Solander were several times on shore, but their walks
were much circumscribed by climbing plants of luxuriant growth, which
completely filled up the spaces between the trees, so as to render the
woods impassable. Preparations had been made for erecting a durable
memorial of the Endeavour's visit, and their old friend promised that it
should never be removed. Presents of coins and spike-nails, with the
king's broad arrow on them, were given to the natives, and two posts, of
which the memorial was to be constructed, were taken to the highest part
of the island near which the ship lay. The Union-Jack was then hoisted,
and formal possession was taken of the country in the name of His
Majesty King George the Third; the name of Queen Charlotte's Sound being
given to the inlet. A bottle of wine was then drunk to Her Majesty's
health, and the empty bottle given to the old man, who seemed highly
delighted with it.

The Endeavour left the sound on February 6, and soon after, during a
calm, was very nearly driven on shore by the strong current setting
through the straits between the northern and middle island, now known as
Cook's Straits. Over the land was seen a mountain of stupendous height,
covered with snow. Passing through the straits, the Endeavour steered
north again, and continued on till, the weather clearing, Cape Turnagain
was distinctly seen. Captain Cook on this asked his officers whether
they were satisfied that Eaheinomauwe was an island. They replying in
the affirmative, the Endeavour hauled her wind and stood to the
eastward. Eaheinoniauwe was the name given by the natives to the
northern island, Poenammoo to the southern, or rather, as it is now
called, the middle island.

The Endeavour was now steered down the eastern coast of the last-named
portion of New Zealand. Some lofty mountains were seen, partially
covered with snow, and inferior in height to Mount Egmont. During a
calm, when close in shore, Mr Banks went out in a small boat for the
purpose of shooting. While he was away four double canoes were seen to
put off from the shore, and to pull towards him. Captain Cook trembled
for his friend's safety, for Mr Banks could not see the signals made to
hasten his return. At length he noticed the natives, and his boat's
head was turned towards the ship. The natives also approached. He,
however, got on board before them, thankful for his escape. Probably,
indeed, their attention had been so engros