APPENDIX. 423 



that village, I have released them from confinement, and given them 

 presents, to encourage them in friendly actions to foreigners, and shall 

 return them to their homes. 



You will communicate this to the officers and crew of the Peacock, 

 and express to them my entire satisfaction of their conduct on that 

 occasion, tendering them my thanks for their efficient services. 



I am, &c, 



Charles Wilkes, 



Commanding Exploring Expedition. 

 Captain Hudson, 



U. S. Ship Peacock. 



ORDERS. 



1st. Proceed through the Round Island Passage to the northward as 

 far as latitude 16° 25', and fall in with the sea-reef to the eastward ; 

 thence follow it to the southward and westward to Biva. 



2d. Survey that island ; where you will perhaps meet me, or one of 

 the boats. 



3d. Thence to the southward and eastward, follow the reef as far 

 as Malolo Passage. 



4th. Enter Malolo Passage, and anchor under that island, or within 

 sight of it, and await me or orders. In four days I contemplate 

 reaching it. 



5th. Observations, &c, to be made at Biva on shore. 



Respectfully, &c, 



Charles Wilkes, 

 Commanding Exploring Expedition. 

 Lieut. Com. C. Ringgold, 



U. S. Brig Porpoise. 



XIV. 



COPY OF INSTRUCTIONS. 



25th July, 1840. 

 Sir, — 



At the given signal being made, you will land, and follow the route 

 designated in the plot herewith enclosed, with the force placed under 

 your command. 



When you reach the top of the island, so as to be seen from the 

 schooner or boats, you will make a signal with ensign, if you have 

 been successful, and it is your intention to approach to our side. If 



