Narrative of the United States Exploring Expedition; During the Years 1838, 1839, 1840, 1841, 1842 Volume 2

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1852 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER VI. FEEJEE GROUP (continued). Effects of the intention to take Vendovi--Fear of an Attack on the Observatory-- Seru detained as Hostage--Preparations for resistance--Town of Somu-Somu-- Missionaries--Cannibal Feast--Junction with the Porpoise--Council of Chiefs-- Ceremonies of Ava-drinking--Proceedings of the Porpoise between 8th of May and 9th of June--Visit to Lakemba--Tui Neau--Argo Reef--Ascent of KencliKendi -- Levukians--Geological structure of Lakemba -- Island of Mania--Its highest Peak ascended--Islands of Ticumbia, Susui, &c.--Porpoise arrives at Somu-Somu--Return to Levnka---H.B.M. Schooner Starling--Visit to Captain Belcher--His opinion of the [Regulations--Nukulau--Islands surveyed by Lieutenant Underwood--Town of Corobamba--Island of Angau--Return of Lieutenant Underwood--Native Club Dance--Vincennes leaves Levuka--Direction Island--Dangers of the Passage to Savu-Savu--Ambush of the Natives--Bay of Savu-Savu--Hot Springs--Island of Goro and Horseshoe Reef--Vincennes and Peacock anchor in Sandalwood Bay. MMEDIATELY after dispatching Paddy Connel on his errand to Captain Hudson, Whippy came to me. He had heard on board the ship, some intimation of the purport of the message sent to Hewa by Connel. and he advised me to be on my guard for the first movement after Yendovi's capture. He thought that an endeavour would be made by the people of Ambau to surprise the observatory, and to take me prisoner, (for the purpose of ransoming Vendovi), for they are closely allied to those of Kewa. As our distance from Ambau was no more than a few hours' travel, it would be easy for Tanoa. or his son Seru. to fall upon us with a thousand men, before we could have any notice whatever of their approach. After hearing all he had to say...