Quitting these islands on the 20th, the Resolution proceeded towards Otaheite, which with the neighbouring islands presented to our mariners the most fascinating attractions, and could not be approached but with feelings of delight. The high land of Otaheite was descried on thursday, April 21st; and next morning the Resolution anchored in Matavai Bay. An observatory and tents were put up at Point Venus, for the use of Mr. Wales and others; but happily there was no occasion to erect a temporary hospital, for there were no sick on board.
If our navigators rejoiced in visiting this favourite island, the Tahitians were no less delighted with their return. Fruit, fish, and hogs were sent on board in abundance; and King Otoo had a principal share in furnishing this welcome supply. On the 24th, he and his retinue dined on board, and were dismissed with suitable presents, highly gratified with the Captain's hospitality. Fortunately he had reserved a stock of red parrot feathers, procured at Tongataboo, such as had been inconsiderately squandered away at the Marquesas; and here also these were so highly prized, that when it was known they were to be obtained on board, the principal people of both sexes eagerly sought to procure them, by bringing hogs, fruit, and whatever else the island afforded.
The Captain was agreeably surprised to find the state of the country wonderfully improved since his last visit. Great numbers of commodious houses, and large canoes, had been built, or were now building, at Matavai and Oparree; and hogs that were so scarce before, were now seen in abundance. Instead, therefore, of speedily removing to one of
