leasure.
This I looked upon as very handsomely done on the part of Tinah, and I
was glad to see that it was regarded in the same light by his guests.
These instances of liberality make full amends for the little slips which
I have formerly noticed in Tinah. At this time a day seldom passed that
he did not give proofs of his hospitality by entertaining the principal
people that came from different parts of the island to visit him, or to
see the ship. Some of the chiefs he commonly invited to dine on board,
and made provision for others on shore. Scarce any person of consequence
went away without receiving some present from him. This I encouraged and
was glad it was in my power to assist him. But besides the political
motives that I have alluded to it would be unjust to Tinah not to
acknowledge that his disposition seemed improved: he was more open and
unreserved in his manners than formerly, and his hospitality was natural
and without ostentation.

Monday 16.

I was present this afternoon at a wrestling match by women. The manner of
challenging and method of attack was exactly the same as among the men.
The only difference that I could observe was not in favour of the softer
sex; for in these contests they showed less temper and more animosity
than I could have imagined them capable of. The women, I was told, not
only wrestle with each other but sometimes with the men; of this I have
never seen an instance and imagine it can happen but seldom, as the women
in general are small and by no means masculine. Iddeah is said to be very
famous at this exercise.

Tuesday 17.

I walked with Tinah towards the hills to see his country residence which
was at a very neat house, pleasantly situated and surrounded with
plantations. From this place we saw the island Tethuroa. The next morning
I went to Matavai to look after the Indian corn which I judged would be
full ripe for gathering; but on my arrival I found that the natives had
been beforehand with me, the whole being taken away. This I was not at
all sorry for as it shows that they value it too much to neglect
cultivating it.

Monday 23.

Iddeah sent on board for our dinners today a very fine tarro pudding; and
Tinah brought a bunch of bananas that weighed 81 pounds, on which were
286 fine fruit: ten had broken off in the carriage. The tarro pudding is
excellent eating and easily made: I shall describe this piece of cookery
as the knowledge of it may be useful in the West