126 SAM O AN GROUP. 



the chiefs, whose limbs are well rounded, would be called fine-looking 

 men in' any part of the world. Their features are not in general 

 prominent, but are well marked and distinct, and are all referable to a 

 common type. The nose is short and wide at the base ; the mouth 

 large and well filled with white and strong teeth, with full and well- 

 turned lips; the eyes black, and often large and bright; the forehead 

 narrow and high ; and the cheek-bones prominent. It was observed 

 that some of them had the eye turned up at the outer corner like the 

 Chinese. Of beard, they have but little, but their hair is strong, 

 straight, and very black ; instances, however, were observed, where it 

 had been turned to a carroty red, by washing it with lime-water for 

 the purpose of destroying the vermin (Pediculus humanus). 



Little difference was perceived in the shape of the heads of the two 

 sexes, for observing which there is a good opportunity among those 

 who have embraced Christianity, who shave off their hair. The 

 general form of the skull is broad and short, and is highest near the 

 crown. 



When the islands were first visited, the natives were represented as 

 ferocious and treacherous. This arose in a great degree from the 

 bloody conflict they had with the boats of La Perouse's squadron; 

 and the opinion was kept up by the just resentment they in some cases 

 manifested for wrongs committed on them by lawless visiters. The 

 instance of Opotuno, however, shows that this idea of their character 

 is not entirely without foundation. Viewed in a more favourable 

 light, they are, as we found them, kind, good-humoured, intelligent, 

 fond of amusements, desirous of pleasing, and very hospitable. Both 

 sexes show great kindness and love for their children, and age is so 

 much respected that only old men are admitted to council. As a 

 shade on this picture, they are indolent, covetous, fickle, deceitful, and 

 little reliance can be placed upon them. To illustrate these features 

 of their character: the first question asked when a chief receives a 

 visiter is, "What present will you take?" for they consider it incum- 

 bent upon them to bestow some token of regard, and a neglect to offer 

 it would be indecorous. This custom was always complied with, 

 when any of our officers visited them, and although it was evident 

 they did not wish to part with any thing valuable, their choicest 

 possessions were exhibited as if for the choice of the stranger. On 

 the refusal of their offered presents, great joy was always to be ob- 

 served in their countenance and manner, showing that they rejoiced in 

 an escape from loss, while they had at the same time performed the 

 prescribed rites of hospitality. This risk being over, they were too 

 happy to supply us with cocoa-nuts and fruits. In spite, however, oi 



