SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS. 



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PYLSTAKT ISLAND. 



Pylstart Island was discovered by Tasman, in 1643. It is a high 

 island, and lies southwest-by-south 75 miles from Tongataboo, and 

 oilers nothing to invite the navigator. 



This island was sighted by the squadron, and the appearance of 

 the land does not warrant the belief that it is inhabited, or that sup- 

 plies may be had there ; its true position is given in the tables. 



UEA OR WALLIS ISLAND. 



This island was discovered by Mandeville, in 1781. The position 

 he assigned it was erroneous. Wallis also believed he had discovered 

 it. They both differ in their descriptions of it. There is little doubt 

 in my mind that the two navigators have reference to the same island; 

 both were in error as to its position. Ilea lies nearly due west of 

 the Samoan Group 180 miles. Instead of one island it is a collection 

 of islands within the same reef, nine in number, which lie nearly 

 north and south of each other. The coral reef extends some distance 

 to the east of the island ; in form it is a triangle, with its apex to 

 the north and its shortest side to the southwest ; the area between 

 the reef and the islands is extensive. The largest islands are high 

 and well wooded, and produce all the tropical fruits. The Catholic 

 missionaries have an establishment here, and have been successful 

 in promoting the good of the people, though with much risk and 

 exertion. Fruits and vegetables are plenty. Although the natives 

 are represented as savage, the chiefs are well disposed. Wood, 

 water, fruits, and vegetables may be procured here, but it is advi- 

 sable for vessels trading or seeking supplies to be on their guard. 

 The southern side of the reef trends west-southwest and east-north- 

 east ; its length is one mile ; there is a passage through it leading 

 into the lagoon. This opening is the only one ; it is near to the small 

 Island of Eta, is 150 yards wide and half a mile in length ; like all 

 entrances through reefs, it requires care to pass in and out ; the cur- 

 rent generally is rapid. The direction of the entrance is north-northeast 

 and south-southwest. It is deep enough for a large ship. After having 

 entered, a vessel may stand to the north for the largest island, Little 

 Oware, on which is the residence of the king ; this is 6 miles from 



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