LESSON V.
THE FLOWER OF LANAI.
(Hawaii.)
Beneath the cliffs which form the coast of the little island of Lanai is a hollow in the rocks known as the Spouting Cave. It cannot be seen by the voyager along the shore, for its only entrance is through the vortex of a whirlpool. Through this perilous and frightful passage now and then some intrepid diver has passed, and penetrating within has reached a dim dismal shore slightly raised above the sea-level, from which can be seen the slimy forms of crabs, cuttle-fish, and rays, which find in these dark abodes a place of safety. Here was supposed to dwell the great Lizard-god, but he has long since fled with the dawn of advancing civilisation.
About a century ago the King of Hawaii came in great state to the little island. Six double canoes striped with the golden colour pertaining to royalty bore his retinue and body-guard. He was received with hospitality, his path was strewed with flowers and sweet-scented herbs; all that the simple-minded people could do to show their respect and welcome was accorded to the powerful ruler. Among those who
