OFFICE OF MAGISTRATE. 153 
interval the matter drops, and no ill feeling re- 
mains. ' It is a principle, with them, which was 
specially urged upon them by John Adams, 
never to let the sun go down upon their wrath. 
What an example is conveyed in the practical 
adherence to this Scriptural rule ! How simple 
and effectual a mode of adjusting differences, 
and preventing the growth of malice and all 
uncharitableness ! 
The wise will let their anger cool, 
At least before ' tis night ; 
But in the bosom of a fool 
It burns till morning light. 
The office of magistrate is not coveted, it 
being in some respects an invidious one. It 
often happens that the person for whom this 
honour is designed would rather be fined than 
accept it. The fine generally consists in killing 
a hog for the public good. The duties of the 
magistracy are fulfilled without fear, favour, or 
affection. 
With respect to the general appearance of 
the islanders, in their features and complexion, 
as well as their dress and manners, they re- 
semble the people of one of our English vil- 
lages of the better order. A few of them are, 
however, rather darker than the generality of 
Europeans, partaking more of their half-Ota- 
heitan descent. 
A few words about dress. The women wear 
a 'full petticoat, and above that a loose gown, 
with a handkerchief thrown over the shoulders. 
A wreath of flowers is often worn round the 
head. There are many large trees on the island, 
