PHCENIX GROUP. 



119 



rises 18 feet, presenting nearly a level ridge for half its length on the 

 west side. Its greatest length is 21 miles north and south, and width 

 li miles. On the south side there is some vegetation, but the growth 

 appears stunted, and I am warranted in saying that there are times 

 at which it is nearly submerged, for on the high ridge was found a 

 very large tree, that could not have been deposited where it lies, 

 unless the rest of the island had been covered by water. The coral 

 reef surrounds it, but is attached to the shore, from 30 to 150 feet 

 wide. The material which composed the ridge was formed of coral 

 slabs, some 3 to 4 inches in thickness, and as many feet square. 

 Landing on the lee side was not difficult. Turtles are at times to be 

 found on this island. 



BIRNIE ISLAND. 



Birnie Island lies southwest from Enderbury's. It is but a strip of 

 coral, about a mile long, by half a mile wide, trending northwest and 

 southeast. Its elevation above the sea is about 6 feet, and it has 

 nothing but a little grass upon it. It is extremely dangerous to 

 vessels, as it would scarcely be discovered in time to be avoided, and 

 there must be times when it is submerged entirely. 



HULL'S ISLAND. 



Hull's Island was discovered by the Vincennes, in 1840, and named 

 after a distinguished officer of our navy. It is a low coral island, with 

 a lagoon, and several openings for boats. It is well covered with 

 vegetation. This island I was first led to believe was identical with 

 that of Sidney, from its being in the same latitude and but a degree to 

 the westward ; but a party of natives from Tahiti who were on it, as- 

 sured me that there was another island, very like it, to the eastward, 

 on which they had been to catch turtle. There are a few cocoanut 

 palms, and water may be procured in small cjuantities. 



SIDNEY ISLAND. 



Sidney Island is reported as the discovery of Captain Emmet, of 

 the Ship Sidney ; it has been also seen by Captain Tromelin. It is a 



