14 



porter's journal. 



different construction set up, shorter and wider than the 

 canoes, and in shape somewhat similar to the common 

 whale boat ; but I saw no such vessel in use among those 

 who visited the ship. 



Toward sunset I passed the western part of the island, 

 and had a view of a bay, which makes in, after rounding 

 some islets, which appeared to afford good anchorage, se- 

 cure against the prevailing winds, with a smooth landing. 

 The valley which extended from the head of it, had the 

 appearance of great fertility, and several houses were 

 interspersed among the clusters of trees. The whole had 

 a very agreeable and inviting appearance, but no natives 

 or canoes were observable. It is probable that, intimi- 

 dated by the number of vessels in sight, they had all left 

 their residence, and retired to the other side of the island. 



