ning back a foot or so on the shank. Babylon seemed also to have broken loose, the natives yelling and jabbering in the most hideous manner. Nevertheless, there was no offer of violence as yet, and in a few minutes the whole fleet started away for the wreck, which they undoubtedly soon broke up for the spikes and iron. The sailors were left alone except for one canoe which
hung by. This was a large war canoe and held about twenty men, who stood up and held spears and battle axes and tomahawks. It was evidently that of a chief.
TO THE ISLAND OF THE CANNIBALS.
The chief, however, did not seem unfriendly, and when, by motions and words partly understood, he indicated that they were to follow, there seemed no other course open. It must be understood that in escaping from the wreck, it had been impossible to take their firearms, and it was to some extent in hope of obtaining these that they had started onto the water; but being surrounded by the fleet of native canoes, had been entirely unable to pursue their object. Any resistance would therefore be useless, and bring down the immediate violence of savages whose appearance indicated a low order of intelligence and little humanity.
There was a light wind, and as they moved along over the waters of the lagoon, the canoe of the natives hoisted their lateen sail, and then coming nearer, the chief called out to let him have the painter of the boat. But to do this the sailors felt reluctant, and refused. Then he sailed his craft about the boat a few times, showing its speed and ability to sail into the wind; then again demanded the painter, and the canoe now came alongside, made fast, and the chief, with utmost unconcern, sprang from his canoe, into the boat, and began a per-
