Previously to his doing it, he presented the captain with a piece of cloth and a green talk hatchet.

He gave also a piece of cloth to Mr.Forster; and the girl gave another to Mr.Hodges.

Though this custom of making presents, before any are received, is common with the natives of the South Sea isles, our commander had never till now seen it practised in New Zealand.

Another thing performed by the chief before he went on board was the taking of a small green branch in his hand, with which he struck the ship's side several times, repeating a speech or prayer.

This manner, as it were, of making peace is likewise prevalent among all the nations of the South Seas.