on the
upper portion resembling a human head and breast--was rude, though the
nose and chin were fairly delineated, while the ears were of a length
out of all proportion. The natives paid the statues no respect, and it
appeared unlikely that they could have been carved by the ancestors of
the present inhabitants.

From Easter Island Cook steered northward, until he came in sight of the
Marquesas, discovered by Mendana. Passing between Dominica and Santa
Christina, he came to an anchor in the port called Nombre de Dios by the
Spaniards. A number of canoes immediately came off, their occupants
richly tattooed, bringing bread--fruit and fish, which they willingly
exchanged for nails. In each canoe was a heap of stones, and every man
had a sling tied round his hand. Next morning many more came off and
began to barter, and the deck was soon crowded. One of the savages
stole an iron stanchion, when, as a warning, Cook gave an order to the
marines to fire over the canoe in which the plunderer was making off.
Unfortunately a marine aiming at him, shot him dead.

They, however, returned after some time, and again began bartering; but
some of the gentlemen incautiously introduced new articles of trade,
which were eagerly sought for, especially red feathers. When these were
not to be obtained, the savages refused to bring off more provisions.
Cook had to sail away without them.

He now steered nearly south-west, until the most easterly of King
George's Islands was reached. Hence he returned to Otaheite, where he
was warmly welcomed by the natives. Here provisions had become very
plentiful. Numerous new habitations had been erected, and an immense
number of canoes, destined for an expedition against Eimeo, were drawn
up along the beach.

Some of the war canoes were from fifty to ninety feet long. In all
there were three hundred and thirty vessels, carrying nine thousand
seven hundred and sixty warriors and rowers, dressed in breast-plates
and turbans or helmets, while other warriors were armed with clubs,
spears, and stones. Having refitted the ship, Cook sailed for Huaheine,
where he found his old friend Oree as kind as ever. They were received
in the most affectionate manner by him and his family. The old chief
wept when he heard that Captain Cook was not likely again to return, and
inquired where he would be buried. When Cook replied "At Stepney," a
hundred voices instantly echoed "Stepney mariai no Toote!"