Page:Oregon Historical Quarterly vol. 3.djvu/202

192 Holden was immediately taken up into a canoe, but what rags he wore were at once taken from him. This was a great cruelty, as the sun, in latitude three north, was boiling down now upon his shoulders, and without the protection of his shirt, soon began blistering. He was separated from his mates, and did not see what treatment they received, but afterwards learned that it was the same.

He was then given a paddle, and the order came "Saveth, saveth! Take the paddle and help us pull to the shore, to Tobey." Such he understood was the name of the island. Holden, however, said "No," and shook his head; being in fact too worn and exhausted to dread any consequences, and almost incapable of exertion. The native who thus commanded him now went to the bow of the canoe, and placing upon a bit of cocoanut shell a piece of poi about the size of a walnut, said "Eat." Holden opened his mouth and took the poi from the man's fingers, according to native custom. As is well known, poi is the staple food of the South Sea islanders, and is made from taro, a plant of the lily family, somewhat resembling turnip; and the poi is of a mushy consistency, and is easily rolled up on the finger in a wad or ball, and is taken in the mouth without touching the finger. Holden then held the paddle, but did not row much.

This island, with its strange and fierce people, was destined to be the home of Holden for nearly two years, and here he underwent almost incredible sufferings, both of the body and the mind.

The canoes were directed toward the shore and entered the lagoon through the opening of the reef, and directly reached the landing. The tide was low, and upon reach-