Page:Narrative of a Voyage around the World - 1843.djvu/99

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1837.]
SINGULAR CASCADES.
51

rotator of a second damaged. Mr. Massey should invent something to obviate this nuisance. On July 7th, at daylight, saw the outline of the island Maui, (or Mowee of the charts,) and about eight the N.W. extremity of Hawaii (Owhyhee.) The heavy clouds capping the summits of both islands prevented our obtaining a glimpse of these remarkable peaks.

The numerous cascades resulting from the showers afforded us a very interesting embellishment to the lower scenery, which we were passing within three or four miles of the breaker line. To seamen there is a peculiar enjoyment even in the sight of fresh water; but the numerous silver threads of it here sportively displayed must be seen to be duly enjoyed. No description can convey the idea of their number and variety, and a sketch including twenty leaps within one or two hundred yards, would appear almost a burlesque, yet such was the fact. About four we passed the east end of Maui, and came suddenly upon Morotoi, (or Molokoi,) Rana (Lana) visible in the interval.[1]

The view of Molokoi from this position is very singular. Four exactly parallel outlines of most picturesque and lofty cliffs appeared almost a visual deception, or the effect of quadruple refraction. But as we advanced it proved in this instance a reality; height about four hundred feet, and varying but slightly from the perpendicular,

e2
  1. All the words formerly commencing with R now take L.