DESCRIPTION OF RAIATEA. 333 
considerable, and the uneven ground through 
which they have cut their way, the rocky projec- 
tions that frequently divide the streams, and the 
falls that occur between the interior and the 
shore, cause the rivers to impart a charming 
freshness, vivacity, and splendour to the inland 
scenery. | 
Next to Tahiti, Raiatea perhaps is better sup- 
plied with rivers, or streams of excellent water, 
than any other island of the group. Its lowland 
is extensive, and the valleys, capable of the 
highest cultivation, are spacious, and conveniently 
situated for affording to the inhabitants intercourse 
with other parts of the island. On the north- 
west is a small but very secure harbour, called 
Hamaniino. Most of the ships formerly visiting 
Raiatea anchored in this convenient and seques- 
tered harbour. Such vessels usually entered the 
reefs that surround the two islands, either at the 
opening called ‘Teavapiti, a little to the southward 
of Utumaora, or at that denominated Tomahahotu, 
opposite the south end of the island of Tahaa. 
They then proceeded within the reefs along the 
channel between the islands, to the harbour. 
Water and wood were at all times procured with 
facility from the adjacent shore; and supplies of 
stock, poultry, and vegetables might generally be 
obtained by barter with the inhabitants. The 
mountains of the interior sheltered the bay from 
the strong eastern and southerly winds; and the 
wide opening in the reef, opposite the mouth of 
the valley forming the head of the bay, favoured 
the departure of vessels with the ordinary winds. 
A small and partially wooded island on the north 
side of the opening in the reefs opposite the har- 
bour, distinctly points out the passage, and is very 
