Page:Williams and Calvert, Fiji and the Fijians, New York, 1860.djvu/499

 VnVA AND MBAU. 465 de-mar already supplied, in ammunition. But he had to submit to Mr. Owen's just claim on account of great expense caused by the breach of contract, and was told, to his chagrin, that he ought to pay even more than this to remunerate Mr. Owen for his heavy loss. This failure lowered the King's influence, and Rewa began to gain ground, while new enemies ventured to rise elsewhere. As yet, how- ever, his position was safe, as his stores of war material were considerable, and his foes chiefly at a distance, and not likely to act on the offensive. Applying himself to the awkward task of paying for the American vessel, Thakombau had bags made to hold the biche-de-mar, and sent them up and down among the different islands, which he himself visited in the new vessel, greatly enjoyuig this novel and dignified mode of travelling. The Captain in command became impatient, and wished to be released from such profitless employment. Tui Viti, however, had not got full gratification, and wished to be taken to other parts. Anxious to commence trading. Captain Goodridge informed him that he could not spend his time in sailing about. In reply, the Chief said, " I wish first to be taken about to see my friends ; and if you object, you can go and make the best you can of your vessel. I am not very anxious to possess her. For what purpose do I require her 1 It is merely a fancy of mine, to desire to have a vessel, because no other Fijian has one. Our great desire, as Fijians, is to have plenty of food and rest. We wish to work a little ; go to bathe ; come home and eat ; lie down to sleep ; and then go for a stroll. This I can do, as I am now : but, when I become owner of the vessel you have brought, I shall be fidl of anxious concern as to how I am to get her worked, and how and where I am to get ropes, and paint, and sails. As I am, I am comfortable : then I shall always be uneasy. So, if you are disposed to accommodate me before I get the purchase, you can do so, and I will try to fulfil my engagement ; if not, you can go and do the best you can for yourself." It was reported about that time that King George of the Friendly Islands had lost his vessel in a storm. "When the report of the wreck reached him, it is said that he was more than satisfied to lose her, saying, " Thank God for that. I shall now sleep soundly. Since I have had the vessel. I have been continually uneasy about its management, rigging, and expenses ; now I shall be at rest." Aff;er sending a party with Captain Wallis, and both vessels, to New Caledonia, where the biche-de-mar abounds, only half the promised quantity could be procured. Captain Wallis left the vessel at Fiji ; but both Thakombau and Elijah had lost influence by the failure. This took place previous to the death of Tanoa.