Further proof was given of this when they were escorted to a large shed, composed of a roof of thatch supported on four upright posts, which stood in the center of the village.
Under this were placed some of the hideous effigies which the South Sea Islanders worship, and which are affixed to the prow of their boats; and may be seen in the British Museum, and in other places where collections of Indian curiosities are exhibited.

These effigies were carved in the shape of human beings, with enormous goggle eyes, splashes of bright paint, and strange and immense headdresses of brilliant colors.
Here the lads were motioned to sit down, and the natives brought them offerings of cocoas, and other fruits.

The boys could hardly help laughing at their strange position, surrounded by these hideous idols.
"You wanted an adventure, Reuben, and you have got one, indeed," Ned said.

"You are translated into a heathen god and, if you ever get home, will have your story to tell, which will astonish the quiet firesides in Devonshire." "Ought we not to refuse to accept this horrid worship ?" Gerald said.
"I think not," Ned replied.

"It can do no harm; and we are, at least, better than these wooden idols.