226 MBUA BAY AND MUTHUATA. 
ever, consented to come on board, the next morning. The ship was 
prepared for the visit, the quarter-deck being dressed with flags, and 
every thing ready for his reception. At noon the king sent off word 
that he was sick, the spirit had struck him, and that he was afraid 
to come on board; but that if Captain Hudson would send an officer 
to remain on shore as a hostage, while he visited the ship, he would 
come. Immediately Passed Midshipman Reynolds and Midshipman 
Hudson (the captain’s son) were sent on shore; notwithstanding 
which, the old king was not inclined to venture. One only of the 
principal, with a few of the inferior chiefs, visited the ship: they all 
\ seemed uneasy and fearful, when they first came on board; but, on 
being kindly treated and shown around, they soon regained their self- 
possession. They were feasted and received some presents, and left 
the ship apparently well pleased with their visit. When they reached 
the shore, the officers who were there as hostages returned. 
The land on this part of the coast rises abruptly from the water in 
volcanic peaks, to the height of two thousand feet and upwards. 
Lieutenant Emmons reached the Peacock on his return from the 
‘examination of the Asaua Group. As I shall shortly have to speak 
of the second examination of this group, I will postpone the subject 
till then; but I feel it my duty to speak of the satisfactory manner in 
