How the Gospel was First Carried, 265 
inwardly espoused and believed in the old heathen customs. 
Only by long and patient continuance in well-doing, could 
the missionaries hope to succeed. 
6. Mbau. 
This island, lying at the south-east of the mainland, and 
very near to both Rewa, and Viwa, was the subject of much 
solicitude to all the members of the mission, from the com- 
mencement of evangelistic labours among the people. In 
1837, Mr. Cross took his family to Mbau, but found upon 
his arrival, that civil war was desolating the island, and 
rendering all attempts at settling there, futile. This civil war 
had already lasted for some time, and was still being carried 
on in full vigour. Tanoa, the king, had been for a time driven 
out of Mbau, but by the help of Verani, chief of Viwa, Seru, 
his own son (afterwards known as Thakombau), and some 
other adherents, had conquered a large number of rebel 
chiefs, and taken them prisoners of war. When Mr. Cross 
landed, two bodies of these chiefs were in the ovens roasting, 
while two others had just been eaten ; and the king could 
not promise security or protection. Accordingly, as stated 
in the preceding pages, Mr. Cross passed on and settled at 
Rewa. From Rewa, and Viwa, much good was indirectly 
accomplished among the people of Mbau. In process of 
time, many of the people became Christians, but secretly, 
because the king determinedly opposed the doctrine. In- 
deed, on more than one occasion, Tanoa resolved to kill 
all the Christians at Viwa, and Rewa, and was very nearly 
carrying his threat into execution. Still, at every possible 
opportunity, the resident missionaries faithfully preached to 
the king of righteousness, temperance, and a judgment 
to come." At length, Tanoa grew old and weak, and 
Thakombau ascended the throne of his father, walking in 
