316 
CRUISE OF H.M.S. CHALLENGER . 
from plans prepared by a Sydney architect, at a cost 
of $120,000. I had an opportunity of going through 
the spacious halls of this massive structure; they are 
elaborately furnished, and each appropriated to some 
department of law and justice. The Council Chambers 
are only required for a short session once in two 
years, for voting the required supplies. 
In the absence of other outlets for the public funds, 
the Government, at the instigation of a popular 
member of the Ministry, voted a large sum of money 
for building an hotel for the attraction and con- 
venience of visitors. Plans were completed, and the 
building was finished in 1874. It consists of a large 
concrete, two-storied house, well situated, with veran- 
dahs decorated and festooned with flowering trailers, 
covering up all that might be unsightly with jessa- 
mine and clematis, and bright and pleasing flowers. 
It stands on a trim-kept lawn, planted with exotic 
trees, lending shade and beauty to the whole. 
Military bands occasionally play, and the large 
number of visitors give quite a busy and imposing 
aspect to this portion of the city. 
The churches claim our attention, and Sunday 
proved a most pleasant day. Church-bells rang, and 
the streets and roads were filled by the people in 
their holiday attire. 
Whatever may be the religious requirements of 
other islands of the Pacific, the wants of the Ha- 
waiians are well supplied. At least three of the 
