248 
POLYNESIAN RESEARCHES 
CHAP. IX. 
Arrival of the deputation in Huahine—Death of Pomare— 
Notice of his ancestry—Description of his person—His 
mental character and habits—Perseverance and profi¬ 
ciency in writing—His letter to England, &c.—Fac¬ 
simile of his hand-writing—Translation of his letter on 
the art of drawing—Estimation in which he was held 
by the people—Pomare the first convert to Christianity— 
His commendable endeavours to promote its extension 
—Declension during the latter part of his life—His 
friendship to the Missionaries uniform—His aid im¬ 
portant—Circumstances connected with his death— 
Accession of his son Pomare III.—Coronation of the 
infant king—Encouraging progress in learning—Early 
death—Extensive use of letters among the islanders— 
Writing on plantain-leaves—Value of writing-paper— 
South Sea Academy—Trials peculiar to Mission families 
among uncivilized nations—Advantages of sending 
Missionary children to civilized countries. 
Soon after our return from Tahiti, the indisposition 
of Mr. and Mrs. Williams required a suspension of 
their exertions in Raiatea, and a visit to New 
South Wales. 
On the 8th of December, 1821, the shout of 
E pahi , e ! A ship, ho ! re-echoed through our 
valley; we proceeded towards the beach, and, on 
reaching the sea-side, beheld a large American 
vessel already within the harbour. The captain 
soon landed, and informed us that our friends 
Messrs. Bennet and Tyerman were in the ship. 
