CHAP. VII

Summary

The natives flocked round us on our second landing in the same manner as at first, and the curiosity and impatience of those who had already seen us, was not in the least abated by the repetition of our visit. The female part of the assemblage having been so long accustomed to occasional interviews with the crews of European ships, had lost that retiring timidity which in other parts of the island was observable in their sex; and wished to convince us by their significant glances, how much they desired a more intimate acquaintance.

While Mr. Marsden was engaged in conversation with Duaterra, I walked along the beach, accompanied by one of the chief's relations, whose name was Turreeogunnah, a nephew of the late Tippahee. This young man appeared about five-and-twenty, with an open manly countenance, bespeaking at the same time a great deal of playful archness, and a disposition to every sort of humorous mischief. This propensity, however, he was cautious of indulging in my presence, and taking charge of my gun, which afforded him the highest gratification, he led me where I was likely to get a shot at some sea-fowl.

As we proceeded along the shore, I observed a piece of wood stuck in the ground at the foot of a large tree, rudely carved and painted with red ochre.