APPENDIX. 521 



pilot Adams that he was required to pilot this ship to sea, (which 

 pilotage the consul had paid in advance,) he came on board in the 

 morning, (the wind being fair,) remained a short time, and left, refusing 

 to pilot the ship to sea. 



During his stay on board, at which time I was absent on shore, he 

 behaved in a manner totally unworthy of one who holds such an 

 employment under your Majesty, until my first-lieutenant checked him; 

 and I was obliged to act as my own pilot. 



It was the opinion of my officers, that he was under the influence of 

 liquor, and unable to do his duty. 



Frequent complaints have been made to me, that vessels were 

 detained in port in consequence of his being drunk and not able to do 

 his duty. 



I have now to request of your Majesty, that you would dismiss him 

 from the responsible situation he holds as pilot of your port. I do 

 not think him a safe person to trust vessels to, and on my stating this 

 in the United States, it will affect the insurance of vessels bound to 

 your port. 



I deem it a duty you owe to vessels bound to Honolulu, to provide 

 them with a safe and sober pilot. There are many other persons fully 

 capable of the trust, and I think it behooves you to take the proper 

 measures in relation thereto. 



I am well aware that it is only necessary to mention these circum- 

 stances to your Majesty, to have the abuse corrected ; and I would 

 recommend Captain John Meek, of Honolulu, as a suitable person for 

 the office of captain of the port and pilot. I am confident his appoint- 

 ment would be acceptable to all the merchants and masters of vessels 

 residing at and visiting Honolulu ; I hope, therefore, that this arrange- 

 ment may be made without delay. 



I have the honour, &c. 



Charles Wilkes, 

 Commanding Exploring Expedition. 



THE KING S ANSWER. 



My salutations to you, Captain Wilkes : 



I have received your letter respecting the pilot at Honolulu, and 

 am well aware that your complaints are not groundless, but are well 

 founded. I have, therefore, given attention to the subject; but John 

 Meek has declined the appointment. I have not, however, given up the 

 subject. 



vol. iv. 2T2 66 



