Had the sea breeze set in as usual, the Resolution must inevitably have been lost, and probably the Adventure also. But, through a gracious providence, the calm continued, which gave an opportunity for getting the Resolution afloat, by means of two kedge anchors; and the tide at length turning, while a land breeze arose, both ships were extricated from their perilous situation, with the loss of three anchors and a cable belonging to the Adventure.
During this season of alarm, many natives came on board from their canoes, with cocoa-nuts and other fruits, which they sold for nails, beads, &c.; but they did not seem to be aware that the ships were in danger. Most of them recognized Capt. Cook; many inquired for Mr. Banks and other gentlemen; but not one inquired for Tupia, or for the person who went with Bougainville from this district of Otaheite. As soon as the ships were safely anchored in the bay, both were crowded with natives. Some who called themselves chiefs, received presents of shirts, axes, &c., and promised to bring hogs and fowls in return; a promise which they failed to perform. For some days, no hogs were brought to the market: it was alleged, that all the hogs belonged to Waheatua, the King of the southern peninsula. On wednesday evening, some people inquired after Tupia; and when informed that his death was caused by sickness, they were satisfied. From them the Captain learned, that the two kingdoms of Otaheite had been at war, about five months before his arrival; that Tootaha, Toubourai Tamaide, and others of his friends, had fallen in battle; that peace had since been restored; and that Otoo, for whom Tootaha
