to hear that you
condoned the notion of my staying longer in the South Seas, for I have
decided in that sense. The first idea was to go in the _Morning Star_,
missionary ship; but now I have found a trading schooner, the _Equator_,
which is to call for me here early in June and carry us through the
Gilberts. What will happen then, the Lord knows. My mother does not
accompany us: she leaves here for home early in May, and you will hear
of us from her; but not, I imagine, anything more definite. We shall get
dumped on Butaritari, and whether we manage to go on to the Marshalls
and Carolines, or whether we fall back on Samoa, Heaven must decide; but
I mean to fetch back into the course of the _Richmond_--(to think you
don't know what the _Richmond_ is!--_the_ steamer of the Eastern South
Seas, joining New Zealand, Tongatabu, the Samoas, Taheite, and
Rarotonga, and carrying by last advices sheep in the saloon!)--into the
course of the _Richmond_ and make Tahiti again on the home track. Would
I like to see the Scots Observer? Wouldn't I not? But whaur? I'm
direckit at space. They have nae post offishes at the Gilberts, and as
for the Car'lines! Ye see, Mr. Baxter, we're no just in the punkshewal
_centre_ o' civ'lisation. But pile them up for me, and when I've decided
on an address, I'll let you ken, and ye'll can send them stavin' after
me.--Ever your affectionate

R. L. S.

TO CHARLES BAXTER

The reference in the first paragraph is to the publication in the
press, which Mr. Baxter had permitted, of one of Stevenson's letters
written during the earlier part of his voyage. R. L. S. had
remonstrated, always greatly disliking the publication of private
letters during the writer's lifetime; and now writes to soften the
effect of his remonstrance.

_Honolulu, 10th May 1889._

MY DEAR CHARLES,--I am appalled to gather from your last just to hand
that you have felt so much concern about the letter. Pray dismiss it
from your mind. But I think you scarce appreciate how disagreeable it is
to have your private affairs and private unguarded expressions getting
into print. It would soon sicken any one of writing letters. I have no
doubt that letter was very wisely selected, but it just shows how things
crop up. There was a raging jealousy between the two yachts; our captain
was nearly in a fight over it. However, no more; and whatever you think,
my dear fellow, do not suppose me angry with you or