chattering by one’s side, without the least invitation, or considering whether they are understood, provided one does but seem pleased with them.  In general they appeared to be modest; although there was no want of those of a different stamp; and as we had yet some venereal complaints on board, I took all possible care to prevent the disorder being communicated to them.  On most occasions they shewed a strong propensity to pilfering; in which they were full as expert as the Otaheitans.

Their hair in general is black, but more especially that of the women.  Different colours were found among the men, sometimes on the same head, caused by something they put upon it, which stains it white, red, and blue.  Both sexes wear it short; I saw but two exceptions to this custom, and the most of them combed it upwards.  Many of the boys had it cut very close, except a single lock on the top of the head, and a small quantity on each side.  The men cut or shave their beards quite close, which operation is performed with two shells.  They have fine eyes, and in general good teeth, even to an advanced age.  The custom of tattowing or puncturing the skin prevails.  The men are tattowed from the middle of the thigh to above the hips.  The women have it only on their arms and fingers; and there but very slightly.

The dress of both sexes consists of a piece of cloth or matting wrapped round the waist, and hanging down below the knees.  From the waist, upwards, they are generally naked; and it seemed to be a custom to anoint these parts every morning.  My friend Attago never failed to do it; but whether out of respect to his friend, or from custom, I will not pretend to say; though I rather think from the latter, as he was not singular in the practice.

Their ornaments are amulets, necklaces, and bracelets of bones, shells, and beads of mother-of-pearl, tortoise-shell, &c. which are worn by both sexes.  The women also wear on their fingers neat rings made of tortoise-shell, and pieces in their ears about the size of a small quill; but ear ornaments are not commonly worn, though all have their ears pierced.  They have also a curious apron made of the outside fibres of the cocoa-nut shell, and composed of a number of small pieces sewed together in such a manner as to form stars, half-moons, little squares, &c.  It is studded with beads of shells, and covered with red feathers, so as to have a pleasing effect.  They make the same kind of cloth, and of the same materials, as at Otaheite; though they have not such a variety, nor do they make any so fine; but, as they have a method of glazing it, it is more durable, and will resist rain for some time, which Otaheite cloth will not.  Their colours are black, brown, purple, yellow, and red; all made from vegetables.  They make various sorts of matting; some of a very fine texture, which is generally used for clothing; and the thick and stronger sort serves to sleep on, and to make sails for their canoes, &c.