1832.] 
SANDWICH ISLANDS. 
413 
The floor was covered with mats, of the finest texture, and beau- 
tifully figured, brought from some neighbouring island, and sent 
as taxes. The supper-table was also covered with a mat, and 
extended from one end of the room to the other. The usual cur- 
tain ran across the apartment, and enclosed the bed, forming a 
sitting-room. The walls were lined with paintings of the differ- 
ent soldiers and officers of the Prussian army, sent by the King 
of Prussia. The portraits of the king, Riho-Riho, of the former 
queen, and also of George IV., were set in rich gilt frames, giving 
a handsome finish to the apartment. The Declaration of Inde-- 
pendence, at the head of the room, was a glorious sight to look 
upon. 
In due time, we sat down to a sumptuous repast of cold meats. 
No wine, however, was presented; for which deficiency the king 
took occasion to apologize in a whisper, saying that "the mis- 
sionaries did not like it." We mention this anecdote, to give 
some idea of the influence 'which these pious labourers hold over 
the king and government ; and which, wisely exercised, may be 
greatly for their good. Some of the ladies of the mission are 
young and interesting, and all of them are very agreeable. They 
retired early, after our band had played several pieces of sacred 
music ; and no sooner were they gone, than the king moved 
among us with all the gayety of youth, entirely throwing off the 
restraints imposed upon him by the presence of the missionaries.. 
After looking around the palace and grounds, we retired much 
pleased, indeed, highly gratified with the entertainment. 
Some nights after this, our corps dramatique, with our band, 
made a display at the Theatre Royal Hono7'uru. The king was. 
desirous of seeing them perform, and offered his palace for the 
occasion. The scenery was all taken on shore, and the palace, 
fitted up for the occasion. At the usual hour for such enter- 
tainments, the performance commenced. Every thing went on 
remarkably well ; the pieces having been rehearsed on board ship, 
and the actors did their utmost to gratify the audience. The 
king and suite formed the most interesting portion of the audi- 
ence, and his majesty seemed highly delighted at the efforts of the 
corps, frequently indulging in the most boisterous and immoderate 
fits of laughter. 
