It was to be determined by facts; and the ascertainment of it was appointed, by our commander, for the employment of the ensuing summer.
It was the 6th of August before the ships had the advantage of the trade wind.

This they got at southeast, being at that time in the latitude of 19 deg.

36' south, and the longitude of 131 deg.

32' west.

As Captain Cook had obtained the south east trade wind, he directed his course to the west-north-west; not only with a view of keeping in with the strength of the wind, but also to get to the north of the islands discovered in his former voyage, that he might have a chance of meeting with any other islands which might lie in the way.