informed the chiefs, through Omai, at his first interview with them, that he was determined not to permit the natives to rob or pilfer; and that they would obtain a much larger share of British commodities in the way of fair trade, than by attempting to steal: and being thus taught, that "Honesty is the best policy," the chiefs not only forbore to steal themselves, but stationed guards, in different places, near Point Venus, to prevent any of the people from committing depredations. When Etary, the pretended god of Bolabola, took up his residence at Matavai, he was soon after removed to Oparre; and this was understood to have taken place at the desire of Otoo, who was afraid that his people might make attempts on the property of his respected visitors. Otoo, indeed, considered Matavai Fort as the property of the British, to be used by them on all occasions: and it is observable, that his son, twenty years after, formally ceded the district of Matavai to Captain Wilson, for the British Missionaries.
On monday, Sept. 29th, the ships weighed anchor, and stood out of the bay; when, to gratify Otoo and his people, seven guns were fired as a parting salute. Otoo being desirous of seeing the ships sail, Capt. Cook made a stretch out to sea with him, and then in again; when the King and his attendants took a very affectionate leave of their British friends, and went ashore in his canoe.
