558 APPENDIX. 



by making an unprovoked attack on the persons, and not one of self- 

 defence, and under the circumstances excusable, before I can consent 

 to the payment of a fine, which I cannot but view as excessive. 



In being brought to this conclusion, I must again impress upon 

 you, that it will always be my desire to show the utmost deference to 

 your laws, and to cause them to be observed by all those under my 

 command, and that I disclaim all intention of interfering with their 

 execution ; but while I make this avowal, I must at the same time, 

 as I feel myself in duty bound, state, that I object to any informal or 

 arbitrary punishment being inflicted upon any under my command, 

 without the due observance of the forms provided for by treaty 

 stipulations. 



I am, &c, 



Charles Wilkes, 



Commanding Exploring Expedition. 



To Governor Kekuanaoa, 



Oahu. 



