V I T I GROUP. 



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it is extremely so in surface, and has a ridge running throughout its 

 whole length, with many high peaks jutting up several hundred feet. 

 It is productive, and has a population of 500. On its west side we 

 found the best harbors. This island, from its length, has been 

 divided into two by the natives, who give the southern portion the 

 name of Somu-Somu, and that of the northern Ava. 



There is a good anchorage, protected by a small islet, on the east 

 side of Somu-Somu, but the western side of Vanua Valavo affords 

 several fine anchorages, among them Port Bidgely, which must be 

 reached through the western entrance, as the reefs, both at the north 

 and south end, approach so near to the island, as to close the passage 

 for vessels. The harbors formed by the bays and reefs, are all very 

 secure, and the only difficulty to be apprehended is in entering ; the 

 entrance at the northwest angle of the reef may be passed through 

 with the prevailing winds. Fruit, vegetables, and water may be ob- 

 tained here. 



At the southern end of Somu-Somu is Malatta, divided from it by 

 a narrow channel. It is but a small island, 2 miles in length, by one- 

 third of a mile wide. Anchorage is to be found near its eastern end, 

 opposite Susui. 



Susui lies next to Malatta on the east; its eastern part is low, while 

 its western rises in broken, basaltic peaks, several hundred feet high ; 

 the former is covered with extensive groves of shrubbery, while the 

 latter is thickly wooded. This island is well cultivated, and contains 

 150 inhabitants, who live in several villages. On the northwest side 

 there is a beautiful harbor, abreast of which is a considerable valley, 

 thickly studded with groves of cocoanut palms, bananas, &c. : through 

 which there is a fine stream of water. Here every security is offered 

 for a vessel to effect repairs. On this island sugar-cane was found 

 growing in great perfection. 



The island of Munia lies on the south angle of the reef, 2h miles 

 east of Susui ; under Munia there is a safe harbor, called Discovery 

 Harbor ; anchorage in 8| fathoms, with a sandy bottom. The 

 highest peak of Munia, called Telanicolo, is 1054 feet in height above 

 the sea. It is composed of volcanic rocks, and is of so difficult an 

 ascent, that its top affords a safe retreat to the natives to protect them- 

 selves from their enemies. The settlement is on the western side, 

 where water is to be obtained. The island contains 80 inhabitants. 

 It is 2 miles north-by-east and south-by-west in length ; its greatest 



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