. 



7 O o 



FEEJLE CHIEF, TUI LEVUKA. 



Ovolau is the principal residence of the white men in the group, 

 to whose general deportment and good conduct I must bear testimony; 

 I met with none better disposed throughout the voyage than were 

 found there. I at once engaged them to become our interpreters 

 during the time we stayed, which afforded us many advantages in 

 communicating with the natives. 



About three hours after the Vincennes anchored, the Peacock 

 entered ; but there was no news or sign of the Flying-Fish, nor had 

 she been seen while the Peacock was in the offing. I felt much 

 uneasiness about her, more so on account of the inexperienced officer 

 who had her in temporary charge. 



I directed the chief, Tui Levuka, to send a message immediately to 

 Ambau, to inform King Tanoa of my arrival, and desire him to visit me. 



