V I T I GROUP. 



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than any other of these islands. Provisions may be procured here, 

 but wood and water it is far preferable to seek elsewhere, where they 

 can be procured with less difficulty. 



HORSESHOE REEF. 



The Horseshoe Reef lies between Goro, Nairai, and Ambatiki. 

 From the south point of Goro, it bears south-half-west, I02 miles, 

 from the north point of Nairai, northwest 10 J miles, and from Amba- 

 tiki, northeast 11 miles. It derives its name from its form. It is one 

 mile in diameter. It has an entrance on the north side. In boisterous 

 weather the sea breaks on it, and then it may be seen from the 

 heights of the surrounding islands, but in fine weather there is seldom 

 any break on it beyond the ripple at certain times of the tide. It is 

 a dangerous reef, and ought to be shunned. 



KANTAVU ISLAND. 



The Island of Kantavu, which bounds the Kantavu Passage on the 

 south, is very high, of volcanic formation, and has many conspicuous 

 peaks rising from its central ridge. Near the middle of the island it 

 is very narrow and low, having the appearance of two islands at a dis- 

 tance. The whole length is 26 miles. The eastern portion is 7 miles 

 wide ; whilst that of the western is but 4 miles. Its .southern coast is 

 indented by a deep bay, — Gressin Bay. On this side it has one or two 

 good harbors, but they were not examined by the Expedition. The 

 north side is well provided with coral reefs, to form harbors, so much so 

 as to,have some of its bays quite obstructed by the patches, which extend 

 nearly across them, and debar their being entered, except through 

 tortuous passages. Among the best, are those of Mallatta and Tabuka 

 Bays, but I cannot recommend either of them for more than tempo- 

 rary anchorages. A vessel intending to anchor in either of them 

 must have good lookouts aloft, and thread her way. There is no diffi- 

 culty in reaching an anchorage in 17 to 20 fathoms water; but if a 

 vessel is desirous of approaching "hearer the shore, to anchor in shoaler 

 water, she should warp into a proper and suitable berth. 



There is a large population on this island, and the natives are well- 

 disposed. The island is very fruitful, and supplies may be had here, 

 by previous arrangements being made with the chiefs ; it is well, 

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