PAUMOTU GROUP. 



319 



get some of their paddles, but they rather ridiculed the idea of parting 

 with them. 



CANOE OF WYTOOHEE. 



The canoes were quite small, being only from twelve to fifteen feet 

 long. They generally contained two and sometimes three natives. 

 Each canoe had an out-rigger, and a projecting point, both before and 

 behind, by which they get into them from the water. They are formed 

 of strips of cocoa-nut wood sewed together. Two persons can carry 

 them. Their paddles were curved backwards. 



In order to dispel their fears, articles were given them gratuitously, 

 and by way of showing their gratitude, they began a monotonous 

 song or chaunt. They would occasionally stop, look up, and return 

 the laugh of the crew by a grin ; apparently enjoying the sport as 

 much as any of them. 



NATIVE OF WYTOOHEE. 



These natives are peculiar, and appeared totally distinct from any 

 others we met with in this group, having strong wiry beards and 

 mustaches, and a different physiognomy. The portrait by Mr. Dray- 

 ton, gives a very correct idea of them. 



I sent one of the boats to the shore, with the interpreter, under 

 Lieutenant Case, but they refused to allow them to land. No actual 



